What is the Hut?
Great question! It’s our favorite place. A unique lodge in the woods on a pristine and secluded lake in the Carabasset Valley. Once you arrive, you have all our your comforts provided for without any contact to the outside world. The hut is a cozy retreat apart of a 30 mile trail system connecting 4 huts. The location is amongst mountains and calm waters, quiet woods and star light skies.
What are the camp fees?
Camp costs a little more this year. We are asking individuals to pay $75 per person per night. I.e. if a party of two come for three nights, the total cost would be $450. Payment can be made via Venmo to @JennaSwain7 or by check made out to The Swains or cash. Pay whenever is convenient before camp! Note, if you decide not to attend for the entire time we cannot gaurantee a shuttle for your gear, plan to hike it in.
How I do drive to the Trailhead?
The best GPS address to use is: Flagstaff Hut Trail Head/Parking Lot, Long Falls Dam Rd, New Portland, ME 04961. If you are relying on your phone, we suggest downloading the offline google maps of the area as cell service becomes spotty as you near Flagstaff.
What is the walk to the hut like?
The walk is very flat and easy, about 2 miles each way. The caretaker will drive our gear in in the afternoon on July 20th and out on the morning of July 23rd. If you plan to arrive late or depart early, plan to backpack your gear into the hut.
What do I pack for the Hut?
Adventure clothing, relaxing clothing, sleeping bag, sheet for mattress, indoor footware, reading materials, outdoor gear, bathing suits, headlamp, pillow case or packable pillow, water bottle: https://mainehuts.org/prepare/packing-list
What shouldn’t I pack?
Electronics i.e iPad, laptop, Nintendo switch. hair dryers, games (they have plenty)
Is there cell phone service at the hut?
There is no cell service or wifi at the hut. There are some spots on the Vista (5 min walk from the hut) that get some service for those on Verizon. Best only to be used for keeping snap streaks alive.
What do I do at the hut?
We are planning some group actives and a day long adventure or two (for the adventurous). Beyond that it is a place to enjoy the outdoors and peaceful. Bring a good book, walking shoes and good attitude and you’ll never want to leave.
What are the sleeping arrangements?
All sleeping areas are in the bunk houses. See chart. Most set ups are single twin bunks with a few double beds in the rooms that sleep 2-3.
What are the amenities of the hut?
Hot showers, fireplace, library, games/puzzles, commercial kitchen, composting toilets, kayaks, paddle boards, canoes, fire-pits.
What do I eat at the hut?
Every breakfast and dinner will be family style. We hope a few good cooks volunteer to make a meal. Lunch foods and your favorite snacks are welcome to be brought along to supplement the group meals.
Can I bring my child to the hut?
Yes! Camp Swain 2023 is a family affair. Kids are welcome but might want to skip the late night bonfires.
Are pets allowed?
Sadly, the hut does not allow pets inside the bunks and lodge.