Grafton Loop Trail - Slide Campsite

No formal reservations are required for backcountry sites like Slide Campsite along the Grafton Loop Trail. These sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis. While camping is free, there is a daily parking fee of $3 at the trailhead lots. Since site availability is limited, it's advisable to have a backup plan, especially during peak hiking seasons. Contact Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands for the most current information about any policy changes.

Grafton Notch State Park offers primitive backcountry camping with designated tent sites along the Grafton Loop Trail. The Slide Campsite is one of several backcountry sites available. These are minimal facilities with flat areas for tents but no running water or modern amenities. The sites are designed for hikers traversing the trail rather than drive-up camping. Be prepared to practice Leave No Trace principles as these are rustic sites intended for self-sufficient backpackers.

The primary trail accessible from Grafton Notch State Park is the Grafton Loop Trail, a challenging 38-mile backcountry hiking loop that traverses the mountains of the Mahoosuc Range. The trail connects with Old Speck Mountain and Puzzle Mountain, offering spectacular views of the surrounding wilderness. Hikers can access different sections of the loop from parking areas like the Old Speck parking lot and Puzzle Mountain parking lot. The trail features moderate to difficult terrain with significant elevation changes and backcountry conditions.

Mid-summer to early fall (July through September) is the optimal time to visit Grafton Notch State Park. July and August offer warm temperatures and the most reliable weather conditions for hiking the challenging Grafton Loop Trail. Early fall brings spectacular foliage colors to the region. Spring can be wet with muddy trails, while winter brings significant snow and requires specialized winter hiking equipment and experience. The backcountry sites, including Slide Campsite, are most accessible and enjoyable during the warmer months.