Rock Castle Gorge Backcountry Camping

Backcountry Use Regulations

1. A backcountry camping permit is required for all overnight use and must be in your possession at all times. Note: No more than six (6) people are allowed to occupy any one campsite.

2. Camping outside of the designated sites is prohibited.

3. Campfires are allowed only inside the government provided fire grill. Only wood that is dead and down on the ground may be collected for use as firewood. The cutting of standing trees, whether live or dead is prohibited. The use of camp stoves is encouraged. All fires may be banned during periods of high fire danger.

4. All trash must be carried out upon vacating the site. Do not leave litter or cans in the fire rings. DO NOT burn or bury any trash.

5. Historic and archeological resources are protected by federal law. The damaging, defacing or removal of these resources is prohibited.

6. Natural resources are protected by federal law. Do not disturb or remove any animal or plant life.

7. Hunting and trapping are prohibited. Fishing is subject to state and federal laws and limits.

8. Persons who can legally possess firearms under federal, state, and local laws are able to possess firearms on the Blue Ridge Parkway, subject to the laws of the state they are in at the time. It is the visitor's responsibility to understand and comply with all applicable state (North Carolina and/or Virginia) and federal firearms laws. Firearms should not be considered a wildlife protection strategy. The discharge and/or use of firearms remains prohibited at all times.

9. Pets must be on a 6 foot maximum leash at all times while in the park. Horseback camping is not permitted. Horses are allowed on the Grassy Gap Fire Road during the day.

10. All human waste must be buried at least 6 inches deep and at least 100 feet from any stream. Pack out all diapers, tampons, and sanitary napkins in a sealed plastic bag.

11. Campsite improvements such as bough beds and trenching around tents is prohibited, as is the use of nails or spikes in trees for clotheslines, shelter construction or hanging lanterns.

12. Bathing or washing dishes or utensils in streams is prohibited. All unprotected water should be treated before consuming.

13. Food and other scented items must be in bear-proof containers, stored in park provided bear boxes (if available) or hung in a tree at least 10 feet above the ground and 4 feet from the trunk of the tree.

Do not print your permit until you have confirmed you will be completing your backcountry trip. Once the permit has been printed you can not cancel or modify the reservation.

Permits must be printed and carried on your person. You must write the permit number on a sheet of paper and place it on the dash of all vehicles covered by the permit.

This is Black Bear Country, practice Bear Safety and store all food, toiletry items and anything with a scent properly. Bear Safety on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Cell phones most likely do not work in this area.

Check InTime is 3PM and Check Out Time is 12 Noon.