Backcountry Camp 64, Bryson City, NC

For North Carolina residents seeking an authentic and remarkably accessible wilderness experience, Backcountry Camp 64 along the beautiful Noland Creek Trail in Bryson City offers an ideal escape. Nestled within the grandeur of the Great Smoky Mountains, this backcountry campsite has quickly become a favorite among local outdoor enthusiasts for its convenient trek in and its stunning natural setting. Whether you’re looking to unwind by a tranquil creek, cast a line for some trout, or simply disconnect amidst towering trees, Backcountry Camp 64 provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and surprising ease of access, making it an excellent choice for a memorable overnight adventure right here in your home state.

Backcountry Camp 64 is strategically located along the Noland Creek Trail, near Bryson City, North Carolina. This positioning offers both seclusion and a surprising level of accessibility, making it a highly desirable spot for many North Carolinians. The primary access point for the Noland Creek Trail is from Lakeview Drive in Bryson City. Many locals affectionately refer to parts of Lakeview Drive as "The Road to Nowhere," an intriguing local moniker that hints at the scenic, less-traveled routes leading into the park. To reach the trailhead, you'll travel along Lakeview Drive, and a large parking area is conveniently located on the left just before a bridge over Noland Creek.

What sets Backcountry Camp 64 apart in terms of accessibility is the nature of the hike itself. The trail leading to the campsite is described by many as one of the easiest backcountry hikes they've experienced in the Smokies. It's approximately a 4 to 5-mile journey from the parking lot, primarily following a super wide gravel dirt road. While there are some long, gentle inclines, there's "nothing bad at all" in terms of steepness or technical difficulty. This makes the hike suitable for a wide range of hikers, including those who might be new to backcountry camping or families with children. The well-maintained trail ensures a smooth and enjoyable walk, allowing you to appreciate the surrounding forest and the soothing sounds of Noland Creek as you make your way to camp. This straightforward approach means you can spend less time struggling with a challenging hike and more time enjoying the tranquility of your destination.

As a designated backcountry campsite within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Backcountry Camp 64 offers a stripped-down yet highly functional set of services designed for an authentic wilderness experience. While you won't find modern amenities like flush toilets or running water, the campsite provides essential provisions to ensure a comfortable and safe stay for North Carolina campers:

Backcountry Permit Required: Like all backcountry sites in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, an overnight stay at Backcountry Camp 64 requires a valid backcountry permit. This helps manage usage, protect the environment, and ensures a designated spot for your stay. Permits can typically be reserved in advance through the National Park Service.
Designated Camping Areas: The campsite offers multiple designated areas for pitching tents, providing campers with options and space. Reviews suggest there are at least two campsites right on the creek, with others just a short distance up the hill. This allows for flexibility and a sense of privacy.
Food Hoists: A crucial service for backcountry safety in bear country, Backcountry Camp 64 is equipped with plenty of food hoists (also known as bear cables). These allow campers to properly hang their food and scented items away from bears, protecting both your supplies and the wildlife.
Water Source: Being situated directly next to Noland Creek, the creek itself serves as the primary water source. Campers should always be prepared to filter, purify, or boil creek water before consumption to ensure it is safe to drink.
Fire Pits (where permitted): While specific details about permanent fire pits are not always listed, designated backcountry campsites typically have established areas for fires where regulations allow. Always check current fire restrictions with the National Park Service before planning a campfire.

Backcountry Camp 64 isn't just another spot to pitch a tent; it's a highly-rated destination within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering several distinctive features that make it a favorite among those who seek a genuine yet comfortable wilderness experience. These highlights contribute to its appeal for North Carolina locals looking for a memorable outdoor adventure:

Prime Creek-Side Location: One of the most consistently praised features is its incredible proximity to Noland Creek. Campers rave about being "right next to a beautiful creek," with multiple camp spots directly on its banks. The soothing sound of flowing water is a constant companion, creating an incredibly peaceful and immersive natural atmosphere. This also makes it exceptionally convenient for water access and activities.
Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Noland Creek is renowned for its fishing, particularly for rainbow and brown trout. Staying at Backcountry Camp 64 means you have immediate access to these waters, making it an ideal base camp for anglers. Imagine stepping out of your tent and casting a line into a classic Smoky Mountain stream.
Iconic Bridge Feature: Reviews often highlight the presence of an "awesome bridge" near the campsite. While details vary, this suggests a unique structural element that adds character to the area and may provide a scenic viewpoint or an interesting landmark for exploration.
Abundant Hammock Hanging Spots: For those who prefer sleeping under the stars or simply relaxing in a hammock, the site offers "plenty of good trees to hang a hammock up." This indicates a favorable tree canopy and layout for comfortable hammock camping, a popular choice for many backcountry enthusiasts.
Spacious and Flexible Layout: With "plenty of camp spots" and anecdotal evidence of multiple separate areas, Backcountry Camp 64 provides ample room for campers to spread out. This makes it suitable for both solo adventurers seeking solitude and groups who appreciate having their own designated space.
Accessible Backcountry Hike: While a backcountry site implies a hike, the consistent feedback describes the 4 to 5-mile trek as "probably the easiest I've done" and on a "super wide gravel dirt road." This low-difficulty approach, with "nothing bad at all" in terms of steep inclines, opens up the backcountry experience to a wider audience, including those new to longer hikes.

As a designated backcountry campsite within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Backcountry Camp 64 operates under the established National Park Service regulations for permits and usage. Therefore, specific commercial "promotions" or "special offers" in the traditional sense are not applicable. However, for North Carolina residents planning a trip, there are a few practical considerations that can enhance your experience and feel like a special advantage:

Early Permit Reservation: While not a discount, securing your backcountry permit well in advance, especially for popular seasons, is paramount. The demand for well-regarded sites like Backcountry Camp 64 can be high. Early booking ensures you get your preferred dates, which in itself is a valuable "offer" for a prime location. Check the official Great Smoky Mountains National Park website for the most current reservation system and availability.
Leveraging Accessibility: The "easy" 4 to 5-mile hike to Camp 64 is a significant benefit. For those who might typically shy away from strenuous backcountry trips, this accessibility is a huge draw. It effectively "offers" a true wilderness experience with less physical demand, broadening who can enjoy the backcountry of the Smokies. Consider this a "promotional" aspect for those seeking a less challenging entry into multi-day hiking and camping.
Free Natural Amenities: The "beautiful creek" and "plenty of good trees to hang a hammock up" are inherent features of the campsite that come at no extra cost beyond your permit. These natural amenities offer immeasurable value in terms of relaxation and enjoyment, serving as perpetual "special offers" from nature itself.

Always consult the official Great Smoky Mountains National Park website or contact the park directly for the most up-to-date information on permits, fees, regulations, and any seasonal alerts that might impact your visit to Backcountry Camp 64.

For those eager to experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Backcountry Camp 64, here's the essential information you'll need:

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

Please note that Backcountry Camp 64 is a wilderness site and does not have a direct phone line at the campsite itself. For general inquiries, permit reservations, or information regarding Great Smoky Mountains National Park backcountry camping, you would typically contact the park's main backcountry office or visitor centers. You can often find contact numbers for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on their official website. Remember to secure your backcountry permit and parking tag before heading out, as these are crucial for your overnight stay and vehicle at the trailhead.

Backcountry Camp 64 stands out as an exceptional choice for North Carolina locals, offering a compelling blend of accessibility, natural beauty, and authentic wilderness immersion. For many of us living in the state, the call of the Great Smoky Mountains is strong, and this particular campsite makes answering that call easier than ever. The relatively gentle 4 to 5-mile hike along a wide, well-maintained trail means that it's approachable for a broader range of outdoor enthusiasts – from seasoned hikers looking for a relaxed trip to families introducing their children to multi-day adventures. This ease of access significantly reduces the barrier to entry for experiencing the profound peace of the backcountry.

Beyond the simple journey, the campsite itself provides an idyllic setting. Being right next to the beautiful Noland Creek offers not just scenic views and soothing sounds, but also practical access for water filtering and, notably, fantastic fishing opportunities. For North Carolina anglers, having prime trout waters literally at your tent flap is an unparalleled amenity. The presence of ample food hoists ensures a safe and responsible camping experience in bear country, a testament to the park's commitment to both visitor safety and wildlife protection. Furthermore, the numerous trees perfect for hammocks add another layer of comfort and relaxation that is highly valued by many campers seeking to truly unwind. In an increasingly connected world, the natural seclusion and implied "digital detox" at Backcountry Camp 64 provide a precious opportunity to unplug and reconnect with nature on a deeper level. For North Carolina residents, this campsite is not just a place to sleep; it's an invitation to experience the very best of our state's iconic mountains, fostering a deeper appreciation for the wilderness that lies right on our doorstep.