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About Our Story

Basecamp Smoky Mountains

In the early 1990s, John Close ventured to Bryson City, NC, for what he expected to be a thrilling kayaking adventure.

A world-class triathlete with a penchant for the outdoors, John had spent decades training, racing, and soaking in the beauty of nature across the globe. Yet, it was the Smoky Mountains that ensnared his spirit—perhaps it was the rush of the river, the ancient whispers of the wind, or the fiery sunset hues that painted the sky, but this place called to him, forging a connection that would shape his future.

By 2022, John’s life took a dramatic turn, prompting him to exchange his spacious urban home for a minimalist lifestyle in a 320-square-foot container home nestled in the mountains. Here, stripped of the urban cacophony and immersed in the tranquil expanse of nature, John rediscovered peace and joy. The mountains and streams replaced the din of rush-hour traffic and the relentless buzz of social media, teaching him the profound impact of disconnecting from the digital world and reconnecting with the natural one.

This profound transformation inspired John to create Basecamp Smoky Mountains—a vision of small, sustainable eco-resorts that offer more than just a getaway. 

We provide a pathway to rediscover oneself through immersive nature experiences.
Wooden signboard titled "Panther Branch" with maps and regulatory information, by a riverbank, under clear skies.
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About The Power of Nature Immersive Practice

The concept of “forest bathing,” which gained prominence in Japan during the 1980s, is central to our philosophy. While the practice is modern, the wisdom is ancient: nature is a healer of both body and soul. Recent studies affirm what countless generations have known—regular immersion in nature significantly improves physical and mental health. It lowers heart rate and blood pressure, eases pain, boosts mood, and enhances focus and memory.

In an era where American youth spend an average of seven hours a day engaged with technology, the need for nature immersion has never been more urgent. Basecamp offers a reprieve not just through passive enjoyment but through structured, guided experiences that foster a deep, healing connection with the environment.

At Basecamp Smoky Mountains, we provide a sanctuary where time slows down, allowing guests to sync with the eternal rhythms of nature. Here, you can hike through woodlands, meditate by the river, or simply relish the silence that fills the air. Our activities—whether they be solo or guided—embrace the therapeutic essence of the outdoors.

Renowned biologist E.O. Wilson once said that our affinity for the natural world is as crucial to our well-being as regular exercise and a healthy diet. At Basecamp, we live by these words. We believe that reconnecting with the earth is not just a luxury but a necessity, vital to the health and happiness of our community.

Immerse With Us

Come, immerse yourself in the transformative power of nature at Basecamp Smoky Mountains.

Promo flyer for Basecamp Retreats 2025. Featuring yoga, hiking, and live entertainment. Events include
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