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Established Camping

Cataloochee Group Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Warning 1 Alert is In Effect

There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!

Abrams Creek, Big Creek, Balsam Mountain, Cataloochee, Cosby, and Look Rock campgrounds are closed. We regret any inconvenience. The parks largest campgrounds are currently open: Cades Cove, Elkmont, and Smokemont. Deep Creek will open as planned on April 18.

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Cataloochee Group Campground is located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, featuring forested terrain and mountain views. Weather in the area typically ranges from highs in the 80s Fahrenheit during summer to lows in the 20s during winter. Nearby attractions include the historic Cataloochee Valley, known for its wildlife viewing opportunities and historic buildings.

Fee Info

Group Facility (including Cabins and Lookouts): Customers who cancel a group overnight facility reservation less than 14 days before the arrival date will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee. Customers that check out early or do not plan to use their reservation MUST contact the campground office the day they leave or are due to check in, in order to receive a refund. Refund requests for early departure or non use of the site made AFTER the reservation has ended will be denied. Office phone numbers are given in the Facility Contact information for each campground.

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Location

Cataloochee Group Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park is located in North Carolina

Detail location of campground

Directions

Exit I-40 at exit 20, 25 miles west of Asheville, NC (87 miles east of Knoxville, TN). Turn right onto Cove Creek road 1/10 mile from I-40. Follow Cove Creek Road to the Park boundary. The road goes from pavement to gravel to pavement. Upon reaching the pavement the second time, turn left. Go 2.5 miles and turn right onto a dirt road after crossing a bridge. Go 1 mile to group camp gate..

Address

3576 Ranger Station Road
Waynesville, NC 37876

Coordinates

35.65066678 N
83.07384502 W

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Connectivity

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Detours Nearby

LOCAL FAVORITES PRESENTED BYToyota Trucks
FS 289 Pull Off

FS 289 Pull Off

50 min away

Greenheart Forest

Greenheart Forest

1 hr 26 min away

Drive Time

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Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group
  • Tent Cabin

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Reservable
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

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5.0

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1 Review

Reviewed Mar. 19, 2024

Off the Grid

This is a great campground if you like to disconnect. To road in is a narrow gravel road so be prepared if you're not used to that. If you are used to that you'll love the ride. If you come in from the north around Big Creek and down the old Chattahoochee highway you're in for a real treat. Once you get to the campground turn off your phone it won't work there!!! That's great when you're camping!!!

  • Review photo of Cataloochee Group Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park by Jim M., March 19, 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

What activities and attractions are available at Cataloochee Park?

Cataloochee Valley offers spectacular wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly for elk, which are frequently spotted in the meadows during early morning and evening hours. The area features historic buildings including preserved cabins, a church, and a schoolhouse that showcase mountain life from the early 20th century. Hiking trails range from easy walks to challenging backcountry routes. Fishing is permitted in the streams with proper licensing. Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the scenic mountain vistas and abundant wildflowers in season. The isolated location with minimal light pollution also makes it excellent for stargazing. Be prepared for the narrow gravel access road, which adds to the remote character of this less-visited section of the national park.

How do I make a reservation for Cataloochee Group Camp?

Reservations for Cataloochee Group Campground are required and can be made through the National Park Service's recreation.gov website or by calling their reservation line. The group sites typically accommodate 7-25 people per site. It's advisable to book well in advance, especially during peak season (spring through fall), as these sites are limited and fill quickly. Reservation fees must be paid at the time of booking, and cancellation policies apply. Contact the Great Smoky Mountains National Park visitor center for the most current reservation details and group size requirements.

What facilities are available at Cataloochee Group Campground?

Cataloochee Group Campground offers primitive camping facilities designed for groups seeking a disconnected outdoor experience. The campground provides basic amenities including vault toilets and designated camping areas. There are no showers or electrical hookups available. Potable water is accessible at the campground, though campers should confirm availability seasonally. Each site includes a fire ring and picnic table. The rustic setting emphasizes natural surroundings rather than modern conveniences, making it ideal for those looking to truly unplug and enjoy the wilderness.