The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App
Map showing campground location near Maggie Valley, North Carolina
Camper submitted image from Site 40 — Great Smoky Mountains National ParkView 9 Photos
NatureMap showing campground location near Maggie Valley, North Carolina

Site 40 — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

2 ReviewsAdd Review

Great Smoky Mountains National Park manages Site 40, a backcountry campground requiring an eleven-mile drive from main roads followed by a 1.5-mile hike. The rocky trail crosses three footbridges with minimal elevation gain, passing historic structures including an explorable house and spring house built before the area became parkland.

The site accommodates four to five tents and includes two cable systems for hanging food bags. A stream runs adjacent to the camping area, providing constant water sounds throughout the night. Dense rhododendron creates private tent spaces within the site. Campers must filter water from natural sources and pack out all waste, as bear activity remains high in the area with elk herds also present. The $4 fee requires advance reservations through the National Park Service.

Suggest an Edit

RV Road Trip Guides

Atlantic Coast Road Trip

Atlantic Coast Highway Road Trip

Atlantic Coast Road Trip Segment: Wilmington, NC to Savannah

Wilmington to Savannah: 3 Day Road Trip

Build Your Trip

Plan a TripAdd

Location

Public Campground

Site 40 — Great Smoky Mountains National Park is located in North Carolina

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

35.60126169 N
83.13170997 W

Open in Google Maps

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites

Features

For Campers

  • Reservable
  • Fires

Contact

General Info

Reservations

Drive Time

Reviews

Add Review

5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

50%
0%
0%
50%
0%

3.5

out of 5

2 Reviews

Brent S.
Reviewed Oct. 6, 2022

Love this site!

This is one of my favorite backcountry sites in the Smokies. Fairly easy hike to get there also. But the site itself is beautiful. Rushing stream right next to it, and private tent areas completely covered by rhododendron!

Myron C.The Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Oct. 1, 2021

Backcountry Camping near Bears

To get to these backcountry sites, you have to drive over eleven miles from a main road and then hike one and a half miles. The hike is easy with very little gain in elevation. However, it is rocky, and you have to cross three footbridges. Obviously, this is specifically a hike-in area. Site 40 has room for four or five tents, and it has at least two cable systems for hanging food bags. Considering there was aggressive bear activity in site 41, it’s a good thing. When I was there, I saw what I believe to be at least two large piles of bear scat. 

One of the best things about site 40 is that you can hear water from the stream all night long. Another interesting thing about site 40 is the trail itself. It passes by a house and a spring house that were built before the land was turned into a national park. You can actually go inside the house and explore its rooms. 

Bears may not be the only wildlife you have to worry about. There are also herds of large elk, which can also be aggressive. Unless you have a water filter, you will need to pack in water. Also make sure to pack EVERYTHING out. Garbage is the main reason the bears are aggressive.

Site40
Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Site 40 — Great Smoky Mountains National Park by Myron C., October 1, 2021
  • Review photo of Site 40 — Great Smoky Mountains National Park by Myron C., October 1, 2021
  • Review photo of Site 40 — Great Smoky Mountains National Park by Myron C., October 1, 2021
  • (14) View All
Showing results 1-2 of 2 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Site 40?

To reach Site 40, you'll need to drive approximately eleven miles from the main road, then hike about one and a half miles on a trail. The hike is relatively easy with minimal elevation gain, though the trail is rocky in places. You'll cross three footbridges along the way. This site is only accessible by foot, so all camping gear must be carried in.

What are the features of Site 40?

Site 40 features private tent areas completely sheltered by rhododendron, creating natural, secluded camping spots. A rushing stream runs adjacent to the site, providing both beautiful scenery and the soothing sounds of flowing water. The natural setting is pristine and offers an authentic wilderness experience.

What type of campground is Site 40 in Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

Site 40 is a backcountry camping site in Great Smoky Mountains National Park that requires hiking to access. It's not a developed campground with vehicle access but rather a designated wilderness camping area. The site offers a rustic, immersive outdoor experience surrounded by natural beauty, making it ideal for backpackers seeking solitude and a connection with nature.

Is Site 40 suitable for RVs or trailers?

No, Site 40 is not suitable for RVs or trailers. It's exclusively a backcountry site that requires a 1.5-mile hike to access. Only tent camping is possible here, and all gear must be carried in on foot.

What amenities are available at Site 40?

Site 40 is a primitive backcountry site with no developed amenities. There is no potable water (water from the stream should be filtered or treated), no electrical hookups, no bathroom facilities, and no trash service. Campers must be self-sufficient, practice Leave No Trace principles, and pack out all waste.

What's the best time of year to visit Site 40?

Spring through fall are generally the best times to visit Site 40. Spring offers blooming rhododendrons, while summer provides lush greenery. Fall brings beautiful foliage colors. Weather in the Smokies can be unpredictable, so check forecasts before your trip. Winter camping is possible but requires experience with cold-weather gear and conditions.

Do I need a permit to camp at Site 40?

Yes, you need a backcountry permit to camp at Site 40. As with all backcountry sites in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, advance reservations are required. Permits can be obtained through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park reservation system. Be sure to secure your permit before heading to the site.

Is Site 40 good for beginners or families?

Site 40 could work for beginners with some hiking experience, as the trail is described as relatively easy with minimal elevation gain. However, the rocky terrain and stream crossings might challenge very young children or those unfamiliar with backcountry camping. The 1.5-mile hike with gear requires basic fitness and proper packing skills.

Is there cell phone service at Site 40?

Cell service is typically very limited to non-existent at backcountry sites in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, including Site 40. Plan accordingly by informing someone of your itinerary before your trip and bringing alternative navigation tools. Consider a satellite communication device if emergency contact capability is important.

What should I bring to camp at Site 40?

Pack all essential backpacking gear: tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, water filter/treatment, cooking equipment, food, appropriate clothing layers, rain gear, first aid kit, map, compass/GPS, and headlamp. Bring enough food for your entire stay plus extra. All trash must be packed out. A bear-resistant food container is highly recommended as this is bear country.

Keep Exploring