Campsite 21 (Mile 53) (Backpacker)

Great Smoky Mountains National Park · Tennessee

Campsite 21 (Mile 53) (Backpacker) is one of the permitted entry points in Great Smoky Mountains National Park on recreation.gov. Its current demand score is 46/100. Permit Ranger watches this pass around the clock and alerts you the moment a sold-out date opens up.

When permits are released

First-come-first-served with the shortest window of any park here: each entry date's campsite/shelter quota opens just 1 month ahead at 7:00 AM Pacific (rolling window, no lottery, no later drop). Permits are itinerary-based - every night books a specific numbered campsite or AT shelter.

Demand

Moderate demand (46/100)

Dogs

Dogs are not allowed in this area.

Popular trails nearby

Frequently asked questions

When do Campsite 21 (Mile 53) (Backpacker) permits open?

First-come-first-served with the shortest window of any park here: each entry date's campsite/shelter quota opens just 1 month ahead at 7:00 AM Pacific (rolling window, no lottery, no later drop). Permits are itinerary-based - every night books a specific numbered campsite or AT shelter. Check the recreation.gov page for the exact on-sale details for your dates.

What if my dates are sold out?

Cancellations happen all season as plans change. Add Campsite 21 (Mile 53) (Backpacker) to a trip window on Permit Ranger and you get an instant alert the moment a date you need opens back up.

How competitive is Campsite 21 (Mile 53) (Backpacker)?

The live demand score is 46/100. Odds of catching an opening are moderate - popular dates sell out.

Does Permit Ranger book the permit for me?

No. Permit Ranger never books on your behalf. When a watched date opens, you get an alert with a direct link so you can book it yourself on recreation.gov.

Nearby passes

Book on recreation.gov · All Great Smoky Mountains National Park passes · Great Smoky Mountains National Park permit guide