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  1. #1
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    Default Camping around Lake Watauga?

    I heard there was no camping around the lake. Is this due to the close proximity to a bear sanctuary? Anyone camped around it? I know there are campsites and I think there was once a shelter. Doing a long section in about a week and planes on camping on the lake.


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  2. #2
    GoldenBear's Avatar
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    Exclamation No camping around the lake -- period

    > I heard there was no camping around the lake.
    You heard correctly.

    > Is this due to the close proximity to a bear sanctuary?
    Not a bear sanctuary per se, just a place where bears have been taught
    People = Food
    due to lazy hikers, and people who don't seem to understand that even camping in an area with problem bears only increases the problem.

    > I know there are campsites and I think there was once a shelter.
    The shelter has been closed for years.
    https://tehcc.org/2018/03/bear-activities-closure-2016/

    The latest from the ATC is pretty unambiguous:
    Watauga Lake Shelter has been dismantled per a U.S. Forest Service Camping Closure Order due to ongoing bear activity in the area. No picnicking, lingering or overnight camping is allowed, and hikers are advised to continue through the area without stopping.
    > planes on camping on the lake.
    I strongly suggest you change your plans.

  3. #3

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    There is a hostel near there (don't remember the name right now). Not for sure if they are currently open or not with the COVID-19 scare.
    The road to glory cannot be followed with much baggage.
    Richard Ewell, CSA General


  4. #4
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    Default

    Quote Originally Posted by Astro View Post
    There is a hostel near there (don't remember the name right now). Not for sure if they are currently open or not with the COVID-19 scare.
    It's Boots Off Hostel, and judging from Guthook comments, they never closed

  5. #5

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    The signs posted on the trail in that area are comical. You aren’t even allowed to stop walking. By the time I got there I already had done 20 miles that day. So I sat on a log, drank some water, and ate a protein bar while making a short video of myself being an outlaw. Then I had the energy to continue on to Boots Off Hostel for the night.

  6. #6
    Registered User ldsailor's Avatar
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    Default

    Boots Off hostel is a good place to stay and the only place to stay in the area as others have pointed out. The hostel is well run and very comfortable.
    Trail Name - Slapshot
    "One step at a time."
    Blog - www.tonysadventure.com

  7. #7
    Is it raining yet?
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    07-15-2004
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    Kensington, MD
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    Default

    I'll endorse Boots Off Hostel. I think it's my fav so far. There are 2 more hostels 9 miles further south in Dennis Cove as well.
    Be Prepared

  8. #8
    Registered User Christoph's Avatar
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    02-18-2015
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    Valdosta, Georgia
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    Default

    Boots Off was really nice, friendly people. Will stay there again for sure. I'd suggest this route as it's not too far from the trail itself.
    - Trail name: Thumper

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