Hiking Groups Can Now Register For Campsites on the AT

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) recently released a campsite registration system: AT CAMP. Through this, hiking groups of up to 10 individuals can now register for campsites along the Appalachian Trail. Groups can plan their overnight excursions, including starting, ending, and midpoint locations. This program also allows other users to see an approximation of how many people will be staying at their intended campsite.

In alignment with other ATC initiatives, such as the voluntary thru-hiker registration, AT CAMP aims to continue efforts to mitigate the effects of continued growth of trail usage, and maintain a sustainable future for the AT and for all trail users.

maupin-field-shelter

Photo courtesy ATC

AT CAMP does not impact thru-hikers; and no trail user is required to register for a campsite. But participation in the system can assist in overcrowding on specific areas of the AT, an issue becoming more prominent as trail use increases.

It is important to note that AT CAMP does not reserve entire campsites for groups. It just lets other users know approximately how busy the area will be on any given day. Currently, the main focus is large groups, but future updates will allow small groups and individuals to register as well.

ATC Visitor Use Manager Jason Zink says: “This system is not meant to reserve a spot for a group and does not impose restrictions for campers seeking to stay at the same location. It’s a voluntary system that provides a tool for groups to plan their hikes, to minimize or eliminate damage and to maximize their enjoyment of the unique Appalachian Trail experience.”

Read the full press release from the ATC here.

Check out the AT Camper Registration website here.

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Comments 2

  • talom mibang : Apr 18th

    I love hiking

    Reply
  • Matt Perrenod : Apr 19th

    There is an important error in the opening sentence: this is *not* a reservation system. Registering that your group intends to use a site does not create a reservation, or give that group any rights of use that any other hikers do not have, as is clear from other parts of the story. Please correct the opening sentence.

    Reply

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