The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has several rules and regulations in place to protect the park’s natural resources and ensure visitor safety. From prohibiting graffiti and vandalism to regulating camping and wildlife interactions, these rules aim to preserve the beauty and integrity of this beloved national treasure.
Graffiti and Vandalism
Destroying, injuring, defacing, or damaging property in the national park is strictly prohibited. This includes painting, drawing, scratching, or deliberate writing on any surface, such as fences, rocks, trees, and signs. Consequences for vandalism can be severe, with fines up to $5,000 and up to 6 months of jail time for minor offenses. More serious acts of vandalism can result in felony charges, state prison time, and hefty fines.
Dogs
Dogs are allowed in campgrounds, picnic areas, and along roads, but they must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet. However, dogs are prohibited on hiking trails, with the exception of the Gatlinburg Trail and the Oconaluftee River Trail. This rule is in place to protect the park’s wildlife, as dogs can carry diseases, chase wildlife, disturb the quiet, and become prey for larger predators.
Littering
The “leave no trace” principle is strictly enforced in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Visitors are required to pack out all their trash and dispose of it safely outside the park. Examples of litter include candy wrappers, cigarette butts, feminine products, dirty diapers, paper and plastic dishware, and other items not disposed of properly. Littering can result in fines and community service, and in 2021, volunteers removed nearly 10,000 pounds of trash from the park.
Wildlife
Visitors are required to maintain a distance of at least 50 yards from wildlife or at any distance that disturbs or displaces the animals. Feeding wildlife is strictly prohibited, as it can disrupt their natural behaviors and lead to dangerous interactions with humans. Additionally, certain fields are closed during elk calving and breeding seasons (May, June, September, and October) to protect the animals.
Firearms
Tennessee residents with a valid concealed carry permit and no felony convictions are permitted to carry firearms in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. However, certain buildings and facilities are off-limits to weapons. Visitors should check if their out-of-state permits are recognized in Tennessee before bringing firearms into the park.
Camping
Overnight stays in the backcountry require reservations and permits. Campers are limited to a maximum stay of 3 nights at any backcountry campsite. Additionally, only heat-treated firewood certified by the USDA or a state department of agriculture is allowed to be used for campfires.
General Rules
Other general rules include the requirement for campers to register, a limit on the length of stay (7 consecutive days from May 15 to October 31 and 14 consecutive days from November 1 to May 14), and a limit of two motor vehicles or one vehicle with a trailer per campsite. Fires are only permitted in fire grates, and only dead and down wood found in the park or certified heat-treated firewood can be used.
Reporting Violations
To report any rule violations, including vandalism and poaching, visitors can call the park’s phone number at (865) 436-1230.
Additional Resources
For more detailed information on the Great Smoky Mountains National Park rules and regulations, visitors can refer to the park’s website at www.nps.gov/grsm. The backcountry permit website is also available for reservations and permits for overnight stays in the backcountry. The park headquarters can be reached at (865) 436-1200 for general information and assistance.
By following these rules and regulations, visitors can help preserve the natural beauty and wildlife of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for future generations.
Reference:
– Great Smoky Mountains National Park Website
– Backcountry Permit Website
– Great Smoky Mountains National Park Headquarters