New Backcountry Reservation System, Fees Coming to Great Smoky Mountains

New backcountry reservation system, fees coming to Great Smoky Mountains

GATLINBURG, Tenn. (WATE) — Great Smoky Mountains National Park will switch to a new reservation system for backcountry camping and implement some new fees this week. Beginning April 30, the backcountry permit reservation system will move to Recreation.gov. A park release said that the new system will improve reliability and customer support for users. While [...]

Backcountry Camping fee change takes effect today at Great Smoky Mountains National Park

GATLINBURG, Tenn. – Beginning Thursday, April 30, Great Smoky Mountains National Park will transition its backcountry permit reservation system to Recreation.gov. This transition will improve reliability, security and customer support for backcountry users. Visitors with existing reservations do not need to do anything—the park will honor all permits issued before the switch. The $8 per‑person, per‑night backcountry camping fee will remain the s…