Backcountry Campsite #39

Howdy, fellow North Carolinians! Are you dreaming of a true escape into the majestic wilderness of our beloved Great Smoky Mountains? If you're an avid hiker or backpacker looking for a secluded, spacious, and truly immersive camping experience, then Backcountry Campsite #39 is a destination you absolutely need to know about. Nestled in the North Carolina side of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Waynesville, this site offers a unique blend of peace, natural beauty, and incredible wildlife viewing opportunities that are hard to match. We're here to give you a clear, engaging, and factual look at what makes Campsite #39 an outstanding choice for your next adventure into the heart of the Smokies.

Backcountry Campsite #39 is a designated primitive campsite located deep within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, specifically accessible via trails like Pretty Hollow Gap Trail. Unlike crowded front-country campgrounds, this site offers an authentic wilderness experience, requiring a hike to reach and emphasizing self-sufficiency. What truly sets Campsite #39 apart, as highlighted by numerous enthusiastic visitors, is its remarkable size and openness. One reviewer noted, "It's way bigger than it looks from the trail," emphasizing that even with "about 12 tents," everyone had "all the room they wanted, with plenty of prime spots still open." This extraordinary spaciousness means the area "would easily hold 50 tents if everyone was friendly," making it an "perfect place for a big group camp out" with "lots of room for people to spread out."

Beyond its impressive size, Campsite #39 boasts a serene environment, providing a "peace and quiet environment," a "beautiful stream" very close by with "several places to step off the path and enjoy," and the allure of a "beautiful starry night sky." Campers who visited during the fall raved about the "beautiful scenery" and the chance to "experience the wild elk in the Cataloochee Valley" on the way there, and even encounter "a mama black bear and her cubs (from a safe distance of course)" on a day trip. The site features "maybe four or five fire pits" and is "surprisingly flat and open considering the surrounding area." For North Carolinians seeking a secluded, spacious, and wildlife-rich backcountry adventure, Campsite #39 comes "Highly recommend!"

Backcountry Campsite #39 is located within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, near Waynesville, NC 28785, USA. It's crucial for prospective campers to understand that this is a primitive backcountry site, meaning it is not accessible by vehicle directly to the campsite. Reaching Campsite #39 requires a dedicated hike, making it ideal for experienced hikers and backpackers.

The campsite is specifically accessible via the Pretty Hollow Gap Trail. For those coming from the North Carolina side, particularly from the Cataloochee Valley area, the hike to Campsite #39 is approximately two miles. One detailed review provides excellent navigational cues: it's "about a third of a mile past the point where Palmer Creek Trail turns off to the left over a half-log bridge." While the hike is "all uphill toward the campsite," it's noted as "not obnoxiously so like some other local hikes," making it manageable for prepared individuals.

Access to the trailhead for Pretty Hollow Gap Trail typically involves driving into the Cataloochee Valley section of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. For those traveling from the Asheville side of North Carolina, this would involve taking I-40 to Exit 20, then navigating the winding, sometimes gravel, roads into Cataloochee. It's important to confirm the specific trailhead parking and exact trail names using official Great Smoky Mountains National Park maps or a reliable GPS hiking app, as one reviewer noted the "grey dotted line trail on Google Maps is Palmer Creek Trail, but Pretty Hollow Gap Trail will take you right to the campsite." The "most scenic part of the hike is the stream, which is gorgeous with several places to step off the path and enjoy," adding to the beauty of the journey. Remember, all overnight stays in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park backcountry require a permit, which must be obtained in advance.

As a designated backcountry campsite within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Backcountry Campsite #39 provides essential, fundamental services designed to support primitive wilderness camping while strictly adhering to Leave No Trace principles. Campers should be fully self-sufficient and not expect amenities typical of developed campgrounds.

• Designated Campsite Area: The campsite is notably spacious, offering "several spots to set up" and described as "way bigger than it looks from the trail." This provides ample room for multiple tents and for campers to spread out.
• Fire Pits: The site features "maybe four or five fire pits," allowing for controlled campfires. Campers should be aware of and adhere to current fire restrictions and regulations within the national park, and consider packing out any unburned materials.
• Bear Cables/Poles: Crucially important for safety in bear country, bear cables or poles are provided at the campsite. These elevated structures are used for hanging food, trash, and all scented items out of reach of bears and other wildlife. Campers must bring their own bear bags to utilize these facilities.
• Access to Natural Water Source: The campsite is located near a "beautiful stream," with "several trails lead straight down to it," providing a natural water source. It is absolutely imperative for campers to filter, boil, or chemically treat all water collected from natural sources before consumption to ensure it is safe to drink.
• Backcountry Permit System: While not a direct "service" at the campsite itself, the mandatory Great Smoky Mountains National Park backcountry permit system is an integral part of accessing and using the site. This system manages use, provides vital safety information, and contributes to the conservation efforts of the park.

Campers visiting Backcountry Campsite #39 must bring all necessary gear, including water purification methods, cooking supplies, and all food, and strictly adhere to the "pack it in, pack it out" principle for all trash. The allure of this campsite lies in its raw, undeveloped nature and the profound wilderness experience it offers.

Backcountry Campsite #39 stands out for several distinctive features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for experienced wilderness enthusiasts seeking an authentic connection with the Great Smoky Mountains.

• Exceptional Space and Openness: A key highlight is the campsite's remarkably large and flat area, noted as "surprisingly flat and open" and capable of holding "50 tents if everyone was friendly." This provides ample room for groups to spread out and enjoy privacy, a rare luxury in backcountry settings.
• Beautiful Stream Proximity: The presence of a "beautiful stream" very close to the campsite, with "several places to step off the path and enjoy," is a major draw, offering soothing sounds, a natural water source (with purification), and picturesque scenery.
• Prime Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: Located in the North Carolina section of the park, particularly near the Cataloochee Valley, campers have excellent chances to "experience the wild elk." Reviews also mention up-close views of "a mama black bear and her cubs (from a safe distance of course)," highlighting the rich biodiversity of the area.
• Peaceful and Quiet Atmosphere: Despite its spaciousness, the campsite provides a "peace and quiet environment," ideal for true relaxation and disconnecting from urban noise.
• Multiple Fire Pit Options: With "maybe four or five fire pits" available, groups can easily gather around a campfire, enhancing the communal experience.
• Stunning Starry Night Sky: Away from light pollution, the "beautiful starry night sky" offers unparalleled opportunities for stargazing, adding a magical element to the wilderness experience.
• Manageable Uphill Hike: While a hike is required, it's described as "not obnoxiously so like some other local hikes," making it a rewarding challenge that isn't overly strenuous for prepared hikers.
• Versatility for Groups: Its large, flat, and open nature makes it "the perfect place for a big group camp out," allowing friends or families to enjoy the backcountry together comfortably.

These features collectively make Backcountry Campsite #39 a highly recommended choice for backpackers and primitive campers who value space, tranquility, and unique wildlife encounters in North Carolina's majestic mountains.

It is important to understand that Backcountry Campsite #39, as a designated primitive campsite within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, does not operate under a system that provides commercial "promotions" or "special offers" in the way a private campground or resort might. The National Park Service (NPS) manages these sites primarily for conservation, public access, and wilderness preservation.

The "offer" here is the unique privilege of experiencing a pristine wilderness environment at a minimal cost, managed by the park service for the benefit of both the ecosystem and public enjoyment. There are no seasonal discounts, package deals, or loyalty programs associated with these types of sites.

However, it is crucial for all prospective campers to be aware of the mandatory requirements and associated fees:

• Backcountry Permit Fee: All overnight stays in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park backcountry, including at Campsite #39, require a permit. A standard per-person, per-night fee is typically charged for these permits. This fee is essential for supporting trail maintenance, campsite upkeep, ranger patrols, and overall park operations.
• Advance Reservations: While not a promotion, the ability to reserve a specific backcountry campsite like #39 in advance is a vital service provided by the NPS. This ensures you have a guaranteed spot and helps the park manage visitor impact, especially during peak hiking seasons.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on permit fees, the reservation process, and any specific regulations for Backcountry Campsite #39, it is imperative to visit the official Great Smoky Mountains National Park website or Recreation.gov. You can also contact the general park information line provided.

For detailed information about Backcountry Campsite #39, including backcountry permits, reservation procedures, current trail conditions, and specific regulations within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most authoritative source is the National Park Service directly.

• Address: Waynesville, NC 28785, USA (Note: This is the general location for the park and nearby town, not a physical office at the campsite itself).
• Phone: (865) 436-1297 (This is the general park information number for Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and you can inquire about backcountry camping through this line).
• Mobile Phone: +1 865-436-1297 (This is also a general park information number).

When contacting the park, clearly state that your inquiry is about "backcountry camping" and specifically "Backcountry Campsite #39" to ensure you are directed to the correct department or information. Backcountry permit reservations are primarily handled through the official National Park Service online system (Recreation.gov).

For us North Carolinians, Backcountry Campsite #39 presents a truly exceptional and highly suitable opportunity to immerse ourselves in the heart of our majestic Great Smoky Mountains. Its unique combination of spaciousness, seclusion, and prime access to wildlife makes it an ideal destination for local adventurers.

Firstly, its location on the North Carolina side of the park, near Waynesville and the renowned Cataloochee Valley, makes it particularly convenient for many residents across our state. The relatively manageable "uphill hike" to reach it ensures a certain level of solitude, allowing us to escape the more crowded areas and truly connect with the quiet beauty that's right in our backyard.

Secondly, the sheer size and openness of Campsite #39 are major draws, especially for groups. Knowing there's "lots of room for people to spread out" means easier planning for family reunions or group outings, fostering a comfortable and uncrowded atmosphere. This generosity of space, combined with essential features like multiple fire pits and reliable bear cables, makes it a practical and safe choice for a significant backcountry experience.

Finally, the unique wildlife viewing opportunities, from the "wild elk in the Cataloochee Valley" to the potential for "up close view of a mama black bear and her cubs (from a safe distance of course)," provide an unforgettable dimension to the trip. Add to that the "beautiful stream," "peace and quiet environment," and "beautiful starry night sky," and you have a recipe for a truly enriching outdoor adventure. For North Carolinians who cherish their mountains and seek an authentic, spacious, and wildlife-rich backcountry experience, Campsite #39 is not just a place to camp; it's a gateway to creating profound memories in one of the most treasured natural landscapes our state has to offer.