To camp in the backcountry of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you need a backcountry permit. These permits are required for each person, at each campsite or shelter in the backcountry. The fee is $4 per person, per night, with a maximum of $20 per person.
Permit Requirements
- Backcountry permits are required for each person, at each campsite or shelter in the backcountry.
- Permits can be obtained at any visitor center, ranger station, or campground within the park, or online.
- Reservations can be made up to 30 days in advance, and it is highly recommended to do so due to the park’s popularity.
Fees
The fee for a Great Smoky Mountains National Park Camping Permit is:
- $4 per person, per night
- Maximum of $20 per person
Shelter Camping
- You must stay in the shelter if it is available; tents are not allowed at shelter sites.
- You can only stay one night at any individual shelter.
Campsites
- You can stay up to three consecutive nights at a campsite (except for Campsite 113, which is one night only).
- The maximum group size is eight people, and special permits may be issued for a few sites that accommodate parties of up to 12.
Rules and Regulations
- No pets are allowed in the backcountry.
- No motorized vehicles are allowed in the backcountry.
- No hunting is allowed anywhere in the park.
- All food or odorous material must be suspended on the provided cable systems.
Thru-Hiking
- Thru-hikers on the Appalachian Trail are required to obtain a permit for the time they spend hiking through the park.
- Thru-hikers are allowed to pitch their tents outside shelters if they are full.
Leave No Trace
- Follow the 7 Leave No Trace Principles to preserve the backcountry for future visitors and protect the wildlife.
Contact Information
- Backcountry Information Office: (865) 436-1297
- Backcountry Reservation Office: (865) 436-1231