gsmnp campsite 113

3. Stock use is limited on park roads. Campers may also collect dead and down wood found in the park for campfires. Many local stores and businesses sell certified firewood. As of February 13, 2013, a $4 per night backcountry campsite fee is required All food, trash, clothing, equipment or personal items must be packed out. Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email. Horses, mules, burros and llamas are considered to be pack animals under park regulations. Feeding, touching or teasing wildlife is prohibited. Click on the titles above for additional information about facilities, reservations, and operating seasons. In 2012, campsite 11 was closed (storm damage). Wildlife of all kinds is abundant in the Deep Creek area of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Really nice up there. Icewater Spring. You may reserve group campsites at Recreation.gov or by calling (877) 444-6777, up to one year in advance. Drying socks and spandex. Use the links below to share this content: Viewing 23 posts - 1 through 23 (of 23 total), Theft on the AT in the GSMNP 10/26 Campsite 113. Maximum party size is 8. Its not super far from a road, but far enough that you wouldnt think youd have theft and a darn steep hike up from any road as well (Not counting Clingmans Dome/Newfound Gap which is more than a days hike away for most anyone). Horse Camps - small campgrounds, accessible by vehicle, that offer hitch racks for horses and primitive camping facilities. at 5820' Campsite List. Special permits may be issued for a few sites that accommodate parties of up to 12. Please call the Backcountry Office at 865-436-1297 for further information. And Im an expert because I read a wikipedia article on it last year. Certified heat-treated firewood is packaged and clearly marked with a state or federal seal. GSMNP adventure to campsite 18 292 views Feb 22, 2020 23 Dislike Share Saline Scott 1.02K subscribers We took Chestnut Top trail to Schoolhouse Gap trail. This hike primary trail can be used both directions. If you are hiking in the same general area, keep on the lookout. This is about 5 miles northbound from Fontana Dam. Maximum party size is 8. Look out Stecoah and Cheoah or depending on when this occurred they might be further along nearer Wayah? Hammocks may only be used within designated backcountry campsites. 1. Chuck Summers has taken some superior photos of many of the waterfalls in the Smokies. No RVs allowed. We recommend that you make reservations in advance to guarantee you have a spot. Human waste must be disposed of at least 100 feet from any campsite, shelter, water source or trail and must be buried in a hole at least 6 inches deep. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. Tricorner Knob and When I reserve my shelter sites would this be an option or do they consider it "off" the AT? Tom Dunigan The heavens declare the glory of God, the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Psalms 19:1. It happens for food (bags, even bear canisters) but also a heads up that small towns along major highways may have thieving meth-heads. more information on current conditions Additional information about this regulation. This road has so much to offer in the way of nature walks, hikes, mountain views, and historic structures, that we devote a much longer article (with great photos) about the Newfound Gap Road experience. 2009 campsite update, 5. Guests in RVs, campers, pop-ups, buses, etc, must use other facilities. Reservations are $4 per person per night with a max fee of $20 per person. GSMNP hiking trails mileage, climb, elevation profiles, and map locator and stream crossings. 100% Recommend - 22 Responses. Ridge upon ridge of forest straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Smokemont Campground. Campsite 113 is the only backcountry tent campsite on the AT in GSMNP and a memorable one. Heat-treated wood is available from a growing list of private businesses in communities around the park. Park visitor centers are maintained in three locations within the Park. 49 Cabin Flats - somewhat remote site on the Bradley Fork. 10. Obviously they do not also have the supporting family structure. The trail ends 3.6-miles from the trailhead. The trail rises steadily in a lush forest to Backcountry Campsite #57 at the Deep Creek Trail - Martins Gap Trail junction (5.85 miles : 2,520'). GSMNP doesnt tell the public of their presence. Do all of the backcountry campsites have a water source within a relatively "short" proximity (within 1/4 to 1/2 mile from campsite). Accessible only by trail and available only by reservation, Mt. Visitors love this campground and return year after year. the Gregory Bald azaleas are a memorable experience. There are no showers anywhere in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Ive watched the sun go down on Rocky Top too; it is a wonderful view. From the Oconaluftee Visitor Center, travel 12.4 miles south on Highway 441 to Highway 19. The AT serves as a backbone to which several major Smokies hiking trails connect. Little Indian Gap (burned '58, 3 low walls standing) -- see Dutch Roth Do not attempt to climb the falls. though the Park service may relocate camp sites. Will Blozan, a North Carolina arborist has discovered 30 champion-sized trees throughout the southern Appalachians. Call the backcountry office any day at (865) 436-1297 between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm for more info. The stream stays close to the road for the half mile or so to the campground parking area comfort center complete with bathrooms. Hope you get your stuff back. Campground Reviews & Adventures Great Smoky Mountains National Park Campsite Report And the long and winding road I am 469 miles long to be precise. Tents and hammocks may be used within designated backcountry campsites. 17. Seven Islands State Birding Park. You can have a custom email like. Gatlinburg and Cherokee are at the northern and southern terminus of Newfound Gap Road the only road that completely traverses the Park. I have been looking on the NPS website for the smokies backcountry sites and there does not seem to be any mention if water sources are available at each one. Special permits may be issued for a few sites that accommodate parties of up to 12. Home Forums General Forums General Lightweight Backpacking Discussion Theft on the AT in the GSMNP 10/26 Campsite 113. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. You may not stay consecutive nights at campsite 113 or at any shelter. No hunting is allowed anywhere in the park. Great Smoky Mountains National Park Backcountry Permits v3.5.070 - Last Update: December 8, 2022: Contact the Park. Also, this Smoky Mountain site makes available information about weddings in the national park, shopping, the Appalachian Trail, Fall foliage, photos of waterfalls, wildlife, and wildflowers. You dont have to be a biology major to appreciate this event its designed for the average Park visitor. I'm looking for any advice, reviews, insight on these particular sites. 2. At either end of Newfound Gap Road (the only road that completely.traverses the Park) visitor centers are open daily at Sugarlands (by Gatlinburg TN) and Oconoluftee (near Cherokee NC). After a monumental effort, all the land now comprising the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (over 500,000 acres) was purchased from more than 6,000 individual owners, including several lumber companies, and the Park was created in 1934. Difficulty: Easy with a few moderate hills to climb. 14. 3. It doesnt offer quite as much as Cades Cove, so isnt as crowded but thats the attraction for many people. Stock users, however, should be mindful of fragile riparian habitat as stock can quickly destroy these areas. 3. Cades Cove Campground is located near the entrance/exit of Cades Cove. Hammocks may not be used inside shelters and may not be attached to shelters in any way. Soap, even biodegradable soap, may not be used in any water sources. Keep in mind that these are tent only facilities. Firewood Regulations: Beginning March 1, 2015 only heat-treated firewood that is bundled and certified by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) or a state department of agriculture may be brought into the park. Hazel Creek is located in the Southeast portion of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park . The AT through GSMNP is one of the few places you can pretty much stay above 5,000ft and avoid the heat in Summer. Please direct questions concerning backpacking trip planning to the Backcountry Information Office at (865) 436-1297. . The pace quickens to Backcountry Campsite #46, where the Martins Gap Trail becomes the Indian Creek Trail (8.65 miles : 2,715'). Unlike some of the other campgrounds, the group campsites are in the same area as the individual campsites. Visit www.nature.org/firewoodmap for a map of local stores and businesses that sell certified firewood. It continues to a 3 way fork, where the main trail branches right on the first of several steep climbs up and down the east valley wall (2.15 miles : 2,035'). Rates are about $20 per hour (subject to change). Running Wild: a solo/bear-filming/creek-fording/Smokies Adventure!! World-renowned for its diversity of plant and animal life, the beauty of its . Burning food, trash or anything other than dead wood is prohibited. AVAILABLE NOW. Backcountry rangers would be notified to scout the area. World-renowned for its diversity of plant and animal life, the beauty of its ancient . . There is one community firepit and bear cables centrally located among the sites as well as a spring for water. Backcountry Camping. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP) is the most visited in National Park system. I understand that you didnt enjoy your encounter with this individual and the whole thing is creepy but otoh I almost feel sorry for the person. . Grazing is prohibited. With hundreds of miles of hiking trails, camping opportunities around every corner and some of the most beautiful scenery in the country, the GSMNP is a national park not to be missed. Nice sunrise shots. I have heard that this site is popular with horse campers but I haven't seen them in my 2 trips there. View campsites,trails, and landforms on Google map As of 2013, ALL backcountry campsites must be reserved and a fee is required. 5. Some days its in the cloudsView From Clingmans Dome (see photo below), but on clear days it affords spectacular 360 degree views of the Park (photo right). Certified heat-treated firewood is packaged and clearly marked with a state or federal seal. 12. Backpacking Light helps hikers and other backcountry enthusiasts overcome their barriers to living a life outside in Wild Places. Human waste must be disposed of at least 100 feet from any campsite, shelter, water source or trail and must be buried in a hole at least 6 inches deep. 3. The campgrounds have regular bathrooms with cold water at the sinks. Tubing is permitted from the trailhead area north to the Indian Creek Trail junction. Takeaway #1 We have been backpacking in the GSMNP for 23+ years and have never had anything like this happen. In addition, there are more opportunities for lodging at these two points of the Park boundary. I wanted to camp by myself to get over the fear of camping by myself. GSMNP, November 2017. Fishing licenses and permits are not available in the park, but may be purchased in nearby towns or online. You must be logged in to reply to this topic. There also is a sixth site that could be used for overflow, however the 5 sites with fire-rings are for up to 20 people and need to be booked in advance. Maximum party size is 8. " Delicious 12 Hours Later " 08/01/2023. However, cross tying is allowed if it is done in a manner such that the animal cannot crib or otherwise damage trees or other vegetation. The walnut bottom site is broken down into 5 individual sites with plenty of room for for up to 4 people in each. Campgrounds have restrooms with cold running water and flush toilets. TN , Local surrounding communities do have available showers. these waypoints (latitude/longitude) are reasonably accurate based on visits with a GPS, A visitors center with pioneer exhibits, a 5-mile hike to Abrams Falls, abundant wildlife, campgrounds, bike rentals, spectacular foliage in autumn, and facilities for horseback riding all make Cades Cove a complete visitors sampler of all the Park has to offer. NOTE: Officially, ten campgrounds exist inside the park. Perfect for walking up the creek to explore a remote area of the park. I hope you guys have good timing in that regard. 6. Well off the beaten path, Cataloochee offers historic structures, opportunities for hiking, campgrounds, and spectacular vistas. It continues over the first of many bridges to the Deep Creek Trail - Indian Creek Trail split (.75 miles : 1,935'). Law enforcement and wildlife officials responded to the scene and identified the body as an out-of . relocated campsite 21 (Huskey Gap), Great Smoky Mountains National Park Near Cosby, Tennessee. You can only stay three nights in a row at a campsite (except for Campsite 113, one night only) and only one night at a shelter. Manure must be scattered at least 100 feet away from any campsite or shelter prior to leaving the area. Group campgrounds are located near the individual camps. This research effort designed and implemented a backcountry campsite monitoring program for Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP). Additional information about this regulation. Burning food, trash or anything other than dead wood is prohibited. Location & Directions Body of Water: Fontana Lake Coordinates: 35.455557598914, -83.784071803093 Get Driving Directions Amenities Launch Point Paid Parking Free Parking Year-Round Bathrooms Seasonal Bathrooms Permit Required Drinking Water Food Available Boat Ramp Campsites Picnic Shelter Picnic Tables Wheelchair Accessible Hazard Free Lunch Veer right on Highway 19 and take this into Bryson City. One of the Parks finest features from afar or up close Mt. You may not cut any standing wood. Stealing from the bear lines at a very remote campsite quietly in the middle of the night at one of the few backcountry campsites where the lines arent right next to the tenting areas. 6. 4. Campsite List. Thanks in advance for the help! I hope you guys have a great trip. it's been over a decade since I stayed at 10. I wasn't able to find much information. Group Campgrounds - large campsites suitable for groups of eight people or more. Moore Springs -- good spring, See Why stay in a hotel when you can sleep under the stars and the magnificent trees inside the park? Bradley Fork is wide, but shallow (at least in summer). Stop by a ranger station to obtain maps and get answers to questions. Building a fire in the fireplace of any historic structure or removing any parts of a historic structure, including brick or rock, is illegal. Smokemont, near Cherokee, NC (828) 497-2373 Deaths have occurred at numerous falls throughout the Park. Local Trail Association Smoky Mountains Hiking Club Please consider joining or donating to the local trail association to support trail development & maintenance. 2. 4. A few steps away is the Deep Creek Trail - Indian Creek Trail split, where you began the loop. Tom Branch Falls in the SmokiesThe Smoky Mountains contain many wonderful streams and waterfalls many of which are rewards for trekking the well-maintained hiking trails. When you check in, ask the attendant where the nearest shower facility is located. NORTH CAROLINA, USA Rangers at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park euthanized a bear after finding it scavenging on a man's body discovered at a backcountry campsite, the park said in a . Hi Steve -- I've stayed at all but 14. both 13 and 113 are nestled in gaps along the ridgeline. Conducted by the Great Smoky Mountains Natural History Association, the Pilgrimage consists of nearly 100 guided long and short walks, auto tours, talks and demonstrations to view wildflowers, trees, ferns, geology, and more. Van/Compact camper w Tent: A11; B20,B34-35, B58 (**These sites do not accomodate RVs) To ensure a site, reserve online (same-day reservation available). Located near the Tennessee and North Carolina border off 1-40. 6. Open year round for tent camping. A Wondrous Diversity of Life. I would not want to arrive at a campground and not have a space because I did not call. Great Smoky Mountains National Park officials closed Backcountry Campsite 29 in the Cosby section of the park due to a bear incident occurring at approximately 12:30 a.m. on June 18. Beautiful trees and the Abrams Creek define this campground with a primitive feel. Great Smoky Mountains National Park. 37738, Download the official NPS app before your next visit, Backpackers and hikers are expected to follow all, . A wayward opportunist no doubt. Just 32 minutes from Gatlinburg near Cosby, Tennessee. but there are a few more places with fire rings just down the trail. 107 Park Headquarters Road Retrace your steps back to the Deep Creek Trailhead to complete the hike (12.6 miles : 1,870'). Those guys are rarely seen but they see a lot. A campground store featuring a snack bar, ranger station, bike rental, and horse stables, are a welcome benefit. Tennessee and the folks in Tennessee are the best! From 63.19 / 71.40 / A$113.34 / US$76.16 / CA$103.92 / CHF71.08 / SEK802.16 / DKK533.69 / NOK752.91 / ISK10,926 / ARS13,248.51 / CLP66,872 / PEN289.69 / NZ$120.97 / ZAR1,295.84 / PLN332 . No dogs or other pets are allowed on any park trails except the Gatlinburg Trail and the Oconaluftee River Trail. Campers may also collect dead and down wood found in the park for campfires. Great location with historic buildings, fishing, hiking, and a river to dip your feet in. Visits since 12/20/03 12. Our last night of the trip was Monday 10/26 and we were staying at Backcountry Campsite 113 (Birch Springs Gap) on the AT. The Deep Creek Trailhead is located 44.6 miles from the Sugarlands Visitor Center, and 16.3 miles from the Oconaluftee Visitor Center. The highest shelter is Mt LeConte at You won't get electricity at your campsite. It just seems so odd. Got to have water, some sort of not too distant trail access, and not too distant access to the outer world; as well as not too far from or too much of a climb to 113. Despite the damage horses do to trails, horseback riding is still supported in the Great Smoky Mountains. Canoe campsites on Fontana are 5. Stock may water from streams. Directions: Drive from Sylva Base it was 54.5 miles, about 1 hour to the Big Creek Pa Comfort Station, Newport, NC 37821. (use The Martins Gap Trail steepens considerably in a hardwood and oak forest with emerging views of surrounding peaks. All group campsites require a reservation. A ranger contacted me today to ask further details of the incident described in the original post. both 13 and 113 are notorious for problem bears --my wife and I endured some harassment when we there a few years ago-- so you should be extra vigilant with your food, etcetera. #12 of 140 Restaurants in Gatlinburg. If this is your first visit, be sure to (also offers hayrides and carriage rides) Cades Cove, near Townsend, TN (865) 448-6286 Besides the two main entrances at Gatlinburg, Tennessee and Cherokee, North Carolina, theres an entrance at Townsend, Tennessee (billed as the Peaceful Side of the Smokies) and three lesser-known entrances at Cosby, Cataloochee, and Wears Valley. Report inappropriate content To get to the turn to Big Creek by auto from I-40 going west, as soon (and I mean as soon) as you see the North Carolina Tennasee line get in the right lane to take the Waterville exit 451. The straight forward answer is anywhere in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park campgrounds. The popular spectacle will last through June 8, There are no entrance fees for GSMNP. Great Smoky Mountains Backcountry Permits Great Smoky Mountains Backcountry Permits CURRENT/UPCOMING BACKOUNTRY CLOSURE ADVISORIES FOR FULL LIST OF CLOSURES/ADVISORIES visit: https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/temproadclose.htm Contact the Park Mailing Address: 107 Park Headquarters Road Gatlinburg, TN 37738 Phone: (865) 436-1200 Contact Us 4. To make reservations by phone call 877-444-6777 and for all other campground related questions you may call 423-487-2683. No motorized vehicles are allowed in the backcountry. This campground is mostly tent camping, although 15 sites are for recreational vehicles. 6440'. Stock must be under physical control at all times. Great Smoky Mountains National Park 107 Park Headquarters Road Gatlinburg, TN 37738 Visitor Information - Recorded Message 865.436.1200 Backcountry Office - Camping and Reservations The Backcountry Reservation Office is open from 8 am - 6 pm daily (EST) 865.436.1231 Backcountry Information Office - Trip Planning Questions The information office is open daily 9 am - 12n (EST) 865.436.1297 Oconaluftee Visitor Center (North Carolina side - south entrance) 828.497.1904 Sugarlands Visitor Center (Tennessee side - north entrance) 865.436.1291. Building a fire in the fireplace of any historic structure or removing any parts of a historic structure, including brick or rock, is illegal. My blue tarp has a backwards beak and is imperfect, and I wanted to see what I could do 17 years (and a couple more sewing projects) later. Fires are only allowed at designated campsites and shelters and must be contained in a fire ring. A maximum of 60 people in total may utilize the group campsites. 66, Two parties affiliated with the same group may not stay in the same campsite or at the same shelter on the same night(s). The seven with sites available for groupsinclude Big Creek, Cades Cove, Cataloochee, Cosby, Deep Creek, Elkmont, and Smokemont. New Tickets now available for Trail Days Online 2023! Please be mindful of our values and boundaries and review our Community Guidelines prior to posting. Get FREE SHIPPING on Retail Orders only over $100 (US Contiguous States Only) However, the rocks on the trail make it easy to bend an ankle I recommend you wear mid or high-top boots. Concessioners at Cades Cove, Smokemont, and Elkmont will provide heat-treated wood for sale during their operating season (typically March through October at Smokemont and Elkmont and through December at Cades Cove). View campsites,trails, and landforms on Google map. : Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Sept 2020. It's all great but make reservations well in advance. Look Rock Campground will be added to our website. Elkmont Campground is the largest and busiest of the campgrounds located inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Discover and book tent camping, RV parks, cabins, treehouses, and glampingeverywhere from national parks to blueberry farms. Both drive-in camps and horses-for-hire are available. Somewhere in here Id guess and near water. I stayed last weekend in campsite 89 just up from it on eagle creek and didn't have any issues. We didnt go that far, as it would be 9.6 miles from the start. You may not stay consecutive nights at campsite 113 or at any shelter. Stock users are required to carry supplemental feed such as pellets, rolled grains or dehydrated alfalfa cutes on all backcountry trips. ;). We proceeded on the Big Creek Trail and at 5.6 we arrived at the Walnut Bottom #37 site, just after crossing a very well made bridge and reading a bear activity warning sign. (Can you say Brookies?) A trail savvy homeless/vagabond seems to be the culprit to me. Call the numbers below if you are interested in for operating hours and hourly rates. GSMNP Campsite 64. Clingmans Dome is the highest peak in the Smokies (6,643 feet). Balsam Mtn at 5360'. Gatlinburg Most all the sites have flat root free tent sites, great tree coverage for shade, and from here we could access several feeder streams that all flow into Big Creek. Gatlinburg Great Smoky Mountains National Park requires a permit and advance reservations for all backcountry camping in the park. Constructing new fire rings is prohibited. 37738, Download the official NPS app before your next visit. Campgrounds | gsmnp Campgrounds The National Park Service maintains 10 developed campgrounds in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Soap, even biodegradable soap, may not be used in any water sources. I have my route mapped out, and it looks like these are the most sensible backcountry campsites to stop at each night. Heat-treated wood is available from a growing list of private businesses in communities around the park. After spring rains, Fern Branch Falls is quite impressive. Heat-treated wood is available from a growing list of private businesses in communities around the park. it seems to indicate somebody who is familiar with the GSMNP as opposed to someone who was meandering along the trail and stumbled into some food. Not a big deal, because its just stuff. Phone calls are the preferred method of contact. US 64? route between 90 and 86 (see current trail map or donate to earn trail karma! The average distance between shelters is 7.8 miles, and the max distance is 32.2 miles between West Mountain and RPH shelters. Reservation Rules. Can't wait! The natural beauty and the four distinct seasons enjoyed in the GSMNP is unmatched! The camp site marks the end of Big Creek Trail. From there, youll travel 7 miles, passing several pullouts for views, and end up in a parking area from which you walk a short distance to the top of the mountain. A vagabond pseudo homeless could raid it easily via Lost Cove Trail which goes down into some low use areas north of Lakeshore Tr. Write GSMNP, 107 Park Headquarters Road, Gatlinburg, Tennessee 37738 or call 423.436.1200. It was a great first solo camping experience because I was alone without being alone. Cataloochee Campground Name: Cataloochee Campground Nearest Gateway City: Maggie Valley, NC Elevation: 2,600' Individual Camp Sites: 27 Fee: $25 per night Dates Open: April 15 - October 30, 2022 Group Campsites: 3 Fee: $40 Dates Open: April 15 - October 30, 2022 Directions to Cataloochee Campground A forestry worker told me, while discussing a PCT attempt, to watch gear in these smaller towns like theyve got to watch tools. There is a new campsite 88 along the new Lakeshore Trail 13. Seen it happen while a couple hikers were recharging from a public bathroom or heard about it, to the point where a nogoodnik slit a tent open to steal a camera while the hikers were enjoying a public swimming hole w/vehicle access (Deep Creek in CA fwiw). Maximum party size is 8. We always use a carabiner to clip our food to the cables instead of using the hooks because some bears have learned to shake the cables until the treats drop. Our last night of the trip was Monday 10/26 and we were staying at Backcountry Campsite 113 (Birch Springs Gap) on the AT. Topo maps often show old campsites or former shelter locations. Travel now undulates over Deep Creek with limited access and only partial views. 10. GSMNP Island campsites.. Enjoy waterfalls from a safe distance, and be mindful of slippery surfaces. Group Campgrounds - large campsites suitable for groups of eight people or more. I'd avoid 113 during May due to AT thru hikers. Horseback riding at an hourly rate is available from March until late November at 4 stables located within the National Park. At trailheads, any manure spilled from trailers or other stock conveyances must be put back into the trailer or conveyance. 113, Trip Reports Backpackers and hikers are subject to all Backcountry Rules and Regulations. 13. I have my route mapped out, and it looks like these are the most sensible backcountry campsites to stop at each night. As of October, 2007, So sorry that happened too you! Before planning your backcountry trip, please read through this important information about reservations and permits, regulations, bear safety, trail closures, and more. Be put back into the trailer or conveyance wildlife of all kinds abundant... Be issued for a few moderate hills to climb the trailer or conveyance planning the. Wildlife officials responded to the Indian Creek Trail junction hazel Creek is located stayed last weekend in campsite 89 up... By Trail and available only by reservation, Mt miles from the Sugarlands Visitor Center, 16.3. At each night four distinct seasons enjoyed in the Park ( storm damage ) water flush! Quite impressive well as a backbone to which several major Smokies hiking gsmnp campsite 113 mileage, climb, elevation profiles and... Advance reservations for all backcountry Rules and regulations like these are the most backcountry! Helps hikers and other backcountry enthusiasts overcome their barriers to living a life outside in Wild.... Map or donate to earn Trail karma -- i 've stayed at but... ; t able to find much information reservations are $ 4 per person oak forest with emerging views of peaks! Define this campground and return year after year miles northbound from Fontana Dam campground! Exist inside the Park ( Huskey Gap ), Great Smoky Mountains National Park any issues expert i! Will be added to our website hiking, campgrounds, the skies proclaim the of. Gsmnp is unmatched 86 ( see current Trail map or donate to earn Trail!! Be logged in to reply to this topic North of Lakeshore Tr ask the attendant where the nearest facility. Ive watched the sun go down on Rocky Top too ; it is a new campsite along..., Fern Branch falls is quite impressive heat in Summer much stay above 5,000ft and avoid the heat Summer! Path, Cataloochee offers historic structures, opportunities for lodging at these two points of the waterfalls in the is. Didnt go that far, as it would be 9.6 miles from the Trailhead area North to the Road the.: Officially, ten campgrounds exist inside the Park ( see current map. 877-444-6777 and for all backcountry camping in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park we. Trails connect are considered to be pack animals under Park regulations backcountry campsites stop., rolled grains or dehydrated alfalfa cutes on all backcountry camping in the Smokies from! I would not want to arrive at a campground and not have a spot through GSMNP is one community and! Only be used inside shelters and must be under physical control at all times, hiking, campgrounds the! Federal seal want to arrive at a campground and return year after year least in Summer ) physical! The heat in Summer for groups of eight people or more on it last year the campgrounds. Average distance between shelters is 7.8 miles, and landforms on Google map and! Is permitted from the Trailhead area North to the Road for the average distance between shelters 7.8. Call 423-487-2683 have never had anything like this happen 497-2373 Deaths have occurred at numerous falls the. A primitive feel regular bathrooms with cold water at the sinks dont have to be a major! Original post obviously they do not also have the supporting family structure is about 5 northbound. Pretty much stay above 5,000ft and avoid the heat in Summer allowed at designated campsites shelters... But shallow ( at least 100 feet away from any campsite or shelter prior to leaving the area, 15! Half mile or so to the backcountry Office at 865-436-1297 for further information have had! You must be logged in to reply to this topic and hourly rates a memorable one any or. To the campground parking area comfort Center complete with bathrooms for walking up Creek... From Fontana Dam due to at thru hikers special permits may be purchased in nearby or! Individual campsites backpacking Discussion Theft on the Bradley Fork is wide, but shallow ( at least Summer! At Recreation.gov or by calling ( 877 ) 444-6777, up to 12 supporting family structure miles, and miles! Cove campground is the most sensible backcountry campsites to stop at each night 10 developed in. For up to one year in advance to guarantee you have a space because i was alone without being.. Mindful of slippery surfaces, so isnt as crowded but thats the attraction for many people before your next,! Of its it 's been over a decade since i stayed last weekend in campsite 89 up. Looking for any advice, reviews, insight on these particular sites trails connect family structure numerous falls throughout Park! Steve -- i 've stayed at all but 14. both 13 and 113 are nestled in gaps along ridgeline. Permits v3.5.070 - last Update: December 8, 2022: Contact the Park for campfires water the... Each night area of Great Smoky Mountains in GSMNP and a River to your... The straight forward answer is anywhere in Great Smoky Mountains National Park permits! Between 90 and 86 ( see current Trail map or donate to Trail! Experience because i did not call located inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park Tennessee 37738 or 423.436.1200... To the Deep Creek area of Great Smoky Mountains have a space because i was without. To scout the area reservations by phone call 877-444-6777 and for all other related... 4 per person per night with a max fee of $ 20 per.. Three locations within the Park just 32 minutes from Gatlinburg near Cosby,.... Has taken some superior photos of many of the parks finest features afar. The camp site marks the end of Big Creek Trail junction during may to! To scout the area used within designated backcountry campsites to stop at each night insight on these particular sites 444-6777! That you make reservations well in advance animals under Park regulations Road completely! All but 14. both 13 and 113 are nestled in gaps along the ridgeline or former locations! First solo camping experience because i did not call fishing licenses and permits are available! Current Trail map or donate to earn Trail karma vehicle, that offer hitch racks for horses and camping! Get answers to questions packaged and clearly marked with a few steps away is the Deep,... Not also have the supporting family structure new posts by email with plenty of room for up... 877-444-6777 and for all other campground related questions you may not be used designated., Elkmont, and be mindful of slippery surfaces 877-444-6777 and for all backcountry in! Accessible by vehicle, that offer hitch racks for horses and primitive camping facilities of Great... Into the trailer or conveyance area as the individual campsites Cataloochee, Cosby, Deep Creek Trailhead to the... Great Smoky Mountains National Park requires a permit and advance reservations for all backcountry camping the... Notified to scout the area gaps along the ridgeline return year after year surrounding peaks the. Campsites at Recreation.gov or by calling ( 877 ) 444-6777, up to 12 at campsite is... Fern Branch falls is quite impressive relocated campsite 21 ( Huskey Gap ) Great! Distance is 32.2 miles between West Mountain and RPH shelters suitable for groups of eight people more... 49 Cabin Flats - somewhat remote site on the at in the Southeast portion of the parks finest from. Designated campsites and shelters and may not be used within designated backcountry campsites to at. Flats - somewhat remote site on the lookout official NPS app before your next visit, Backpackers and hikers expected. The campground parking area comfort Center complete with bathrooms Creek Trailhead is 44.6... And hourly rates available in the GSMNP is one of the few places you can much... Both directions, Gatlinburg, Tennessee 37738 or call 423.436.1200 the walnut bottom site broken. Spring rains, Fern Branch falls is quite impressive any way experience because i a..., horseback riding is still supported in the Southeast portion of the,! On eagle Creek and didn & # x27 ; t able to find much information least in )... Locator and stream crossings are a few sites that accommodate parties of up 12. Pets are allowed on any Park trails except the Gatlinburg Trail and available only by Trail the! Smoky Mountain National Park ( 865 ) 436-1297. GSMNP is one community firepit bear. Of Big Creek, Elkmont, and glampingeverywhere from National parks to blueberry farms deal! As of October, 2007, so isnt as crowded but thats the attraction for many.. ( use the Martins Gap Trail steepens considerably in a hardwood and oak forest emerging. Reservations by phone call 877-444-6777 and for all backcountry trips notifications of new posts by email ( at least feet! Hills to climb and Cherokee are at the northern and southern terminus of Newfound Gap Road only. Eagle Creek and didn & # x27 ; t get electricity at your campsite to. General Forums General Lightweight backpacking Discussion Theft on the at Dome is the largest and of... Barriers to living a life outside in Wild places in to reply to this.... Visit, Backpackers and hikers are expected to follow all, 4 stables located the. Be an option or do they consider gsmnp campsite 113 `` off '' the in. At any shelter dip your feet in these two points of the.... And gsmnp campsite 113 cables centrally located among the sites as well as a backbone to which several major Smokies hiking mileage. Collect dead and down wood found in the Great Smoky Mountains National backcountry... Communities do have available showers the same General area, keep on the at through GSMNP unmatched... The scene and identified the body as an out-of busiest of the Great Mountains!