Backcountry Camp 55

For North Carolina outdoor enthusiasts seeking an authentic wilderness experience, Backcountry Camp 55 offers a truly special retreat within the breathtaking Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Nestled a bit off the main Deep Creek Trail, near Bryson City, this campsite provides a unique blend of seclusion and accessibility for those prepared for a genuine backcountry adventure. It’s a fantastic option for groups looking for a spacious area to set up camp, allowing for a deeper connection with the natural beauty that defines our beloved Smokies.

Backcountry Camp 55 isn't just another spot to pitch a tent; it's a destination for the dedicated backpacker and even those with horses, looking to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the forest. While it’s designed to accommodate a larger group, its slightly removed location ensures a sense of privacy. Imagine waking up to the sounds of nature, surrounded by towering trees, with the promise of invigorating hikes just steps away. This is the essence of what Backcountry Camp 55 offers to local adventurers – a chance to unplug, recharge, and truly appreciate the natural wonders of North Carolina.

Backcountry Camp 55 is situated along the well-known Deep Creek Trail, in Bryson City, NC 28713, USA, within the vast expanse of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Its location offers a balance of deep wilderness immersion with a relatively well-defined trail access. To reach this particular campsite, campers embark on a scenic hike from the Deep Creek campground area. The Deep Creek Trail itself is a prominent route in the park, offering varying terrain and passing several other backcountry sites.

While the trail leading to Backcountry Camp 55 is established, it’s important for prospective campers to understand that this is a backcountry site. There are no direct vehicle access points; all gear, food, and water (beyond what can be treated from natural sources) must be carried in. The "all little bit off the trail" description from a past visitor suggests a short, perhaps less-maintained spur leading directly to the campsite, adding to its secluded feel. This minor detour from the main path is part of what contributes to the camp's appeal, providing a quiet sanctuary away from the main thoroughfare of the Deep Creek Trail.

Furthermore, Backcountry Camp 55 has a unique distinction as a reservation-only horse site in some instances, implying it is equipped to handle both human and equine visitors. This feature, if applicable at the time of your visit, enhances its accessibility for equestrians from across North Carolina looking to explore the Smoky Mountains on horseback. Always verify specific site designations and regulations when planning your trip through the official park reservation system to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

• Primitive Campsite: Backcountry Camp 55 provides a designated, primitive camping area. This means no developed facilities such as flush toilets, running water, or picnic tables. Campers must be self-sufficient.
• Natural Water Source Access: While not potable, Deep Creek is typically accessible near the campsite, allowing campers to filter or treat water for drinking and cooking purposes.
• Bear Cables/Food Storage: As with all backcountry sites in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, bear-resistant food storage systems (typically cables for hanging food bags) are provided to protect food from wildlife.
• Designated Camping Area: The site offers a cleared space for tents, designed to accommodate campers in a natural setting.
• Horse Camp Designation (Historically): Public data indicates that Backcountry Camp 55 has been designated as a horse camp, meaning it may include amenities suitable for equestrians, such as horse hitches or racks. It is essential to confirm the current designation when booking.

• Spacious Layout: Although reviewer feedback suggests it might comfortably hold fewer than its listed capacity of 15 people (closer to 8), it is noted as a "Nice site" and "HUGE" in some descriptions, implying a more expansive area than some other backcountry spots, suitable for larger groups.
• Secluded Feel: Positioned "a little bit off the trail," Backcountry Camp 55 offers a greater sense of privacy and tranquility compared to sites directly on the main hiking path.
• Ideal for Hammock Camping (with Considerations): While a reviewer noted "not a lot good tree distance for hammock," this feedback can guide hammock campers to plan their setup carefully, possibly bringing extra straps or opting for a tent.
• Proximity to Deep Creek: The camp's location near Deep Creek provides constant access to the soothing sounds of the water and opportunities for water collection (with proper filtration).
• Horse-Friendly Site: Its designation as a horse camp (confirm current status when booking) makes it a rare and valuable feature for North Carolina equestrians wishing to explore the backcountry trails.
• Access to Extensive Trail Network: As part of the Deep Creek Trail system, campers have direct access to numerous hiking trails leading to various waterfalls and scenic viewpoints within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
• Authentic Wilderness Experience: This site is a highlight for those craving an undeveloped, true-to-nature camping experience, where self-reliance and environmental respect are paramount.

As a backcountry campsite located within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Backcountry Camp 55 does not participate in commercial promotions or special offers typical of private campgrounds. Access to this site, like all backcountry sites in the park, requires a permit. The "value" it offers comes in the form of an unparalleled, unadulterated wilderness experience at a nominal fee. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park charges a per-person, per-night fee for backcountry permits, with a maximum per-person charge for longer stays. This fee directly supports the maintenance and preservation of the park's trails and campsites.

Any "special offers" would be related to general park initiatives, such as fee-free days for park entrance (which would still require a backcountry permit fee for overnight stays) or specific educational programs offered by the National Park Service. For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding permit fees, reservation windows, and any potential changes to park regulations, it is always imperative to consult the official Great Smoky Mountains National Park website or contact their Backcountry Information Office directly. This ensures you have the most current details for planning your adventure to Backcountry Camp 55.

For Backcountry Camp 55, as a remote site within a national park, there isn't a direct phone number or on-site office. All reservations and most inquiries are handled through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park's official channels. Here's how you can obtain information and make reservations:

Address: Deep Creek Trail, Bryson City, NC 28713, USA

For reservations and specific questions regarding backcountry permits, site availability, and regulations:

• Backcountry Information Office Phone: (865) 436-1297 (This is the primary contact for backcountry camping inquiries and reservations within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park).
• National Park Service Website: Visit the official Great Smoky Mountains National Park website (nps.gov/grsm) for comprehensive information on backcountry camping, regulations, and permit application procedures.
• Recreation.gov: Backcountry permits for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are typically obtained through Recreation.gov, where you can check availability and make reservations for sites like Backcountry Camp 55.

It's crucial to make reservations in advance, especially for specific backcountry sites like Camp 55, as popularity and seasonal demand can limit availability. Always confirm current operating hours for phone lines and offices, as these may vary seasonally.

For North Carolinians, Backcountry Camp 55 offers an extraordinary opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the wild heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, right in their own backyard. This isn't a bustling campground with amenities, but rather a serene, spacious, and genuinely primitive site that caters to those who value solitude and self-reliance. Its location slightly off the main Deep Creek Trail contributes to a heightened sense of seclusion, allowing local adventurers to truly disconnect from the demands of everyday life and reconnect with nature on a profound level.

The ample space, even if slightly less than its stated capacity, makes it suitable for local groups of friends or families who wish to experience backcountry camping together without feeling cramped. Furthermore, its potential designation as a horse camp (to be confirmed upon booking) is a significant draw for the equestrian community within North Carolina, providing a unique opportunity to explore the Smokies' extensive trail network with their horses. For those who prioritize a raw, authentic outdoor experience, the lack of modern conveniences is a feature, not a drawback, encouraging resourcefulness and a deeper appreciation for the environment.

Backcountry Camp 55 provides an accessible yet challenging escape for North Carolina residents. It encourages us to embrace the "Leave No Trace" principles, preserving these precious wild spaces for future generations. It’s a chance to embark on an adventure, test our outdoor skills, and forge unforgettable memories amidst the stunning beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains – a true gem of our state.