Backcountry Campsite #17

For Tennesseans, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park stands as a majestic testament to untouched wilderness and unparalleled natural beauty. While many visitors experience the park from its scenic drives or frontcountry campgrounds, a truly immersive adventure awaits those willing to venture into its vast backcountry. For dedicated hikers and equestrian enthusiasts, a network of primitive campsites provides the ultimate opportunity to disconnect and deeply explore the park's heart. Backcountry Campsite #17, nestled near Abrams Creek and accessible via the Little Bottoms Trail from Tallassee, TN, is one such gem, offering a raw, authentic wilderness experience for those prepared to embrace it.

Backcountry Campsite #17 is not your typical drive-up campground; it's a destination for the self-sufficient and adventurous. Situated on the idyllic Abrams Creek, it's frequently lauded as a "treasure of a campsite" and "perhaps among the best sites in the Park." Guests praise its capacity to host multiple groups, the presence of essential fire rings and bear cables, and most importantly, the "Great water source in Abrams Creek." It serves as an excellent base for exploring iconic features like Abrams Falls and undertaking challenging hikes, making it a perfect spot for individuals or groups looking for a true "woods camping in a tranquil setting" within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Backcountry Campsite #17 is located deep within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with its access point generally considered to be from the Tallassee, TN side. More precisely, it’s situated on the Little Bottoms Trail, approximately 1.6 miles from the Cooper Road Trail and 0.7 miles from the intersection with Hatcher Mountain Trail. This puts it in the vicinity of the popular Abrams Creek area, a renowned hub for hiking and exploring within the park.

Accessing Backcountry Campsite #17 is not by vehicle directly to the site. This is a true backcountry experience, meaning campers must hike or ride horseback to reach it. The typical approach involves parking at the Abrams Creek Campground (or nearby designated parking areas) and then hiking in via trails like the Cooper Road Trail to the Little Bottoms Trail. The Little Bottoms Trail itself is described as a "pleasant hike from either direction" but includes a "bit of a ridge climb out of the Cooper Road Trail," suggesting some elevation changes. It's noted that the trail "rolls up and down as it nears Abrams Creek."

While the campsite offers a primitive experience, its location is a major draw. It's close enough for a day excursion to popular spots like Abrams Falls, which is about 1.9 miles away via the Hatcher Mountain Trail and Abrams Creek Trail. Its position on Abrams Creek itself is a significant advantage for water access and the serene sounds of flowing water. For those seeking to immerse themselves in the park's natural beauty, far from the crowds, the journey to Campsite #17 is part of the adventure, leading to a truly secluded and rewarding experience.

As a backcountry campsite within a National Park, Backcountry Campsite #17 adheres to strict Leave No Trace principles, meaning services are minimal and focused on essential needs for a primitive camping experience. Campers should be prepared for self-sufficiency. The services and amenities provided include:

• Designated Campsites: The site is large, "flat and well drained," and offers "room for 5 groups," with a stated capacity of 12 people. This suggests it can accommodate multiple tents and provide ample space.
• Fire Rings: All sites are equipped with "fire rings," allowing for safe and designated campfires (following park regulations regarding wood collection and fire bans).
• Bear Cables: Crucially, "Bear cables available" at the campsite. These are essential for hanging food and scented items out of reach of bears, ensuring both human safety and bear protection.
• Water Source: A "Great water source in Abrams Creek" is readily available nearby. However, all water collected from natural sources must be filtered, purified, or boiled before consumption.
• Level Tent Sites: The site is described as having "plenty of open flat spots for tents" and being "Dry or properly draining tent sites," contributing to a more comfortable sleeping experience.
• Low Impact: The site exhibits "little evidence of overuse," indicating good management and visitor adherence to park rules.
• Permit System: All backcountry camping in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park requires a permit obtained in advance from Recreation.gov. This ensures controlled use and helps maintain the pristine nature of the site.

It's important to remember that there are no flush toilets, running water (other than the creek), or trash services. Campers must pack out everything they pack in, including all trash and food waste. Human waste must be properly buried following Leave No Trace principles if pit toilets are not provided.

Backcountry Campsite #17 is celebrated for several key features that make it a highly desirable destination for experienced wilderness campers and equestrians:

• Direct Abrams Creek Access: Its location directly on "idyllic Abrams Creek" is a major highlight, providing a constant water source (for filtering/treating) and the soothing sounds of flowing water. There's even a "beach-like area nearby accessible on foot right next to the water," perfect for a picnic or relaxation.
• Excellent Trails: Reviews consistently praise the "excellent!" trails accessible from the campsite, including the Little Bottoms Trail and connections to others like the Cooper Road Trail and Hatcher Mountain Trail, which lead to significant destinations.
• Proximity to Abrams Falls: The ability to easily undertake a "day excursion Abram’s Falls from here" is a huge draw, allowing campers to visit one of the park's most iconic waterfalls.
• Spacious Layout: With "room for 5 groups" and a stated capacity of 12 people, the site is large, offering more space and privacy than some other backcountry sites. "There are plenty of open flat spots for tents."
• Bear-Safe Amenities: The provision of "Bear cables" is a critical safety feature, essential for secure food storage in bear country.
• Natural Drainage: The site is described as "large, flat and well drained," which is important for comfortable camping, especially during or after rain.
• Old Homesite Remnants: The site is a "former homesite with the remains of a stone fence along one end," adding a subtle historical element to the natural setting.
• Tranquil and Low Impact: Guests describe it as a "tranquil setting" with "little evidence of overuse," allowing for a genuine wilderness experience.

These features combine to offer a truly authentic and rewarding backcountry adventure for those prepared for its primitive nature.

As a backcountry campsite within a U.S. National Park, Backcountry Campsite #17 does not typically offer commercial "promotions" or "special offers." Its value is inherent in the experience it provides. Pricing and access are managed by the National Park Service. Key aspects that constitute its "offer" include:

• Affordable Wilderness Access: The fees for backcountry permits are generally low (e.g., $8 per person per night, up to $40 per person), making it a highly economical way to access pristine wilderness within a protected area.
• Reservation System: A required permit system (via Recreation.gov) ensures that the campsite is not overcrowded, preserving the wilderness experience and guaranteeing a reserved spot for your trip. This prevents over-use and maintains the integrity of the site.
• High Demand: The fact that it is considered "perhaps among the best sites in the Park" suggests high demand, so booking well in advance is essential.
• Safety Resources: The National Park Service provides extensive safety information, including bear safety guidelines and Leave No Trace principles, which are part of the value provided for backcountry users.

To reserve Backcountry Campsite #17, visitors must obtain a backcountry permit through Recreation.gov or by calling the Backcountry Reservation Office. Reservations can typically be made up to one month in advance. It is highly recommended to book early due to the site's popularity.

For reservations and specific inquiries regarding Backcountry Campsite #17 within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, all bookings and most information are handled through the official National Park Service channels:

• Address: Little Bottoms Trail, Tallassee, TN 37878, USA (This indicates the general trail access, not a physical office at the campsite)
• Backcountry Reservation Office Phone: (865) 436-1297 (For general backcountry information and assistance with reservations)
• Reservation Website: Recreation.gov (Search for "Great Smoky Mountains National Park Backcountry Camping" and then look for Campsite #17)
• General Park Information: (865) 436-1200 (Great Smoky Mountains National Park general inquiry line)

Remember that direct calls to the park office are primarily for operational questions, while all reservations must be made online or via the Recreation.gov phone number. Always confirm rules and conditions, especially regarding permits, bear safety, and leave no trace principles, before your trip.

For Tennesseans, Backcountry Campsite #17 in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is uniquely suitable for those seeking a profound and authentic wilderness experience right in their own backyard. This isn't a campground for casual visitors; it's for the local adventurer who cherishes primitive camping and the thrill of exploring vast, untamed landscapes.

Its location on the Little Bottoms Trail, with direct access to Abrams Creek and its network of "excellent!" trails, is a significant draw. For local hikers and especially horse-camping enthusiasts, this means unparalleled opportunities for extended treks to iconic spots like Abrams Falls, without the need for lengthy drives to trailheads. It allows Tennesseans to fully immerse themselves in the park's natural grandeur, making the most of their weekend or multi-day excursions.

The "primitive" nature of the campsite, complete with fire rings and essential bear cables, caters to the self-reliant spirit often found in local outdoors enthusiasts. It offers a genuine "woods camping in a tranquil setting" that provides a true escape from urban noise and modern conveniences. While the challenges of accessing it with larger trailers are noted, for many prepared locals, this simply adds to the adventure and exclusivity of the experience. Choosing Backcountry Campsite #17 is a statement of embracing the raw beauty and demanding trails that define the Great Smoky Mountains, making it an ideal choice for Tennesseans seeking to deepen their connection with their state's most cherished natural treasure.