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Located eight miles from Gatlinburg, Tennessee, Elkmont Campground is the largest and busiest campground in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. At an elevation of 2,150 feet, the area enjoys a moderate climate, characterized by mild winters and hot, humid summers.
The Little River runs through the campground offering visitors the option to camp waterfront. Campers can enjoy high-quality backcountry fishing in the cool waters of the Little River and countless other streams and rivers that snake through the mountains. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a hiker's paradise, with over 800 miles of maintained trails ranging from short, leg-stretchers to strenuous treks, with a number of those trails easily accessible from Elkmont Campground. The nearby and popular Laurel Falls Trail leads to a spectacular 80-ft. waterfall. Hiking and fishing are not the only reasons for visiting the Smokies: Picnicking, wildlife viewing and auto touring are popular activities. With around 1,500 bears living in the park, it's not uncommon for visitors to spot one. From the big animals like bears, deer, and elk, down to microscopic organisms, the Smokies are the most biologically-diverse area in the world's temperate zone. The park is a sanctuary for a magnificent array of animal and plant life, all of which is protected for future generations to enjoy. The park also holds one of the best collections of log buildings in the eastern United States. Over 90 historic structures, including houses, barns, outbuildings, churches, schools and grist mills have been preserved or rehabilitated in the park.
The Little River runs through the campground offering visitors the option to camp waterfront. Campers can enjoy high-quality backcountry fishing in the cool waters of the Little River and countless other streams and rivers that snake through the mountains. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a hiker's paradise, with over 800 miles of maintained trails ranging from short, leg-stretchers to strenuous treks, with a number of those trails easily accessible from Elkmont Campground. The nearby and popular Laurel Falls Trail leads to a spectacular 80-ft. waterfall. Hiking and fishing are not the only reasons for visiting the Smokies: Picnicking, wildlife viewing and auto touring are popular activities. With around 1,500 bears living in the park, it's not uncommon for visitors to spot one. From the big animals like bears, deer, and elk, down to microscopic organisms, the Smokies are the most biologically-diverse area in the world's temperate zone. The park is a sanctuary for a magnificent array of animal and plant life, all of which is protected for future generations to enjoy. The park also holds one of the best collections of log buildings in the eastern United States. Over 90 historic structures, including houses, barns, outbuildings, churches, schools and grist mills have been preserved or rehabilitated in the park.
Generations of campers have returned to Elkmont year after year, drawn by the sounds of the river, the tranquility of the forest, and the variety of recreational activities in the Elkmont area. Little River and Jakes Creek run through the campground, offering easy access for fishing or cool summertime splashing. Trailheads for Little River Trail, Jakes Creek Trail, and Elkmont Nature Trail are located adjacent to the campground. Historic remnants of Little River Lumber Company's logging camp and old buildings from the Elkmont resort community offer campers a glimpse of life at Elkmont nearly a century ago.
Gatlinburg, one of the Smokies' most famous tourist towns, is located about nine miles from Elkmont and offers organized rafting trips, museums, restaurants, galleries, an aquarium, skiing and more.
$30 / night
Welcome to Panther Creek State Park Campground! Nestled near Morristown, TN, this spot is a gem for anyone looking to escape into nature without straying too far from civilization. The campground is open all year and offers a mix of tent and RV accommodations, making it a versatile choice for different camping styles.
One of the standout features here is the variety of trails. Whether you're into hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding, there's something for everyone. The trails might not be marked as well as some would like, but that just adds a bit of adventure to your trek. Plus, there's a fantastic disc golf course and easy access to the lake for boating and fishing.
The campground itself is compact but packed with amenities. You'll find clean, private bathrooms with hot showers, and even a laundry room. The sites vary in size, so make sure to check the lengths before you reserve. Some sites come with sewer hookups, which is a nice perk for RV campers. And if you're into campfires, you'll love the fire pit area near the upper pavilion—perfect for small gatherings.
Safety and cleanliness are top priorities here. The park is well-patrolled, and the facilities are well-maintained. There's even a small store nearby for any last-minute supplies you might need. And if you're an early riser, the visitor center opens at 7 AM.
Wildlife is abundant, so keep an eye out for deer, raccoons, and even the occasional wild turkey. Just remember to secure your food—those raccoons are crafty! Whether you're here for a quick stopover or a longer stay, Panther Creek State Park Campground offers a peaceful, activity-filled retreat.
$26 - $42 / night
Cades Cove Campground, located near Townsend, TN, is a fantastic spot for those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Open from March 11 to October 31, this campground offers a range of accommodations including tent sites, RV spots, cabins, and even glamping options.
One of the standout features here is the proximity to the Cades Cove Loop, a scenic drive that’s a hit with visitors. You can expect to see plenty of wildlife, including turkeys, bears, and coyotes. The campground itself is pretty quiet, especially at night, making it a great place to hear the sounds of nature.
The campground has flush toilets, potable water at the toilet facilities, and a sanitary dump station. While there are no showers or sewer hookups, the convenience of having a camp store on-site makes up for it. You can grab essentials like firewood and ice without having to leave the campground.
For those who love biking, the campground offers bike rentals, and the loop is perfect for a leisurely ride. If hiking is more your speed, there are plenty of trails nearby to explore. Just be aware that cell service is spotty, so it’s a good idea to bring a book or download some shows ahead of time.
Visitors have mentioned that the sites are a bit close together, but the overall experience of being so close to nature more than makes up for it. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Cades Cove Campground provides a great base for exploring the Smokies.
$30 / night
Townsend-Great Smokies KOA is a gem nestled near Townsend, TN, offering a fantastic camping experience all year round. This spot is perfect for those who love the great outdoors but still appreciate some creature comforts. The campground sits right by the Little River, providing a serene backdrop and plenty of opportunities for tubing, kayaking, and fishing.
The sites are well-maintained, with many offering beautiful views of the river. Some even come with private decks and paved patios, making it a cozy spot to relax after a day of adventure. The campground is big-rig friendly, so RV travelers will find it accommodating. Plus, there are options for tent camping, cabins, glamping, and even yurts.
One of the standout features here is the friendly and helpful staff. Visitors consistently mention how the employees go above and beyond to make your stay enjoyable. The bathhouses are kept immaculate, and there's a handy little store on-site for any necessities or a quick ice cream fix.
For families, there's a playground and a pool to keep the kids entertained. And if you're into hiking, the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is just a couple of miles away. Spruce Falls is a must-see if you're up for a short hike to a stunning waterfall.
Bear sightings are not uncommon, so be sure to store your food and trash properly. The campground's laid-back atmosphere and beautiful natural surroundings make it a fantastic spot for a relaxing getaway. Whether you're here for the water activities, the hiking, or just to unwind, Townsend-Great Smokies KOA has got you covered.
Big Creek Campground is located in a remote portion of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Backcountry camping in a front country setting. There are flushing toilets and potable water. This is a tent only campground with a short walk from the parking area. The beautiful flowing waters of Big Creek parallel the campground offering the visitor a pleasant soundscape and peaceful beauty. Big Creek is an oasis for hiking, swimming, wildlife, fishing, and relaxation.__
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a hiker's paradise, with over 800 miles of maintained trails ranging from short, leg-stretchers to strenuous treks. The Big Creek area offers some of the most challenging hikes within the Park. Baxter Creek trail begins near the campground and with an elevation gain of 4200' from trail head to the summit of Mt Sterling provides a strenuous work out for the strongest of hikers. The nearby Big Creek trail offers a pleasant hike along the waters of Big Creek with a beautiful waterfall along the way. Local anglers agree that Big Creek offers some of the best trout fishing in the area. Fly fishing is particularly good during spring months when aquatic insects hatch in large numbers. Wildlife viewing is a popular pastime, and with around 1,500 black bear living in the park, it is not uncommon for visitors to spot one. The park is a sanctuary for a magnificent array of animal and plant life, all of which is protected for future generations to enjoy.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a hiker's paradise, with over 800 miles of maintained trails ranging from short, leg-stretchers to strenuous treks. The Big Creek area offers some of the most challenging hikes within the Park. Baxter Creek trail begins near the campground and with an elevation gain of 4200' from trail head to the summit of Mt Sterling provides a strenuous work out for the strongest of hikers. The nearby Big Creek trail offers a pleasant hike along the waters of Big Creek with a beautiful waterfall along the way. Local anglers agree that Big Creek offers some of the best trout fishing in the area. Fly fishing is particularly good during spring months when aquatic insects hatch in large numbers. Wildlife viewing is a popular pastime, and with around 1,500 black bear living in the park, it is not uncommon for visitors to spot one. The park is a sanctuary for a magnificent array of animal and plant life, all of which is protected for future generations to enjoy.
Located at an elevation of 1,700' Big Creek Campground is surrounded by picturesque mountain ranges and a pristine mountain stream. Black Bear sightings are not uncommon and some lucky visitors may spot River Otter playing in Big Creek.
Nearby attractions include the Cataloochee Valley, Newport, TN, Cosby Campground, Hartford Whitewater Rafting, the Appalachian Trail and the Max Patch/Pisgah National Forest.
For facility specific information, please call (423) 487-2683.
$30 / night
$25 - $50 / night
196 Acres on Norris Lake 12 short-term RV sites with water and electric hook-up ($30 per night) , 13 non-electrical-sites with water hookups ($20 per night).
38 Long-term sites ($350 per month) with winter storage option ($150 per month) Group camp with covered shelter, trails, 2 boat ramps, picnic tables, electric and water hookups and grills-must reserve ($60 per night with a $20 deposit that will be applied to the first night camp fee) Two ADA accessible shower/restroom facilities and 2 other bath facilities Dump station ADA campsite-Must have proof of a disabled occupant Security lights at the campground, boat ramp and along shore. Playground equipment Public Swimming Area Boat Ramp for campers only and a public boat ramp Self-guided nature trails Two Pavilions with grills-must reserve ($35 per day) Camping Season March – November
$20 - $60 / night
Harmon Den is on the Appalachian Ranger District in the vicinity of exit 7 off of I-40. The area is a haven for hikers and horseback riders. It offers 54.5 miles of trails with 14.2 miles of trails designated for horseback riding and 40.3 miles for hiking. ACTIVITIES Camping Hiking: Trail Difficulty Easy: Route is easy to find and follow; trail has less than 8 percent grade; length is less than 3 miles; trail is mostly flat with few rocks. Moderate: Route may or may not be blazed; most of the trail has a less than 20 percent grade; length is usually between 2 and 8 miles; trail may be rocky and have stream crossings. Difficult: Route may require pathfinding skills; most of the trail has a 20 percent or steeper grade; length is usually more than 8 miles; trail is rocky and uneven and may have stream crossings. Horseback Riding: No trace horse hints: Take only fit, calm, experienced animals. Stay on the trail, and ride in a single file. Water horses at natural fords or from a bucket. Keep stock tethered at least 200 feet away from streams and away from trails and campsites. Avoid temporarily tying stock to trees. Use a highline with tree-saver straps to tether your animal. This prevents stock from trampling roots and chewing bark. Break up and scatter manure and fill in pawed holes when breaking camp. Pack some grain, since grazing is limited. Be certain that feed is weed-free to prevent noxious plants from spreading. Hunting: Part of Harmon Den in Haywood County, NC and the area north of US 25/70 to the Tennessee State line are bear sanctuaries where bear hunting is not allowed. Outside the sanctuaries, hunting is popular for bears as well as for deer. While the US Forest Service manages wildlife habitat, the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission regulates hunting seasons and limits. A state license is required for hunting. Every hunter should get a copy of the Regulations Digest from the commission by calling (919) 662-4381 , select "regulations". Picnicking Wildlife Viewing Horse Camping: No trace horse hints: Take only fit, calm, experienced animals. Stay on the trail, and ride in a single file. Water horses at natural fords or from a bucket. Keep stock tethered at least 200 feet away from streams and away from trails and campsites. Avoid temporarily tying stock to trees. Use a highline with tree-saver straps to tether your animal. This prevents stock from trampling roots and chewing bark. Break up and scatter manure and fill in pawed holes when breaking camp. Pack some grain, since grazing is limited. Be certain that feed is weed-free to prevent noxious plants from spreading.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Rutledge, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Rutledge, TN is Elkmont Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park with a 4.6-star rating from 119 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Rutledge, TN?
TheDyrt.com has all 20 equestrian camping locations near Rutledge, TN, with real photos and reviews from campers.
