Backcountry Campsite #50, Cherokee, NC

For North Carolina residents eager to delve into the rewarding experience of backcountry camping, Backcountry Campsite #50 offers an ideal starting point. Located along the scenic Chasteen Creek Trail within the magnificent Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Cherokee, NC, this site provides a genuine wilderness immersion without the extreme challenges sometimes associated with more remote backcountry locations. It’s a perfect opportunity for those considering their very first backpacking trip, offering a manageable hike in and essential amenities that support a comfortable, albeit rustic, overnight stay. Imagine the thrill of carrying everything you need on your back, setting up camp by a peaceful creek, and falling asleep under a canopy of stars, all within the breathtaking confines of one of North Carolina's most cherished natural treasures.

Backcountry Campsite #50 is consistently noted for its accessibility and suitability for those new to primitive camping. Its location near the Bradley Fork, known for excellent trout fishing, adds another layer of appeal for anglers. For locals across North Carolina, this means a convenient and less intimidating entry point into the world of wilderness adventure, allowing you to build confidence and skills in a relatively supportive environment. It’s a chance to truly disconnect from the digital world, embrace self-sufficiency, and foster a deeper connection with the unparalleled natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. This site invites you to experience the peace and quiet of the backcountry, promising memorable moments by the campfire and invigorating days exploring the surrounding trails, making it a highly suitable choice for your next North Carolina outdoor escapade.

Backcountry Campsite #50 is situated along the Chasteen Creek Trail, in the vicinity of Cherokee, NC 28719, USA. This places the campsite deep within the boundaries of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on the North Carolina side. As a designated backcountry site, it is not accessible by vehicle directly. Instead, campers must hike in from an established trailhead. The trail typically begins from the Smokemont Campground area, a major frontcountry campground and visitor access point within the park, located near Cherokee. The specific location along a "small creek" as noted in reviews highlights its serene and natural setting, providing access to essential water sources (which must be treated).

Accessibility to Backcountry Campsite #50 is considered relatively easy, making it particularly suitable for new backpackers. The hike in starts from the Smokemont Campground, which is readily accessible for North Carolina residents via well-maintained state highways leading into Cherokee. From the Smokemont area, visitors would begin their trek on established trails, eventually connecting to Chasteen Creek Trail. Reviewers specifically mention that "The hike in is easy," suggesting a manageable distance and elevation gain for those carrying backpacking gear. This ease of access by trail, combined with the convenience of reaching the trailhead by car from various parts of North Carolina, makes this campsite an attractive option for locals looking to experience the wilderness without an overly strenuous journey. Its proximity to the Bradley Fork, a renowned trout fishing spot, further enhances its accessibility for a specific outdoor pursuit. This blend of remote wilderness feel with an approachable hike-in makes it a unique and valuable resource for North Carolinians eager to explore the backcountry of the Great Smoky Mountains.

As a designated backcountry campsite within a national park, Backcountry Campsite #50 offers essential, primitive services designed to support responsible wilderness camping. Campers are expected to be self-sufficient and adhere to Leave No Trace principles.

Designated Flat Spots for Tents: Customer reviews confirm the presence of "Flat spots" for tent setup, which is a crucial amenity for comfortable primitive camping, especially after a hike.
Bear Cables/Bear-Resistant Food Storage: The campsite is equipped with "bear cables" or "4 backpack pulley storage" systems. These are critical for safely hanging food and scented items away from bears and other wildlife, ensuring both human safety and animal welfare.
Fire Rings: Reviews mention "a couple of fire rings," indicating designated areas for campfires, allowing campers to have a traditional campfire experience (always check current fire restrictions and regulations).
Water Source: The site is located "right alongside a small creek," providing convenient access to water. It is imperative that all water collected from natural sources be filtered, purified, or boiled before consumption.
Multiple Areas: The presence of "3 areas" for camping suggests a spread-out layout that allows for some privacy between groups, enhancing the wilderness experience.
No Developed Restrooms: As is standard for backcountry sites, there are no flush toilets or established restrooms. Campers must practice Leave No Trace human waste disposal (e.g., catholes at least 200 feet from water, trails, and camp).
No Potable Water: Water from the creek must be treated before drinking.
No Trash Service: All trash and waste must be packed out by the camper.

Backcountry Campsite #50 stands out for several key features and highlights, particularly for those looking to engage with the wilderness.

Ideal for First-Time Backpackers: A major highlight is its suitability for those "trying out their first backpacking trip!" The easy hike in and basic amenities make it a less intimidating entry point into backcountry camping.
Proximity to Bradley Fork for Trout Fishing: The site provides "great access to the Bradley Fork which is great for Trout fishing." This is a significant draw for anglers seeking a productive and scenic fishing experience.
Creekside Location: Being "right alongside a small creek" offers the soothing sounds of flowing water, a picturesque setting, and convenient access to a water source.
Essential Backcountry Amenities: The presence of flat spots for tents, bear cables, and fire rings ensures that the basic necessities for a safe and comfortable primitive camping experience are met.
Authentic Wilderness Immersion: Despite its relatively easy access, the campsite offers a genuine backcountry feel, allowing campers to disconnect and experience the solitude and natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Multiple Camping Areas: Having "3 areas" provides flexibility for groups and helps distribute campers, contributing to a more secluded feel.

As a designated backcountry campsite within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Backcountry Campsite #50 does not offer commercial "promotions or special offers" in the traditional sense. Instead, access to the campsite requires a permit, which usually involves a per-person, per-night fee. These fees contribute to the maintenance and management of the park's backcountry system, ensuring these unique wilderness experiences remain available.

Permits for backcountry camping in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park must be obtained in advance through the park's official online reservation system. It is crucial for North Carolina residents planning a trip to Camp #50 to understand that securing this permit is mandatory and should be done well before their intended visit, especially during peak hiking seasons when sites can fill quickly. While there are no promotional discounts, holders of certain national park passes (like the America the Beautiful Annual Pass) may receive benefits related to park entrance fees, though these generally do not apply to backcountry camping permit fees themselves. The "value" of this site comes from the unique and managed wilderness experience it provides, facilitated by the permit system.

To plan your backcountry adventure to Campsite #50 and obtain the necessary permit, here is the essential contact information for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park's backcountry system:

Address: The physical location of Backcountry Campsite #50 is on Chasteen Creek Trail, Cherokee, NC 28719, USA. However, reservations and permits are not obtained at this physical trailside location.

Phone: For general inquiries and trip planning assistance regarding backcountry camping in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Backcountry Information Office is the primary contact. The general phone number for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is (865) 436-1200. For specific backcountry questions and permits, the Backcountry Information Office can typically be reached at (865) 436-1297. It is advisable to call during their operating hours (generally 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Eastern Time, daily).

Reservations: Reservations for backcountry campsites like Camp #50 are primarily made online through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park's official backcountry permit website. Visiting the official NPS website for the park is the best source for current information on how to obtain permits, check site availability, and understand all backcountry rules and regulations.

In conclusion, Backcountry Campsite #50 on the Chasteen Creek Trail near Cherokee, NC, is an outstanding choice for North Carolina locals, particularly those who are new to backpacking or seeking a relatively accessible wilderness experience. Its designation within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park provides a managed yet authentic primitive camping opportunity, making it a valuable resource for residents across the state. The "easy hike in" makes it less daunting for first-timers, while the presence of essential amenities like flat tent spots, bear cables, and fire rings ensures a safer and more comfortable stay than completely undeveloped wilderness.

For North Carolinians, this campsite offers a convenient gateway to the immense natural beauty and recreational opportunities of the Smokies, including excellent trout fishing in the nearby Bradley Fork. It’s a chance to truly disconnect from the demands of daily life, immerse oneself in the soothing sounds of the creek, and experience the profound peace of the backcountry. Whether you're looking to build your backpacking skills, enjoy some solitude, or simply spend a night under a blanket of stars in a truly wild setting, Backcountry Campsite #50 provides an ideal and rewarding adventure right in your home state. It's a testament to the diverse outdoor experiences available within North Carolina's iconic mountain ranges.