Backcountry Campsite #36

For North Carolinians who yearn for a true wilderness immersion, far from the crowds and conveniences of developed campgrounds, Backcountry Campsite #36 near Waynesville, NC, offers an authentic and memorable experience. This isn't a place for RVs or casual car camping; it's a dedicated backcountry site, requiring a hike to reach and embracing the raw beauty of the Appalachian wilderness. Ideal for backpackers, experienced hikers, and even horse riders, Campsite #36 provides a rustic yet essential haven for those exploring the extensive trail networks of Western North Carolina, including its proximity to the Appalachian Trail (AT) and the scenic Big Creek area.

Backcountry Campsite #36 embodies the essence of primitive camping. Here, you'll find basic but crucial amenities designed to support your wilderness journey. Fire rings are available for cooking and warmth, allowing you to enjoy a traditional campfire under the stars. Importantly, bear cables are provided, an essential feature for safely hanging food and scented items away from curious wildlife, a testament to responsible backcountry practices. While the site may not always be perfectly level, it offers sufficient space for setting up tents and finding a comfortable spot to rest after a day on the trails.

The location along Big Creek is a significant draw, providing a reliable and refreshing water source. As one visitor noted, bringing a water filter is key to enjoying the "tasty/clean water," highlighting the purity of the natural environment. The proximity to the creek not only offers practical benefits but also contributes to the site's peaceful ambiance, with the gentle sounds of flowing water providing a natural soundtrack to your wilderness retreat. This direct access to fresh water is a crucial element for multi-day backpacking trips and ensures a more comfortable stay for those embracing the backcountry lifestyle.

Campsite #36 also stands out as a "Livestock campsite," indicating its dual purpose for both hikers and those traveling with horses. While horse riders may use the spot for resting during the day, the separation of areas often means that the "smell of horse manure" doesn't reach the main camping areas, ensuring a pleasant experience for all users. This shared-use aspect speaks to the versatility of the site and its integration into the broader trail system, catering to different forms of wilderness exploration. Its design to accommodate varied users while maintaining a sense of tranquility is a testament to thoughtful backcountry management.

Beyond the practicalities, some visitors have described unique and almost mystical experiences at Campsite #36, hinting at a deeper connection to the natural energy of the place. Personal accounts of hearing unexplainable music or voices suggest that for those open to such phenomena, the site might offer a profound spiritual connection to the land. Whether attributed to energetic vortices or simply the power of imagination in a deeply natural setting, these anecdotes add a layer of intrigue and highlight the profound sense of peace and wonder that the wilderness can inspire.

For North Carolina locals who cherish the challenge and reward of backcountry adventures, Campsite #36 offers a truly immersive experience. It's a place to test your outdoor skills, find solitude, and connect intimately with the untouched beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains region. Remember, backcountry camping requires preparation and adherence to Leave No Trace principles, ensuring that this precious natural resource remains pristine for future generations of adventurers. Always check current park regulations and conditions before embarking on your trip.

Backcountry Campsite #36 is a testament to the wild heart of North Carolina, offering a genuine escape into the raw, unfiltered beauty of its mountains and forests. It's a reminder that some of the most profound experiences are found far from paved roads, under a canopy of stars, with only the sounds of nature as your companion. For those ready to answer the call of the wild, this site promises an unforgettable journey.

Location and Accessibility

Backcountry Campsite #36 is located near Waynesville, NC 28785, USA. As a backcountry campsite, it is not directly accessible by vehicle; it requires hiking or horseback riding to reach. Its proximity to the Appalachian Trail (AT) and the Big Creek Trail suggests access points typically originate from trailheads within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park or surrounding national forest lands. For North Carolina locals, particularly those in Western NC, accessing the trailhead for this site would involve driving to designated parking areas near Big Creek, such as the Big Creek Trailhead within the national park. Visitors must be prepared for a hike in, carrying all necessary gear. It's essential to consult detailed trail maps and park regulations for the specific route and distance to Campsite #36, as exact mileage from a road access point is not provided in the general information.

Services Offered

• Primitive Campsites: Designated areas for setting up tents in a wilderness environment.
• Fire Rings: Available at the campsite for building campfires (check local fire restrictions).
• Bear Cables: Provided for hanging food and scented items to protect against bears and other wildlife.
• Water Source: Proximity to Big Creek offers a natural water source (requiring filtration or treatment before consumption).
• Livestock Campsite: Designated to accommodate both hikers and those traveling with horses, allowing for resting areas for livestock.

Features / Highlights

• Authentic Backcountry Experience: Offers a true wilderness immersion, away from developed areas.
• Proximity to Big Creek: Provides a scenic and accessible water source.
• Accessibility from AT: Convenient for long-distance hikers on the Appalachian Trail.
• Wildlife Awareness: Designed with features like bear cables to promote safe coexistence with wildlife.
• Peaceful Atmosphere: Generally quiet, allowing for a deep connection with nature.
• Suitable for Horse Riders: Accommodates equestrians utilizing the trails.
• Scenic Trails: Surrounded by beautiful hiking opportunities, including the Big Creek Trail.
• Potential for Unique Experiences: Some visitors report unique sensory or spiritual experiences attributed to the natural environment.

Contact Information

Address: Waynesville, NC 28785, USA (Specific location is backcountry, requiring hiking)

Phone: (865) 436-1297 (This number typically connects to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park backcountry office for permits and information.)

Mobile Phone: +1 865-436-1297

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For North Carolina locals, Backcountry Campsite #36 represents an ideal destination for those truly seeking to embrace the wilderness and challenge themselves in a pristine natural environment. Its suitability stems from its authentic backcountry nature, providing a raw and unfiltered outdoor experience that is increasingly rare to find. For experienced hikers, backpackers, and even equestrian enthusiasts from across North Carolina, this site offers a genuine escape from the everyday, allowing for deep immersion in the quiet beauty of the mountains.

The presence of essential primitive amenities, such as fire rings and, crucially, bear cables, demonstrates a commitment to safe and responsible backcountry practices. This means locals can confidently plan multi-day trips, knowing that fundamental needs for safety and comfort are considered. The proximity to Big Creek ensures a reliable water source, a vital aspect for any backcountry adventure, enabling longer explorations without constant concern for hydration.

Furthermore, its location near major trail systems like the Appalachian Trail and Big Creek makes it an incredibly accessible destination for serious hikers in North Carolina. It’s a point on the map for challenging journeys and a rewarding place to rest for those traversing significant distances. This site appeals to the adventurous spirit prevalent among many North Carolinians who enjoy pushing their limits and discovering the untamed beauty of their home state.

In essence, Backcountry Campsite #36 is perfectly suited for North Carolina locals who prioritize a primitive, peaceful, and immersive wilderness experience. It offers a chance to disconnect, challenge oneself, and forge a deeper connection with the natural world, all within the breathtaking landscapes of Western North Carolina. For those ready to step beyond traditional campgrounds and venture into the wild, Campsite #36 promises an unforgettable and profoundly rewarding adventure.

Backcountry Campsite #36

Waynesville, NC 28785, USA