Jerry Campground

For North Carolinians who envision a truly secluded camping experience, where the gentle lapping of lake water replaces city sounds and access is an adventure in itself, Jerry Campground, officially known as Backcountry Campsite #87 (Jerry Hollow), offers a unique and compelling option. Located near Bryson City, NC, within the expansive Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this is not a drive-up, amenity-rich destination. Instead, it's a primitive backcountry site offering a rare opportunity for lakeside camping that is accessible only by boat or a challenging hike, promising an unparalleled sense of solitude and immersion in nature.

Bryson City stands as a welcoming gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains, a region renowned for its majestic peaks, verdant forests, and the expansive waters of Fontana Lake. Within this iconic national park, backcountry campsites like Jerry Hollow are designated spots for overnight stays, catering to those who embody the spirit of self-sufficiency and adhere to the fundamental principles of Leave No Trace. The very nature of this campground, accessible via alternative means than roads, underscores its commitment to providing an untouched wilderness experience, appealing to those who cherish disconnecting from the modern world and forging a deeper connection with the natural environment.

This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of Jerry Hollow (Backcountry Campsite #87), drawing upon the limited but insightful public information available. We will explore its unique location and accessibility methods, outline the minimal services likely offered, highlight the distinctive features that make it such a desirable choice for adventurous local North Carolinians, and detail how to access necessary information. It’s crucial for prospective campers to understand that a stay at Jerry Hollow means embracing a truly off-grid experience, necessitating thorough preparation and a genuine appreciation for the tranquility and challenges of primitive wilderness camping.

The essence of Jerry Hollow lies in its blend of remote accessibility and stunning natural beauty. It's a place where the journey itself becomes part of the adventure, and the reward is a tranquil lakeside retreat that few others will experience, making it a perfect secluded getaway for discerning North Carolina outdoor enthusiasts.

Jerry Campground, formally known as Backcountry Campsite #87 or Jerry Hollow, is located near Bryson City, NC 28713, USA. This places it directly on the shores of Fontana Lake, within the vast wilderness of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This specific location offers a unique camping experience, distinct from the park's more common high-elevation, trail-accessed backcountry sites.

The primary characteristic of Jerry Hollow's accessibility is its remote nature, accessible by two distinct methods:

• By Boat: This is a significant highlight. As a lakeside backcountry campsite, Jerry Hollow is accessible by boat. This means campers can paddle (kayak, canoe) or motor across Fontana Lake to reach the site. The closest boat ramps for launching are at Fontana Village Marina and Cable Cove. For those who enjoy water-based recreation and seek a unique arrival experience, boating to your campsite offers an unparalleled adventure. Fontana Village Marina is also noted as the closest outfitter for kayak rentals, providing a convenient option for those who don't own their own watercraft.
• By Hiking: For the land-based adventurer, Jerry Hollow can also be accessed by hiking in from the Lakeshore Trail. The Lakeshore Trail is an extensive and scenic path that follows the northern shore of Fontana Lake. This option offers a more traditional backpacking experience, allowing hikers to immerse themselves in the forest environment before reaching the tranquil lakeside camp.

The combination of boat-in and hike-in access makes Jerry Hollow particularly appealing. It ensures a highly secluded experience, as drive-up access is impossible. The site's location on the "North Shore area of the lake" further emphasizes its wild and scenic character. Bryson City serves as a convenient nearby town for supplies and services before embarking on the journey to the campsite, whether by water or trail. Given its location within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, campers can expect pristine natural surroundings, with the added beauty of being right on the water's edge of Fontana Lake.

As Backcountry Campsite #87 (Jerry Hollow) is a primitive, hike-in or boat-in site within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the services offered are deliberately minimal. The emphasis is entirely on self-sufficiency and adherence to "Leave No Trace" principles. Campers must be prepared to bring in all necessary supplies and pack out everything they generate, as no modern amenities are provided.

Based on the nature of backcountry campsites in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the following "services" are implicitly available or typical for such a site:

• Designated Campsite Area: The primary "service" is a designated, permitted space for overnight camping. This helps concentrate impact and minimizes damage to the wider wilderness. While specific details for Jerry Hollow aren't in the provided text, backcountry sites typically have a cleared, relatively flat area suitable for pitching tents.
• Access to Natural Water Source: Being located "right on the shores of Fontana Lake," a natural water source is readily available. However, this water is untreated and must be filtered, purified, or boiled before consumption. There are no spigots or potable water pumps.
• Fire Ring (Likely): While not explicitly stated for Jerry Hollow, most backcountry campsites in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park typically feature a designated fire ring. This allows for contained campfires (when regulations permit and fire danger is low), providing warmth, a place to cook, and ambiance. Campers should only use dead and downed wood collected from the ground within the park.
• Bear-Resistant Food Storage (Likely): Given its location within a national park known for its bear population, it is highly probable that Jerry Hollow, like other backcountry sites, would have "anti-bear food hanging rigs" or require the use of bear-resistant food canisters. This is a crucial safety measure to protect both campers and wildlife.

What is explicitly not offered or should not be expected at Jerry Hollow:

• No Potable (Treated) Water.
• No Developed Restrooms or Showers: Campers are expected to practice Leave No Trace principles for human waste disposal, burying it in a cathole at least 200 feet from water sources, trails, and campsites.
• No Picnic Tables or Other Furniture: Campers must bring all their own seating and cooking surfaces.
• No Electricity or Wi-Fi: The camp is completely off-grid, requiring campers to manage their own power needs for devices.
• No Trash Receptacles: All trash must be packed out by the camper, leaving absolutely no trace behind.
• No On-Site Staff: There are no park rangers or campground hosts stationed directly at this remote backcountry site.

The services at Jerry Hollow are limited to basic, essential provisions for safe and responsible primitive camping, appealing to those who are fully prepared for a self-sufficient outdoor experience.

Jerry Hollow (Backcountry Campsite #87) offers a distinct set of features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for North Carolinians seeking a unique and adventurous camping experience within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park:

• Lakeside Camping on Fontana Lake: This is arguably the most significant highlight. The rare opportunity to camp directly on the shores of Fontana Lake within a national park setting provides stunning water views, easy access for swimming, fishing, and paddling directly from your campsite. This contrasts sharply with the majority of backcountry sites that are located inland.
• Dual Accessibility (Boat-in or Hike-in): The option to reach the campsite either by boating across Fontana Lake or by hiking the scenic Lakeshore Trail offers flexibility and adds an adventurous element to the journey. This dual access also contributes to the site's remote and secluded feel, as it filters out casual visitors.
• Extreme Seclusion and Privacy: Due to its remote accessibility (no drive-up access), Jerry Hollow promises a high degree of solitude and privacy. This is a major draw for campers seeking to truly disconnect from urban life and immerse themselves in the quietude of nature, far from crowds.
• Wild and Scenic North Shore Area: The campsite is located in the "North Shore area of the lake," known for being a "wild and scenic spot." This guarantees a pristine and undeveloped natural environment, offering untouched beauty and a genuine wilderness experience.
• Authentic Backcountry Experience: For those who relish primitive camping, Jerry Hollow delivers. The absence of modern amenities necessitates self-reliance, fostering essential outdoor skills and a deeper appreciation for nature's simplicity.
• Gateway to Water Activities: Being on Fontana Lake, the campsite serves as an excellent base for various water-based activities such as kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and swimming. The proximity to Fontana Village Marina (for rentals) further enhances this feature.

These unique features collectively position Jerry Hollow as an ideal destination for adventurous North Carolinians who desire a deeply immersive, secluded, and water-centric wilderness camping experience within one of the state's most iconic natural landscapes.

As Jerry Hollow (Backcountry Campsite #87) is a designated primitive campsite within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a federal entity managed by the National Park Service (NPS), it does not offer "promotions or special offers" in the commercial sense, such as discounts, loyalty programs, or seasonal sales that a private campground might provide. The pricing for backcountry permits is standard and set by the NPS.

Any costs associated with staying at Jerry Hollow involve:

• Backcountry Permit Fee: The Great Smoky Mountains National Park requires permits for all backcountry overnight stays. There is a fee of $8 per person, per night, with a maximum of $40 per person per permit (for up to 8 days/7 nights). This fee is standard and not subject to typical promotional discounts.
• Parking Tag: As of March 1, 2023, a parking tag is required for all vehicles parking for longer than 15 minutes anywhere within Great Smoky Mountains National Park. These tags cost $5 daily, $15 weekly, or $40 annually. This is a necessary cost for accessing trailheads or boat ramps leading to Jerry Hollow.

While there are no specific promotions for Jerry Hollow, North Carolinians who possess certain federal passes may qualify for benefits applicable to other federal recreation sites. For example, America the Beautiful – The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass Series (including Annual, Senior, Access, Military Passes) generally provide discounts on entrance fees at some parks, but the backcountry permit fees in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are usually flat and apply per person or per group. It is essential to confirm the current permit requirements and fees directly with the Great Smoky Mountains National Park or through the official Recreation.gov website.

Therefore, for North Carolina locals, the "special offer" of Jerry Hollow is its inherent value as an incredibly secluded, unique lakeside primitive campsite within a world-renowned national park, accessed through a straightforward permit system. The value is in the unparalleled wilderness experience itself, not in monetary discounts.

As Jerry Hollow (Backcountry Campsite #87) is a remote, primitive campsite located within the vast expanse of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, it does not have its own direct phone number or dedicated contact office. All inquiries and permit reservations for backcountry camping in the park are centrally managed by the National Park Service.

Campsite Address (General Area):
Bryson City, NC 28713, USA (accessed via Fontana Lake or Lakeshore Trail)

For detailed information, permit requirements, current trail/lake conditions, water source updates, and to make reservations for Jerry Hollow, North Carolina residents should contact or utilize the official resources for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park:

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park General Information Line: (865) 436-1200
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park Backcountry Information Office: (865) 436-1297 (This is the most relevant contact for specific questions about backcountry campsites, permits, regulations, and conditions, especially for a site like Jerry Hollow with boat/hike-in access.)
• Official Online Reservation System: All backcountry permits for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are reserved through Recreation.gov. This is the primary and highly recommended method for securing your spot at Jerry Hollow.
• Park Headquarters Address (for official correspondence, not a direct camp contact):
  107 Park Headquarters Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA
• Visitor Centers (Oconaluftee Visitor Center near Cherokee/Bryson City): These centers can provide in-person assistance, maps, and up-to-date information upon arrival. The Oconaluftee Visitor Center is located at 1194 Newfound Gap Highway, Cherokee, NC 28719.

It is strongly advised for any North Carolina local planning a trip to Jerry Hollow to thoroughly research the park's backcountry and lake regulations, obtain the necessary permits and parking tags, and make reservations well in advance. Given its unique access and primitive nature, being fully prepared is paramount for a safe and successful wilderness experience.

For North Carolinians who dream of escaping the everyday and immersing themselves in a truly secluded wilderness experience, Jerry Hollow (Backcountry Campsite #87) on Fontana Lake near Bryson City offers an exceptionally suitable and rewarding adventure. This unique campsite is a prime destination for those seeking an intimate connection with nature, particularly for water enthusiasts and seasoned backpackers within our state.

Its primary suitability lies in its unparalleled lakeside location. The opportunity to camp directly on the tranquil shores of Fontana Lake within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a rare gem. For local paddlers, kayakers, canoeists, or those with small motorboats, this site is a dream, offering direct water access for fishing, swimming, and exploring the lake's vastness right from your tent. This unique boat-in access creates an immediate sense of adventure and profound separation from the bustling world.

Furthermore, for those who prefer to earn their solitude on foot, the hike-in option via the scenic Lakeshore Trail provides an equally rewarding challenge. This dual accessibility ensures that only those truly dedicated to a wilderness experience will reach Jerry Hollow, guaranteeing a higher degree of privacy and a more pristine environment. The wild and scenic "North Shore area" surrounding the campsite promises untouched natural beauty, diverse ecosystems, and the calming sounds of nature.

While Jerry Hollow demands self-sufficiency, with no modern amenities and the necessity of proper water purification and bear-resistant food storage, these very requirements contribute to the authenticity and immense satisfaction of the experience. It’s a place where you can truly unplug, appreciate the simplicity of outdoor living, and feel a deep connection to North Carolina's magnificent mountain and lake landscapes. For local adventurers craving a unique, private, and stunning lakeside backcountry retreat, Jerry Hollow is an outstanding choice that promises an unforgettable escape into the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains.