Backcountry Campsite #35

For Tennessee locals with a passion for genuine wilderness adventures, Backcountry Campsite #35 in Cosby offers an authentic primitive camping experience deep within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This site is not for the faint of heart, but for those who embrace the challenge of a hike-in destination, it promises unparalleled tranquility and a profound connection with nature. If you're a seasoned hiker or aspiring to a more rugged outdoor experience, this campsite provides an accessible entry point into the vast beauty of the Smokies, away from the more crowded front country areas.

Backcountry Campsite #35 is designed for true outdoor enthusiasts, offering a stripped-down, yet well-equipped, base for your wilderness explorations. It's a place where the sounds of the forest replace the hum of daily life, and the starlit sky provides the only light show you'll need. This unique offering makes it a highly desirable spot for Tennessee residents looking to truly immerse themselves in the wild heart of their home state.

Backcountry Campsite #35 is located near Cosby, TN 37722, USA, placing it within the boundaries of the iconic Great Smoky Mountains National Park. As a backcountry site, it is not accessible by vehicle. Instead, access is achieved through hiking, which is a fundamental part of the experience. The primary access point is typically from the Cosby Campground Trailhead, making it a relatively convenient starting point for Tennessee locals familiar with the park's eastern side.

Customer reviews confirm that the hike to Campsite #35 is generally considered "pretty easy" with "little elevation gain," especially for a backcountry site. The average hiking time from the Cosby Campground Trailhead is estimated to be around 1.5 hours, making it an ideal destination for a one-night trip or a convenient stop on longer backpacking expeditions. There are multiple designated campsites within the area of Campsite #35, with some spots a little further up the hill on the Lower Mt Cammerer Trail, offering flexibility for campers. This relatively mild access for a backcountry site makes it more approachable for those looking to dip their toes into primitive camping without committing to an arduous multi-day trek, while still providing the solitude of the wilderness.

As a primitive backcountry campsite within a National Park, Backcountry Campsite #35 provides essential amenities designed to minimize environmental impact and support a self-sufficient camping experience. You won't find modern facilities like restrooms or running water taps; campers are expected to be prepared for true wilderness conditions. However, the site is equipped with crucial elements for a safe and comfortable stay:

• Designated Campsites: Campsite #35 features five designated individual campsites (A, B, C, D, and E). These sites are clearly marked to help manage impact and ensure campers have a dedicated space. Reviews highlight Campsite A as having the "most flat spots for tent set up," and Campsite C as having "2 small flat spots to accommodate 2 tents."
• Solid Fire Rings: Each designated site is equipped with a sturdy fire ring, allowing campers to safely build campfires for warmth, cooking, and ambiance, provided fire regulations are observed.
• Bear Bag Hangs / Cables: Critical for safety in bear country, the campsites include robust systems for hanging food and scented items away from bears and other wildlife. This is an indispensable amenity for backcountry camping in the Smokies.
• Water Source: A "small creek running through the site" provides a natural water source. It is crucial for campers to understand that this water must be filtered, purified, or boiled before consumption, as it is untreated and can contain harmful microorganisms.
• Backcountry Regulations: While not a "service" in the traditional sense, the site operates under strict National Park Service backcountry regulations, which include requirements for permits, Leave No Trace principles, and adherence to bear safety guidelines. This ensures the preservation of the wilderness for all users.

Backcountry Campsite #35 offers several compelling features that make it a desirable destination for hikers and primitive campers in Tennessee:

• Accessible Backcountry Experience: Its relatively easy 1.5-hour hike from the Cosby Campground Trailhead, with "little elevation gain," makes it one of the more accessible backcountry sites in the Great Smoky Mountains. This is a significant highlight for those new to primitive camping or seeking a less strenuous wilderness outing.
• Serene Forest Setting: While reviews note "no great views other than the surrounding woods," the beauty of these woods is consistently praised as "always beautiful." This immersion in the deep forest offers a truly peaceful and natural ambiance.
• Designated, Well-Spaced Sites: The presence of five distinct sites, with descriptions of their suitability for tents (e.g., flat spots), provides clear guidance for campers and ensures adequate space between groups. Campsites D & E are specifically noted as "horseback sites," indicating versatility.
• Essential Bear Safety Provisions: The inclusion of "solid fire rings and bear bag hangs" demonstrates the site's readiness for primitive camping in bear country, prioritizing camper safety and proper food storage.
• Natural Water Source: The running creek provides a convenient source of water, albeit requiring purification, which is a key resource for backcountry endeavors.
• Ideal for Short or Long Trips: Described as an "easy in and out site for a 1 nighter or a great place to set up for the night on longer hikes," its location and accessibility make it versatile for various trip durations.
• Proximity to Lower Mt Cammerer Trail: Being near or on the Lower Mt Cammerer Trail offers additional hiking opportunities for those looking to explore more of the surrounding wilderness beyond just the campsite.
• True Wilderness Immersion: Without modern conveniences or cell service, the site offers a genuine opportunity for a digital detox and a deep connection with the untouched nature of the Great Smoky Mountains.

Address: Cosby, TN 37722, USA

Phone: (865) 436-1297

Mobile Phone: +1 865-436-1297

For Backcountry Campsite #35, the provided phone numbers belong to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park's main information line or backcountry office. These numbers are crucial for obtaining required backcountry permits, checking current trail conditions, confirming bear activity, and understanding any specific regulations or closures that might be in effect. It is essential to contact the park directly before planning your trip to Campsite #35, as backcountry camping requires permits and adherence to strict guidelines for safety and resource protection. Remember, there is no phone service at the campsite itself, so all arrangements and information gathering must be done prior to entering the backcountry.

For Tennessee locals, Backcountry Campsite #35 offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the rugged beauty and solitude of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in its most authentic form. Its primary appeal lies in providing a genuine backcountry camping experience that is more accessible than many other remote sites, making it an ideal choice for both seasoned backpackers and those looking to venture into primitive camping for the first time.

The relatively easy 1.5-hour hike from the Cosby Campground Trailhead means that Tennessee residents can quickly transition from daily life to deep wilderness immersion, maximizing their time in nature. This accessibility, combined with the presence of essential amenities like fire rings, bear hangs, and a natural water source, makes primitive camping safer and more enjoyable. The site’s location in Cosby provides a quieter entry point into the National Park, allowing locals to explore less-traveled trails and experience the Smokies away from the usual crowds.

For those seeking a true digital detox, a chance to reconnect with nature, or a challenging yet rewarding hiking adventure, Campsite #35 serves as a perfect base. It's a place where the beauty of the surrounding woods is the only view needed, and the peace of the wilderness is your constant companion. For Tennessee residents yearning for an authentic, memorable, and serene outdoor escape within their own state, Backcountry Campsite #35 stands out as a prime destination, promising an adventure that truly embraces the spirit of the Great Smoky Mountains.

Backcountry Campsite #35

Cosby, TN 37722, USA