CANCELLED: CANCELLED: Joyce Kilmer Hike and Pioneer Camp w/Adventure Van Register

Old Growth Giants in the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest of Western North Carolina

Hello Hikers and Campers!

We’ll be doing some day hiking with an optional overnight pioneer camping trip in the Joyce Kilmer / Lake Santeetlah / Fontana Lake area of western North Carolina.

Why Joyce Kilmer Forest is special:
Old-Growth Giants: This forest holds one of the largest tracts of old-growth in the eastern United States. Many trees are 300–400 years old, towering over 100 feet tall and more than 20 feet in circumference. Walking among these tulip poplars, oaks, and sycamores is a humbling and awe-inspiring experience.

A Protected Sanctuary: Dedicated in 1936 as a living memorial to poet Joyce Kilmer, the forest was spared logging through a historical twist of fate. It remains pristine, unlike much of the surrounding landscape.

Trip Details:
Our initial gathering place will be here in Kennesaw.

You have the option to drive yourself and join only for the day hiking, though the timeframe will be tighter and hikes may be slightly shorter. Because it’s a long drive (about three hours), we’ll pioneer camp overnight. We’ll head straight to the forest, hike during the day, and then plan to arrive at camp around 5:00–5:30 p.m. to set up and cook dinner.  On Sunday morning we will have some more time for a short hike before heading home.  We should get back by mid afternoon on Sunday.

We’ll rent a 12-passenger van, so please pack light—gear bags need to be limited to maximize space.

Meals (Optional):
If you’d like, I can provide dinner and breakfast for about $20. This includes food and preparation, but you’ll still need to bring your own eating utensils and a coffee cup. I’ll also ask for volunteers to help with prep and serving.

Campsite Info:
We’ll be at Rattler Ford Campground (primitive site):

Here's the Google Map location of the campground

There are four campsites in a small area beside the creek, all sharing one bathroom building. Please note there are no showers. Also, bring your own soap and toilet paper—though I’ll bring extra just in case.