Introduction to Overnight Camping (Intensive) – Friday, Feb. 16 at Hiwassee/Ocoee State Park (5:00pm to 8:30pm).  423-263-0050
Meet at: Gee Creek Visitor Center- 404 Spring Creek Rd. Delano, TN 37325
As you embark into a fresh new year, our park has created a fun and laid-back program to help folks learn the essential skills for overnight backpacking.
Hiwassee/Ocoee Rivers State Park is offering one (3.5 hour intensive course) to prepare you for successful backcountry backpacking. After completion of this intensive course, we will embark on a free overnight backpacking trip within the Cumberland Plateau at N. Chickamauga Creek Gorge State Park. The overnight trip will take place on Saturday 4/13/2024 – Sunday 4/14/2024. The trip will be led by seasoned backpacker and 2018 Appalachian Trail Thru-hiker, Ranger Jeremy/OnStep.
The intensive course will cover the following topics:
1st Session

Backpacking Basics: An Overview
The BIG 3 (Shelter, Sleep & Pack Systems)
How to choose and organize your pack
Proper clothing, footwear & gear

2nd Session

Trail Meal Prep
Food Storage & Bear Bags
Water Filtration
Trail Hygiene

3rd Session

Healthy Parks Heathy Person (Personal Fitness)
Basic Survival: An Overview
Trip Planning
Navigation & Map Reading

Optional Free Overnight Trip: On 4/13/2024 – 4/14/2024 we will conduct an overnight guided the Cumberland Plateau at N. Chickamauga Creek Gorge State Park! This excursion will consist of approximately (9 miles) of moderate hiking total. This is the perfect opportunity to test out your winter/spring gear in backcountry conditions.
Free Overnight Trip Conditions: You will need to be able to provide your own transportation, gear and food for this event. Attendance at the Intensive Class is required for the participant to join on the overnight trip.

$10 / Military Veteran or First Responder

$20 / Attendee/Participant

Can’t wait to see you there, happy trails!