Free and hike-in only, Shuckstack Fire Tower sits roughly 3.5 miles from the trailhead along the Appalachian Trail as it heads north into the Great Smoky Mountains. The tower itself dates to 1934, built by the Public Works Administration, and the surrounding area functions as dispersed camping with no formal facilities. Campfires and pets are permitted. Campers planning to climb the tower should note that boards are reported to be loosening and rotting, so use caution. Those exploring dog-friendly campgrounds near Nantahala National Forest will find this a low-infrastructure option suited to self-sufficient hikers. Pack out everything you bring in.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsShuckstack fire tower is located in North Carolina near Hayesville
Coordinates
35.12019641 N
83.80799927 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage
VerizonLTESome Coverage- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Hike-InBackcountry 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
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Shuckstack fire tower needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 57 min from Cleveland, TN
- 2 hrs 3 min from Gainesville, GA
- 2 hrs 50 min from Knoxville, TN
