Backcountry Campsite 01

For Tennesseans eager to experience the raw beauty and solitude of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Backcountry Campsite 01 offers an ideal entry point into the world of wilderness camping. This isn't your typical drive-up campground with endless amenities; it's a genuine backcountry site designed for those who seek a deeper connection with nature, accessible only by foot. Perfect for beginners, families with young adventurers, or seasoned hikers looking for a relatively easy overnight escape, Campsite 01 provides a taste of the Smokies' magnificent backcountry without requiring an arduous trek. Located along the scenic Cooper Road Trail, this site embodies the essence of "leave no trace" camping while still offering essential features for a comfortable and safe wilderness experience. Prepare to unplug, reconnect with nature, and create lasting memories under the vast Tennessee sky at Backcountry Campsite 01.

Backcountry Campsite 01 is located on the Cooper Rd Trail, near Tallassee, TN 37878, USA. This places it within the vast expanse of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a cherished natural treasure for all Tennesseans. While it has a Tallassee address, access to the campsite requires a hike within the park's backcountry system.

Accessing Backcountry Campsite 01 typically begins from the Abrams Creek area of the park. Visitors need to leave their vehicles in the designated parking area just past the Abrams Creek Ranger Station. It's important to note that "there is no place to park at the trail head on the far end of the campground" directly. This means that from the parking area, there's an "extra 1/2 mile each way on a gravel road" to reach the trailhead for the Cooper Road Trail. For those with "heavy packs," a helpful tip from experienced campers is to "drive to the trailhead and drop bags off with one person and then go park unless you want the extra hiking."

The hike itself to Campsite 01 is notably accessible, described as "only about an easy mile hike in" from the trailhead. The "hike is entirely on a wide access road, has a few minor inclines," making it suitable for a wide range of skill levels, including "easy enough for a 5-6yr old." This makes it an excellent choice for a "young family or beginner backcountry experience." During the hike, you will encounter "two water crossings with no bridges – one of which can be tricky if there has been rain," so appropriate footwear is advised. This combination of a relatively short and manageable hike with a truly immersive backcountry feel makes Campsite 01 a conveniently located and appealing option for Tennessee residents looking to explore the wilderness.

As a designated backcountry campsite within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Backcountry Campsite 01 offers essential, primitive services designed to support a wilderness camping experience while adhering to Leave No Trace principles. It does not provide the extensive amenities found in developed campgrounds. Based on public data and customer reviews, here are the services you can expect:

• Designated Campsite Areas: The site offers "3 different areas so you can spread out from other groups," allowing for some privacy even within a multi-group site. Camping is only permitted at designated backcountry campsites.
• Fire Rings: There are "3 fire rings" available at the campsite, allowing for campfires in designated areas (only dead and down wood found in the park may be burned; bringing in uncertified firewood is prohibited).
• Bear Cables: The site is equipped with "2 sets of bear cables." These are crucial 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 protect against bears and other wildlife. This is a mandatory safety measure in the Smokies backcountry.
• Water Source: A "creek provides water" nearby. It is critical to note that this water must be "filter or boil before drinking" as it is not potable. The creek is described as "just big enough for rinsing and getting feet wet."
• Hammock Camping Opportunities: There are "plenty of trees for hammock camping," offering an alternative shelter option to tents.
• Permit Requirement: A backcountry permit is required for all overnight stays. There is a fee of $4 per person, per night, with a maximum charge of $20 per person for up to 7 nights. Reservations are essential for designated campsites and shelters.
• Waste Management: Human waste must be disposed of at least 100 feet from any campsite, shelter, water source, or trail and buried in a hole at least 6 inches deep. All trash and personal items must be packed out – "leave nothing behind but your footprints."
• No Pets: Pets are generally not allowed on backcountry trails within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
• No Motorized Vehicles: Motorized vehicles are prohibited in the backcountry.

Backcountry Campsite 01 offers a unique set of features and highlights that make it a standout choice for those seeking an authentic, yet accessible, wilderness experience in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

• Beginner-Friendly Backcountry Experience: A significant highlight is its suitability for "a good young family or beginner backcountry experience." The "easy mile hike in" on a "wide access road" with "few minor inclines" makes it less daunting than many other backcountry sites, encouraging new adventurers to explore the wilderness.
• Natural Water Source: The nearby "creek provides water" (though requiring filtration or boiling) is a crucial natural amenity, reducing the amount of water hikers need to carry in. This allows for lighter packs and easier hydration. The creek is also suitable for "rinsing and getting feet wet," offering a refreshing spot.
• Bear Safety Infrastructure: The presence of "3 fire rings and 2 sets of bear cables" demonstrates the park's commitment to safety and responsible wilderness practices. These cables are essential for secure food storage, protecting both campers and wildlife.
• Spacious and Varied Tent Areas: The site has "3 different areas so you can spread out from other groups," providing a sense of privacy and space even when other parties are present. This allows for a more comfortable and less crowded camping experience.
• Hammock Camping Potential: "Plenty of trees for hammock camping" offers flexibility in shelter choice, appealing to those who prefer hammock setups over traditional tents.
• Shade and Natural Beauty: The site boasts "lots of shade," which is a welcome feature, especially during warmer months. The entire area is immersed in the natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains, offering a genuine wilderness feel.
• Accessible Parking Strategy: While requiring an extra walk, the clear guidance on where to park (past the ranger station) and the option to drop off gear at the trailhead demonstrate thoughtfulness in managing backcountry access.
• Sense of Seclusion (Despite Accessibility): Despite being relatively easy to access, the site offers a "sense of tranquility" once you are there, away from the developed areas of the park.

Backcountry Campsite 01 falls under the management of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. As such, direct contact for this specific campsite is typically channeled through the park's general information and backcountry offices.

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

Backcountry Information Office: (865) 436-1297 (Phone calls are preferred method of contact)

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. Please note that specific phone numbers and reservation methods can 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 before planning your trip.

Address: Cooper Rd Trail, Tallassee, TN 37878, USA (This is the physical location of the campsite, not a contact office.)

For Tennesseans looking to connect with the raw beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains, Backcountry Campsite 01 offers an unparalleled opportunity, particularly for those new to wilderness camping or families with young children. Its primary suitability for locals lies in its accessible yet authentic backcountry experience, providing a true escape into nature without requiring days of grueling hiking. Instead of booking a traditional campsite, locals can embrace a more immersive adventure that feels a world away, yet is conveniently located within one of our state's most iconic national parks.

The "easy mile hike in" makes it an excellent "beginner backcountry experience," allowing families to introduce their children to the joys of backpacking in a manageable way. This low barrier to entry means more Tennesseans can enjoy the solitude and unique challenges of wilderness camping. The presence of essential amenities like bear cables and designated fire rings, coupled with a natural water source, ensures a safe and responsible stay. While basic, these features are precisely what experienced backpackers value in a primitive site. For those seeking to disconnect from screens and truly embrace the sounds and sights of the forest, away from the crowds of front-country campgrounds, Campsite 01 delivers a truly refreshing and memorable experience. It’s an invitation to explore the heart of our beloved Smokies, offering an authentic adventure right in our own backyard.

Backcountry Campsite 01

Cooper Rd Trail, Tallassee, TN 37878, USA