Are you an obsessed hiker and have the AT at the top of your bucket list? I can help you find out the best places to camp on the Appalachian Trail.

The Appalachian Trail is managed by more than 75 different agencies and has areas that are designated for various purposes, including reservations, federally-designated wilderness, hunting game lands, farmlands, multi-purpose forests, and watersheds. Not all these places can be camped at.

The Appalachian Trail offers backcountry camping at 125 designated sites. You can also camp alongside the 260 shelters along the trail. These campsites are located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Triple Crown area, and many areas in West Virginia and Pennsylvania.

In this guide, we will help you understand what designated, and dispersed campsites are in the 14 states that have the Appalachian Trail running through them and the top campsites on and near the trail.

As a lifelong hiker myself, I have traversed the Appalachian Trail dozens of times and have thru-hiked the entire trail twice, which has given me a lot of knowledge about some of the best campsites in the region.

Places to Find Appalachian Campsites

The Appalachian Trail is the longest hiking trail in the world that meanders across 14 states, beginning at Springer Mountain in Georgia and making its way to Mount Katahdin in Maine. The Harpers Ferry in West Virginia is considered to be the midpoint of the trail, and it has the Appalachian Trail Conservatory located nearby.

The trail is about 2,190 miles long and passes through eight national forests and several state parks, which means there are unlimited opportunities for hikers to explore, watch the wildlife, make camp, or picnic with families. There are also certain areas on the trail that offer biking, horse riding, rock climbing, and even cross-country skiing.

With the diverse range of campsites, the AT offers all sorts of outdoor activities for everyone.

Designated Campsites

There are hundreds of designated campsites along the AT. These campsites are located in a flat area where hikers can pitch their camps. In some areas where there is steep terrain or thin soil, wooden platforms are also provided.

Typically, these campsites are located along natural water sources like a river, creek, or spring. However, they may not have privileges necessarily, so you will need to consult the AT Conservatory to find out how to properly dispose of your waste.

Designated campsites are typically available on a first-come, first-served basis in most areas, except the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which requires permits and reservations for all overnight stays in the backcountry.

Dispersed Campsites

These are areas where campers have the freedom to select where they will pitch their camps. Dispersed camping is allowed at some but not all areas of the Appalachian Trail. You may have to spend some time looking for a low-impact and comfortable site, but if you want to be away from the crowd and enjoy some peace and quiet with nature, this is a great option.

You can find a lot of dispersed camping opportunities in Tennessee, Virginia, North Carolina, and Georgia on the lands governed by the US Forest Service. Some places do not allow dispersed camping, so it is important to find out the rules and regulations before you pitch your campsite here.

States Through Which the Appalachian Trail Runs

The Appalachian Trail runs through 14 eastern states of the United States. If you want to camp in the state that hosts the largest portion of the trail, then Virginia is where over a quarter of the trail is. If you are looking for greater heights, then you should head to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which has the Clingmans Dome situated at 6,643 feet above sea level.

Let’s take a look at the 14 states that offer camping options, as stated by the Appalachian Trail Conservatory.

Georgia

If you are a thru-hiker, then the place to start the adventure of a lifetime is at Georgia's Springer Mountain. These mountains are very tall and rugged and have the majestic Blood Mountain, which is located at 4,461 feet above sea level. The lowest mountains are at 2,500 feet which is higher than any peak in Massachusetts or Virginia.

Almost half the trail in Georgia meanders through the federally-designated wilderness.

In March and early April, the campsites are filled with thru-hikers and students on spring break. However, since the trail is at an elevation, the spring months here are frigid and record snowfall comparable to mountains in the north. Campers can get snow from November through April, and cold snaps can make the temperature drop to single digits.

North Carolina

North Carolina has 95.7 miles of the AT as well as shares the trail for an additional 224.7 miles at its border with North Carolina.

This portion of the Appalachian Trail has the highest summits, including the Clingsmans Domes and the narrow and deep gorge of the Nantahala River, which has areas where the sunlight reaches the ground only when the sun is at its peak.

This area offers the highest mountain peaks for hikers to climb. You will also need an advanced permit to camp at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and might have to reserve a shelter as well, depending on how long you plan to stay.

All campers are required to camp only at designated sites.

Tennessee

There are 94 miles of the Appalachian Trail in the state of Tennessee, but the state also shares the trail for an additional 160 miles with North Carolina.

This stretch of the trail is filled with beautiful sun-dappled forest, bald mountains, and high elevations. Hikers can make their way along the trail to over 6000 feet above sea level.

Campers will need a permit to stay at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and will require a reservation if they need to stay at a shelter as well. Hikers cannot set up camp away from the designated site.

Virginia

Virginia has over one-fourth of the trail's entire length, which traverses farmlands and forests.

About 104 miles of the trail run across the world-famous Shenandoah National Park, which offers an elevation of no more than 500 to 1000 feet. Hence, this is an excellent place for beginner backpackers and campers to stay.

However, if you want to camp in the park, you will need to get backcountry permits.

West Virginia

Although the AT trail does not run for long in West Virginia, the state has the distinction of hosting the Appalachian Trail Conservatory, which is one of the hottest spots for hikers to stop at.

The trail passes through the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, which is also the designated midpoint for the trail.

There are no camping spots in Harpers Ferry or its national park. However, there are some campgrounds which you can access for a fee in nearby areas. Plus, hikers can take their pick of motels, hostels, and B&B to stay at.

Maryland

The Appalachian Trail in Maryland offers some of the most gorgeous natural views and gentle terrains and passes through many historical sites. With a stretch of just 41 miles, the trail offers opportunities for day hikes. Since the entire trail in the state can be hiked in three to five days and offers relatively flat terrain, it is a good place for beginner campers to find out whether they are ready to tackle more rugged terrains.

The best camping times are from mid-April to mid-May or late September to early November. You can camp only at designated overnight campsites.

Pennsylvania

The Pennsylvanian stretch of the Appalachian Trail is famous for its rocky terrain on the Susquehanna River, as well as the smooth terrain of the Cumberland Valley. The Pennsylvanian AT is a popular trek for hunters since it has game territory. All hunters and non-hunters are required to wear fluorescent gear during hunting season in the game lands.

The state allows thru-hikers to camp on Pennsylvania Game Commission lands. The hikers can camp within 200 feet of the trail and at least 500 feet from an open water source.

Camping regulations vary across the state, so make sure you are properly informed before you tackle the PA Appalachian Trail.

New Jersey

The Appalachian Trail in New Jersey is a stone’s throw away from some of the major cities, allowing people a quick getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. If you follow the trail, you will find yourself at the Wallkill National Wildfire Reserve, where you will be able to see the eastern goldfish, the state bird.

Elevation changes are moderate and can vary from flat to short and rocky pitches. You will also encounter boglands and wetlands along the way.

Campers can enjoy setting up a tent at designated sites. However, campfires are strictly prohibited. The camping grounds also follow the "leave no trace" policy for the benefit of other hikers and nature itself.

New York

The New York State section of the Appalachian Trail runs close to New York City, which is a bonus for many backpackers. Hikers situated at the Harriman State Park can enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty of the woods while catching the occasional glimpses of the famous Manhattan skyline.

The AT passes through Bear Mountain, which is situated at just 124 feet, which is the lowest elevation point on the trail. Hikers need to study their guides and map carefully when planning a hike on this stretch of AT since some areas feature steep rocks, which will require scrambling and can be quite risky.

Shelters in the area are spread far from each other, and you can only camp at designated sites. Water sources are also far apart. Lighting campfires is also not allowed except in specially designated areas.

Connecticut

The Appalachian Trail passes through the unspoiled hardwood forest, which is known for its stunningly vibrant foliage in the fall season. About three-quarters of the AT runs along the Housatonic River, which is located in Falls Village and offers a spectacular view of a 50-foot waterfall after snowmelt or heavy rainfall.

Camping is only permitted at designated sites, and fires are not allowed.

Massachusetts

If you want diversity of nature, then trekking along the Berkshire region of Massachusetts will allow you to encounter unique mountains, vast highlands, overlaid ridgelines, canopied glens, and verdant river pathways.

The state is also home to Mt. Greylock, which peaks at 3,491 feet and is the highest point in Massachusetts. When skies are clear, the mountain offers you a mesmerizing view 90 miles into the distance.

Several towns lie along the route, and hikers can catch buses from there.

Vermont

The AT trail starts at just 400 feet in Vermont and ascends to over 4000 feet, making this stretch an excellent choice for hikers of all levels and abilities.

The trail features thick and lush forests and is a great escape from city crowds. However, hikers are warned not to traverse this trail from April through May as the mud can create hazardous treks.

New Hampshire

The New Hampshire trek of the AT offers more miles above the treeline than any other AT state. Hikers and backpackers visit the White Mountains for its majestic views and to accomplish self-made goals.

Hikers should know about the special rules and regulations for the White Mountains since this area can expose many dangers to hikers. The trail is very steep in this area, and only seasoned hikers with strong and stable knees should attempt this.

Setting up backcountry camps is free in the White Mountains, and you don't need to have any special permits in the area.

Maine

Depending on where you start your thru-hiking journey, the Katahdin can be the beginning or the end of your adventure. The wild country of Maine has spectacular scenery and offers all the challenges that hikers love.

The AT in Maine offers the most rugged and challenging environment for hikers and campers like the Mahoosuc Notch and provides unique features not seen anywhere else in the AT states, including cerulean lakes and wildlife like moose and loons.

Campers can make use of the free ferry service via canoe during the hiking season, which is the AT's official route; otherwise, fording the river is extremely dangerous due to the unpredictable rise in water levels.

Hikers need to get a free AT long-distance permit for all long-distance hikers and can camp at designated sites at Baxter State Park.

Best Places to Camp Near the Appalachian Trail

There are several developed places along the trail that campers can use. Let’s take a look at some of them.

Blue Ridge Parkway Campsites

The Blue Ridge Parkway offers a number of campsites that can accommodate tents, hammocks, and RVs. You might need to make online reservations (with a small fee) for camping in some areas, though most campsites are open on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Now let’s take a look at some of the camping accommodations in the region.

Otter Creek: Otter Creek is at an elevation of just 649 feet and is the lowest region on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The climate there is temperate, and the creek offers excellent access to hiking trails.

There are 39 sites that need to be reserved and 29 first-come, first-served camping grounds, which also offer tent and RV accommodation at $20 per night.

Otter Creek is a popular spot since it has access to drinking water, privies, and a dump station that can support a camper's stay.

Roanoke Mountain: Roanoke Mountain is the only BRP campsite which is located near an urban dwelling. The mountain is home to many trails and disused iron mines.

The site offers 74 camping grounds for tents as well as around 30 sites for trailers. There are also three handicap-accessible sites. All of them are offered on a first-come, first-served basis and cost just $16 for a night.

Rocky Knob: Rocky Knob in Virginia has 62 first-come, first-serve campsites, and 44 reservation sites, which costs $20 a night. It also offers rugged campgrounds located near Rock Castle Gorge and can accommodate both tents and RVs. These sites are also equipped with lantern poles, picnic tables, and fire rings or grills for some excellent outdoor barbecue.

Rocky Knob offers hikers the opportunity to traverse the Rock Castle Gorge Trail, which starts with a heart-pounding elevation and meanders through some gentle meadows before swooping down to the Rock Castle Creek ravine.

Doughton Park: The campground offers 97 first-come, first-served sites and 24 sites for reservation. All of these sites cost $20 per night. The park also offers simple, undeveloped campsites at Basin Cove.

If you are interested in wildlife, Doughton Park is a wonderful place to catch sight of white-tailed deer, foxes, and bobcats. The 7000-acre park also offers you 30 miles of verdant hiking trails.

Crabtree Meadows: Crabtree Meadows offer 54 first-come, first-serve campsites and 27 reservation sites which are built for both tent and trailers. The site costs $20 per night and offers amenities including drinking water, flush toilets, dump stations, fire rings/ grills, and picnic tables.

If you visit this area, I highly recommend spending some time seeing the marvelous sight of the 70-foot cascades of Crabtree Falls.

Great Smoky Mountains Campgrounds

The Great Smoky Mountains offer ten developed campsites in the region. The park accommodates tent campers, and several areas also allow RVs. Some popular campsites are listed below:

Cades Cove: Cades Cove offers tent-only, electric, and non-electric sites for $25 per night. The campground has a store that is open in the peak season, and there is an amphitheater nearby that hosts fun events.

Campers will have the chance to encounter lots of wildlife, including skunks, turkeys, raccoons, coyotes, and of course, bears. If you want, you can hike to the 20-feet high Abrams Falls to get a view of the bears from above.

Smokemont: Smokemont is a 2,200-foot high reservation campsite that offers accommodation for both tents and RVs. The site offers convenient amenities like drinking water, sinks, flush toilets, grills/fire rings, and tent pads. The grounds are located near Cherokee and offer an unmatched view of the flora and wildlife of the southern Appalachian region.

The campsite costs $25 for an overnight stay.

Abrams Creek: This first-come, first-served campground costs $17.50 for an overnight stay and allows campers to enjoy a purist hiker life by not offering any modern amenities like facilities for drinking water and flush toilets.

However, it is in close proximity to hiking trails and fishing streams. In addition, it is at a modest elevation of 1,125 feet, so it is a great place for hikers to test their endurance before they decide to hit loftier trails.

Cataloochee: If you want to stay away from civilization, then Cataloochee campgrounds are a great choice for you. Located in the historic Cataloochee Valley, these campgrounds are remote and serene. Although they offer access to drinking water and toilet facilities, there are no shower or hookup provisions.

You can set up camp for $25 a night. It also offers accommodations for horseback riders to spend the night in.

Parks and Forest in Pennsylvania Appalachian Trail

The Pennsylvania stretch of the Appalachian Trail has about 100 simple designated backcountry camping sites. In addition, there are also 250 plus shelters on the trail. Some areas in the state also allow dispersed camping, which means hikers can camp anywhere they want so long as they follow the rules.

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area: The recreation area does not allow hikers and backpackers to camp within half a mile of the roadway, 200 feet from another party, or 100 feet from the water. Campers are also prohibited from setting up camp between one mile north of Crater Lake and half a mile south of Blue Mountain Lake Road.

Thru-hikers can set up camp only between 50 and 100 feet from the trail. Group sizes should also be less than ten people, and they will have to pay a camping fee. Campers cannot make open fires in the area, though camp stoves are allowed.

Pine Grove Furnace State Park: Campers can set up their tents at Pine Grove Furnace State Park at the camping site or within half a mile from the trail. The park has the Appalachian Trail Museum, which is worthwhile to see since it features programs and exhibits celebrating the first hikers and trail builders. The place is also frequented by thru-hikers of the trail.

Pine Grove Furnace State Park also has a camp store that will enable you to replenish your supplies.

Caledonia State Park: The state park is located near Fayetteville on South Mountain and at the northern end of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The park allows camping only at designated sites, and campers can make fires only in fire rings.

If you want to get online, you can go near the park office, which allows you to access its Wi-Fi from within 50 feet.

Hit the Appalachian Trail

No matter which part of the trail you decide to hike on, you are sure to experience the most breathtaking natural sights in the Appalachians. Whether you are thinking of chilling out at a developed campsite or have decided to traverse the entire trail, camping on the Appalachian Trail is sure to become one of the most thrilling adventures of your life.