Trail Camp for Big Kids is an ultramarathon trail running event covering 26.2 miles, held on July 23, 2026, in Robinsville, North Carolina. The race starts at 2:00 PM from Rattler Ford Campground in the Cheoah Ranger District of Nantahala National Forest. Entry fees range from $35 to $70. This is a destination race for runners seeking a trail running experience in the backcountry, with the late afternoon start time adding a unique element to the event schedule. Athletes should plan accordingly for the trail conditions and terrain at this Nantahala National Forest venue.
From the Race Organizer
Trail Camp for Big Kids Have you ever been jealous of all the kids who get to go on camps every summer? It sucks being a big kid with responsibility but here at the annual Trail Camp for big Kids, we are now inviting you, the big kid! This camp will focus on a variety of things, team building, navigation, community service, friendship, and of course a bit of running! Trail camp is for adults to get away from the busyness of life and a chance to play in the mountains for a long weekend. This camp welcomes all levels of runners and even non-runners! Camp consists of sharing campfire stories, trail stories, bad jokes, and miles throughout the forest. Camp is a no-pressure weekend so you are welcome to run as much or as little as you like. Welcome to Trail Camp for Big Kids! This long weekend is meant to be relaxed and fun with some running mixed in! We are headed back to Rattler Ford Group Campground in the Nantahala National Forest! You are welcome to run as much or as little as you want! It is completely up to you. We will have some planned runs and we can split into groups that will stick together! All paces and abilities are welcome and we will not let people run on their own (unless they want to and are comfortable with it). The weekend schedule will be loose but follow the structure below. If you have any dietary restrictions, please plan to bring adequate food for yourself. We will try to offer vegetarian/vegan options but when planning for the masses, this can be difficult! NOTE: Carpooling will be VERY helpful. There is limited parking but we can park cars approx 10-12 miles away at the Nantahala headquarters. Please plan to carpool with at least 1 other person! 2 if possible! When: July 23th - July 26th 2026 Where: Rattler Ford Group Campground Rattler Ford Campground, Cheoah Ranger District, Nantahala National Forest, Robbinsville, NC 28771 Thursday Campers arrive after 2pm or Friday morning Set Up Camp, Relax, Crack a Beverage Rattler Ford Camp Ground - Optional Easy Run or just hangout and get setup Friday: Breakfast Provided Group Shakeout Run - Noon Route - Joyce Kilmer Lower Loop Trail (leave from camp) Posted HERE As a group, we will run from camp to the trail head, around the trail and back. This will be an easy day with very little vert and distance. Other options are available for more mileage Dinner plan: Camper responsible for own meal Saturday Saturday will be our longest day on the trails. Find a group who wants to do one of the routes below and be prepared to be on the trail for a while. Hydration pack with plenty of water or a filter is recommended. Breakfast 7-8 am Breakfast provided by runner Lunch - on trail, Runner responsible Dinner - Camper Responsible for own meal The run options are below. Run Start time: 8-9am Options: AT to NOC Run! Route We will need someone to drive to the start and drop runners off, and pick up at the NOC when complete. Bring credit cards and ID's for food and beer! NOTE: The trails may be overgrown, buggy, wet, you know, the typical trail things. So please come prepared with bug spray and anti-itch. From all trails, a lot of these trails don't have a ton of markings and can be difficult to navigate with overgrowth so please have an adventure buddy for all runs unless you are a seasoned trail running. But still let someone know where you are going if you go alone. Sunday: Option 1: Sunday is an open book. Sunrise possible at Maple Springs Overlook Checkout is 11am
Hotels Near This Race
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for July 23.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Robinsville, NC.
A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing.
Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it,
and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run
5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no
additional coverage needed.
Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
When is Trail Camp for Big Kids 2026 — Robinsville, NC?
Trail Camp for Big Kids 2026 — Robinsville, NC takes place on July 23, 2026. The race is held in Robinsville, North Carolina.
Where is Trail Camp for Big Kids 2026 — Robinsville, NC held?
Trail Camp for Big Kids 2026 — Robinsville, NC is held at Rattler Ford Campground, Cheoah Ranger District, Nantahala National Forest in Robinsville, North Carolina.
Where can I find hotels near Trail Camp for Big Kids 2026 — Robinsville, NC?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Robinsville. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
