Max Patch, a popular Appalachian Trail camping spot, has been closed to all camping and overnight activity.
The restrictions, effective immediately, were announced Thursday, July 1, by Pisgah National Forest. A press release said the move was made to reduce impacts to natural resources and protect public health and safety at the bald mountain in North Carolina near the Tennessee border.
Max Patch increasingly became a popular overnight destination, and with increased use came trash left behind, fire pits, and unsanitary practices. The Forest Service said that visitor education efforts and barriers and fencing have not been sufficient to correct the problems.
“We’ve been working with partners to achieve sustainable recreation at Max Patch because of the impacts due to a significant increase in visitors over the past decade,” Appalachian District Ranger Jen Barnhart said. “Unfortunately, the level of use is causing a public safety hazard as well as serious damage to wildlife habitat.”
The restrictions will be in effect for two years, and during that time visitor use and impacts will be monitored and addressed.
The Forest Service said that a visitor use monitoring group consisting of local partners, the USFS, and local community members has helped to develop solutions and will also help to educate visitors on the new restrictions.
The following rules will apply to Max Patch:
- No camping.
- No fires.
- Area closes 1 hour after sundown. Reopens 1 hour before sunrise. Visitors prohibited during closed hours.
- Group size limited to 10.
- Dogs and other animals must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet, or in a crate or cage.
- Stay on designated trails.
- Aircraft may not land nor drop off or pick up anything in this area. Drones are prohibited on the Appalachian Trail.
- No fireworks.
- Bikes must stay on roads only.
- Horses and other saddle and pack animals may not be ridden, hitched, tethered, or hobbled in this area.
For more information, see the full text of the closure order here and a PDF of map showing area where restrictions apply here.