Backcountry Camp 24

For those living in Tennessee with a spirit for adventure and a desire to truly disconnect, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers an unparalleled backcountry experience. Among its many designated primitive sites, Backcountry Camp 24 stands as a testament to the raw, untamed beauty of this beloved national park. Unlike the more developed frontcountry campgrounds, Backcountry Camp 24 offers a genuine wilderness immersion, appealing to experienced hikers and campers who seek solitude and a deep connection with nature. It’s a place where the sounds of the city fade, replaced by the rush of the river and the rustle of leaves, providing a profound sense of peace and a memorable challenge.

Backcountry camping in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a unique proposition, requiring preparation and respect for the environment. These sites are not accessible by vehicle, demanding a hike in, which adds to the feeling of accomplishment and remoteness. Backcountry Camp 24, specifically, is known for its steady uphill approach along the scenic Little River Trail. This isn't a casual stroll; it's an invigorating trek that rewards campers with a truly secluded and pristine setting. It’s an opportunity to test your mettle, refine your outdoor skills, and experience the Smokies in their most authentic form, far from the crowds.

While primitive, Backcountry Camp 24 does offer essential features designed to facilitate a safe and responsible camping experience in bear country. It’s an ideal spot for those who appreciate simplicity, value self-reliance, and are prepared for a true wilderness adventure. If you're a Tennessee local looking to push your boundaries and find a deeper connection with the natural world, Backcountry Camp 24 might just be the perfect destination for your next great outdoor escapade.

Backcountry Camp 24 is nestled deep within the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, accessible via the picturesque Little River Trail. Its address is listed as Little River Trl, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA. It's crucial to understand that this is not a drive-up site. As a backcountry campsite, it requires a significant hike to reach, making it suitable for prepared backpackers and experienced campers.

The journey to Camp 24 typically begins at the Little River Trailhead, located near the Elkmont area, just a short drive from Gatlinburg. From the trailhead, the path to the campsite is a steady uphill climb. This ascent, while challenging, is also incredibly rewarding, offering stunning views and a gradual immersion into the park's dense forests and riverside landscapes. The Little River Trail itself is known for its scenic beauty, following the historic route of an old logging railroad alongside the pristine Little River.

The "uphill hike all the way in" noted by previous campers means that while the journey to the site is demanding, the return trip is "an easy hike back out," primarily downhill, which can be a welcome relief after a night in the backcountry. Navigation requires a good map and compass, or a reliable GPS device, as trail markers, while present, are for directional guidance rather than intricate site location. It's important to remember that backcountry travel comes with inherent challenges, including changing weather conditions and uneven terrain, so proper planning and equipment are paramount for a safe and enjoyable trip to this remote location.

As a primitive backcountry campsite within a National Park, Backcountry Camp 24 operates with a philosophy of minimal impact and self-sufficiency. Therefore, the "services" offered are basic and designed to support a wilderness experience rather than provide extensive comforts. Campers must be prepared to be largely self-sufficient, carrying in all necessary supplies and packing out all waste.

• Designated Campsites: While primitive, Camp 24 consists of a few distinct sites to choose from within the designated area. These sites are typically cleared, relatively level spots suitable for tent pitching, as noted by a reviewer who found "Plenty of level ground."
• Bear Cables: Crucially, bear cables are present at Backcountry Camp 24. These are essential for safely hanging all food, trash, and scented items out of reach of bears and other wildlife, a mandatory regulation in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to ensure both human and animal safety.
• Fire Rings: Each designated site includes a fire ring. Fires are permitted only within these established rings, and only dead and downed wood found on the ground may be used. Campers should be aware of fire restrictions and regulations that may be in place, especially during dry periods.
• Access to Water Source: The site is located "About a 50 ft walk to the river," indicating convenient access to the Little River for water collection. However, it is imperative that all water collected from the river be filtered, purified, or boiled before consumption, as it is not potable.
• Waste Management: While there are no restrooms or trash receptacles, the park requires strict adherence to Leave No Trace principles. Human waste must be disposed of at least 100 feet from any campsite, water source, or trail, and buried in a cathole at least 6 inches deep. All trash and food scraps must be packed out.

It's important to reiterate that "running water," "flushing toilets," or "showers" are not available at backcountry sites. Campers are responsible for their own sanitation, water purification, and waste disposal in accordance with park regulations.

• True Wilderness Immersion: Backcountry Camp 24 offers an authentic primitive camping experience, deeply embedded in the natural environment of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This is a key highlight for those seeking to escape developed areas and truly connect with nature.
• Secluded and Quiet: Being a backcountry site, it provides a level of peace and quiet rarely found in frontcountry campgrounds. The solitude allows for a profound sense of tranquility, often described by campers as a major draw.
• Proximity to Little River: With the river "About a 50 ft walk" from the campsites, guests can enjoy the calming sounds of the "Roaring river lulled us to sleep," as one reviewer mentioned. The river also provides a source for water (to be purified) and opportunities for relaxation by the water's edge.
• Essential Bear-Safe Infrastructure: The presence of bear cables is a critical feature, providing a secure method for food storage and greatly enhancing camper safety in bear country. This eliminates the need for campers to carry bear canisters.
• Varied Site Options: While a single backcountry camp, the mention of "a few sites to choose from" indicates that campers have some flexibility in selecting a spot that best suits their preferences, whether for hammock camping or tent setup, with "Plenty of level ground" reported.
• Natural Ambiance: The surrounding natural environment offers unique experiences, such as "some deer come through the camp," providing opportunities for wildlife viewing in their natural habitat. The light ground vegetation also contributes to a more open, natural feel.
• Challenging Yet Rewarding Hike: The "steady uphill hike all the way in" makes the journey to the campsite part of the adventure, offering a sense of accomplishment upon arrival and an "easy hike back out."

As Backcountry Camp 24 is a primitive site within Great Smoky Mountains National Park, direct contact is typically through the park's Backcountry Information Office for permits and regulations.

Address: Little River Trl, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA (Note: This is a trail location, not a physical mailing address for services.)

Phone: (865) 436-1297 (This is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Backcountry Information Office phone number, which handles inquiries and reservations for backcountry sites).

Mobile Phone: +1 865-436-1297

Permits are required for all backcountry camping in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. These are typically obtained through the park's online reservation system (Recreation.gov) or by contacting the Backcountry Information Office. It is crucial to obtain your permit and understand all regulations before embarking on your trip.

For residents of Tennessee, Backcountry Camp 24 offers a profound opportunity to experience the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in its purest form. If you're a local who has explored the more accessible areas of the park and yearns for a deeper connection with the wilderness, this primitive campsite is an ideal next step. It's an accessible challenge, providing a rewarding overnight backpacking trip without requiring extensive travel beyond your state's borders.

This campsite is particularly suitable for Tennessee locals who are:

• Seeking true solitude: Far from the bustling frontcountry campgrounds, Camp 24 offers a tranquil escape where the primary sounds are those of the natural world, ideal for introspection and quiet enjoyment.
• Experienced hikers and backpackers: The uphill trek to the site makes it a perfect fit for locals who are already comfortable with multi-mile hikes carrying a pack, offering a tangible goal and a sense of accomplishment.
• Wildlife enthusiasts: The opportunity to observe deer and other wildlife in their natural habitat, undisturbed by larger crowds, provides a unique and memorable experience right in your home state's iconic national park.
• Looking for an authentic primitive camping experience: With basic amenities like bear cables and fire rings, but no running water or restrooms, it’s an excellent spot for those wanting to practice and refine their self-sufficiency and Leave No Trace skills.

While the presence of "sweat bees" and potential for "swampy" or "mud" conditions (especially after rain) are noted by past campers, these are typical elements of a true backcountry experience. For the prepared and adaptable Tennessee adventurer, these are minor considerations that contribute to the raw and unfiltered beauty of the wilderness. The constant, soothing sound of the Little River serves as a natural lullaby, promising restful nights after invigorating days.

In essence, Backcountry Camp 24 isn't just a place to sleep; it's an invitation for Tennessee locals to fully immerse themselves in the wild heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural treasures right in their backyard.

Backcountry Camp 24

Little River Trl, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA