GSMNP Changing Reservation System For Backcountry Camping

If you like to camp in the backcountry areas of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, today will make a change in how you reserve a campsite. Starting today, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park will transition its backcountry permit reservation system to Recreation.gov. Park officials say this transition will improve reliability, security and customer support for backcountry users. The $8 per person, per night backcountry camping fee will remain the same and those with existing reservations do not need to do anything, as the park says they will honor all permits issued before this switch.

While the camping fee is not changing, there is now a new $6 non refundable fee per permit. The cost for an Appalachian Trail thru hiker pass is increasing from $40 to $44.50. The maximum permit fee will no longer be capped at $40.

There are more than 100 campsites and shelters throughout the backcountry of the national park. The park’s Backcountry Office manages those sites and provides personalized assistance to thousands of hikers each year. Staff are available daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., both in person and by phone, to answer questions, review itineraries, offer safety guidance and notify hikers of trail closures or severe weather conditions. These permit fees support this staff and the maintenance costs of the backcountry campsites. Learn more about backcountry camping in the Smokies: https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/backcountry-camping.htm