Backcountry Camp 64

For North Carolina's outdoor adventurers seeking an exceptional backcountry experience without the extreme rigors often associated with remote wilderness, Backcountry Camp 64 on the Noland Creek Trail near Bryson City is an absolute standout. Consistently hailed as one of the best sites in the Great Smoky Mountains, this campground offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty, thoughtful amenities, and surprisingly manageable access. It’s a true hidden gem for locals looking to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the Smokies, whether for a peaceful solo retreat or a memorable group outing.

Backcountry Camp 64 has earned its reputation for a reason. Its idyllic setting right by a beautiful creek, coupled with practical features like ample food hoists and plentiful camp spots, sets it apart. What truly makes it a top recommendation, especially for those who appreciate a less arduous journey into the wilderness, is its accessible trail. If you're a North Carolinian eager to explore the stunning backcountry of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and experience camping at its finest, Camp 64 promises an unforgettable adventure that's both rewarding and refreshingly comfortable.

Backcountry Camp 64 is located along the Noland Creek Trail, near Bryson City, NC 28713, USA. As a true backcountry campsite within the vast expanse of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, it is not directly accessible by vehicle. Instead, it requires a hike from a designated trailhead. The primary access point mentioned is from a parking lot on Lakeview Dr. in Bryson City, NC.

For North Carolina locals, Bryson City serves as a welcoming gateway town to this part of the national park. The hike to Camp 64 from the Lakeview Drive parking lot is approximately 4 to 5 miles down the Noland Creek Trail. What makes this particular backcountry site stand out in terms of accessibility is the nature of its trail. Reviewers describe the 5-mile hike back as "probably the easiest I've done," noting it's on a "super wide gravel dirt road." While there are "some long inclines," they are described as "nothing bad at all." This relatively gentle incline on a wide, well-defined path makes it significantly more accessible than many other backcountry sites in the rugged Smokies. This ease of access, combined with its stunning features, makes it a highly appealing option for locals, including families or those new to backcountry camping, who might otherwise be daunted by more challenging terrains.

Services Offered:

• Designated Campsites: Offers multiple designated campsites, including spots directly on the creek and others just 20 yards up the hill, providing options for various preferences.
• Bear Food Hoists: Features plenty of anti-bear food hanging rigs, essential for safely securing food and scented items away from wildlife, ensuring a safer and more responsible backcountry experience.
• Creek Access for Water: Situated right next to a beautiful creek, providing a convenient natural water source for filtering, which is crucial for backcountry camping.
• Trail Access: Located directly on the Noland Creek Trail, offering clear access for hikers.

Features / Highlights:

• Exceptional Beauty and Location: Consistently ranked as one of the "best site I've been to in the Smokies so far!" The primary highlight is its stunning location "Right next to a beautiful creek," creating a serene and picturesque camping environment.
• Awesome Bridge: The presence of an "awesome bridge" near the campsite adds a unique visual element and practical crossing point, enhancing the overall appeal.
• Ample Camping Spots: Offers "plenty of camp spots" both by the creek and slightly elevated, ensuring availability and variety for campers.
• Abundant Hammock Trees: A significant draw for hammock campers, with "Lots of good trees to hang a hammock up too," providing ideal conditions for comfortable suspended sleeping.
• Easy Return Hike: One of its most distinguishing features is the return hike (5 miles back), described as "probably the easiest I've done" due to being on a "super wide gravel dirt road" with manageable inclines, making it less strenuous than typical backcountry climbs.
• Proximity to Water Source: Being right on a creek provides constant access to water, a vital amenity for backcountry trips.
• Scenic Trail: The 4-mile hike down the Noland Creek Trail to the site is itself a part of the beautiful wilderness experience, making the journey enjoyable.
• Quiet and Secluded: While relatively accessible for a backcountry site, it still offers the peace and seclusion of the wilderness, away from frontcountry crowds.
• High Recommendation: Universally recommended by visitors, indicating high satisfaction and a consistently positive experience.

Contact Information:

Address: Noland Creek Trail, Bryson City, NC 28713, USA (Note: This is a general location for trailhead access; the campsite itself is a backcountry site within the national park, requiring hiking.)

Phone: Backcountry campsites generally do not have direct phone numbers. For permits, regulations, and specific trail information, contact the Great Smoky Mountains National Park directly.

Mobile Phone: Mobile phone service is typically unreliable or non-existent in backcountry areas of national parks. For permits, regulations, and specific trail information, contact the Great Smoky Mountains National Park directly.

Backcountry Camp 64 is an ideal choice for North Carolina locals, particularly those who are eager to experience the majestic beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains' backcountry without undertaking an overly strenuous or technical hike. For many in the state, the idea of a true wilderness camp is appealing, but the physical demands can be daunting. Camp 64 perfectly bridges this gap, offering a refreshing blend of accessibility and authentic outdoor immersion. The "super wide gravel dirt road" for the return hike makes it uniquely approachable, even for those new to multi-day backpacking or families with older children capable of a moderate hike.

Its natural features are simply superb. Being situated right next to a "beautiful creek" provides both picturesque scenery and a convenient water source, crucial for backcountry living. The "awesome bridge" adds a charming element, and the abundance of trees makes it a dream spot for hammock campers, a popular trend among North Carolina's outdoor community. The ample and level camp spots, combined with the essential bear food hoists, demonstrate a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both comfort and safety in the wilderness.

For North Carolinians seeking a rewarding escape into nature that balances challenge with comfort, Camp 64 is a highly recommended destination. It allows locals to fully appreciate the biodiversity and tranquility of their state's most iconic national park, fostering a deep connection with the outdoors and creating lasting memories on a trail that feels remarkably manageable for a backcountry adventure.

Backcountry Camp 64

Noland Creek Trail, Bryson City, NC 28713, USA