Backcountry camping in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park requires a permit and advance reservations. This guide outlines the regulations, fees, and procedures for obtaining a backcountry permit, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience in the park.
Types of Permits
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers two types of backcountry permits:
-
General Backcountry Permit: Required for all backpackers and hikers who do not meet the park’s definition of an Appalachian Trail (A.T.) thru-hiker. The permit costs $4 per person, per night, with a maximum of $20 per person.
-
Appalachian Trail Thru-Hiker Backcountry Permit: For thru-hikers who begin and end their hike at least 50 miles outside the park and only travel on the A.T. within the park. This permit is $40 and valid for 38 days.
Reservations and Fees
-
Reservations: Backcountry permits can be reserved up to 30 days in advance, either online or in person at the Backcountry Office at the Sugarlands Visitor Center.
-
Fees: General Backcountry Permits cost $4 per person, per night, with a maximum of $20 per person. Thru-hiker permits are $40.
Regulations
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has several regulations in place for backcountry camping:
-
Campsite and Shelter Use: Reservations are required for all backcountry campsites and shelters. Tents are not allowed at shelter sites, and only dead and downed wood can be used for campfires.
-
Group Size: The maximum group size is eight people per group, with special permits available for a few sites that can accommodate up to 12 people.
-
Food Storage: All food and odorous materials must be suspended on the provided cable systems to prevent bear encounters.
-
Pets and Motorized Vehicles: Pets and motorized vehicles are prohibited in the backcountry.
-
Hunting: Hunting is not allowed anywhere within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Additional Information
-
Leave No Trace: Backcountry visitors are expected to follow the 7 principles of Leave No Trace to minimize their impact on the environment.
-
Hiker Shuttle: Information is available for thru-hikers on the Appalachian Trail regarding shuttle services.
-
Guided Trips: The park offers guided backpacking trips, including all-inclusive packages, for those who prefer a more guided experience.
Contact Information
For assistance with backcountry permits and reservations, visitors can contact the Backcountry Office at (865) 436-1297.
References
- Hiking in the Smokys. (n.d.). Ultimate Guide to Backpacking in the Great Smoky Mountains. Retrieved from https://hikinginthesmokys.com/blog/ultimate-guide-to-backpacking-in-the-great-smoky-mountains/
- Wildland Trekking. (n.d.). Great Smoky Mountains Backpacking Permits. Retrieved from https://wildlandtrekking.com/great-smoky-mountains-visitor-guide/great-smoky-mountains-backpacking-permits/
- National Park Service. (2024). Backcountry Camping – Backpacking – Great Smoky Mountains. Retrieved from https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/backcountry-camping.htm
- Appalachian Trail Conservancy. (n.d.). Permits, Fees and Regulations. Retrieved from https://appalachiantrail.org/explore/hike-the-a-t/thru-hiking/permits-regulations/
- Smoky Mountains Adventure. (n.d.). Backcountry Camping in the Smokies. Retrieved from https://www.smokiesadventure.com/smokymountains/outdoors/backcountry-camping.htm