Backcountry Campsite #31

For those in Tennessee seeking an authentic wilderness adventure, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers countless opportunities to immerse oneself in nature. Among the many designated overnight stops, Backcountry Campsite #31, affectionately known as Porters Flat, stands out as a rewarding destination for backpackers. This article will provide a comprehensive look at this primitive campsite, detailing its location, the essential services it provides, its unique features, and why it's a perfectly suited spot for local outdoor enthusiasts across Tennessee.

Unlike developed campgrounds, Backcountry Campsite #31 provides a true escape from civilization, requiring a hike in with all your gear. This type of camping fosters self-reliance and a deeper connection to the natural world. It's a place where the sounds of the forest become your soundtrack, and the beauty of the Smokies unfolds around you without the distractions of modern life. Visitors frequently praise its peaceful atmosphere and the unique sense of solitude it offers, even when other campers are present.

Recent visitors have highlighted its manageable trail, the abundance of nearby water, and the essential amenities for primitive camping. Even under drizzly conditions, the campsite maintains a mysterious and serene vibe, promising a memorable and rewarding trip for solo adventurers or small groups. This guide aims to equip you with the knowledge to plan your next primitive camping excursion to Porters Flat, ensuring a fulfilling experience in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains.

Backcountry Campsite #31 (Porters Flat) is nestled deep within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with its address generally associated with Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA. Its specific location makes it accessible via the Porters Creek Trail, which begins in the Greenbrier area of the park.

To reach the Porters Creek Trailhead, visitors will typically drive on Greenbrier Road. This road transitions from paved to gravel, and while it is two-way, it can be narrow in sections. The trailhead itself is at the end of this road, where a gravel parking area is available. A parking tag is required for all vehicles parked within Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

The hike to Backcountry Campsite #31 is considered a gradual ascent and is often described as not too difficult, making it manageable even when carrying backpacking gear. The initial mile of the hike is along a gravel access road. After this, the trail splits, with the left fork leading towards Campsite #31. The exact distance to the campsite from the trailhead is approximately 3.7 miles. Along the way, hikers will find picturesque spots to relax by the water on rocks, adding to the enjoyment of the journey. As a backcountry site, there are no vehicular access points directly to the campsite; all gear must be backpacked in.

• Designated Primitive Campsite: Backcountry Campsite #31 is an officially recognized and maintained site within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for primitive overnight camping. This requires a backcountry permit from the National Park Service.
• Abundant Water Access: A significant advantage of this campsite is the "plenty of water available nearby" in a stream. While readily accessible, it is crucial that all water collected from natural sources be filtered, purified, or boiled before consumption to ensure safety. Some kind campers have even tied ropes to aid in getting down to and back up from the stream for water collection.
• Fire Pit: The campsite is equipped with a fire pit, allowing campers to have a controlled campfire for warmth, cooking, and ambiance, provided there are no fire bans in effect by the National Park Service. Campers should only use downed, dead wood that is found within the park or bring their own small, legal firewood.
• Bear Cable/Hang: A critical safety feature for this backcountry site is the presence of a cable system for hanging gear. This allows campers to safely store food and scented items away from bears and other wildlife, ensuring both human safety and wildlife protection.
• Basic Seating: The campsite offers basic seating, such as a log, providing a convenient spot for campers to rest and gather around the fire.

• Manageable Hike: The trail leading to Campsite #31 is described as "not too difficult" and a "gradual ascent," making it an accessible option for backpackers of various experience levels, even when carrying gear.
• Peaceful and Mysterious Atmosphere: Visitors have noted a "mysterious, peaceful vibe," especially during drizzly or foggy conditions, contributing to a truly serene and immersive wilderness experience.
• Solitude for Backpackers: Despite the possibility of other campers, the campsite offers a sense of solitude, particularly appealing to solo backpackers seeking quiet reflection and disconnection from daily life.
• Reliable Water Source: The "plenty of water available nearby" in the stream is a major highlight, minimizing the need for campers to carry excessive amounts of water, though purification is always necessary.
• Essential Primitive Amenities: The presence of a fire pit, a log for seating, and a functional bear cable provides the basic yet crucial amenities needed for a comfortable and safe primitive camping trip.
• Scenic Trail Features: The hike to the campsite includes sections of gravel road and leads to a split, offering varied terrain. There are also "great spots to relax by the water on some rocks" along the trail.
• Wildlife Potential: Being deep within the Great Smoky Mountains, the campsite offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, although interactions are typically minimal, especially with proper food storage.

Backcountry Campsite #31 (Porters Flat) is under the purview of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. All inquiries regarding backcountry camping, permits, regulations, and trail conditions should be directed to the National Park Service.

Address: Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA (within Great Smoky Mountains National Park, accessible via Porters Creek Trail)

For specific information on backcountry permits and current conditions, it is highly recommended to contact the park's Backcountry Information Office:

Backcountry Information Office Phone: (865) 436-1297

The Backcountry Information Office is typically available by phone daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Eastern Time). Visitors should always check the official Great Smoky Mountains National Park website for the most up-to-date information regarding permits, reservations, trail closures, and any advisories before planning their trip.

For residents of Tennessee, Backcountry Campsite #31 (Porters Flat) offers an exceptional opportunity to experience the pristine beauty and true wilderness of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Its suitability for locals stems from its blend of accessibility, essential amenities for primitive camping, and the promise of a peaceful, immersive outdoor experience, all within their beloved home state.

Firstly, the "manageable hike" to Porters Flat makes it an appealing option for a wider range of Tennessee backpackers, from those new to primitive camping to seasoned veterans looking for a rewarding yet not overly strenuous trek. This accessibility means more locals can enjoy the unique rewards of backcountry camping without facing an excessively challenging journey. The initial gravel road section eases into a proper trail, providing a gradual transition into the wilderness.

Secondly, the "plenty of water available nearby" is a significant logistical advantage, reducing the burden of carrying excessive water supplies and allowing campers to focus more on enjoying their surroundings. Coupled with the crucial "cable to hang your gear" for bear safety and a functional "fire pit," the campsite provides the core necessities for a comfortable and responsible primitive camping experience. These features underscore the park's commitment to visitor safety and environmental protection.

Furthermore, the ambiance described by visitors—a "mysterious, peaceful vibe" even in drizzly conditions, and the sense of "solitude"—resonates deeply with those seeking a true escape. For many Tennesseans, the Great Smoky Mountains are a cherished sanctuary, and finding a spot like Porters Flat where one can truly disconnect and immerse themselves in the quietude of nature is invaluable. It offers a unique opportunity for introspection and rejuvenation away from the demands of daily life.

Lastly, the overall sense of adventure, combined with the practical benefits and serene environment, makes Backcountry Campsite #31 an ideal choice for locals. It's a place where one can connect with the natural heritage of Tennessee, observe the changing moods of the mountains, and create lasting memories, whether on a solo trip or with a small group of like-minded adventurers. Porters Flat is not just a campsite; it's an invitation for Tennessee residents to fully embrace the wild, untamed beauty that their state proudly protects.

Backcountry Campsite #31

Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA