Camping at Doublehead Cabin Campground
Overview of Doublehead Cabin Campground
Doublehead Cabin is a unique and rustic lodging option in the White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire. Not your typical campground, it offers a more secluded and private experience as it is a single cabin accommodation rather than a traditional campground with multiple sites.
Location and Access
The cabin is situated on the Doublehead Mountain, providing stunning views of the surrounding areas. Access to the cabin typically requires a hike, which can vary in difficulty depending on the season and weather conditions. The trail leading to the cabin is the Doublehead Ski Trail which is about 1.8 miles long with an elevation gain of about 1,400 feet.
Facilities and Amenities
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Accommodations: The cabin can accommodate up to six people and is equipped with wooden bunks and mattresses. It's a bring-your-own bedding (or sleeping bag) situation.
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Kitchen: The cabin comes with a basic kitchen arrangement, including a propane stove and lighting, but guests need to bring their cooking utensils, dishes, and food supplies.
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Heating: A wood stove is available for heating. It is the responsibility of guests to provide their own wood or purchase it locally.
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Water: There is no running water in the cabin. Guests must either bring their own water or be prepared to treat or boil snow or water from nearby natural sources.
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Toilets: Typically, there is an outhouse accessible for guests to use.
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Electricity: The cabin does not have electricity.
Booking and Usage
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Reservations: They are required and can be made through the White Mountain National Forest's cabin reservation system. It is advisable to book well in advance, especially for peak times.
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Fees: There is a nightly fee for staying at the cabin, which helps with the maintenance and upkeep.
Activities
The cabin is a popular destination for those looking to engage in outdoor activities such as:
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Hiking: Numerous hiking trails surround the cabin, including those leading to other parts of the White Mountain National Forest.
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Skiing: In the winter, the Doublehead Ski Trail can provide a backcountry skiing experience.
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Wildlife Observation: The area is rich in wildlife, presenting opportunities for spotting local fauna.
Rules and Regulations
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Leave No Trace: Guests are expected to pack out all trash, leftover food, and belongings.
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Pets: Usually, pets are not allowed in the cabins or the surrounding area.
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Quiet Hours: The forest has quiet hours to ensure a peaceful experience for all visitors.
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Capacity: The cabin must not exceed the posted capacity limit.
Safety and Considerations
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Weather: Be prepared for mountain conditions. Weather can be unpredictable, and it is essential to bring appropriate gear.
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Emergency: The cabin is remote, and guests need to be prepared to handle any emergencies independently until help can be reached. It's essential to have a first-aid kit and a means of communication.
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Check-In and Check-Out: Make sure you're aware of the check-in times and check-out requirements before your visit.
General Tips
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Plan Ahead: Understand the amenities available at the cabin and plan accordingly.
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Be Self-Sufficient: Since the cabin is remote, it is crucial to be self-reliant with supplies and gear.
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Be Prepared for Wildlife: Know how to store food and handle possible encounters with wildlife safely.
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Leave it Better: Strive to leave the cabin and surrounding area in a better state than you found it to help preserve the environment.
Remember that policies and services may change, so always check with the White Mountain National Forest authorities for the most current information before planning your trip.