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Backcountry Camp 59

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Backcountry Camp 59 Overview

Rating

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

Website https://smokiespermits.nps.gov/index.cfm?BCPermitTypeID=1

Hours

Backcountry Camp 59 Location & Map

North CarolinaSwain CountyBryson CityDeep Creek Trail

Backcountry Camp 59 About

For North Carolina residents seeking a true wilderness escape, Backcountry Camp 59 along the scenic Deep Creek Trail in Bryson City offers an exceptional opportunity to immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This particular campsite is celebrated for its secluded nature and comfortable, level sites, making it an ideal choice for backpackers and nature lovers who value peace and privacy.

Backcountry Camp 59 distinguishes itself with its thoughtful layout, featuring three established sites, each equipped with its own fire pit and a small bench. This attention to detail enhances the primitive camping experience, providing a touch of convenience in the heart of the wild. Imagine ending a day of hiking with a crackling campfire, surrounded by the sounds of the forest, with the gentle lull of the nearby creek guiding you to sleep. This is the promise of Backcountry Camp 59 – a truly serene and rewarding outdoor adventure right here in our beautiful state.

Location and Accessibility

Backcountry Camp 59 is strategically located along the popular Deep Creek Trail in Bryson City, North Carolina. The address, Deep Creek Trail, Bryson City, NC 28713, USA, places it firmly within the boundaries of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. As a designated backcountry campsite, it's important for prospective campers to understand that direct vehicle access is not available. Reaching Backcountry Camp 59 requires a hike along the Deep Creek Trail, making it an ideal destination for backpackers and those who embrace the challenge and reward of a wilderness trek.

The Deep Creek Trail is well-known and generally well-maintained, but as a backcountry site, visitors should be prepared for varying trail conditions and self-sufficiency. The reviews indicate that the sites themselves are "secluded," suggesting they might be set a short distance off the main trail, providing an enhanced sense of privacy and quiet. While creek access is available, one reviewer notes it can be "a little tricky at one of the sites, but can be navigated," which implies careful footing might be needed at certain points to reach the water source. This is a common characteristic of primitive sites, requiring campers to be adaptable and observant of their surroundings.

The accessibility by foot ensures a quieter, more pristine environment, largely free from the noise and crowds associated with drive-up campgrounds. For North Carolinians looking to truly disconnect and earn their wilderness experience, the journey to Backcountry Camp 59 is an integral and rewarding part of the adventure, leading them to a peaceful haven amidst the stunning natural landscapes of the Smokies.

Services Offered

  • Established Campsites: Backcountry Camp 59 features three distinct, established camping sites. These provide designated, cleared areas for pitching tents.
  • Individual Fire Pits: Each of the three sites is equipped with its own fire pit, allowing campers to safely build campfires (when conditions permit and regulations allow).
  • Small Bench: A small bench is provided at each site, offering a convenient seating option for campers.
  • Natural Water Access: There is access to the nearby creek for water collection. Campers must filter or treat all water before consumption.
  • Bear Hangars: The camp offers four pack hangars for the entire camp to safely store food and scented items away from bears and other wildlife. Campers should be prepared to share these facilities or bring their own bear-resistant containers/hanging systems if needed.
  • Secluded Environment: The primary "service" is the provision of a quiet and secluded primitive camping experience, away from the sounds and activity of more developed areas.

Features / Highlights

  • Three Established Sites: The presence of three distinct, designated sites allows for organized camping and a clearer understanding of where to set up camp, offering flexibility for small groups or individuals.
  • Individual Fire Pits & Benches: The inclusion of a fire pit and a small bench at each site is a notable convenience for a backcountry camp, enhancing comfort and usability.
  • Secluded & Level Sites: Campers praise the "nice, level, secluded sites," which are ideal for comfortable tent pitching and offer a sense of privacy away from other campers and the main trail.
  • Soothing Creek Sounds: A major highlight is the proximity to the creek, with reviewers specifically mentioning that "The creek will lull you to sleep, I love the sound of the water." This provides a naturally peaceful and relaxing ambiance.
  • Creek Access: While potentially "a little tricky" at one spot, access to the creek is available for water collection and enjoyment of the natural surroundings.
  • Bear Hangars for Food Storage: The provision of four pack hangars demonstrates the park's commitment to bear safety and helps campers properly secure their food.
  • Authentic Wilderness Experience: Backcountry Camp 59 offers a true primitive camping experience, perfect for those seeking to disconnect and immerse themselves in the raw beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains.
  • Hiking Base: Its location on the Deep Creek Trail makes it an excellent base camp for exploring the extensive network of trails in the Deep Creek area.

Promotions or Special Offers

As a primitive backcountry campsite located within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Backcountry Camp 59 does not offer commercial promotions, discounts, or special packages typically associated with private campgrounds. The primary "offer" is the unique opportunity to experience an unadulterated wilderness escape at a nominal fee, which supports the preservation and maintenance of the national park.

Access to Backcountry Camp 59, like all backcountry sites in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, requires a permit. This permit involves a per-person, per-night fee, with a maximum charge for longer stays. This fee directly contributes to the vital work of the National Park Service in managing and protecting the park's natural resources, maintaining trails, and ensuring the safety of visitors. Any "special offers" would be broad park-wide initiatives, such as fee-free entrance days (which would not waive backcountry permit fees) or specific educational programs, and would be publicly announced by the National Park Service.

For the most current and accurate information on permit fees, reservation availability, and any relevant park-wide policies that might affect your visit to Backcountry Camp 59, it is always essential to consult the official Great Smoky Mountains National Park website or their designated backcountry reservation platform, such as Recreation.gov. Planning ahead ensures a smooth and enjoyable wilderness adventure.

Contact Information

For Backcountry Camp 59, as a remote campsite within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, there is no direct phone number or on-site office. All essential information and reservations are managed through the official channels of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Please use the following details to plan your visit:

Address: Deep Creek Trail, Bryson City, NC 28713, USA (This general address places it within the park's boundaries near Bryson City, accessible via the Deep Creek Trail).

For reservations, backcountry permit information, inquiries about trail conditions, and general park regulations relevant to Backcountry Camp 59:

  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park Backcountry Information Office: This is the dedicated contact for all backcountry camping questions. While general park numbers exist, this office specializes in wilderness permits and conditions. As of available information, the main number for the Backcountry Information Office is often listed as (865) 436-1297, but always verify on the official NPS website for the most up-to-date contact.
  • Official Park Website: The most comprehensive source of information is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park website (nps.gov/grsm). Navigate to the "Backcountry Camping" or "Permits & Reservations" sections for detailed guidelines and planning tools.
  • Recreation.gov: Backcountry permits for sites like Camp 59 are typically obtained through Recreation.gov. This online platform allows you to check availability, make reservations, and process any required fees.

It is strongly recommended to secure your backcountry permit well in advance, especially during peak seasons, as these popular sites can book quickly. Always check for current alerts and safety guidelines from the National Park Service before embarking on your trip.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For North Carolina residents, Backcountry Camp 59 offers an exceptional opportunity to experience the pristine beauty and tranquility of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park right in our own backyard. This particular campsite is perfectly suited for locals who cherish authentic wilderness adventures and appreciate a secluded, comfortable base for their explorations. The established, level sites, complete with individual fire pits and benches, provide a level of primitive comfort that is often sought after but rarely found in backcountry settings.

The soothing sounds of the creek, which can "lull you to sleep," create an idyllic atmosphere, making it a perfect retreat from the stresses of daily life. For those in North Carolina who are experienced backpackers or aspiring to deepen their wilderness skills, the hike into Camp 59 is a rewarding journey leading to a truly restorative environment. It’s an ideal spot for individuals or small groups to disconnect, enjoy a campfire under the stars, and embrace the principles of Leave No Trace, ensuring this beautiful corner of our state remains wild for generations to come. Backcountry Camp 59 isn't just a campsite; it's an invitation to rediscover the profound peace and natural splendor that define the heart of North Carolina's mountain region.

Customer Reviews

4.0
3 reviews
J
Jason Curvin
Apr 12, 2022

There are three established sites here. Each one has a fire pit and small bench. Creek access is a little tricky at one of the sites, but can be navigated. Only 4 pack hangars for the whole camp. The creek will lull you to sleep, I love the sound of the water.

M
Meg Fredericks
Jun 07, 2021

nice, level, secluded sites.

P
Patrick Brady
Sep 08, 2015