Backcountry Campsite #71

Introduction / Overview

For North Carolinians with a deep appreciation for the unspoiled wilderness, Backcountry Campsite #71 in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP) offers an exceptional primitive camping experience. This isn't a drive-up site with recreational vehicles; rather, it's a designated backcountry spot specifically for backpackers and hikers willing to venture off the beaten path to find solitude and immerse themselves in nature's embrace. Situated near Bryson City, NC, Campsite #71 provides a beautiful and spacious setting that consistently receives high praise from those who have discovered its charm.

What sets Campsite #71 apart is its unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. Reviewers often highlight its location right alongside Forney Creek, which not only provides a reliable water source but also creates a soothing natural soundtrack that can "lull you to sleep." Furthermore, the site holds a tangible link to the past, with the standing chimney of an old Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp from the 1930s still present. This adds a fascinating historical dimension to your wilderness stay. For North Carolina adventurers seeking a truly immersive experience where the focus is on hiking, natural sounds, and the quiet grandeur of the Smokies, Backcountry Campsite #71 offers an unforgettable and peaceful retreat.

Location and Accessibility

Backcountry Campsite #71 is located deep within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with its access point generally considered from the North Carolina side, near Bryson City, NC 28713, USA. As a designated backcountry site, it is not accessible by vehicle. Instead, visitors must hike in on established trails. The campsite is known to be situated along or near the Forney Creek Trail and the Forney Ridge Trail, which run "right through and next to the campsite." One common approach is via the Forney Creek Trail, with the campsite approximately 2.4 miles from the intersection of Forney Creek Trail and Springhouse Branch Trail, and 3.5 miles from the intersection of Forney Creek Trail and Bear Creek Trail.

For North Carolinians, accessing the trailheads that lead to Campsite #71 involves a scenic drive into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park from areas like Cherokee or Bryson City. Hikers should be prepared for varying trail conditions, as the journey involves natural terrain. The elevation of the campsite, being higher than the creek bed, helps mitigate excessive condensation, a common issue at other creek-side sites. This careful placement ensures that while the site is conveniently close to a vital water source, it also offers a relatively dry and comfortable experience. The journey to Campsite #71 is an integral part of the adventure, guiding visitors deeper into the park's serene and untouched landscapes.

Services Offered

As a primitive backcountry campsite within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Backcountry Campsite #71 operates on a minimalist approach, providing essential services to support a responsible and low-impact camping experience. Visitors are expected to be self-sufficient and adhere strictly to Leave No Trace principles.

• Designated Tent Pads/Areas: Offers established, relatively flat, and spacious areas for pitching tents, designed to accommodate several tents comfortably and minimize impact on the natural surroundings.
• Water Source: Convenient access to Forney Creek, which runs directly alongside the campsite, providing a reliable natural water source (all water must be filtered, purified, or boiled before consumption).
• Fire Rings: Designated areas for campfires are typically provided, allowing for responsible fire use (visitors should check current park regulations on fires and use only dead and down wood found on the ground).
• Food Storage Requirements: While not always visible in reviews, all GSMNP backcountry sites require proper food storage to protect against bears and other wildlife, usually through the use of bear-resistant canisters or hanging food from cables/poles (visitors should bring appropriate gear for this).
• Human Waste Disposal Guidelines: Campers are required to bury human waste 6-8 inches deep and at least 200 feet from water sources, trails, and campsites. All toilet paper and hygiene products must be packed out.
• Backcountry Permit System: An overnight permit is required for all stays at backcountry campsites in the GSMNP, which helps the park manage usage and protect natural resources. Reservations are required and can typically be made up to 30 days in advance.

Features / Highlights

• Beautiful and Spacious Campsite: Consistently praised for its aesthetic appeal and generous size, easily accommodating multiple tents.
• Historical CCC Camp Chimney: A unique and fascinating feature, providing a tangible link to the Civilian Conservation Corps history of the 1930s, adding a layer of historical interest to the wilderness experience.
• Excellent Water Source: Forney Creek runs directly beside the campsite, offering abundant water for filtering and the soothing sound of flowing water.
• Optimal Elevation for Comfort: Located at a higher elevation than the creek bed, which helps minimize condensation on tents in the mornings.
• Flat Tent-Pitching Areas: Users note the ease of finding flat spots for tents, a significant advantage in mountainous terrain.
• Abundant Wood for Campfires: "Good wood can be found at this location," making it easier to enjoy a campfire (within park regulations).
• Direct Trail Access: Located along the Forney Creek and Forney Ridge trails, providing immediate access to a network of hiking opportunities in the GSMNP.
• Secluded and Private: Offers a true backcountry feel, away from the crowds and noise of frontcountry campgrounds, ideal for solitude.
• Opportunities for Wildlife Viewing: The deep forest setting provides a chance to observe various native species in their natural habitat.

Contact Information

As a backcountry campsite within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Backcountry Campsite #71 does not have a direct phone number or on-site staff. All inquiries, permit requirements, and information regarding backcountry camping in the GSMNP are managed by the park's Backcountry Information Office. For North Carolinians planning their trip, it is absolutely essential to obtain a permit and gather the most current information before heading out.

For permits, trail conditions, regulations, and any other specific questions about backcountry camping in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you should contact the park's official channels:

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Backcountry Information Office Phone: (865) 436-1297 (This is the primary contact for general backcountry information and permit inquiries.)

Address: The general location for access is near Bryson City, NC 28713, USA. However, remember that the campsite itself is hike-in only. All official trip planning, including reservations for backcountry permits, should be done through the National Park Service's official website (nps.gov/grsm) or by contacting their backcountry office directly. Always verify all information, including trail closures, bear activity, and fire restrictions, with official park resources before embarking on your wilderness adventure to Backcountry Campsite #71.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For North Carolinians seeking an authentic and deeply rewarding wilderness experience, Backcountry Campsite #71 in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park stands out as an exceptionally suitable destination. Its appeal to locals lies in its unique combination of accessibility for those prepared to hike, its raw natural beauty, and the profound sense of solitude it offers within a globally renowned national park. Unlike more developed campgrounds, Campsite #71 caters to the true adventurer, providing a space where one can truly disconnect and immerse themselves in the sounds and sights of the forest, right here in their home state.

The campsite's practical advantages, such as its "pretty big" and relatively flat tent-pitching areas, make it a comfortable base for backpackers, accommodating several tents with ease. The constant, soothing presence of Forney Creek provides a reliable water source and a natural soundtrack for restful nights. Moreover, the historical chimney from the old CCC camp adds a unique cultural dimension to the natural setting, inviting reflection on the park's past. For hikers from North Carolina, the direct access to key trails like Forney Creek and Forney Ridge opens up a vast network of exploration opportunities. Whether it's the challenge of the hike in, the quiet beauty of a primitive camp, or the unique blend of nature and history, Backcountry Campsite #71 offers an unforgettable and enriching escape for North Carolinians looking to experience the true heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Backcountry Campsite #71

Bryson City, NC 28713, USA