Backcountry Camp 15

For Tennesseans yearning for an authentic wilderness experience without venturing too far into the deep, challenging backcountry, Backcountry Camp 15 offers an ideal destination within the beloved Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This isn't a bustling campground with paved roads and amenities; it's a true primitive campsite, accessible only by foot, where the sounds of nature are your primary companions. Known for its ample space and convenient water access, Camp 15 provides a perfect opportunity to truly disconnect and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of our state's most iconic national park. Whether you're a seasoned backpacker or a beginner looking to expand your outdoor horizons, this site promises a serene and fulfilling overnight adventure. Prepare to embrace the tranquility of the Smokies, under a canopy of trees, at Backcountry Camp 15.

Backcountry Camp 15 is located near Townsend, TN 37882, USA, within the expansive Great Smoky Mountains National Park. More specifically, this campsite is situated along the Rabbit Creek Trail. For residents across Tennessee, Townsend serves as a convenient and less crowded gateway to the national park compared to some of the larger, more tourist-heavy towns.

Access to Backcountry Camp 15 typically begins from the Abrams Creek Campground area, which is part of the Cades Cove section of the park. The campsite is approximately 3.7 miles from the trailhead at Abrams Creek Campground, and about 4.1 miles from the trailhead at Abrams Falls Trail. This makes for a manageable hike for many, allowing for a genuine backcountry experience without an overly strenuous trek. The trail itself to the campsite is generally considered a pleasant journey through the natural landscape of the Smokies.

The site "sets in a small depression saddle," offering a unique topographic setting. Its location near Rabbit Creek is a significant advantage, as the "creek provides water right there," which is crucial for backcountry camping (though purification is always necessary). While the exact hike difficulty can vary with weather conditions and individual fitness, the relatively moderate distances from known trailheads make it an accessible option for those looking to explore the park's wilderness. Its proximity to Townsend also means that essential supplies and services are within a reasonable driving distance before you embark on your hike, adding to its overall convenience for local adventurers.

As a designated backcountry campsite within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Backcountry Camp 15 offers essential, primitive services designed to support a responsible wilderness camping experience. It operates under the park's backcountry regulations, which prioritize environmental protection and visitor safety. Based on available public data and traveler reviews, here are the services and amenities you can expect:

• Designated Campsite Areas: The site offers "Plenty of spots tent and hammock," indicating multiple cleared areas for pitching tents and ample trees suitable for hammock camping. Camping is strictly permitted only within these designated areas to protect the park's fragile ecosystem.
• Natural Water Source: A key feature is direct access to water, as the "Creek provides water right there." It is crucial to remember that this water is not potable and must be filtered, purified, or boiled before consumption.
• Fire Rings: As with all designated backcountry campsites in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Backcountry Camp 15 would typically have at least one designated fire ring. Fires are only permitted within these rings, and only dead and down wood found in the park may be burned. Bringing uncertified outside firewood is prohibited.
• Bear Cables/Food Storage Systems: All backcountry campsites in the park are equipped with bear cable systems. These are essential for safely hanging all odorous items (food, trash, toiletries, etc.) at least 10-12 feet off the ground and 4 feet from tree trunks to prevent bear encounters. This is a mandatory safety regulation.
• Backcountry Permit Requirement: An overnight backcountry permit is mandatory for all stays at designated campsites and shelters. There is a fee associated with these permits, typically $4 per person, per night, with a maximum charge of $20 per person for up to 7 nights. Reservations are highly recommended and can be made up to 30 days in advance.
• "Leave No Trace" Policy: Campers are required to practice Leave No Trace principles, which include packing out all trash, properly disposing of human waste (at least 100 feet from water sources, trails, and campsites, buried in a 6-inch deep hole), and refraining from disturbing wildlife or natural features.
• Maximum Party Size: The maximum party size for a backcountry campsite is typically 8 people. Special permits may be issued for a few sites that accommodate parties of up to 12.
• Stay Limit: Campers may not stay at any backcountry campsite for more than 3 consecutive nights.
• No Pets: Pets are generally not permitted on backcountry trails or at backcountry campsites within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Backcountry Camp 15, located on the Rabbit Creek Trail within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offers several notable features and highlights that make it a highly desirable destination for those seeking a genuine wilderness experience.

• Excellent Water Access: A major highlight is the convenient access to water. As one reviewer noted, "water right there" from the nearby creek is an invaluable amenity for backcountry campers, reducing the amount of water that needs to be carried in. This makes hydration and basic hygiene much more manageable.
• Ample Space and Layout: The campsite is described as having "Plenty of spots tent and hammock," and being a "nice camp site. Plenty of space." This generous layout allows groups to spread out, providing a greater sense of privacy and comfort even if multiple parties are at the site. This spaciousness contributes significantly to a peaceful and enjoyable stay.
• Suitable for Hammock Camping: The presence of "Plenty of trees for hammock camping" is a distinct advantage for those who prefer this increasingly popular method of wilderness sleeping, offering a comfortable and often lighter alternative to traditional tents.
• Peaceful Depression/Saddle Setting: The site "sets in a small depression saddle," which can contribute to a quieter, more sheltered feel, enhancing the sense of being immersed in nature away from external disturbances.
• Proximity to Abrams Creek Trailhead: While requiring a hike, the relatively moderate distance from the Abrams Creek Campground area and its trailheads makes Camp 15 accessible for a wider range of hikers, including those newer to backpacking. This provides a balance between wilderness immersion and reasonable effort.
• Designated Fire Rings and Bear Cables: Like all Great Smoky Mountains backcountry campsites, Camp 15 would be equipped with designated fire rings for safe campfires and bear cables for secure food storage. These essential infrastructures promote safety for both campers and wildlife and are critical for a responsible backcountry trip.
• Authentic Wilderness Experience: As a primitive backcountry site, Camp 15 offers a true escape from developed areas, allowing campers to fully experience the natural sounds, sights, and solitude of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Backcountry Camp 15 is managed by the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. As such, direct contact for this specific campsite is integrated into the park's overall backcountry permit and information system.

For general park information, backcountry permits, and trip planning assistance, you can typically contact:

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Backcountry Information Office: (865) 436-1297 (Phone calls are preferred method of contact during business hours, which are typically 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Eastern Time).

Park Headquarters Mailing Address: 107 Park Headquarters Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

For permit reservations specifically for backcountry campsites and shelters within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you would generally need to use the designated online permit system or call the Backcountry Reservation Office. It is crucial to obtain a permit prior to your trip. Please note that specific phone numbers and reservation methods can sometimes vary, so it's always best to consult the official Great Smoky Mountains National Park website (NPS.gov/grsm) for the most current and accurate information, backcountry rules and regulations, and to make your reservation before planning your trip.

Address: Townsend, TN 37882, USA (This indicates the general area of the campsite within the park, not a contact office.)

Backcountry Camp 15 offers a truly compelling opportunity for Tennesseans seeking an authentic wilderness experience within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. For locals, its primary suitability lies in its perfect balance of accessibility and genuine backcountry immersion. It’s an ideal choice for those looking to introduce themselves or their families to the joys of backpacking without committing to an overly strenuous multi-day trek. The manageable hike in along the Rabbit Creek Trail makes it attainable for a wider range of fitness levels, meaning more Tennesseans can experience the solitude and untouched beauty of our state's crown jewel.

The campsite itself, with its "plenty of spots" for tents and hammocks and its crucial "water right there" from the creek, provides the essential elements for a comfortable and self-sufficient overnight stay. The availability of bear cables ensures peace of mind regarding wildlife safety, a vital aspect of responsible backcountry camping. Choosing Camp 15 allows locals to unplug from the demands of daily life and reconnect with nature in its purest form, all while supporting and utilizing the magnificent resources of our national park. It's an invitation to explore the less-traveled paths of the Smokies, offering an unforgettable adventure right in our own backyard, fostering a deeper appreciation for Tennessee's natural heritage.

Backcountry Camp 15

Townsend, TN 37882, USA