GSMNP Campgrounds

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers several campgrounds, providing a range of experiences from deep backcountry sites to more developed frontcountry options.

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Here are details for some of the more popular campgrounds within the park:

Frontcountry Campgrounds:

Cades Cove:

Location: Near Townsend, TN on the Cades Cove Loop Road.
Amenities: Flush toilets, drinking water, a camp store, and bicycle rentals. No showers or hookups.
Sites: 159

Elkmont:

Location: Near Gatlinburg, TN.
Amenities: Flush toilets and drinking water. No showers or hookups.
Sites: 220

Smokemont:

Location: Near Cherokee, NC.
Amenities: Flush toilets, drinking water, and horse stables nearby. No showers or hookups.
Sites: 142

Cosby:

Location: Near Cosby, TN.
Amenities: Flush toilets and drinking water. No showers or hookups.
Sites: 157

Deep Creek:

Location: Near Bryson City, NC.
Amenities: Flush toilets and drinking water. No showers or hookups.
Sites: 92

Look Rock:

Currently, Look Rock Campground is not operational (as of my last update in 2021). It’s always a good idea to check the current status before planning a visit.

Backcountry Campgrounds:
The park offers a plethora of backcountry sites for those seeking a more remote experience. These require a permit and often involve hiking several miles to reach. A few popular ones include:

Mount LeConte Shelter
Double Spring Gap Shelter
Spence Field Shelter
Laurel Gap Shelter

Horse Camps:
For those with horses, there are a few campgrounds specifically designed for equestrians:

Anthony Creek
Big Creek
Cataloochee
Round Bottom
Tow String

Reservations and Fees:
Frontcountry campgrounds, group campgrounds, and horse camps all require reservations. The cost varies by campground and season. Backcountry sites require a permit, and there’s a fee associated with obtaining one.

Additional Notes:

There are no gas stations, showers, or convenience stores within the park, so plan accordingly.
Food storage regulations are in place to prevent wildlife interactions, especially with black bears. It’s crucial to follow these rules for the safety of both humans and animals.
Always check for seasonal closures, especially during winter months, when some campgrounds might be closed.

For the most accurate and updated information, reservations, and specific details on individual sites, it’s always best to consult the official National Park Service website or contact the park directly.