Backcountry Campsite #70

For local adventurers in the Robbinsville, North Carolina area seeking a truly immersive "camping near me" experience, Backcountry Campsite #70 in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers a unique opportunity to delve deep into the wilderness. Located near Robbinsville, NC 28771, USA, this campsite is not your typical drive-up campground. It is a backcountry site accessible via challenging hiking trails or by traversing Fontana Lake, promising a secluded and authentic wilderness encounter for experienced outdoor enthusiasts.

The address provided is a general location within the vicinity of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Backcountry campsites within the park do not have precise street addresses in the traditional sense. Access to Backcountry Campsite #70 is primarily through two demanding trails: Forney Creek Trail and Jonas Creek Trail. These trails offer different approaches to the campsite, each with its own level of difficulty and scenic rewards. Local hikers familiar with the park may have experience with these routes.

Embrace the "Jurassic Park" Environment

One reviewer vividly describes this area of the Smokies as "Jurassic Park" due to its "dense and varied flora and the amazing variety of beasts, both large and small." This evocative description paints a picture of a rich and thriving ecosystem, teeming with diverse plant life and wildlife. Local nature enthusiasts who appreciate biodiversity and a truly wild environment will find this aspect particularly appealing. Imagine being surrounded by lush, dense vegetation and the sounds of a vibrant natural world.

The two creeks that converge near Campsite #70 provide an "unlimited water" supply for drinking and cooking. This is a significant advantage for backcountry camping, reducing the need to carry large quantities of water. One experienced camper notes that they have "never needed to filter the water in over half a century of wilderness survival" in similar water sources within the Smokies. However, it is crucial for all campers to make their own informed decisions about water purification based on current park recommendations and their personal comfort levels. While historically some have not filtered, guidelines can change, and individual sensitivities vary.

Features for a Backcountry Experience

Backcountry Campsite #70 is described as "enormous with lots of perfect tent sites and campfire rings." This suggests ample space for multiple groups or individuals to set up camp comfortably. The presence of multiple campfire rings indicates designated areas for building fires, essential for cooking and warmth in a backcountry setting. The "nice open flat space" mentioned by another reviewer further confirms the suitability of the terrain for pitching tents.

A crucial feature for safety in this area is the presence of "several bear cables to hang food from." The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is known for its black bear population, and proper food storage is mandatory to prevent encounters and protect both humans and wildlife. Bear cables allow campers to suspend their food and scented items high off the ground and away from tree trunks, making them inaccessible to bears. Local users who are familiar with bear safety protocols will appreciate this essential amenity.

Access and Egress: A Challenging Undertaking

It is imperative for local users considering Backcountry Campsite #70 to understand the demanding nature of accessing and leaving the site. One reviewer emphasizes that the hike out to the parking lot at Clingman's Dome is "a long and brutal climb" involving "several treacherous creek crossings." This route is clearly not for novice hikers or those unprepared for strenuous physical exertion and potentially hazardous terrain. Proper gear, navigation skills, and physical fitness are essential for this option.

Alternatively, the reviewer suggests hiking down to Fontana Lake. This descent would then require traversing the lake, potentially via canoe (if you can arrange to bring one or rent one nearby) or even swimming, with the swim being "under a mile in most cases." This option presents its own set of challenges and requires careful planning, consideration of water conditions, and appropriate equipment. Swimming in a large mountain lake should not be undertaken lightly and requires strong swimming skills and awareness of potential hazards like cold water and boat traffic.

For those with the means, the reviewer mentions that "any one willing to haul horses to the Park, you could simply ride to this campsite on the back of your trusty steed." This highlights the historical accessibility of some backcountry areas via horseback riding, although it is acknowledged that this is not a practical option for many.

A Word of Caution: Bear Safety is Paramount

The reviewer issues a stark warning regarding wildlife encounters: "Keep in mind, grown men have been killed and eaten by bears in this area, (in recent years ) so keep a close eye on the kids. Like within 10 feet of you close. And if you hike solo, be prepared to encounter these massive predators at any moment." This serious caution underscores the importance of being aware of and prepared for potential bear encounters in this backcountry region. Following all park regulations regarding food storage, hiking in groups when possible, making noise while hiking, and knowing how to react to a bear encounter are crucial for safety.

The dense vegetation, which contributes to the "Jurassic Park" feel, also means that "a 600 pound monster could hide within a couple of feet from you and you might never know it." This reinforces the need for vigilance and awareness of your surroundings at all times while in this backcountry area.

Promotional Information and Local Appeal

As a backcountry campsite within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Robbinsville, NC, Backcountry Campsite #70 primarily appeals to local residents who are experienced backpackers and wilderness enthusiasts seeking a challenging and immersive natural experience. It is not a typical campground with amenities for casual campers. The "promotion" here is the opportunity to experience the raw beauty and wildness of a less-traveled area of the Smokies.

The key appeals for local users might include:

• Seclusion and Wilderness Immersion: Far from developed campgrounds, this site offers a true backcountry experience.
• Abundant Natural Resources: The presence of two creeks provides ample water.
• Challenging Access Options: The demanding trails offer a rewarding experience for experienced hikers.
• Potential for Wildlife Encounters: For those respectful of wildlife and aware of safety precautions, the diverse fauna can be a unique aspect of the trip.
• Access to Fontana Lake: The option to hike to and traverse Fontana Lake adds a unique dimension to a visit.

There are no specific promotional offers for backcountry campsites within the National Park. Camping permits are required, and fees may apply. Local users should consult the Great Smoky Mountains National Park website for information on permits, regulations, trail conditions, and bear safety guidelines before planning a trip to Backcountry Campsite #70.

Summary and Recommendations for Local Wilderness Enthusiasts

Backcountry Campsite #70 near Robbinsville, NC, offers a truly wild and challenging "camping near me" experience for local residents who are experienced in backcountry camping and comfortable with the inherent risks of wilderness travel, including potential encounters with bears. The campsite itself is spacious with ample tent sites and campfire rings, and the presence of two creeks provides abundant water. However, access via the Forney Creek and Jonas Creek Trails is strenuous, and the hike out to Clingman's Dome is described as long and brutal with treacherous creek crossings. The alternative of hiking to and traversing Fontana Lake also presents significant challenges. The area is rich in biodiversity, earning the moniker "Jurassic Park," but also requires extreme caution regarding wildlife, particularly bears. Local users considering a trip to Backcountry Campsite #70 must be well-prepared, physically fit, knowledgeable about backcountry safety and regulations, and obtain the necessary permits from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This is an adventure for seasoned wilderness enthusiasts seeking a deep immersion into the wild heart of the Smokies.

Backcountry Campsite #70

Robbinsville, NC 28771, USA