Backcountry Campsite #32

Tennessee is a state blessed with diverse and breathtaking natural landscapes, from the vibrant music cities to the rolling hills of the Cumberland Plateau and the majestic peaks of the Appalachian Mountains. For those drawn to the purest form of outdoor adventure, backcountry camping in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers an unparalleled opportunity to disconnect and immerse oneself in the wild. Among the many designated sites, Backcountry Campsite #32, located near Gatlinburg, TN, stands out as a favored spot for its blend of primitive charm and essential features.

This isn't a campground for RVs or car camping; Campsite #32 is a true hike-in destination, designed for backpackers and wilderness enthusiasts who appreciate solitude and self-sufficiency. Despite its primitive nature, campers consistently praise its features, such as relatively flat areas for tents, easy access to a clean water source, and functional bear hangs. It's a place where the sounds of civilization are replaced by the gentle murmur of streams and the rustling of leaves, creating a profoundly relaxing atmosphere.

For Tennesseans eager to explore the heart of their state's most iconic national park, Backcountry Campsite #32 offers an authentic and rewarding wilderness experience. It's a chance to witness diverse wildlife, challenge oneself on scenic trails, and find tranquility far from the beaten path, making it an ideal choice for both seasoned backpackers and those looking to venture deeper into the wild.

Backcountry Campsite #32 is situated within the awe-inspiring Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with its general address noted as Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA. This places it on the Tennessee side of the park, making it a highly accessible destination for residents across the state, particularly those in East Tennessee. As a backcountry campsite, it is important to note that direct vehicle access is not possible; reaching the site requires a hike.

The primary way to access Campsite #32 is by hiking the Grapeyard Ridge Trail, typically from the Greenbrier entrance of the park. The journey along Grapeyard Ridge Trail is described as featuring "multiple creek crossings," adding to the adventure and immersion in the natural environment. While the exact distance to Campsite #32 isn't explicitly detailed in the provided reviews, backcountry sites in the Smokies generally range from a few miles to over ten, requiring proper planning and preparation.

The site's location offers a sense of deep wilderness while still being relatively manageable for experienced primitive campers. Its setting with "streams on 2 sides" highlights the immediate access to water, a critical element for backcountry survival. Additionally, the area around the campsite is noted to have "a number of unmarked trails," offering opportunities for further exploration for those with good navigational skills and a desire to venture off the main path, though caution and knowledge of your whereabouts are advised. For Tennesseans seeking to explore the rugged beauty of their state's most famous national park, Campsite #32 provides a genuine wilderness experience while still being within reasonable reach of the park's main visitor areas in Gatlinburg.

As a primitive backcountry campsite within a protected National Park, Backcountry Campsite #32 focuses on providing fundamental services that support safe and responsible wilderness camping while adhering to Leave No Trace principles.

• Designated Campsite: The site offers a clearly marked area for pitching tents. Reviewers note that the "whole site is fairly flat" or "somewhat flat," which is a significant advantage for comfortable tent setup in a primitive setting.
• Fire Pits/Rings: The campsite is equipped with "two fire pits" (or fire rings), allowing campers to safely build fires for warmth, cooking, and ambiance, provided they comply with park regulations and fire safety guidelines.
• Bear-Proof Food Storage: Crucially, "functional bear hangs" are available at the site. These cable systems are essential for campers to safely suspend their food, trash, and scented items away from bears and other wildlife, ensuring both human safety and the protection of the park's wildlife.
• Water Access (Natural Source): With "streams on 2 sides," water is "readily available" from natural sources. Campers are responsible for bringing and using their own water filters or purification methods to ensure the water is safe for consumption.
• Waste Management (Pack It In, Pack It Out): As with all backcountry sites in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, campers are required to pack out all trash and waste. This includes all food scraps and non-biodegradable items. For human waste, campers are typically instructed to dig catholes a specified distance from water sources and trails, or use portable waste systems, following park guidelines.

It is imperative for all campers to be fully self-sufficient, carrying all necessary gear, food, and knowledge of backcountry ethics and emergency preparedness before embarking on a trip to this primitive site.

Backcountry Campsite #32 offers several appealing features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for a primitive wilderness experience in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

• Easy Water Access: A significant highlight is the "easy access to water" from the streams on two sides of the campsite. This provides a convenient and continuous source of water, essential for backcountry living (though requiring filtration).
• Functional Bear Hangs: The presence of "functional bear hangs" offers crucial peace of mind for campers in bear country. This reliable system allows for safe food storage, a fundamental aspect of responsible and secure primitive camping.
• Relatively Flat Tent Areas: Reviewers note that the campsite is "somewhat flat" or "fairly flat," which is a considerable advantage for comfortable tent pitching and sleeping in a backcountry setting where level ground can be scarce.
• Relaxing Atmosphere: Campers describe the spot as a "relaxing spot" and had a "great time there," indicating a serene and peaceful environment conducive to unwinding and enjoying nature.
• Abundant Wildlife Viewing: The campsite offers excellent opportunities for wildlife observation, with past campers spotting "hummingbirds, plenty of butterflies and a couple very curious deer." This adds an exciting and enriching dimension to the wilderness experience.
• Multiple Fire Pits: The presence of "two fire pits" provides flexibility for groups or allows for separate cooking and warmth fires, enhancing the functionality of the site.
• Access to Unmarked Trails: For experienced navigators, the "number of unmarked trails in this area" offers additional exploration opportunities, allowing for deeper dives into the surrounding wilderness (with proper map and compass skills).
• Proximity to Grapeyard Ridge Trail: Being directly accessible via the beautiful Grapeyard Ridge Trail provides a scenic and engaging hike to and from the campsite, with "multiple creek crossings" adding to the adventure.

As a designated primitive backcountry campsite within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Backcountry Campsite #32 does not operate with commercial "promotions" or "special offers" in the way a private business might. Access to such sites is managed by the National Park Service.

• Required Permit/Reservation Fee: The primary "cost" associated with staying at Campsite #32 is the necessary backcountry permit and/or reservation fee, which is a standardized charge set by the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This fee contributes directly to the maintenance of park trails, backcountry facilities, and the protection of its natural resources.
• Seasonal Accessibility: While not a promotion, the availability of backcountry campsites, including #32, can be seasonal. Factors such as weather conditions, trail closures, or wildlife management (e.g., bear activity) can influence access. It is imperative to check the official National Park Service website or recreation.gov for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for current operating status and reservation windows.

The true "offer" of Campsite #32 lies in the invaluable experience it provides: the opportunity to fully immerse oneself in pristine wilderness, enjoy profound solitude, and undertake the rewarding challenges of self-sufficient primitive camping. Prospective campers should visit the official Great Smoky Mountains National Park website or recreation.gov to understand the booking process and any associated fees.

As a specific primitive backcountry campsite within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Backcountry Campsite #32 does not have a direct phone number or dedicated staff at the campsite itself. All inquiries, reservations, and information regarding backcountry camping in this area of the park are handled through the National Park Service.

• Address (General Area): Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA (This address refers to the general vicinity and the nearest gateway town for logistical planning, not a direct office at the campsite).
• National Park Service Contact (for Backcountry Information): The phone number provided in the prompt, (865) 436-1297, is the main general information line for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This is the correct number to call for questions about backcountry permits, regulations, trail conditions, and safety within the park.
• Booking/Permit Platform: Reservations for backcountry campsites in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are typically made through recreation.gov. This is the official platform to check availability and secure your overnight permit.

Before embarking on any backcountry trip, it is highly recommended to consult the official Great Smoky Mountains National Park website and speak with park rangers if you have specific questions about conditions or regulations.

For Tennesseans, Backcountry Campsite #32 near Gatlinburg offers an exceptionally suitable and rewarding opportunity to experience the untamed beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Its suitability for locals stems from its accessibility as a true wilderness escape within their home state, combined with features that enhance the primitive camping experience.

Firstly, its location within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park means that a profound wilderness adventure is within a manageable drive for many Tennessee residents. The hike along the beautiful Grapeyard Ridge Trail provides a scenic journey, making the effort to reach the campsite part of the adventure rather than a deterrent. For locals looking to move beyond car camping and embrace genuine backpacking, this site serves as an ideal entry point.

Secondly, despite being primitive, the campsite’s features like relatively flat areas for tents, easy access to water (after filtration), and crucial "functional bear hangs" address fundamental needs for safety and comfort in the backcountry. This allows Tennesseans to fully immerse themselves in nature with essential provisions in place. The reported relaxation and opportunities for wildlife viewing, including deer, hummingbirds, and butterflies, add to the appeal for those seeking a true connection with the natural world.

Finally, the quiet atmosphere and the potential for unique, contemplative experiences (as one reviewer noted about the mysterious sounds) highlight the profound tranquility this site offers. For Tennesseans seeking to disconnect from urban life, challenge themselves in nature, and create unforgettable memories, Backcountry Campsite #32 is a premier choice. It offers an authentic, uncrowded, and deeply satisfying wilderness retreat right in the heart of their spectacular home state.