Backcountry Campsite #17

For Tennessee locals seeking a truly immersive wilderness experience, a departure from the typical amenities-rich campground, Backcountry Campsite #17 offers an authentic and rewarding adventure. Tucked away along the serene Little Bottoms Trail near Tallassee, this site provides a genuine taste of primitive camping within the breathtaking landscapes of the Great Smoky Mountains region. If your idea of a perfect getaway involves disconnecting from the everyday and reconnecting with nature, with only the essentials, then this campsite is undoubtedly worth exploring. It's a place where the sounds of the forest replace the hum of electricity, and the stars shine brighter than you've ever seen them.

Backcountry Campsite #17 is designed for those who appreciate the raw beauty of the outdoors and are prepared for a more rugged camping experience. Unlike developed campgrounds, you won't find RV hookups or bathhouses here; instead, you'll discover the quiet solitude of the wilderness. This emphasis on primitive camping allows for a profound connection with the natural environment, making it an ideal spot for experienced hikers, backpackers, and families introducing their children to the joys of overnight trekking. Imagine waking up to the sounds of birds, cooking over a campfire, and truly living off the land, even if just for a night or two. This site embodies the spirit of adventure and self-reliance, offering a refreshing contrast to modern conveniences.

The beauty of Backcountry Campsite #17 lies in its simplicity and its integration with the surrounding natural world. It encourages visitors to embrace the challenge and reward of carrying in their supplies, setting up camp with minimal fuss, and truly becoming part of the landscape. It’s a testament to the allure of Tennessee’s untouched wilderness, providing an escape that rejuvenates the spirit and challenges the body in equal measure. For locals, it's an accessible opportunity to explore the backcountry treasures of their own state, offering an authentic outdoor experience that builds character and creates unforgettable memories.

Backcountry Campsite #17 is located on the Little Bottoms Trail, near Tallassee, TN 37878, USA. This placement deep within the backcountry means that accessibility differs significantly from traditional drive-up campgrounds. To reach this site, visitors must embark on a hike, making it a destination primarily for backpackers and those comfortable with wilderness trekking.

The Little Bottoms Trail itself is part of the extensive trail network within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park or its immediate vicinity, requiring hikers to be prepared with appropriate gear, navigation tools, and an understanding of backcountry regulations. While the address provides a geographical anchor, the true access point is a trailhead, from which the hike to Campsite #17 begins. This design ensures that the campsite remains a tranquil and relatively undisturbed natural haven, preserving its primitive appeal.

For Tennessee locals, reaching this campsite often involves a scenic drive to the designated trailhead, followed by a rewarding hike. It's important to research the specific trail length and difficulty before setting out, as conditions can vary. This hands-on approach to accessibility means that every visit to Backcountry Campsite #17 is an adventure from start to finish, offering a deeper sense of accomplishment and connection to the wilderness. Its location near Abrams Creek also provides a vital natural resource for campers, further integrating the site into its pristine surroundings. This truly is a destination where the journey is as much a part of the experience as the stay itself.

As a primitive backcountry campsite, Backcountry Campsite #17 offers essential services tailored to a wilderness experience. These provisions are designed to support safe and responsible camping while minimizing human impact on the environment.

• Designated Campsites: The site offers room for up to 5 groups, ensuring designated areas for pitching tents while maintaining a sense of space between parties. This helps manage impact and preserves the natural setting.
• Fire Rings: Each designated site is equipped with a fire ring, allowing campers to safely build campfires for warmth, cooking, and ambiance. This essential feature is crucial for primitive camping.
• Bear Cables: Bear cables are available at the campsite. These are vital for safely hanging food and scented items out of reach of bears and other wildlife, promoting both camper safety and wildlife protection.
• Water Source: A great water source is available in Abrams Creek. Campers must be prepared to filter or treat all water from natural sources before consumption to ensure safety.
• No Potable Water: It's important to note that no potable (drinkable) water is provided, emphasizing the need for campers to bring filtration systems or purification tablets.
• No Restroom Facilities: There are no developed restroom facilities, requiring campers to practice Leave No Trace principles for human waste disposal.
• No Trash Disposal: Campers must pack out all trash, including food scraps, upholding the Leave No Trace ethic of packing out everything brought in.

These services underscore the self-sufficient nature of backcountry camping. Visitors should arrive prepared with all necessary gear, food, and knowledge of wilderness ethics to ensure a safe and enjoyable stay.

Backcountry Campsite #17, while primitive, offers several key features and highlights that make it a highly desirable destination for those seeking a true wilderness experience. These aspects are frequently appreciated by visitors looking for an authentic escape.

• Ample Space for Groups: The campsite is spacious, with "room for 5 groups," allowing for multiple parties to camp comfortably without feeling overly crowded. This fosters a sense of solitude even when others are present.
• Essential Fire Rings: The presence of fire rings at all sites is a significant highlight, enabling campers to enjoy the quintessential campfire experience safely and responsibly.
• Crucial Bear Cables: The availability of bear cables is a critical safety feature, ensuring campers can properly store food and scented items away from wildlife, which is paramount in bear country.
• Access to Abrams Creek: Described as a "great water source," Abrams Creek provides convenient access to water (which must be treated) for cooking, drinking, and other camp needs, directly enhancing the wilderness experience.
• Gateway to Abrams Falls: The campsite serves as an excellent base for a day excursion to the stunning Abrams Falls, a popular natural attraction, making it ideal for those wanting to explore the iconic waterfall.
• Ideal for Overnight Hikes: It's perfectly suited for "first overnight hike/camp" experiences or as a stop on longer treks like the Pine Mountain Loop trail, offering a rewarding rest point.
• Scenic Hiking Opportunities: Being on the Little Bottoms Trail provides immediate access to beautiful hiking trails, immersing campers in the natural beauty of the area.
• Genuine Wilderness Immersion: The lack of developed amenities fosters a deep connection with nature, offering a peaceful and relaxing environment far from urban noise.

These features collectively create an authentic and fulfilling backcountry camping experience, appealing to those who value self-sufficiency, natural beauty, and the quiet solitude of the Tennessee wilderness.

For Backcountry Campsite #17, located within a national park or managed wilderness area, direct contact via phone for reservations or general inquiries might not be the primary method. Instead, backcountry campsites often require specific permits or reservations made through the park's official website or visitor centers.

Address: Little Bottoms Trail, Tallassee, TN 37878, USA

Given its nature, interested parties should consult the official website of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park or visit a park ranger station for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding reservations, permits, trail conditions, and any specific regulations pertaining to Backcountry Campsite #17. This ensures compliance with park rules and a safe, prepared visit. General inquiries about trail conditions or backcountry policies can typically be directed to the park's main information lines or visitor centers, which can guide you through the process of planning a visit to a site like #17.

Backcountry Campsite #17 is an ideal destination for Tennessee locals seeking a specific kind of outdoor adventure: a true immersion into the wilderness without the distractions of modern amenities. For those who embrace self-sufficiency and the call of the wild, this campsite offers an unparalleled opportunity right in their backyard.

Its location on the Little Bottoms Trail near Tallassee places it within the majestic Great Smoky Mountains region, offering locals convenient access to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the state. Instead of traveling far, Tennesseans can experience a profound sense of escape and solitude within a relatively short drive from their homes. This site is particularly suitable for experienced hikers and backpackers who appreciate primitive camping, or for families eager to introduce their children to the rigors and rewards of an overnight trek in the wilderness.

The provision of essential features like fire rings and crucial bear cables demonstrates that while primitive, the site is designed with safety and responsible camping in mind. Access to Abrams Creek as a water source (requiring treatment) further highlights its suitability for self-reliant campers. For locals, Backcountry Campsite #17 is not just a place to sleep; it’s a classroom for outdoor skills, a sanctuary for quiet contemplation, and a gateway to exploring iconic natural landmarks like Abrams Falls. It's a chance to truly disconnect, breathe fresh mountain air, and forge deeper connections with nature and with fellow adventurers, all within the beautiful confines of their home state.

Backcountry Campsite #17

Little Bottoms Trail, Tallassee, TN 37878, USA