Backcountry Camp 65

For North Carolina locals craving an authentic wilderness experience, a true escape into the tranquility of the Great Smoky Mountains, Backcountry Camp 65 offers a unique opportunity. Tucked away on the Noland Creek Trail near Bryson City, NC, this campsite is more than just a place to pitch your tent; it's a peaceful alcove that feels surprisingly remote despite its relatively easy access. If you're looking to disconnect from the daily grind and immerse yourself in nature's embrace, this secluded gem provides the perfect setting.

Backcountry Camp 65 is celebrated for its quiet charm and generous space, making it a favorite among those who prefer a less crowded outdoor experience. Situated a short distance off the main Noland Creek Trail, it boasts multiple areas suitable for both tents and hammocks, ensuring comfort for various camping styles. What sets this site apart is its immediate access to clean water from a nearby creek, essential for any backcountry adventure, and its intriguing hint of past human presence, adding a touch of historical mystique to your stay.

Whether you're an avid angler drawn to Noland Creek's fishing opportunities, a hiker eager to explore the expansive trails, or simply someone seeking profound peace in a beautiful natural setting, Backcountry Camp 65 offers a suitable and memorable base. Its combination of natural beauty, thoughtful amenities, and surprising solitude makes it an excellent choice for North Carolinians looking for a genuine Smoky Mountain experience.

Backcountry Camp 65 is located on the Noland Creek Trail, specifically off an Unnamed Road leading from Lakeview Drive (often called "The Road to Nowhere") in Bryson City, NC 28713, USA. This places it within the majestic Great Smoky Mountains National Park. For North Carolina residents, reaching the trailhead typically involves a scenic drive into Bryson City, a charming mountain town known as a gateway to the park.

Accessibility to Backcountry Camp 65 is a significant advantage. The trail leading to the campsite from the trailhead is primarily a forest service road – wide and mostly flat, making for a comfortable hike of approximately 1.2 miles. This relatively short and easy walk-in means that even those new to backcountry camping can comfortably reach the site. The trail itself runs alongside Noland Creek, offering multiple convenient access points to the water, which is a major benefit for both fishing and water collection (with proper filtration).

To reach the campsite from the main Noland Creek Trail, campers should look for a sign indicating a short spur trail off to the left. This spur trail involves a small creek crossing, often ankle-deep and about 8 feet across, adding a minor adventurous element to the approach. Despite its close proximity to the trailhead and relatively easy accessibility, the campsite is noted for its peaceful atmosphere and surprisingly low usage, offering a sense of seclusion that is highly valued in the backcountry.

• Designated Backcountry Campsite: Backcountry Camp 65 is an official designated campsite within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, requiring a permit for overnight stays.
• Multiple Tent and Hammock Sites: The campsite is fairly large, offering numerous suitable spots for pitching tents and setting up hammocks, accommodating various group sizes and preferences.
• Fire Rings: At least one main fire ring is centrally located within the camp, allowing for campfires (where allowed by park regulations and conditions) for warmth, cooking, and ambiance.
• Bear Cables: Essential for backcountry safety, bear cables are provided near the back of the site for safely hanging all odorous items, including food, trash, and toiletries, away from bears.
• Creek Access for Water: Immediate access to Noland Creek provides a natural water source for filtering.
• Picnic Tables: Several picnic tables are available, providing surfaces for meal preparation, dining, or organizing gear, though their condition may vary.
• Proximity to Noland Creek Trail: The campsite is directly connected to the Noland Creek Trail, offering continuous access for hiking, exploring, and fishing along the creek.
• Historical Elements: The presence of an old flowerbed of lilies and a pipe embedded in a rock across the creek suggests a past homestead, adding a unique historical dimension to the site.

• Secluded and Peaceful Setting: Despite being close to the trailhead, Backcountry Camp 65 is known for its surprising tranquility and low traffic, offering a truly peaceful retreat from crowds.
• Easy and Scenic Approach: The 1.2-mile hike from the trailhead is along a wide, mostly flat forest service road that follows Noland Creek, providing beautiful views and an accessible trek.
• Abundant Water Access: The campsite's immediate proximity to Noland Creek and multiple access points along the trail are a major highlight for fishing, water collection, and enjoying the sounds of flowing water.
• Spacious and Versatile Layout: With numerous spots for tents and hammocks, the fairly large site can comfortably accommodate groups, offering flexibility in choosing a setup location.
• Essential Backcountry Amenities: The presence of bear cables and a main fire ring addresses crucial backcountry needs, enhancing safety and convenience.
• Historical Intrigue: Discovering remnants of a past homestead, such as the lily flowerbed and water pipe, adds a fascinating historical layer to the natural beauty of the site.
• Ideal for Anglers: Noland Creek is a known trout stream, making this campsite an excellent basecamp for North Carolina fishing enthusiasts.
• Great for Day Hikes: The location allows for easy day excursions along the Noland Creek Trail, further exploring the scenic beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains.

Backcountry Camp 65 is a designated backcountry campsite within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. As such, direct contact information for the campsite itself, such as a dedicated phone number, is not available. All reservations and inquiries related to backcountry camping in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are handled through the National Park Service's official channels.

Address: Noland Creek Trail, Bryson City, NC 28713, USA

For North Carolina locals planning a trip to Backcountry Camp 65, it is essential to obtain a backcountry permit. Reservations are required and can typically be made up to five months in advance through the official National Park Service website or by calling their reservation line. While a specific phone number for this individual campsite is not provided, the general backcountry information office for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park can be reached at (865) 436-1297 (as per general park information, verify current number). This office can provide details on permits, regulations, and current trail conditions that may affect your visit to Camp 65.

It is always highly recommended to check the Great Smoky Mountains National Park's official website for the most current information regarding backcountry rules, regulations, closures (such as those affecting Lakeview Drive or specific trails), and the exact process for obtaining your required permit. Planning ahead ensures a smooth and enjoyable backcountry experience at Camp 65.

For North Carolina locals seeking an accessible yet authentically wild camping experience, Backcountry Camp 65 on the Noland Creek Trail is an outstanding choice. Its primary appeal lies in its relative ease of access combined with a genuine sense of seclusion. The short, mostly flat 1.2-mile hike from the trailhead makes it approachable for a wide range of skill levels, including those new to backcountry camping, allowing more North Carolinians to enjoy the serenity of the Great Smoky Mountains without an arduous trek.

The campsite's position directly on Noland Creek provides invaluable access to fresh water (for filtering) and fantastic opportunities for fishing, a popular pastime for many in the region. Imagine spending your days casting a line in a clear mountain stream, then returning to a peaceful camp surrounded by nature. The multiple tent and hammock sites, along with a fire ring and crucial bear cables, provide essential amenities for a comfortable and safe wilderness stay, catering to various preferences for setting up camp.

Moreover, the subtle hints of past human history at the site add a unique layer of intrigue, encouraging a deeper appreciation for the land. Its peaceful atmosphere, despite its proximity to the trailhead, means locals can truly disconnect and rejuvenate. Backcountry Camp 65 serves as an ideal basecamp for exploring the vast Noland Creek Trail and beyond, making it perfect for day hikes or multi-day adventures in the stunning natural landscapes of Western North Carolina. It’s a true testament to the beauty and accessibility of the state's wilderness, offering an unforgettable experience right in our own backyard.

You can find a visual tour of this campsite in (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rgDWgSwERwU).

Backcountry Camp 65

Noland Creek Trail, Bryson City, NC 28713, USA