Safe River Use & Camping
Recreation along the Saco is available because of the generosity of private landowners.
Respect private property! Camp and play on the water responsibly.
Help Protect The Saco River
From Swan’s Falls to Hiram, open camping and recreation is available on many sandbars and beaches. Camping on the beaches in New Hampshire is not permitted without landowner consent. Do not stop along property marked with “Posted” or “No Trespassing” signs.
Please adhere to the following rules and regulations to help ensure that recreation and camping on the Saco River will be available for generations to come. Porta Potties, outhouses, and trash receptacles are located at most river access points along the Smith-Eastman Bridge to Hiram, Maine. Generally, you can find facilities every few hours as you make your way downriver. Plan ahead!
Your Responsibilities
- Keep an eye on the weather and river conditions. When the water is high, small children and weak or non-swimmers should not use the river, and all others should wear life vests at all times. If there is a chance of rain, do not camp near the water's edge—even an inch of rain in the mountains can cause the river to rise up to a foot!
- Know where you are on the river and the quickest way to a take-out. Getting to the next take-out is the fastest way to get access to emergency services!
- Pack out what you bring in. Please bring a trash bag and carry out your waste. Dumpsters and porta potties are located at most public landings.
- Building a fire? Don't forget your fire permit! Permits can be obtained at the Swan's Falls Visitor's Center, Jockey Cap Country Store in Fryeburg, and Woodland Acres Campground in Brownfield. Permits are by donation only. Click here for more information on what is and isn't allowed when building a fire.
- Pack out or bury all human waste and toilet paper! Remember that you are camping in the backcountry and will not have access to bathroom facilities. Waste should be buried at least 6 inches into the soil, never in the sand, and at least 200 feet from the shore or other nearby water sources.
- Be considerate. When on the river, do not stop on posted private property. Respect other visitors and the quality of their experience. Please clean up after yourself! It is a privilege to be able to camp along the river, and we do not wish to have all land owners post their property because of a few bad apples. Let nature's sounds prevail; avoid loud voices and excessive noise.
- For more information about responsible recreational use of the Saco River environment, visit our page "Protecting the Saco".
Camp Safely & Respectfully
Not Interested in Wilderness Camping?
Wilderness camping isn’t for everyone. Some campers enjoy having use of amenities such as outhouses, fire pits, and picnic tables. If this sounds like you, stay with us at Swan’s Falls or reserve one of the other nearby campgrounds along the river from Swan’s Falls to Hiram.