Backcountry Camp 20

- Meigs Mountain Trail, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

For those in Tennessee seeking an authentic escape into nature, far from the hustle and bustle, Backcountry Camp 20 offers an ideal retreat. Nestled deep within the breathtaking Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this campsite provides a genuine wilderness experience for seasoned campers and intrepid adventurers alike. It's a place where the sounds of the forest replace city noise and starlit nights offer a celestial spectacle.

Backcountry Camp 20 isn't your typical drive-up campground with endless amenities. Instead, it's a designated backcountry site, meaning you’ll need to hike in, adding to the sense of accomplishment and immersion in the natural world. This commitment to a more rustic experience is precisely what draws many Tennessee locals to its serene setting, offering an unparalleled opportunity to disconnect and recharge amidst the stunning Appalachian landscape.

From the moment you begin your journey to Backcountry Camp 20, you'll feel the pull of the wilderness. The trails leading to this campsite are well-trodden yet challenging enough to provide a sense of adventure. Once there, you'll discover a peaceful haven that truly allows you to appreciate the raw beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains.

Backcountry Camp 20 is strategically located on the Meigs Mountain Trail, deep within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Gatlinburg, TN. The specific address is Meigs Mountain Trail, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA. This places it in a prime position for exploring some of the most iconic areas of the park.

To reach Backcountry Camp 20, visitors typically begin their journey from the Elkmont parking area. From there, you’ll embark on a hike that leads you into the heart of the backcountry. While the exact distance and difficulty of the hike can vary depending on your chosen route and starting point, it's generally considered a moderate trek. Previous campers have noted that the site is "not far from Elkmont parking," suggesting a manageable distance for a backcountry excursion. However, it's crucial to be aware of the trail forks and to "keep right" at certain points to avoid getting lost, as advised by experienced visitors.

Accessibility to Backcountry Camp 20 means being prepared for a genuine backcountry experience. There are no paved roads leading directly to the site, and vehicle access is limited to designated parking areas. Hikers should ensure they are properly equipped with appropriate gear, including sturdy hiking boots, navigation tools, sufficient water, and all necessary camping equipment. This emphasis on self-reliance ensures that those who reach Backcountry Camp 20 are truly seeking an immersive wilderness adventure.

As a backcountry campsite, Backcountry Camp 20 offers a more primitive camping experience, focusing on natural amenities rather than developed facilities. This approach allows visitors to fully embrace the wilderness.

• Natural Water Source: Visitors have reported a "good water source" and that "the creek was running well" during early June, indicating reliable access to water. However, it is essential for campers to filter or treat all water from natural sources before consumption to ensure safety.

• Fire Circles: The campsite features "at least three fire circles," providing designated areas for campfires. Campers should always check for current fire restrictions and adhere to Leave No Trace principles regarding fire safety and wood collection.

• Open Grassy Glade with Trees: The physical layout of the camp offers an "open grassy glade with many trees." This provides both open space for tents and natural shelter and shade from the surrounding trees, enhancing the camping experience.

It's important to note that typical campground amenities such as restrooms, showers, or electrical hookups are not available at Backcountry Camp 20. Campers are expected to practice Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all trash and properly disposing of human waste, to preserve the natural integrity of the site and the surrounding national park.

Backcountry Camp 20 stands out for its unique features that make it a compelling destination for nature lovers and adventurers in Tennessee.

• Scenic Open Glade: The campsite is described as a "beautiful open grassy glade," offering a spacious and picturesque setting for camping. This open area provides clear views of the surrounding natural beauty and ample space for setting up camp.

• Ideal for Hammock Camping: While the ground has a "slope which may affect groups of tent campers," it is noted as "very good for hammock" setups. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer to sleep suspended, offering a comfortable and unique way to enjoy the outdoors.

• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: Previous visitors have "saw a yearling bear hanging around the area a couple of times," indicating that the campsite offers opportunities for wildlife sightings. This immersive experience with local fauna is a significant highlight for many visitors, emphasizing the true wilderness aspect of the location. Campers are reminded to practice bear-safe food storage and other precautions.

• Proximity to Elkmont: Being "not far from Elkmont parking" means that while the campsite is a backcountry destination, it's relatively accessible from a popular starting point. Elkmont itself is a historically rich area within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, known for its old cabins and natural beauty, providing additional exploration opportunities before or after your stay at Backcountry Camp 20.

These features collectively contribute to Backcountry Camp 20's appeal, offering a blend of natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and a genuine backcountry feel for those seeking an unadulterated outdoor experience.

As a designated backcountry campsite within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Backcountry Camp 20 operates under the National Park Service regulations. Therefore, it typically does not offer commercial "promotions" or "special offers" in the way a private campground or business might.

However, the "special offer" of Backcountry Camp 20 is its unparalleled access to the pristine wilderness of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park at a very reasonable permit fee. Backcountry permits are generally required for overnight stays in the park's backcountry campsites, including Backcountry Camp 20. The fee for these permits is set by the National Park Service and is typically a modest charge per person per night, often with a maximum fee per person for longer stays. This fee directly supports the maintenance and management of the park's trails, campsites, and natural resources, ensuring these wild spaces remain accessible and preserved for future generations of Tennessee adventurers.

For the most current information on permit fees and any potential changes, it is always recommended to check the official Great Smoky Mountains National Park website or contact their backcountry office directly. The value derived from camping in such a magnificent natural setting, coupled with the minimal cost, is often considered the greatest "special offer" for locals seeking an authentic outdoor experience.

To plan your visit and obtain necessary permits for Backcountry Camp 20, here is the essential contact information:

Address: Meigs Mountain Trail, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

For booking permits and obtaining the most up-to-date information regarding backcountry camping regulations, trail conditions, and any alerts, it is recommended to visit the official Great Smoky Mountains National Park website or contact their backcountry information office. While a direct phone number for the specific campsite isn't available (as it's a primitive site), the park's general information or backcountry office will be able to assist with permit reservations and inquiries.

Permits for backcountry camping are typically reserved through the National Park Service's permit system, often accessible via their dedicated online portal. It's crucial to secure your permit in advance, especially during peak seasons, as backcountry sites have limited capacities to preserve the wilderness experience.

For Tennessee locals, Backcountry Camp 20 offers an unparalleled opportunity to truly immerse themselves in the natural splendor that defines our state. Unlike more developed campgrounds, this backcountry site provides an authentic wilderness experience right in our own backyard, within the cherished Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Its seclusion fosters a profound connection with nature, allowing for quiet contemplation, intimate wildlife encounters, and the simple joy of an unadulterated night under a canopy of stars. The "beautiful open grassy glade with many trees" and "good water source" highlighted by previous visitors ensure a comfortable, albeit rustic, setting. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or looking to deepen your outdoor skills, the journey to Backcountry Camp 20 is rewarding, leading you to a place where the pace of life slows to the rhythm of the wilderness.

The fact that it’s "very good for hammock" camping adds a unique appeal for those seeking a different kind of slumber, swaying gently amidst the trees. And for those who yearn for the chance to spot local wildlife, the presence of a "yearling bear hanging around the area" attests to the untouched nature of this site. This isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it's an invitation to experience the Smokies as they were meant to be – wild, free, and profoundly beautiful. For Tennesseans, Backcountry Camp 20 is more than just a campsite; it's a nearby sanctuary for adventure and rejuvenation, offering a deep dive into the natural heritage we are so fortunate to call our own.

Backcountry Camp 20

Meigs Mountain Trail, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA