Backcountry Campsite #28

For Tennessee locals with a passion for true wilderness adventure, Backcountry Campsite #28 offers an exceptional opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Far removed from the hustle and bustle of developed areas, this backcountry site provides a genuine escape, challenging you with rewarding hikes and granting you the profound peace of an untouched natural environment. If you're an experienced backpacker yearning for solitude, incredible scenery, and the unique experience of sleeping under a blanket of stars, Campsite #28 should be high on your list.

Situated at a significant elevation of approximately 3,455 feet, Campsite #28 is praised by those who have made the journey. As one visitor eloquently stated, it is "an incredible backcountry campsite in the Smoky Mountains!" The site is well-regarded for its ample space, offering "3 fire rings" and several distinct tent areas, including "the larger one with a clear view of the stars" – a truly magical experience when the weather cooperates. A consistent highlight is its location "beside a flowing stream, so fresh water should be plentiful," which is a vital resource for any backcountry trip. While the hike in can be strenuous, often involving significant elevation gain, the reward is a secluded haven that feels miles away from civilization, providing that sought-after "white noise from the water if you're into that," as one happy camper described.

Backcountry Campsite #28 is located deep within the vast expanse of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, specifically in the wilderness area accessible from Tremont. Its address is generally cited as Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA, which refers to the broader gateway town to this section of the park, but it's crucial to understand that Campsite #28 is a primitive, hike-in only destination. It is not directly accessible by vehicle, nor does it have any road access.

The primary access point for Campsite #28 is typically via the Middle Prong Trail, which originates at the end of Tremont Road. This trailhead is popular and provides parking, though it's advised to arrive early, especially during peak hiking seasons. The hike to Campsite #28 is a significant undertaking, requiring a good level of physical fitness and preparation. Reviews indicate varying distances and elevation gains, which can depend on the exact route taken and individual tracking devices. One reviewer noted it as a "5.7 miles from the Middle Prong trailhead" with a "gradual uphill hike," while another logged it as "an approximate 7.2 mile hike in each direction with approximately 2,708 feet of elevation gain." This variation underscores the challenging nature of the terrain and the need for accurate navigation and preparation.

For adventurous hikers, Campsite #28 also offers opportunities for loop hikes, as described by one experienced camper: "You can loop out by continuing on Lynn Camp Prong east to Miry Ridge Trail. Head north toward Jake's Gap. Once there, turn a hard left and descend down Panther Creek Trail. Be prepared for a thigh-high creek crossing at the very end to get back up on Middle Prong." This highlights the extensive trail network available for exploration from the campsite. All visitors planning an overnight stay at Backcountry Campsite #28 must obtain a backcountry permit in advance from the National Park Service, which helps manage usage and ensure safety in this remote area.

Backcountry Campsite #28, as a primitive campsite in a national park wilderness area, provides essential, minimalist provisions designed to facilitate responsible and safe camping while preserving the natural environment. It does not offer the conveniences of developed campgrounds, emphasizing self-sufficiency and Leave No Trace principles. The key services and amenities available are:

• Designated Tent Sites: The campsite features multiple clearings suitable for pitching tents, helping to concentrate human impact and protect the surrounding fragile ecosystem. These sites are "nicely spread out" offering a degree of privacy.
• Fire Rings: Each designated tent site is equipped with a stone fire ring, allowing campers to safely build campfires for warmth, cooking, and ambiance, provided fire restrictions are not in place due to dry conditions.
• Bear Cables (Food Storage): Critical for safety in black bear country, the site is outfitted with bear cables or poles. These allow campers to hang all food, toiletries, and other scented items at a height inaccessible to bears, protecting both campers and wildlife. As one review notes, "The second set of bear cables are beyond the creek convergence."
• Water Access: A major highlight, the campsite is "situated beside a flowing stream, so fresh water should be plentiful." Campers must filter or treat this water before consumption to ensure it's safe for drinking.
• Backcountry Permit System: While not a physical service at the site, the mandatory permit system is a vital park service that regulates overnight stays, tracks visitor numbers for safety, and contributes to the maintenance of trails and backcountry facilities.

It is important to remember that there are no restrooms, showers, potable water spigots (only natural water sources), trash bins, or picnic tables (beyond the basic fire ring areas). Campers are responsible for packing out all trash and waste, including human waste, following Leave No Trace guidelines.

Backcountry Campsite #28 offers a unique set of features and highlights that draw in backpackers seeking an authentic and memorable wilderness experience within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. These elements distinguish it from more accessible, developed campgrounds.

• Secluded Wilderness Setting: The primary highlight is its remote location, offering profound solitude and an immersive natural experience far from roads, crowds, and artificial lights.
• Plentiful Water Source: Situated directly "beside a flowing stream," the campsite provides abundant access to natural water for filtering, cooking, and general use, which is a significant convenience in the backcountry.
• Spacious & Private Tent Sites: With "3 fire rings" and multiple tent clearings, including a "larger one," the site is spacious, allowing groups to spread out and enjoy a high degree of privacy, a rarity in many popular camping areas.
• Stargazing Opportunities: The "clear view of the stars" from certain areas of the campsite, especially on clear nights at 3,455 feet elevation, offers breathtaking celestial displays away from light pollution.
• Natural "White Noise": The constant sound of the flowing stream provides soothing natural "white noise," contributing to a peaceful and restful sleep environment for many campers.
• Challenging & Rewarding Hike: The significant elevation gain and mileage from the trailhead make the hike to Campsite #28 a challenging yet incredibly rewarding experience, appealing to serious backpackers. The "almost completely downhill" hike out is also a pleasant feature.
• Bear Safety Infrastructure: The presence and noted location of "bear cables" demonstrate the park's commitment to visitor safety and responsible food storage in bear habitat.
• Loop Hike Potential: The possibility to "loop out by continuing on Lynn Camp Prong east to Miry Ridge Trail" offers extended adventure opportunities for multi-day trips.

As a designated backcountry campsite within a federal national park, Backcountry Campsite #28 does not participate in commercial "promotions or special offers" in the way a private business might. The fees associated with using this campsite are set by the National Park Service (NPS) and are typically standard backcountry permit fees, which contribute to the maintenance of trails, campsites, and park management. There are no seasonal discounts, group rate specials, or loyalty programs directly tied to this specific campsite.

However, visitors to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park should be aware of broader federal recreation passes that might be relevant for other national parks or federal lands, though the Great Smoky Mountains National Park itself does not have an entrance fee. The America the Beautiful – National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass, for example, provides access to federal lands and waters for a year, but it does not cover the backcountry permit fees, which are separate. Any "special offers" would typically come in the form of a successful reservation for this highly sought-after backcountry experience, especially during peak hiking seasons when permits can be competitive. To obtain the most accurate and up-to-date information on permit fees, reservation processes, and any relevant park regulations, it is essential to consult the official Great Smoky Mountains National Park website or contact the park's backcountry information office directly. Always secure your backcountry permit well in advance of your planned trip.

For all inquiries regarding Backcountry Campsite #28, including crucial information about obtaining backcountry permits, current trail conditions, safety regulations, and any specific park advisories, you must contact the official Great Smoky Mountains National Park services. They are the sole authority for managing and providing information about backcountry camping within the park.

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park General Information: (865) 436-1200
• Mobile Phone: +1 865-436-1200 (This is the same general park information line)
• Address for general park vicinity (not the campsite itself, as it's a remote backcountry location): Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA. Note: This address refers to the nearest major town and the park's administrative area, not a direct location for the campsite.

It is strongly advised that all prospective campers visit the official Great Smoky Mountains National Park website. This is the primary resource for detailed maps, updated trail conditions, bear safety guidelines, and the essential process for reserving your backcountry permit. Reservations for backcountry sites like Campsite #28 are often required months in advance, especially during popular hiking seasons, so early planning is crucial for a successful and safe wilderness trip.

For Tennessee locals, Backcountry Campsite #28 offers an unparalleled opportunity to deeply connect with the natural majesty of their home state. This isn't merely a campground; it's a gateway to an authentic wilderness experience within the iconic Great Smoky Mountains National Park, perfectly suited for residents with a spirit of adventure.

Firstly, the accessibility for Tennesseans is a key advantage. While it requires a challenging hike, the fact that such a pristine backcountry escape is within driving distance makes it an ideal weekend or multi-day trip destination. It allows locals to fully leverage the world-class natural resources available right in their backyard, escaping urban environments for genuine solitude.

Secondly, the unique features of Campsite #28 cater specifically to those seeking a true outdoor challenge and reward. The significant elevation gain and mileage involved in the hike in mean that only those truly dedicated to the backcountry experience will reach it, ensuring a less crowded and more serene environment than developed campgrounds. The ample, private tent sites, the constant presence of a flowing stream for water, and the designated bear cables underscore a commitment to both camper safety and environmental preservation, crucial aspects for responsible wilderness exploration.

Finally, the opportunity for stargazing and the soothing "white noise" of the stream provide a profound sensory experience that reconnects individuals with nature. For Tennessee locals who value physical activity, environmental stewardship, and the rare chance to unplug and immerse themselves in the raw beauty of the Appalachian wilderness, Backcountry Campsite #28 offers an unforgettable and deeply fulfilling adventure that reinforces their bond with the incredible landscapes of their home state.