Backcountry Campsite #75

smoky mountains backcountry camping

Introduction / Overview

For North Carolinians with a passion for true wilderness immersion, Backcountry Campsite #75 in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP) offers an authentic and rewarding primitive camping experience. This isn't a campground with paved roads and extensive amenities; instead, it's a designated backcountry site designed for backpackers and hikers seeking solitude and a genuine connection with nature. Situated deep within the expansive beauty of the Smoky Mountains near Robbinsville, NC, Campsite #75 provides a quiet refuge away from the bustling frontcountry areas, allowing visitors to truly disconnect and embrace the tranquility of the forest.

Often lauded by those who have experienced it, Campsite #75 is considered one of the better backcountry sites in the GSMNP due to its relatively flat terrain and ample space. It's an ideal spot for those who appreciate the challenge and reward of backpacking, offering sufficient room to comfortably pitch multiple tents, typically accommodating around four. The allure of this site lies in its secluded feel and direct access to essential natural resources, particularly a nearby creek that serves as a vital water source. For North Carolina adventurers yearning for a genuine overnight wilderness experience, where the sounds of nature are your only companions and the stars shine brightly without light pollution, Backcountry Campsite #75 offers an unforgettable opportunity.

Location and Accessibility

Backcountry Campsite #75 is nestled within the sprawling Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with its general location near Robbinsville, NC 28771, USA. It’s crucial to understand that "backcountry" means this campsite is not accessible by vehicle. Instead, it is reached by hiking in on designated trails. Based on user reviews, a common access point is via the Bear Creek Trail, with the campsite located approximately three miles in. Other trails in the Deep Creek area might also provide access, given its proximity to that popular part of the park.

For North Carolinians, particularly those in the western part of the state, accessing the trailheads that lead to Campsite #75 involves a scenic drive into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. While the initial journey to the trailhead is by car, the true accessibility to the campsite itself is on foot, requiring a moderate hike. Hikers should be prepared for varying trail conditions, especially if it rains, as trails can become muddy. The remoteness contributes to the site's appeal, offering a genuine sense of escape. Visitors should consult park maps and backcountry permits for the most accurate trail information and to plan their route effectively. This immersive access ensures that only those truly prepared for a wilderness experience reach this secluded and rewarding campsite.

Services Offered

As a backcountry campsite within a National Park, Backcountry Campsite #75 offers a minimalist yet essential set of services designed to support a primitive camping experience while minimizing environmental impact. It is vital for visitors to be self-sufficient and practice Leave No Trace principles.

• Designated Tent Pads/Areas: Provides relatively flat and established areas for pitching tents, minimizing impact on surrounding vegetation.
• Water Source: A natural creek is located very close to the campsite, offering a natural water source (which must be filtered or treated before consumption).
• Fire Rings: Designated areas for campfires, where allowed, using dead and down wood found in the park. Firewood regulations should always be checked with the National Park Service.
• Food Storage: While not explicitly stated for this particular site, many GSMNP backcountry sites require food to be stored in bear-proof containers or hung from bear cables/poles to protect against wildlife. Visitors should assume this is necessary.
• Human Waste Disposal: Visitors are required to bury human waste 6-8 inches deep and at least 200 feet from water sources and campsites.
• Permit System: Requires a backcountry permit for overnight stays, which is part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park's system to manage use and protect resources.

Features / Highlights

• Primitive and Secluded Experience: Offers true wilderness camping, far from crowds and vehicle noise, fostering deep connection with nature.
• Relatively Flat Tent Sites: Praised by users for being "pretty flat" and accommodating about four pitched tents without extensive effort, which is a rare and valued feature in mountainous terrain.
• Close Proximity to a Creek: Provides a convenient and reliable natural water source right beside the campsite, essential for primitive camping.
• Spacious Campsite: Allows for privacy between tents and ample room for campers and their gear.
• Direct Access to Hiking Trails: Located directly on or very close to the Bear Creek Trail, providing immediate access to further hiking adventures in the GSMNP.
• Abundant Natural Beauty: Surrounded by the stunning landscapes of the Great Smoky Mountains, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing, birdwatching, and enjoying lush forest scenery.
• Peaceful Atmosphere: Known for its quiet nights, allowing campers to fully appreciate the sounds of the wilderness.
• Ideal for Backpackers: Caters specifically to those who enjoy hiking in and carrying all their gear, providing a rewarding challenge.

Contact Information

As a backcountry campsite within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Backcountry Campsite #75 does not have a direct phone number or on-site staff. All management and inquiries for backcountry camping in GSMNP are handled by the park's Backcountry Information Office. For North Carolinians planning a trip, obtaining the necessary permit and up-to-date information is crucial.

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 a general park backcountry information line, not specific to site #75, but the correct contact for permits and general conditions.)

Address: The general location for access is near Robbinsville, NC 28771, USA, but remember the site itself is hike-in only. All official correspondence and trip planning should go through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park's backcountry office or their official website (nps.gov/grsm).

It is highly recommended to check the official National Park Service website for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for the most current information regarding backcountry permits, regulations, trail closures, bear activity, and required safety measures before planning your trip to Backcountry Campsite #75.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For North Carolinians, particularly those in the western part of the state, Backcountry Campsite #75 in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers an unparalleled opportunity for an authentic and accessible wilderness experience. Its suitability for locals stems from several key factors. Firstly, it provides a genuine escape into nature that's relatively close to home for many, allowing for weekend backpacking trips without extensive travel. This site is tailored for those who truly appreciate primitive camping – a chance to disconnect from digital life and reconnect with the serene beauty of the Appalachian Mountains.

The campsite's notable features, such as its "pretty flat" terrain (a rare find in the Smokies) and ample space for multiple tents, make it a comfortable and practical choice for small groups or families experienced in backpacking. The convenient proximity to a natural creek for water access is a significant advantage, reducing the need to carry excessive water supplies. Being located directly on trails like the Bear Creek Trail means North Carolina hikers have immediate access to a vast network of routes, perfect for exploring the park's diverse ecosystems, from rushing streams to old-growth forests. For locals seeking a challenging yet rewarding outdoor adventure, where privacy and immersion in nature are prioritized over modern amenities, Backcountry Campsite #75 delivers. It's a true gem for those who want to experience the rugged beauty and quiet solitude that only the Great Smoky Mountains National Park can offer, right here in their home state.

Backcountry Campsite #75

Robbinsville, NC 28771, USA