Camping near Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina encompasses a range of established campgrounds within and surrounding the nation's most visited national park. The North Carolina side features several notable options including Smokemont Campground, located near Cherokee, and Deep Creek Campground near Bryson City. These National Park Service facilities provide basic amenities while maintaining a rustic camping experience. Private campgrounds and RV parks in nearby towns like Cherokee offer more developed alternatives with full hookups and additional amenities. The area's camping options span from primitive backcountry sites requiring permits to full-service RV resorts with modern conveniences.
Most campgrounds in Great Smoky Mountains National Park operate seasonally, typically from April through October, with specific opening and closing dates varying by location. The region experiences a temperate rainforest climate with frequent precipitation year-round. According to reviews, campers should "be prepared for rain since it is a temperate rain forest." Verizon cell service works well at many locations with "3 bars of service" reported at several campgrounds. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially during peak summer months and fall color season when facilities reach capacity quickly. Firewood restrictions apply throughout the park to prevent the spread of invasive pests, with certified heat-treated wood required.
The camping experience varies significantly between national park campgrounds and private facilities. National park sites like Smokemont offer more primitive camping with flush toilets but no showers, while nearby private campgrounds provide full amenities including hot showers and laundry facilities. Creekside sites are particularly sought after, with one camper noting that "the sounds of the creek at night melts all your worries away." Wildlife encounters, particularly with black bears, are common throughout the region, requiring proper food storage. The park's campgrounds provide direct access to over 800 miles of hiking trails, including connections to the Appalachian Trail, making them ideal basecamps for exploring the park's natural features.
Compare 2 top campgrounds at a time to find your favorite!
Round 1 of 5
$30 / night
"Elkmont is a huge campground in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. They have plenty of sites for tents and RVs. There is a camp store, showers, and restrooms."
"This campsite is in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and is one of the biggest and busiest. **Yay: this is a fairly typical big national park campground in many ways."
$30 / night
"Rustic camping, with tons of wildlife in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Well cared for, nice staff. Beautiful hiking trails, convenient store with bike rentals and wildlife watching."
"**This campsite is in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and is one of the biggest and busiest."
$35 - $258 / night
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Greenbriar is located near the Greenbriar entrance of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, very near the arts and crafts district of Gatlinburg."
"The campground is surrounded by a little river so many sites have river views. Most are relatively spacious. There are also a few spots on the road side of the island. The amenities were spotless."
$30 / night
"Building a fire was next to impossible. I think there might have been thirty minutes without rain, so pictures are limited."
"Smokemont is a great campground in the North Carolina side of the Smoky Mountains. It is a perfect base camp to enjoy this amazing national park."
"Stayed hear as a family while traveling through the are on a road trip from northern Minnesota to North Carolina, years ago."
"Had we been in a site away from the river, we’d have been packed in like sardines."
$30 / night
"I have been to several campgrounds in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and this is one of my favorites except for one thing. I don’t like the bathroom facility."
"The Deep Creek Campground is located just minutes away from the charming Bryson City with its shops, breweries, little cafes an other attractions such as steam train rides on the"
$50 / night
"Of all the no-frills campgrounds in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this one falls on the more basic end of the spectrum and the low cost reflects it."
"Cosby is great if you want to explore the eastern section of North Carolina sections of the park."
"The Lizard Lounge has a separate WiFi but you have to be inside or just outside to use it. Amazing river views and very close to the entrance of the National park."
"Right next to the entrance to the Great Smokey mountains. Townsend is a lovely town for eating and lots of walking trails. It is a short drive into pigeon forge if you want more activities to do."
$50 - $94 / night
"There is a camp store with firewood (you are required to buy it from an authorized location!). Nice roomy campsites, but not as much plant cover as at Elkmont in my experience."
"I wanted to see if there was a difference in the camping experience at the two locations."
$60 - $185 / night
"Little Arrow Outdoor Resort is an upscale campground located just minutes from Great Smoky Mountain National Park. The campground has several different types of accommodations."
"Biking trail less than 100 yds away. Borders the National Park, Townsend is a Great place to stay, close to Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg and even closer to Cades Cove."
TravelerWe really liked this campground. Sites were pretty well spread out, it was quiet, there were lots of trails to take our dogs on. We saw lots of mountain bikers, must be biking paradise too!
GuideBeautiful drive to get to this place once you get through the traffic jam of Sevierville. Enjoy the scenic and winding river road! dOnly loop C is open in the off season. Generators are allowed at this time of year, but must be off by 8pm.
The women's restroom was revoltingly smelly (some animal had sprayed in there, smelled like male cat x100). The sites have nice new pads (not perfectly level though) and the tent pads are spacious and flat.
Cade's Cove loop was definitely worth taking, and I would do it again and stop at every stop. Take your time, take the pull outs and let the people pass you. Make sure to get a parking pass and a brochure explaining the sites along the loop at the beginning of the drive. I saw many turkeys showing off their fan tails. And a large black bear chowing down on the sweet, fattening, tender spring grass. Also there were quite a few deer out. The scenery was magnificent!
TravelerCame to camp at a different campsite, but it was already taken. The first couple of designated spots are excellent with lakeside views. We chose this spot as it was the next available spot. It’s comfortable and allows you to enjoy the tranquility of a running stream.
TravelerThe site was level, trails to hike, clean park but a little pricey.
TravelerThis is a great campsite near a stream that has natural wood log bridge crossings!! Campsites are very open between each other which could be good or bad depending on your style.
TravelerCamped in f150 with RTT, stayed at site 13 with plenty of room for any overlanding or tent campers. Sites 1-5 fairly close in section 1. Sites 6-13 good for tent or overlanding, sites 14-21 are clumped together at the end for tent/overlanding rig/campers. Small creek crossing, but very easy to cross. We saw a few trailer campers, nothing over 20 feet, and there was plenty of room, but the road is rough coming in, so doable if you’re brave.
Road is marked well off the main road, but is narrow with few pull off opportunities for passing. 1 mile of blacktop with 1* mile of hard pack gravel.
Single vault bathrooms and bear trash cans are at sites 1-5 and another at site 14-21, 5-10 minute walk either way from middle campsites.
Fire rings and picnic tables, well marked sites.
Site 22 is the last site we could find before crossing a more cumbersome creek crossing, just above sites 17-21. Creek accessible from most every campsite, with a few of the sites on the other side of ride (see rec.gov for waterfront specific sites)
Busy road for motorcycles/off road vehicles, but overall peaceful.
Reservations required, no service until almost back to town, so reserve ahead before heading to camp. Cash/envelope/paper tag system no longer present (seems to be the new norm)
TravelerThe campground was easy to find & it’s just close enough to town if you need to make a store run. There is lush forest with incredible views. plus, our site has lake access. The wildlife life is thriving and we could hear barred owls hooting at dusk. Perfect area for fishing. We are happy to have found this little gem!
ScoutThe camp host was unprofessional, rude, and threatened to call the sheriffs department because he said we were talking too loud. We were not loud and are filing a complaint. We have been coming here for years but will not pay to be treated this way.
GuideNice park for seasonal and full-timers, but not for overnighters. There are a lot of spacious sites, but the overnight space (#32), was narrow and between a large class A and a large 5th wheel. The ground drops off steeply behind the parking pad. Water connection is in a hole. I had to get down on the ground to hook up the water, and I had to remove the pressure regulator for the hookup to fit. No grass or space on either side, we were not even able to put chairs out. The RVs on both sides of us were unoccupied, but a man was doing something outside our place at midnight. Very long walk to the lake, and no view
Camping near Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina ranges from heavily-wooded sites at elevations of 2,000 feet to riverfront locations in lowland valleys. The North Carolina side of the park receives more annual rainfall than the Tennessee side, with Bryson City averaging 53 inches yearly. During summer months, evening temperatures typically drop 10-15 degrees cooler than daytime highs, creating ideal sleeping conditions even without air conditioning.
Tubing at Deep Creek: The Deep Creek area offers excellent water recreation just minutes from the campground. "Beautiful campground in the smoky mountains with lots of hiking to three waterfalls. The tent-only camping does not look like a lot of fun... But you are right by the creek for a dip anytime," reports Nick C. at Deep Creek Campground.
Fishing for trout: Creek access throughout many campgrounds provides fishing opportunities. "I parked at the smokemont car camping area, then packed into one of the backcountry sites for a weekend of blue line trout fishing on the Bradley Creek headwaters, feeding into the Oconaluftee River," explains Gary B. about Smokemont Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning and late evening offer prime wildlife spotting times. "We had elk walk through one morning," shares Veronica S. at Smokemont. For dedicated wildlife watchers, consider the Cherokee area campgrounds with easy access to the Oconaluftee Visitor Center fields where elk regularly graze.
Historical structures exploration: Several hiking trails lead to preserved buildings from early settlers. "The campground has a wonderful area and the history of the place is amazing," notes Amy P. about hiking opportunities near camp.
River sounds for sleeping: Many campsites back up directly to flowing water. "The sounds of rushing water from Little Pigeon River creates peaceful sleeping conditions," according to Larry M. at Greenbrier Campground, who added, "We stayed here over Christmas time in a 20' travel trailer. Very clean with heated bathrooms washing machines and other amenities. The sound of the rushing river is a plus."
Private bathroom facilities: Several campgrounds offer upgraded bathroom experiences. "The bath house appeared to be newer, and will trump your home facilities in many cases! Within the bath house, there are several private doors leading to your own 3 piece bath with shelving and granite counters with outlets, and a stunning double shower," writes Erin H. about Greenbrier.
Quieter camping areas: Some campgrounds see significantly less traffic than others. "The Cosby campground tends to be a little quieter than Cades Cove or Elkmont, but I like it that way! There is ample parking nearby and trailheads," explains Jessica L. from Cosby Campground.
Year-round access: "Local friends say that this campground is never full. When we were there in late August there were only 2-3 unoccupied spots," notes Lynn G. about Cosby Campground, making it suitable for last-minute trips.
Reservation requirements vary: Some campgrounds fill months in advance while others remain accessible. "We stayed for one night, on a weeknight in early December. The campground was completely deserted (one other camper came in the evening, there were only two of us there!)," shares Carly E. about Smokemont's off-season availability.
No shower facilities in national park campgrounds: "The bathroom is clean, but no hot water or showers. If you wanted to shower you would have to drive to one of the nearby towns that offered showers at one of the rv campgrounds," explains Michelle A. about Cades Cove Group Campground.
Site spacing considerations: "Cramped and LOUD... However this campground is way too cramped and too loud. The sites are on top of each other," warns Veronica S. about Smokemont, emphasizing the importance of researching site layouts.
Weather impacts: "The road through the park shut down the night we were there due to snow and ice in the higher elevations, so keep weather in mind when visiting in the colder months," cautions Carly E. Winter campers should check road conditions regularly.
Swimming holes access: Natural water features provide recreation for children. "My grands enjoyed playing in the shallow river in front of our campsite," shares Lori J. about Smokemont Campground, highlighting the safe water access.
Ranger programs: Educational activities run throughout peak season. "On Fridays they have special Ranger programs. We were lucky enough to learn about moon-shining from guys on the moonshiner TV show," explains Janine B. from Cosby Campground.
Privacy considerations: For families needing separation, investigate site layouts. "The tent sites are located next to the creek and equipped with tent pad, fire pit, and picnic table. Drive through and select your site before paying to get a nice spot," advises Marina V. about Deep Creek Campground.
Loop activities: "What a great campground!! This is away from the craziness of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. It puts you back into the outdoors as the National Parks should be. The campground is beautiful and on certain days they close off the loop of Cades Cove for bicycles to be able to ride," explains Jeremy H.
Electrical availability: Limited electric sites exist within national park campgrounds. "Approx 20 miles from main visitor center. The scenic drive increases congestion and traffic. Camp store is near campsites. Also a ranger station. Several hiking trails are accessible from campground. All driveways shaded, paved, and level," notes Kim L. about Smokemont.
Leveling requirements: "Rocks line the driveway of each site, close enough to require careful placement to leave room for stairs and slides," warns Tod S. about Smokemont Campground, emphasizing the need for levelers.
Site selection tips: "The thing about Deep Creek Campground is that it's pretty unusual. Although sites say they are for tents or RVs, some are very odd and only have parking space for an RV on the road, and your table and other areas are above or below... Sites 79, 81 and 82, for example, are great for an RV, especially if it's not longer than 18 feet. And bring levelers; you will need them!" advises Susan G.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is RV camping allowed in Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
Yes, RV camping is allowed in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, though campsite size limitations exist. Most in-park campgrounds can accommodate RVs but typically don't offer hookups. For full hookups, consider nearby private campgrounds like Little Arrow Outdoor Resort which features large, paved pull-through buddy sites with full hookups just minutes from the park entrance. Recently reopened Look Rock Campground within the park also welcomes RVs after its 9-year closure. When booking in-park sites, verify length restrictions as they vary by campground. Many campers prefer staying at private resorts around the park perimeter for amenities like electric, water, and sewer connections while making day trips into the national park.
What are the best campgrounds in Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
The best campgrounds in Great Smoky Mountains National Park offer unique experiences based on your preferences. Cades Cove Campground is highly rated for its scenic valley setting and wildlife viewing opportunities. For those seeking a more secluded experience, Double Island offers primitive camping accessible only by watercraft, providing a truly remote experience within park boundaries. Check-in is available at Fontana Boat Ramp, and the island offers a few spots for tents or hammocks without any services. For a quiet experience on the Tennessee side, Cosby Campground provides a more peaceful alternative to busier park campgrounds. Consider your priorities—whether scenic views, proximity to hiking trails, or privacy—when selecting the best campground for your visit.
What is the difference between tent camping and other options in Great Smoky Mountains?
Tent camping in Great Smoky Mountains offers a traditional, immersive experience with basic amenities like restrooms and water spigots at established campgrounds. Other accommodations provide varying levels of comfort and convenience. Deep Creek Tube Center & Campground offers both tent sites and hookups just outside the park boundary on the North Carolina side, featuring hot showers and a variety of camping options. For those seeking more comfort, Cherokee-Great Smokies KOA provides deluxe cabins on the Raven Fork river, complete with propane grills and access to amenities like swimming pools. The key differences include: amenities (tent camping typically has minimal facilities while cabins/RV sites offer more comforts), weather protection (tents are more exposed to elements), setup time (tents require assembly), and price (tent camping is generally more affordable than cabins or RV sites with hookups).
Are there campgrounds near Great Smoky Mountains National Park that are open year-round?
Yes, several campgrounds near Great Smoky Mountains National Park operate year-round. The Ridge Outdoor Resort is a clean, well-maintained year-round option close to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge attractions. Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA Campground also stays open throughout the year, featuring amenities like a heated lazy river and providing convenient access to the park and surrounding attractions. On the North Carolina side, Gateway to the Smokies offers year-round camping with large, private sites located just 7 miles from the North Carolina entrance to the park. While most in-park campgrounds close during winter months, these nearby private campgrounds provide alternatives for visitors seeking to experience the Smokies during the quieter off-season months.
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