Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP) offers more than 800 miles of trails and some of the most stunning back country camping opportunities in the eastern U.S. These regulations protect the park’s delicate ecosystem, ensure visitor safety (especially from black bears), and manage overcrowding. Whether you’re a day hiker or multi-day backpacker, following these rules is essential, violations can result in fines up to $5,000 and/or six months in jail. Our guide summarizes key guidelines for a safe and enjoyable trip.

Permits and Reservations

Reservations and permits are required for all overnight back country stays to limit impact and ensure availability. Plan ahead, popular sites fill up quickly.

• How to Reserve: Apply online at recreation.gov up to 30 days in advance. Permits are non-transferable and must be printed or carried digitally.
• Fees: $8 per person per night, with a maximum of $40 per person for the entire reservation (e.g., for trips longer than 5 nights).
• Appalachian Trail Thru-Hikers: A special flat-fee permit costs $40 and is valid for up to 38 days (with an 8-day limit to cross the park). Stay in designated shelters when available.
• Changes: Contact the Back Country Office for modifications, online changes aren’t possible for existing permits.

Parking Requirements

Since March 1, 2023, the “Park It Forward” program requires parking tags for any vehicle parked longer than 15 minutes, including at back country trailheads. This funds trail maintenance and ranger presence. Tags are not required for drive-throughs or short stops.

• Fees: Daily: $5; Weekly: $15; Annual: $40. Prices are the same for all vehicles.
• How to Get One: Purchase online at recreation.gov (print at home for daily/weekly), via mail from smokieslife.org (annual), or in-person at visitor centers, kiosks, or local vendors. Display the physical tag on your dashboard, no digital versions accepted.
• Tips for Back Country Users: Arrive early at popular trailheads like Newfound Gap or Cades Cove, as parking is first-come, first-served. The tag doesn’t guarantee a spot and is separate from your back country permit.

Read: Everything You Need to Know About Parking Tags in GSMNP

Camping and Group Limits

Camp only at designated back country sites or shelters to minimize environmental damage. No off-trail or at-large camping is allowed.

• Maximum party size is 8 people (12 with a special permit for horse camps or larger groups, apply in advance).
• Limit stays to 3 consecutive nights at any campsite and 1 night at any shelter.
• No consecutive nights at campsite #113 or any shelter.
• Tents must be placed on existing tent pads where provided.
• No camping within 100 feet of water sources or historic structures.

Fire and Wood Regulations

Fires are permitted only in designated fire rings at back country sites, never on the ground or in undesignated areas to prevent wildfires.

• Use only dead and down wood collected within the park, or bring heat-treated, certified firewood (bundled and marked with a USDA or state seal).
• No collecting standing wood or cutting live trees/branches.
• Prohibited: Non-certified firewood from outside the park (to prevent invasive pests like emerald ash borer).
• Where to Buy Certified Firewood: Available at park concessioners (Cades Cove, Elkmont, Smokemont, seasonal) or local vendors.

Check for fire bans, especially during dry seasons.

Food Storage and Waste Management

Proper handling prevents wildlife habituation, particularly with the park’s 2,500+ black bears. Bear activity peaks May-August, with most encounters in early morning or late evening.

• Hang all food, trash, and scented items (e.g., toothpaste, deodorant) on provided bear cables at least 10 feet high and 4 feet from the trunk, mandatory at all sites.
• Bear canisters are optional but must still be hung on cables if used, no ground storage.
• Pack out all trash and food scraps, do not burn, bury, or leave in fire rings.
• Human waste: Use privies where available; otherwise, dig a 6-8 inch cathole at least 100 feet from water, trails, and camps. Pack out toilet paper.
• Gray water: Strain and scatter 100 feet from water sources.

Read: What to Do If You Encounter a Black Bear

Pets and Wildlife

• Pets are prohibited in the back country (including trails and campsites) to protect wildlife and prevent conflicts. Service animals are allowed with documentation (Emotional support animals are not service animals and are considered pets in GSMNP).
• Do not approach, feed, or disturb wildlife, maintain at least 50 yards from bears and elk, 25 yards from other animals.
• No hunting.
• No fishing without a license (state rules apply).
• No collecting plants/animals.

Read: Paws in the Park Pet Policies

Prohibited Activities

• No firearms discharge (concealed carry allowed with permit, but no hunting).
• No bicycles, motorized vehicles, or drones on trails.
• No defacing trees, rocks, or structures (e.g., carving initials).
• No alcohol at shelters or in ways that disturb others.
• No loud noises or generators, quiet hours 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM
• No building new fire rings or trenches around tents.

Before You Go: Checklist and Resources

• Pack Essentials: Bear spray, first-aid kit, map, compass/GPS, water filter, and weather-appropriate gear.
• Safety Tip: Share your itinerary with someone and check trail conditions.
• Reserve your permit, buy a parking tag, and review alerts.

By following these rules, you help preserve the Smokies for future generations. Happy trails!