Can you camp anywhere in the Smokies?

Camping is permitted only at designated backcountry campsites and shelters. 2. You may not stay at any backcountry campsite for more than 3 consecutive nights. You may not stay consecutive nights at campsite 113 or at any shelter.

Can you primitive camp in the Smoky Mountains?

A handful of the free campsites near Great Smoky Mountains do have basic amenities such as picnic tables, designated firepits, and vault toilets – but plan for the experience to be completely primitive.

Can you hammock camp in the Smoky Mountains?

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina, and Tennessee. Designated Campgrounds: Yes, Hammock camping is allowed. Backcountry Camping: Yes, Hammock camping is allowed.

Can you sleep in the Smoky Mountains?

Communities surrounding the national park offer a wide choice of accommodations including hotels, cabins, bed and breakfasts, and campgrounds. The park offers several different types of campsites: Frontcountry – RV and tent camping in a developed campground that has restrooms.

Is there Boondocking in Tennessee?

There are many beautiful places to go boondocking in Tennessee. You can choose to head to Knoxville and Chattanooga on the east side of the state to experience the grandeur of the Cumberland Mountains. Alternatively, consider camping for free in Tennessee near Nashville.

Do you have to stay in shelters in the Smoky Mountains?

As a thru-hiker in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you are required to stay in shelters if there is space available in them. At the same time, section hikers can reserve spots in a specific shelter, which means they have first dibs. This system has some obvious drawbacks for thru-hikers.

Do you need a permit to camp in the Smoky Mountains?

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park requires that you obtain backcountry permits for overnight camping in the park. Reservation fees are $4 per person, per night, with a maximum charge of $20 per person. Permits are good for 7 nights.

Can you pitch a tent anywhere along the Appalachian Trail?

Dispersed camping is allowed on roughly half of the Trail, with the largest area of land open to dispersed camping concentrated on U.S. Forest Service lands; specific guidance may differ in each forest. No dispersed camping is allowed on the A.T. in the states of Maryland, Connecticut, and Massachusetts.

How do I plan a backcountry hike in the Smoky Mountains?

In addition, the Great Smoky Mountains Association sells a variety of hiking books, maps, and guides to help choose a hiking route and plan your backcountry trip. You can contact the Association by calling (865) 436-0120 or by visiting www.SmokiesInformation.org.

How do I contact the Great Smoky Mountains Association?

You can contact the Association by calling (865) 436-0120 or by visiting www.SmokiesInformation.org. The Great Smoky Mountains Association is a nonprofit organization that supports educational and scientific programs in the park.

Can I use a tent or hammock in the backcountry?

Tents and hammocks may be used within designated backcountry campsites. Hammocks may not be used inside shelters and may not be attached to shelters in any way. 9. All odorous items (e.g., food, trash, lip balm, toothpaste, stock feed, hay etc) must be hung on the bear cable system at each campsite or shelter. 10.

As of February 2013, Great Smoky Mountains National Park requires a permit and advance reservations for all backcountry camping in the park. Before planning your backcountry trip, please read through this important information about reservations and permits, regulations, bear safety, trail closures, and more.