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Map showing campground location near Otto, North Carolina
Camper submitted image from Bearpen Gap Backcountry SiteView 18 Photos
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Bearpen Gap Backcountry Site

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SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Nantahala National Forest manages Bearpen Gap Backcountry Site, a free, hike-in clearing situated where the road meets the Appalachian Trail, close to the Albert Mountain fire tower. The site has an established fire pit and enough space for one or two tents. Campers with dogs can bring them along. The lower elevation provides more wind protection than the exposed sites above, though those higher spots have more open sightlines toward the surrounding ridgeline. AT Backcountry Site near Bearpen Gap and Mooney to Bearpen Gap Backcountry Campground are nearby alternatives worth considering for groups or campers wanting different configurations. This site works best for solo hikers or small parties doing AT-adjacent trips.

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Map & DirectionsBearpen Gap Backcountry Site is located in North Carolina near Otto

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Coordinates

35.04606148 N
83.47120355 W

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Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
    Last on 3/29/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
    Last on 3/29/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites

Features

For Campers

  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

FREE established camping

Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.

PERMIT might be REQUIRED

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Reviews2 Camper Reviews - Bearpen Gap Backcountry Site

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3.5

out of 5

2 Reviews

Reviewed Dec. 25, 2020

AT Backpacking Site

This is a spacious backcountry clearing with an established fire pit that is perfect for a group with 1 or 2 tents. It is located very near where the road bumps into the AT and is a great spot to camp near the fire tower. If you can get to one of the sites up on top those have a better view option but this one is nice if it's cold and you want to be more protected from bad weather. The area, in general, is gorgeous and has beautiful hiking year-round. Check out my video below to get a better view of this site.

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Bearpen Gap Backcountry Site by Asher K., December 25, 2020
  • Review photo of Bearpen Gap Backcountry Site by Asher K., December 25, 2020
  • Review photo of Bearpen Gap Backcountry Site by Asher K., December 25, 2020
  • (10) View All
Reviewed Dec. 13, 2020

Wooded private site

This is a beautiful little secluded site along the AT right near Albert Mountain. It is a well-established site that has a built-up fire-pit and plenty of level ground for tents. The trees will also work nicely for a hammock set up. Check out my video for more discussion and a closer look at some of the features of this site.

  • Review photo of Bearpen Gap Backcountry Site by Asher K., December 13, 2020
  • Review photo of Bearpen Gap Backcountry Site by Asher K., December 13, 2020
  • Review photo of Bearpen Gap Backcountry Site by Asher K., December 13, 2020
  • (10) View All
Showing results 1-2 of 2 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What information is needed to generate FAQ questions for Unknown Campground?

To generate FAQ questions for Bearpen Gap Backcountry Site, we need details about its location, type of camping available, nearby attractions, capacity and size, accessibility, amenities, reservation requirements, seasonal considerations, and special features. The site is located along the Appalachian Trail near Albert Mountain with a fire tower nearby. It's a secluded backcountry site with level ground for tents, hammock options, and an established fire pit. The clearing is spacious enough for 1-2 tents, making it suitable for small groups. Additional helpful information would include permit requirements, water sources, wildlife concerns, and proximity to trailheads or parking areas.

What is the elevation of Bearpen Gap Backcountry Site?

Bearpen Gap Backcountry Site is located at 4743 feet.

Are fires allowed at Bearpen Gap Backcountry Site?

Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Bearpen Gap Backcountry Site, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

Is there cell phone reception at Bearpen Gap Backcountry Site?

According to campers on TheDyrt.com, there is some coverage for AT&T, no coverage for T-Mobile, and some coverage for Verizon.

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