| Panthertown Valley remains fully open to the public despite the current government shutdown. Friends of Panthertown remains active in completing trail maintenance and hosting educational programs in accordance and partnership with the USDA Forest Service. Please continue sending trail reports to us at panthertown.org/report |
Overnight primitive backcountry camping is allowed in Panthertown.
No permits are required. Groups are limited to no more than 12 people per site.
No camping within 50 feet of streams or rivers in Panthertown Valley.
Visitors should be aware that American black bears (Ursus americanus) live in Panthertown. This is their natural, wild habitat. These forests are their territory. This is their home. Please respect the wildlife. The bears thank you!
- Camping In Bear Country? What To Know Before You Go (Source: BearWise)
- Carry Bear Spray. Know How To Use It. (Source: BearWise)
- Be Aware of Hunting Seasons in Panthertown (Source: NC Wildlife)
BEAR-PROOF FOOD STORAGE VAULTS
There are four large metal “bear boxes” in Panthertown installed by Friends of Panthertown. These secure bear-proof storage vaults keep food and scented items away from bears.
- Located on Great Wall Trail (FS#489) near the popular camp shelter on the valley floor.
- Located at intersection of Panthertown Valley Trail (FS#474) and Powerline Road Trail (FS#451) within a quick walk to Schoolhouse Falls.
- Located on Mac’s Gap Trail (FS#482) in the pine forest close to Granny Burrell Falls.
- Located on Mac’s Gap Trail (FS#482) close to the Green Valley Trail (FS#484) intersection, a short hike to the top of Little Green Mountain.