The best camping near Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Great Smoky Mountains National Park adventure.

98% (134 reviews)

Forest trails link campsites with waterfalls and reminders of once-bustling Appalachian communities.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Book externally

Public campgrounds in the park
Book externally

Stay at a public campground in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Elkmont Campground // Photo courtesy of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Warren Bielenberg

100%

(35)

Elkmont Campground

210 sites · RVs, Tents In Great Smoky Mountains National Park

94%

(12)

Cosby Group Campground

3 sites In Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Cooking while at Abrams Creek Campground

88%

(4)

Abram's Creek Campground

16 sites · RVs, Tents In Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Cades Cove Campground

160 sites · RVs, Tents In Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The beginning of low gap trail just up from Cosby.

100%

(12)

Cosby Campground

157 sites · RVs, Tents In Great Smoky Mountains National Park

67%

(4)

Look Rock Campground

68 sites · RVs, Tents In Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Anthony Creek Horse Campground

3 sites In Great Smoky Mountains National Park

98%

(37)

Cades Cove Group Campground

4 sites In Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Great Smoky Mountains National Park

96%

(621)

Low Meadow Farms

19 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Knoxville, TN

Low Meadow Farms (formerly Brown Bike Farms) is a serene four-acre meadow bordered by Burnett Creek. The campground is an easy distance to Downtown Knoxville and an even easier access to all that South Knox's Urban Wilderness has to offer. It uniquely offers a hint of backcountry camping without the 25-mile hike in. It is a great way to test the waters for primitive camping or an easy stop close to the city for a seasoned traveler. It is best suited for car camping, RVs, tent, and hammock camping. There are fire pits and picnic tables at each site with enough room for tents and RVs. Most sites have trees suitable for hammock camping all along the creek. There is potable water, firewood for sale, solar showers, and a bike wash stand all next to the covered communal area. Each standard site can accommodate 2 people to keep space between groups and lessen the impact on the land. Sites 10 and 13 can each accommodate 6 guests. If you have more in your group, we recommend reserving an adjoining campsite. Sites 1, 2 and 3 are off the main path to the left of the property, and still by the creek. Sites 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 are all along the creek and gravel drive Site 10 is very private with creek access on three sides. Site 11 is private with creek access all along the front. Site 12 is up high on a hill, and Site 13 is open in the middle of the meadow.

99%

(614)

Lil Snowbird Farm Primitive Camping

13 sites · RVs, Tents36 acres · Robbinsville, NC

Private property bordering Nantahala National Forest on Little Snowbird Creek in Robbinsville, NC. 16mi from Lake Santeelah, about 10mi from the Cherohala Skyway. MUST HAVE 4X4 OR AWD VEHICLE TO ACCESS MOUTAINTOP CAMPSITES. Property damage fee of $100 for 2WD vehicles not adhering to rule. 2WD vehicles must camp creekside, sites 1-6. NO AXES, HATCHETS, MACHETES ALLOWED ON THE PROPERTY. NO NAILS IN THE TREES TO HANG THINGS. It damages the tree and causes them to die. Spacious camping lots, and great trout fishing along little snowbird creek which is on private property. Fishing privileges are actually written into property owners' deed on the purchase of land. Amazing views and relaxing sounds of the creek can be heard from anywhere on the property. Many Hiking trails are just a short drive from the property and please be respectful of others' property and no trespassing signs. It’s a kinda bumpy mountain road to get there but the secluded, peaceful and breathtaking views make this location a must-see and adventure.

99%

(1315)

Smoky Mtn Mangalitsa River Ranch

15 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents95 acres · Waynesville, NC

Voted 2nd in NC!! We are a Mangalitsa farm in The Smoky Mountains of western NC. The entire property is oriented toward private farmland views, a half mile of river and surrounding mountains. It's really quite remarkable to be so accessible yet feel so remote! Come swim, fish, cook and play! Check out www.smokymtnriverranch.com for more information. PLEASE NOTE, our rate is based on the number of vehicles in your group. The first vehicle is included in the nightly rate and admits 4 campers. WE CHARGE FOR ADDITIONAL CARS. The charge will be added to your booking once you select the number of vehicles at checkout. Please note that each additional car admits four campers. For EXAMPLE, 2 cars = 8 campers total. If you only have two cars but more than eight people, YOU MUST select the "Extra Person" Extra for each night they are camping. Please select these extras at checkout. If you have questions about this PLEASE message me prior to booking. Our 95-acre farm was once owned by the Davis family who predominantly raised dairy cattle. We now raise the wooly Mangalitsa pig and sell to the best chefs and restaurants. We sell our pork at the farm too! All of our campsites are next to running water except the two hilltop sites. Two porta-potties are on the farm and private porta-potties are available for rent. Groups of eight or more are required to rent a porta potty should you not bring your own toilet system with you. We do not allow the use of our small wooded areas as toilets. Please review the Extras options as we offer river lifts, firewood and dog stays; thank you! Quiet hours are from 10pm to 9am. Checking in before 5 pm is requested. Later times may be available with prior arrangements. Our farm is very dark and navigating at night is difficult. Please contact Catherine directly so you can be checked in safely and accommodate your schedule. NO CHECK-INS AFTER DARK. We are 1 mile off of I 40, 17 minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway, 15 min. to Maggie Valley, 10 min to the Elk at Cataloochee, 25 min to Cataloochee ski area, 10 min to Lake Junaluska and 15 min to downtown Waynesville. Asheville is 20 miles to our East.

100%

(154)

Pause || Eco-Retreat at Aramesh

10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents120 acres · Clyde, NC

This no ordinary campground. Your experience will be as if you are exploring your own private mountain nature reserve. Aramesh is 120 acres of Blue Ridge heaven with something for every wilderness adventure seeker: unmatched mountain views, lush old growth forests, babbling brooks, and miles of trails for all skill levels. The property starts at 3700 ft altitude, with summit at 4500 ft on the Glades mountain ridge. We have only a few campsites on the vast property, so the wind in the trees and birds will be all you hear. Come and stay with us and be renewed! Campsites: They are 3/4-1/4 mile from the entrance. Some are accessible by 4WD. There may be some vigorous hiking involved, but the views are worth it. The pads are various sizes. Let us know what the needs of your party are and we can help you choose from the available spots. We also have several more remote “off-menu” sites for those seeking a backpacking adventure - ask for more information if your are interested. Hiking: There are several miles of trails on the property. They range from an easy slope to very strenuous. The entire property is fenced so you won't easily get lost. Your climbing efforts will be amply rewarded by stunning views, especially at sunset. Trail maps are available upon request. On-Site Amenities: we provide a clean porta-potty and running water that is spring fed. We ask that you follow "Leave-No-Trace" procedures during your stay. Off-Site Amenities: If you choose to explore the area : we are a 10 minute drive from I-40 Exit 24. Asheville is 45 minutes away; Waynesville is 25 minutes away. Presnell's Grocery (highly recommended, family-owned store that sells locally farmed products) is 10 minutes away from the property entrance. The Ingles supermarket in Canton is a 15 minute drive. You will find every kind of fast food in that area. There are also several excellent local dining options in Canton, Clyde, and Waynesville which we are happy to recommend to you by request.

98%

(115)

Honeysuckle Springs Smoky Mountains

12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Cosby, TN

Welcome to our beautiful campground nestled in the heart of the Smoky Mountains! This enchanting getaway offers breathtaking mountain views that will leave you in awe. Whether you're a nature lover, an avid stargazer, or a hiking enthusiast, this spot has it all. One of the standout features of our campground is its unbeatable panoramic view of the majestic Smoky Mountains. Imagine waking up to the sight of rolling peaks and vibrant colors painted across the sky as the sun rises. The evenings are equally mesmerizing, with a clear night sky perfect for stargazing. Be prepared to witness a dazzling display of stars that will leave you feeling connected to the universe. Nature enthusiasts will be delighted by the abundant wildlife surrounding the campsite. Keep your camera ready, as you may spot deer gracefully grazing in the nearby fields or catch a glimpse of a majestic eagle soaring through the skies. It's an opportunity to truly immerse yourself in the wonders of nature. For adventure seekers, there are numerous hiking trails nearby, allowing you to explore the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains up close. Whether you're looking for a challenging trek or a leisurely stroll, you'll find the perfect trail to suit your preferences. We understand the importance of comfort during your experience, which is why we provide a well-maintained bathhouse with hot running water. Freshen up after a day of outdoor activities and relax in the clean and inviting facilities. Convenience is key, and our campground is ideally located near two entrances to the Smoky Mountain National Park. This means you'll have easy access to all the park has to offer, from its picturesque trails to its awe-inspiring waterfalls. Adding to the charm of our campground is its historical significance as an old farm. You'll have the opportunity to explore the charming barns and learn about the area's rich agricultural heritage. It's a glimpse into the past that adds a unique touch to your camping experience. We understand the importance of staying connected, even while surrounded by nature. That's why we provide Wi-Fi access, allowing you to share your adventures with friends and family or simply stay connected to the world if needed. While our campground provides a serene and secluded environment, we are just a short 30-minute drive away from the vibrant towns of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. You'll have the best of both worlds – a peaceful retreat in nature and the option to indulge in the attractions, restaurants, and entertainment that these bustling towns have to offer. Come and experience the beauty, tranquility, and adventure of the Smoky Mountains at our camoground. It's a truly unforgettable experience that will leave you with cherished memories and a deep appreciation for nature's wonders. Please arrive by 9:00 p.m. and observe quiet hours after 10:00 p.m. and before 7:00 a.m.

97%

(109)

Jake's Farm

5 sites · Lodging, Tents11 acres · Candler, NC

Jake's Farm is an 11 acre organic farm producing vegetables, small fruits, medicinal herbs and tea ingredients. We began our venture in 1997 and added campsites and treehouses in 1995. The farm is conveniently located 8 miles from West Asheville, 11 miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway and 15 miles from Asheville Regional Airport.

97%

(97)

Appalachian Pond Campground

16 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Waynesville, NC

Get back to nature at this incredible private campground nestled in the Great Smokey Mountains of Western North Carolina! This tranquil campground offers a peaceful place to unwind while listening to the wonderful sights and sounds of nature at its best! There are 11 unique and cozy campsites to choose from as well as a shower and portable potties. This campground has a pond for fishing and swimming, a creek running along the campsites and is surrounded by the most magnificent and beautiful foliage and wildlife! Prepare to have the most peaceful sleep under the glorious celestial stars of Western North Carolina! *We also have a sink for dishes alongside the shower house as well as a drinkable well water spicket in the back of the campground! *We are also located close to stores for your convenience as well as many nearby attractions! * Please contact us regarding pets before booking… *We recommend checking in before 10 pm…. The property gets really dark and hard to navigate at night without being shown where to go! If for any reason you will be getting here later please inform us upon booking so we can plan for your arrival! *During the months from November to April we cannot guarantee our shower will be operational due to freezing temperatures. However, during warm periods during those months we do have our shower available. If you’re looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of life and return to the simplicity of nature this is your spot! We hope to see you soon!!

95%

(287)

Harmony hollow

7 sites · RVs, Tents80 acres · Sevierville, TN

Learn more about this land: Hi and thanks so much for checking out the Harmony Farm . Things available you can enjoy here onsite are a small (seasonal) splash pool , a small take one leave one library , fresh organic vegetables (free) when in season , fresh eggs when available , trails with scenic views , abundant wildlife and natural springs , an outdoor macrame swing , two person hammock , forageable firewood , morels , a hot outdoor showers and EXTRA LARGE sites, . We are conveniently located minutes from Pigeon Forge TN. Home of and only 5 miles from Dollywood and 13 minutes from a super Walmart Incase you forget something . Only a short 30 minute drive gets you to the Great Smoky Mountains national park. I will be happy to share the scenic route . Greenbrier Tn. one of the first settlements here in the National park is only a scenic 30 minute scenic drive from the farm which will takes you through the arts and crafts community while avoiding the hectic hustle and bustle of town . While visiting Greenbrier you can find a picnic area near the river and an outdoor pavilion with a large grill for your special events located there . Several trail heads are located there in the Greenbrier community including Brushy Mountain trail Old settlers trail (several old settlements can easily be found here) Porters Gap trail. There are too many local attractions to list within 15 to 25 minute drive , from horseback riding . tubing, rafting , smoky mountain gravity park to shopping outlet malls . READ !! Be sure to check mypigeonforge.com , pigeonforge.com or gatlinburg.com to find all the local special events calenders as there is at times ALOT of heavy traffic you may not be prepared for . You're welcome . Discounted rides at local riding stables upon request depending on availability . We are accepting tents, hammocks, trucks, with campers, camper vans and pop up campers welcomed also .Small tear drop types ok . We do have sites set up for you or you may prefer to pack your gear out to create your own site in a more secluded areas of the farm . There are many private areas along the creek side for your primitive camp on our 80 acre horse farm. Hike to the back of the farm to watch a sunset over the horse field or down by the stream . Lots of wildlife and scenery at the farm . You will find the laundromat and food venues just minutes away. you can still feel off grid with just a short stroll by the stream that babbles along throughout the 80 acres you will be able to make your playground while visiting the Harmony Farm. Come stay with us as we grow our hip community. Thanks so much for your support.

98%

(201)

Creek side

4 sites · Lodging, Tents18 acres · Hot Springs, NC

Picturesque meadow on what once was a tobacco farm. All campsites are waterfront along the year round babbling creek. Stocked with trout three times a year. Property located very close to Max Patch for hiking or just to watch the amazing sunset. Each site comes with a fireplace, picnic table and charcoal bbq. Porto potty and outdoor shower on property.

98%

(122)

Smoky Mountain Meadows

165 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents57 acres · Bryson City, NC

(Please Note: Hipcamp does not have an easy way to add in Pet and Child fees. You will need to go to EXTRAS and add in number of pets ($5/pet/per night) for cabins and/or number of children ($5/child/night) on all sites SEPERATE from adults when making your reservation. IF YOU DO NOT DO THIS, YOU WILL BE CHARGED $10/NIGHT FOR EACH CHILD INSTEAD OF $5. We will no longer be issuing refunds or store credits for the overcharge.) When you enter Smoky Mountain Meadows Campground, you can leave all the “rush-rush” of your daily life behind. You will find yourself in a beautiful valley with quiet green meadows and a bubbling brook encompassing your surroundings. We are almost half-way between Bryson City and the Nantahala Gorge. We have been host to the Carolina Canoe Club's annual Week of Rivers Event for over 25 years! Thanks everyone! 2023 Season: March 31 – Oct 31 Rules for the Campground 1. 100 % Refund less credit card processing fee if you cancel before 14 days of your arrival date. 50% Refund if you cancel between 14 and 7 days of your arrival date. No Refund if you cancel within 6 days of your arrival date. 2. CHECK OUT: Noon; CHECK IN:Cabins, Campers and Glamping Tents: 2pm All Other Sites: Noon 3. QUIET TIME. Weekdays 10pm – 8am Weekends 11pm – 8am 4. CHECK OUT PROCEDURES. Camp must be broken down by noon on departure day. If you stay past noon you could be charged for an additional day. Extension possible with pre-approval. You must inform the office when you are leaving. 5. All Overnight Guests Must Pay 6. Trash must be taken to the Green Bins located at the lower corner of the upper field 7. No washing vehicles 8. PETS.Must always be kept on a leash. Must be picked up after by the owner. Must never be left unattended (exceptions apply).

99%

(201)

Indian Creek Rental's Mountain Camp

3 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Rosman, NC

Learn more about this land: Enjoy a quiet stay in the mountains of WNC by staying at one of our secluded forest campsites. Thank you for checking out our property! Our names are Clayton and Tiffany, we own Indian Creek Rentals, llc. We have a couple vacation homes also on property as well as a mini farm. We do have approx. 2 miles of hiking trails that you can enjoy straight from Camp. We now have two campsites available to guests. - Site 1 has a hot tub as well as a covered shed to stay dry. - Site 2 is a completely primitive site in the woods equipped with a picnic table and firepit. - Site 3 is a full hookup site nearby Site 1. The two sites together are perfect for group camping if interested. - We currently do not have any bathroom facility or bath house on property. We do plan to build on in the near future. Until then guest are required to bring their own camp toilets. (Bathhouse coming soon) Both sites are pack in/pack out. Happy Camping!

97%

(17)

Turkey Creek Oasis

4 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Leicester, NC

Attention RV and van-lifers, here's your safe haven! Introducing a brand-new listing, and I'm seeking your assistance in navigating the ins and outs of hosting. Located just 25 minutes from downtown Asheville, this property sits in a rural, fertile valley, offering breathtaking views to the north and south. Encompassing a total of 23 acres, 5 of which are nearly flat and ideal for parking/camping, while the remainder provides excellent hiking opportunities. A charming bubbling creek, a storage barn suitable for construction or running a business, and the promise of future hydro-power with solar and a battery bank by the creek add to the property's appeal. For those parking near the main house, a 120v extension cord is available for power and internet access. Alternatively, if you prefer to park by the creek, please note that there is currently no power, internet, or water available in that area, though plans are underway for hydro-power with solar and a battery bank. IMPORTANT NOTE: heavy rains turn this area into a mess, it can be tricky to get in and out after a big rain. You are welcome to park at the top by the barn and walk down with a tent, but your RV could get stuck, so keep that in mind. Anticipate future offerings with RV power hookups. Presently, the amenities are somewhat rustic, serving as a trial to gauge interest. Composting outhouse is available now!. Rainwater and shallow well water are provided. Looking for a place to park your vehicle while you convert it into your home on wheels? Happy to set that up with power, water, and even a barn in which to work. Feel free to reach out with any questions or suggestions; your input is appreciated!

The best camping near Great Smoky Mountains National Park guide

Overview

About

Campers converge on this park to soak up the lush scenery. But it’s the festive sense of community that makes camping in the Great Smokies so memorable. The busiest campgrounds border some of the prettiest natural attractions in the park, from creeks tumbling over mossy rocks to meadows teeming with wildlife. Tranquility reigns supreme in the remote campgrounds, where nature immersion begins the moment you step from your car. Backcountry tent sites hug far-flung trails while wooden shelters dot the Appalachian Trail (AT), which tracks the lofty spine of the park between Tennessee and North Carolina and passes Clingmans Dome.

Great Smoky Mountains RV Camping

The Great Smoky Mountains stretch from North Carolina to Tennessee, so RVers have their choice of state, site, and scenery. Within the national park itself, RV campers can pick between frontcountry campsites with running water and toilets to RV lots with picnic tables and firepits. Yet for even more variety, check in to an RV campsite in Gatlinburg, Bryson City, or the area's other charming towns. To conserve your energy for hiking, opt for an RV site with full hookups and dump stations that make your camping trip as easy as possible. Or, for a more communal camping experience, try an RV resort with picnic areas, a pool table, and ample opportunities to mingle with fellow campers. No matter where you stay, take the Smoky Mountains to heart by creating smoke in your firepit. With a s'more in hand and mountains in view, you’ll experience the beauty of the forest in full force.

Notable campgrounds

Best for wildlife watching: Elk and turkey roam meadows near Cataloochee Campground.
Best for hiking: Several good trails link to Cosby Campground.
Best for history buffs: Abandoned cabins and churches border the scenic loop road beside the year-round Cades Cove Campground.

Tips for snagging a campsite

The national park service manages nine developed frontcountry campgrounds. Reservations are required for all frontcountry campgrounds and are available up to six months in advance. Walk-up reservations may occasionally be available at larger campgrounds, but don’t count on it.
Campsite reservations can be made online or by phone.
A permit and advance reservations are required for backcountry camping, including at the park’s 15 AT shelters. Reservations and permits may be obtained up to 30 days in advance. AT hikers with special thru-hike permits do not need shelter reservations.

When to go

Campgrounds reach peak capacity from late June through August. The Wildflower Pilgrimage in late April and the synchronous firefly display in late May and early June also draw crowds. Flame azaleas bloom on Andrews and Gregory Balds in June. The park is busy again in autumn when the leaves begin changing color, which is typically in October. Fall weekends are particularly busy. For pleasant weather and lighter crowds, visit in early June and in September. Snow and ice arrive in January and February.

Know before you go

The park sprawls across two states: Tennessee and North Carolina. Newfound Gap Rd/Hwy 441 is the only paved road within the park that links the two states.
There are no restaurants in the park, but snacks and limited groceries are available at concession areas at Cade Cove and Elkmont campgrounds.
Campgrounds have restrooms with toilets and cold running water but no showers. RVs are allowed at all campgrounds except tent-only Big Creek. There are no electrical or water hook-ups.