Are you dreaming of starry skies, crackling campfires, and waking up to the sounds of birds singing in the trees? If so, pack your tent or RV and head to Great Smoky Mountains National Park—one of the most popular camping destinations in the United States.
This amazing park lies on the border between Tennessee and North Carolina. With over 800 miles of trails, stunning mountain views, and rich wildlife, it’s a camper’s dream come true. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to enjoy the Great Smoky Mountains—whether you’re a first-time camper or a seasoned outdoor explorer.
Why Choose the Smokies?
The Great Smoky Mountains attract more visitors than any other national park in America. But what makes it so special?
- Free Entry: Unlike most national parks, there is no entrance fee.
- Beautiful Scenery: Misty mountains, waterfalls, streams, and wildflowers.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Easy hiking trails, historic buildings, and ranger programs.
- Year-Round Access: Each season brings a new kind of beauty—fall colors, spring blooms, summer greenery, and winter snow.
Whether you’re here for a weekend or a whole week, there’s no shortage of things to see and do.
Best Campgrounds in the Park
There are 10 developed campgrounds in the Smokies. All have restrooms, cold running water, picnic tables, and fire rings. However, none offer showers or hookups for RVs, so come prepared.
Here are the most popular spots:
1. Cades Cove Campground
- Location: Tennessee side of the park
- Best for: Wildlife viewing, biking, and scenic drives
- Why campers love it: Cades Cove Loop Road offers some of the best chances to see black bears, deer, and turkeys. There’s also a great bike rental shop nearby.
2. Elkmont Campground
- Location: Near Gatlinburg, TN
- Best for: Family camping, trout fishing, and access to riverfront sites
- Why campers love it: It’s close to town, but still peaceful. The rushing river sounds are relaxing, and there are fun trails just a short walk away.
3. Smokemont Campground
- Location: North Carolina side, near Cherokee
- Best for: Quiet forest camping and horse lovers
- Why campers love it: The nearby Oconaluftee River and horse stables offer relaxing activities. Plus, you can explore old homesteads and historic sites.
4. Cataloochee Campground
- Location: Remote North Carolina area
- Best for: Backcountry feel with car access
- Why campers love it: Fewer crowds and a chance to see elk in the wild. The road to get here is rough, but it’s worth it.
Reservation Tips
Most campgrounds take reservations through Recreation.gov. You can book up to 6 months in advance. In summer and fall, campgrounds fill up fast—especially on weekends. Plan ahead!
Some sites, like Cades Cove, offer year-round camping, while others are seasonal, closing in the winter.
Backcountry Camping
Want a deeper wilderness experience? Try backpacking and backcountry camping. There are over 100 backcountry campsites and shelters throughout the park.
- You must have a permit, which you can reserve online.
- Always follow Leave No Trace rules.
- Watch out for bears! Hang your food or use bear-proof containers.
Popular backcountry trails include:
- Appalachian Trail (AT): Passes through the entire park.
- Mount Le Conte: Incredible views and a rugged hike.
- Forney Creek Trail: Fewer people, lots of water crossings.
What to Bring for Camping in the Smokies
Here’s a basic checklist to help you get started:
Shelter and Sleeping
- Tent or camper
- Sleeping bag (cold nights even in summer!)
- Sleeping pad or air mattress
- Tarp or rain fly
Cooking and Food
- Camp stove or grill
- Cooler with ice
- Food in sealed containers
- Cooking utensils and mess kit
- Trash bags (pack out all waste)
Clothing
- Layered clothing (weather changes fast)
- Waterproof jacket
- Hiking boots or trail shoes
- Extra socks and underwear
Extras
- Flashlights or lanterns
- First aid kit
- Bug spray and sunscreen
- Water bottles or hydration packs
- Map and compass or GPS
- Firewood (or buy it locally—don’t bring wood from home)
Fun Things to Do While Camping
There’s more to the Smokies than just pitching a tent. Here are some activities to enjoy during your stay:
1. Hiking
- Clingmans Dome: The highest point in the park. Drive up and take a short walk to the observation tower.
- Laurel Falls: An easy paved trail to a beautiful waterfall.
- Alum Cave Trail: A more challenging hike with great views and unique rock formations.
2. Fishing
- More than 2,100 miles of streams!
- Trout fishing is especially popular. You’ll need a license from Tennessee or North Carolina.
3. Wildlife Watching
- Best times: Dawn and dusk
- Animals you might see: Bears, elk, deer, turkeys, salamanders, and more
- Always observe wildlife from a distance
4. Scenic Drives
- Newfound Gap Road: Crosses the park from TN to NC.
- Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail: A narrow, winding loop full of old cabins and creeks.
- Blue Ridge Parkway: Starts near the Oconaluftee Visitor Center and offers stunning mountain views.
5. Ranger Programs
- Offered in spring, summer, and fall
- Includes campfire talks, guided walks, and kids’ activities
- Great for learning about the park’s plants, animals, and history
Campfire Safety and Bear Awareness
Nothing beats a night around the campfire—but it’s important to stay safe and respect the park.
Fire Safety Rules:
- Use only designated fire rings
- Never leave a fire unattended
- Fully extinguish with water—not just dirt
Bear Safety Tips:
- Never leave food out, even in your tent or car
- Use provided bear-proof food lockers
- Make noise when hiking to avoid surprising a bear
- If you see a bear, stay calm, back away slowly, and give it space
Black bears in the Smokies are wild and can be dangerous if fed or provoked. Keep them—and yourself—safe by following the rules.
Best Time to Camp in the Smokies
Camping is available year-round, but the best time depends on what you’re looking for:
Spring (March–May):
- Wildflowers bloom everywhere
- Fewer bugs and people
- Be prepared for rain
Summer (June–August):
- Warm and lush
- Perfect for families and kids out of school
- Can get crowded and humid
Fall (September–November):
- Best for fall colors
- Crisp air and beautiful views
- Campgrounds are very popular—book early!
Winter (December–February):
- Peaceful and quiet
- Snow in the high elevations
- Only some campgrounds stay open
Where to Go Nearby
If you need a break from the woods, there’s plenty nearby to explore.
- Gatlinburg, TN: Full of restaurants, shops, and fun activities like Ripley’s Aquarium.
- Pigeon Forge, TN: Home to Dollywood, go-karts, and dinner shows.
- Cherokee, NC: Learn about Native American culture and visit the Oconaluftee Indian Village.
These nearby towns can be great for picking up supplies, grabbing a hot meal, or giving the kids something new to explore.
Thoughts
The Great Smoky Mountains offer a classic camping experience that’s hard to beat. Whether you come with your family, your partner, or just yourself and a backpack, the park welcomes you with open arms—and endless adventure.
You don’t have to be an expert to enjoy it. All you need is a love for nature, a bit of planning, and the excitement to explore. So, grab your gear, reserve a campsite, and let the Smokies show you why so many campers return year after year.
Nature is calling. Are you ready to answer it?