Backcountry Campsite #82

For North Carolinians who truly embrace the wild side of our state's incredible natural landscapes, Backcountry Campsite #82 near Robbinsville, NC, offers an experience unlike any other. This is not a leisurely car-camping spot with paved roads and plush amenities. Instead, it's a genuine wilderness destination, nestled deep within the Great Smoky Mountains, designed for those who are prepared for self-reliance and the raw beauty of untamed nature. This article aims to provide a clear and factual overview of what to expect at Backcountry Campsite #82, helping our local adventurers decide if this challenging, yet incredibly rewarding, site is the right fit for their next outdoor escapade.

In North Carolina, we are blessed with diverse environments, from our stunning coastline to the majestic Appalachian Mountains. Backcountry Campsite #82 falls firmly into the latter category, promising solitude and a profound connection with the wilderness. However, it comes with important considerations, particularly regarding wildlife. We'll delve into the realities of camping here, highlighting why it's a fantastic, albeit demanding, option for experienced hikers and responsible outdoor enthusiasts from our state who are ready to embrace the true backcountry.

Backcountry Campsite #82 is located near Robbinsville, NC 28771, USA, which places it deep within the extensive backcountry of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. As a backcountry campsite, it is not accessible by vehicle. Instead, reaching this site requires a significant hike, making it a destination exclusively for backpackers and those prepared for a rigorous wilderness journey. While the exact trail name leading directly to Site #82 wasn't provided in the prompt, backcountry campsites in this region are typically accessed via established, often rugged, hiking trails within the park system.

The remoteness of Backcountry Campsite #82 is a key aspect of its allure, offering genuine solitude far from the bustling front-country areas. However, this also means limited accessibility and the necessity of being entirely self-sufficient. Campers must be prepared to carry all their gear, food, and water filtration systems in and out. Its location in the mountains means varying terrain, potentially steep climbs, and unpredictable weather, demanding careful planning and preparation. For North Carolina locals, this site offers an authentic escape into the untouched beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains, providing a true wilderness experience that begins the moment you step onto the trail from a designated trailhead, often requiring a drive to the trailhead from Robbinsville.

As a designated backcountry campsite within a national park, Backcountry Campsite #82 offers extremely minimal services, designed to provide a primitive camping experience while adhering to Leave No Trace principles. Campers must be entirely self-sufficient and responsible for their own safety and impact on the environment. The expectation is that you pack in everything you need and pack out everything you bring, including all trash.

• Designated Campsite: Backcountry Campsite #82 is a specific, marked location within the wilderness for setting up tents. This helps concentrate impact and minimize disturbance to the surrounding ecosystem.
• Bear-Resistant Food Storage: Given its location in active bear country, it is highly likely that this campsite, like others in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park backcountry, requires or provides a method for bear-resistant food storage. This could be a cable for hanging food bags (requiring a bear canister or a sturdy bag and rope) or a bear-proof food locker/storage box. Campers are responsible for securing all food and scented items.
• Primitive Toilet Facility: While not explicitly stated for this specific site, most designated backcountry campsites in national parks will provide a primitive toilet facility, such as a pit toilet or composting toilet, to manage human waste.
• Permit Required: All overnight stays in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park backcountry, including at Campsite #82, require a permit. This is an essential "service" provided by the park administration, ensuring proper management and safety. Campers must obtain this permit in advance.

Backcountry Campsite #82 offers a very distinct set of features and highlights that appeal specifically to experienced and well-prepared outdoor enthusiasts from North Carolina seeking a challenging wilderness adventure:

• Genuine Wilderness Solitude: Unlike front-country campgrounds, this site provides a deep sense of isolation and tranquility, offering a true escape from crowds and urban noise. It's an opportunity to truly immerse oneself in the sounds and sights of the natural world.
• Beautiful Mountain Views: As a campsite within the Great Smoky Mountains, it is highly probable that the site offers "Wonderful view," as stated in a review. The rugged terrain and elevation contribute to stunning panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
• "Great for Kids" (with preparedness): One reviewer noted it's "great for kids" with a "thumbs up," implying that for families who are experienced in backcountry camping and prepared for the challenges, it can be a rewarding and educational experience. This means kids who understand safety protocols and are comfortable in a wilderness setting.
• Bear Country Immersion: This is a significant highlight, though it comes with a strong caveat. The site is in active "bear country," providing a unique opportunity to experience wildlife in its natural habitat. This offers an authentic, albeit challenging, encounter with nature.
• Emphasis on Personal Responsibility: The reviews strongly emphasize that "Your safety is your responsibility" and to "Be smart, be prepared, and just expect it" when it comes to wildlife encounters. This feature attracts campers who value self-reliance and are proactive about their safety in the wilderness.
• Challenging Hike-In: As a backcountry site, accessing #82 involves a hike. This physical challenge is a feature for those who seek to earn their solitude and prefer backpacking over car camping, adding a layer of accomplishment to the trip.
• Primitive Experience: The lack of extensive amenities means a true primitive camping experience, appealing to those who want to disconnect from modern comforts and practice their wilderness skills.

For Backcountry Campsite #82, located within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, direct contact information for the campsite itself is not available. All inquiries and, most importantly, reservations for backcountry permits are managed through the National Park Service's system. It is absolutely crucial to obtain a backcountry permit before attempting to stay at this site.

For reservations and information:

Address: While the physical location is near Robbinsville, NC 28771, USA, the administrative hub for backcountry permits is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park headquarters. The general park mailing address is:

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

107 Park Headquarters Rd

Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

Phone: For specific questions about backcountry camping, trail conditions, or to speak with a ranger about trip planning, the Backcountry Information Office is the primary point of contact:

(865) 436-1297 (Phone calls are generally the preferred method for backcountry trip planning questions.)

Online Reservations: All backcountry permits for Great Smoky Mountains National Park, including Campsite #82, must be reserved in advance through the National Park Service's reservation system, typically found on Recreation.gov. You will need to search for "Great Smoky Mountains National Park Backcountry Camping" to check availability and book your specific site and dates. The website will provide details on fees, regulations, and permit pick-up procedures.

It is vital to check current alerts and conditions on the official park website (nps.gov/grsm) before your trip, as trails and campsites can be closed due to bear activity or other hazards. Remember, proper food storage and bear awareness are paramount for your safety at this site.

Backcountry Campsite #82 presents a truly compelling, albeit demanding, opportunity for North Carolinians seeking an authentic wilderness experience within our beloved Great Smoky Mountains. Its suitability for locals stems from several key factors that resonate with the adventurous spirit often found in our state's outdoor enthusiasts. Firstly, its location within a reasonable drive for many North Carolina residents provides access to a genuine backcountry adventure without the need for extensive travel across state lines. This proximity makes it a feasible destination for weekend backpacking trips, allowing locals to fully immerse themselves in the wild beauty of the Smokies.

Secondly, for those who value true solitude and disconnection from the modern world, Campsite #82 delivers. Unlike popular car campgrounds that can be bustling, this hike-in site ensures a level of quietude and immersion in nature that is increasingly rare. While the presence of bears requires heightened awareness and preparation, for seasoned outdoor individuals and families who are educated in bear country safety, this aspect is not a deterrent but rather an integral part of the authentic wilderness encounter, fostering a deeper respect for wildlife and the natural ecosystem.

Furthermore, the physical challenge of hiking to the campsite, coupled with the responsibility for one's own safety and adherence to Leave No Trace principles, appeals to North Carolinians who seek to test their skills and connect with nature on a deeper, more self-reliant level. The "Wonderful view" and the potential for a profoundly rewarding experience for "kids" (when properly prepared) underscore its potential as a cherished local wilderness destination. For those among us ready to answer the call of the wild and accept its inherent challenges, Backcountry Campsite #82 offers an unparalleled opportunity to forge unforgettable memories in the heart of our majestic mountains.

Backcountry Campsite #82

Robbinsville, NC 28771, USA