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Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Great Smoky Mountains National Park

2,804 Reviews

Elkmont Campground's well-shaded tent sites accommodate pets throughout its 220 campsites near Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Pet owners must keep dogs leashed at all times while exploring the campground's wooded surroundings and riverside areas. Sites are spacious enough for tents, small RVs, and pet equipment, with the creek-side locations particularly popular for cooling off dogs during summer months. The campground features a river running through it where dogs can wade in the cool water after a day of hiking. Several campground loops offer different experiences for pet owners, with the no-generator L loop providing a quieter environment for sensitive pets, while the G section sites place campers right by the water.

Dogs have access to numerous hiking trails directly from Elkmont Campground, making morning and evening walks convenient for pet owners. Campers particularly appreciate the Little River Trail for pet exercise, though wildlife encounters require keeping dogs securely leashed. The nearby ghost town area provides additional walking paths through historic structures where many campers take their dogs for exploration. Proper pet waste disposal is essential throughout the park, as rangers actively enforce these regulations. The central location allows quick access to other pet-friendly areas in the park, including Cades Cove and trails near Gatlinburg. Weather considerations affect pet comfort, with the park's significant rainfall and humidity requiring extra preparation for pet camping. Despite the lack of showers or electricity, the natural surroundings and creek access make this one of the most popular dog-friendly camping options in the national park system.

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Best Dog-Friendly Sites Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park (402)

    1. Elkmont Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    124 Reviews
    Gatlinburg, TN
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (865) 430-5560

    $30 / night

    "Elkmont is a huge campground in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. They have plenty of sites for tents and RVs. There is a camp store, showers, and restrooms."

    "This campsite is in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and is one of the biggest and busiest. **Yay: this is a fairly typical big national park campground in many ways."

    2. Cades Cove Campground

    98 Reviews
    Townsend, TN
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (865) 448-4103

    $30 / night

    "Rustic camping, with tons of wildlife in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Well cared for, nice staff. Beautiful hiking trails, convenient store with bike rentals and wildlife watching."

    "**This campsite is in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and is one of the biggest and busiest."

    3. Greenbrier Campground

    70 Reviews
    Gatlinburg, TN
    12 miles
    Website

    $35 - $258 / night

    "_

    Greenbriar is located near the Greenbriar entrance of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, very near the arts and crafts district of Gatlinburg."

    "Greenbriar campground is located in Pittman Center, west of Gatlinburg, adjacent to the Great Smoky Mountains. The campground is certainly one of the nicest camping spots I’ve n the area."

    4. Smokemont Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    53 Reviews
    Cherokee, NC
    11 miles
    +1 (828) 497-9270

    $30 / night

    "Building a fire was next to impossible. I think there might have been thirty minutes without rain, so pictures are limited."

    "Smokemont is a great campground in the North Carolina side of the Smoky Mountains. It is a perfect base camp to enjoy this amazing national park."

    5. Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA Campground

    55 Reviews
    Pigeon Forge, TN
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (865) 453-7903

    "Stayed hear as a family while traveling through the are on a road trip from northern Minnesota to North Carolina, years ago."

    "Very kid friendly, pet friendly (Kamp K9), lots in the area to go do and see. Pools, hot tub, kitchen, firewood for sale, fishing access, snack bar, cable tv, and WiFi."

    6. Deep Creek Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    29 Reviews
    Bryson City, NC
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 488-3184

    $50 / night

    "I have been to several campgrounds in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and this is one of my favorites except for one thing. I don’t like the bathroom facility."

    "I have been camping at Deep Creek for nearly four decades. We absolutely love tenting creekside! Advise a WAGON for hauling stuff from vehicle to site because these are NOT drive up spots."

    7. Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    70 Reviews
    Cosby, TN
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (423) 487-2683

    $50 / night

    "Of all the no-frills campgrounds in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this one falls on the more basic end of the spectrum and the low cost reflects it."

    "Cosby is great if you want to explore the eastern section of North Carolina sections of the park."

    8. Townsend-Great Smokies KOA

    28 Reviews
    Townsend, TN
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (865) 448-2241

    "The River is flowing behind the park, open to Tubers (Rental from the office), great outdoor playground and pool."

    "Amazingly clean campgrounds 10 minutes from the entrance of the National Park and 20 minutes from the Visitor's Center."

    9. Cherokee-Great Smokies KOA

    25 Reviews
    Cherokee, NC
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 497-9711

    "We stayed here in order to visit both Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Wheels Through Time museum."

    "The campground has many amenities including an indoor pool and hot tub (unfortunately not open while we were there), a playground, a dog park, laundry facilities, a nice general store, on-site bike and"

    10. Cades Cove Group Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    27 Reviews
    Townsend, TN
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (865) 448-4103

    $50 - $94 / night

    "My dog and I enjoyed 4 nights here. The sites are well spaced and the tent pad is even. The bathrooms could use an update but I was just happy they’re flush toilets! There are no showers."

    "There is a camp store with firewood (you are required to buy it from an authorized location!). Nice roomy campsites, but not as much plant cover as at Elkmont in my experience."

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Recent Dog-Friendly Camping Photos near Great Smoky Mountains National Park

299 Photos of 402 Great Smoky Mountains National Park Campgrounds

Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Great Smoky Mountains National Park

2804 Reviews of 402 Great Smoky Mountains National Park Campgrounds

  • Meggers B.
    Apr. 16, 2022

    Little Arrow Outdoor Resort

    Upscale and quiet

    Little Arrow Outdoor Resort is an upscale campground located just minutes from Great Smoky Mountain National Park. The campground has several different types of accommodations. We stayed in a large, pull-through buddy site, a space that accommodates two RVs. Buddy sites are paved and have hookups for both RVs. We loved the covered cabana with outdoor string lights, a cooking area with a sink, and a large table and chairs because it was the perfect place to hang out with our friends who shared the site with us. Our dogs' favorite part of the campground was our site's turf grass patch. Everything, from the facilities, decor, and signage to the pavilion, nature trail, and gift shop, has personalized touches, which add to the experience. 

    I enjoyed Townsend and the campground so much that I won't ever stay close to the Gatlinburg side of the national park again.

  • Lisa C.
    Sep. 19, 2022

    Little River Campground & RV Resort

    Such a gem!

    Husband and I wanted to get away and found this campground- it is such a gem! You can't see it well from the road, but there is a huge sign out by the road. Trust it! You're in the right place. You drive across a small bridge across the Little River when you get to the campground, but it can handle big rigs. We saw many massive Class A campers while we were here for 6 nights. We pull a 30 ft travel trailer and used a pull through site- very large spot as far as rv sites go. They have back in spots for campers and tents literally on the bank of the river and you're allowed to swim, play, tube, etc in the river at your own risk. Camp store has firewood and a few essentials, but they don't sell propane. We got ours filled at the Tractor Supply in Alcoa, TN nearby. They had crafts and hayrides while we were here. Wifi is free but not great. Verizon cell service was good enough at 3 bars the whole time. No on-site laundry services, so we had to go into town to use laundromat (nearby town of Townsend is adorable but no laundromat). The grounds offer tent, cabin, and rv sites with various levels of electric, water, cable and sewer access. Our site had 30amp, water, sewer and cable. Nice and level site, large fire pit, sturdy plastic and metal picnic table and large beautiful mature trees. The bathhouse is seriously impressive and is, by far, the nicest campground bathhouse I've ever used! One of my favorite features was random and I never knew I was missing it in my life until now.. the bathrooms have strong AC pumping right into each bathroom, making everything nice and cool when you come in from the hot campsite.. wonderful! Good view of the mountains in the distance and minutes away from Great Smoky Mountain National Park entrance. This is a wonderful find!

  • Lisa C.
    Sep. 19, 2022

    Tuckaleechee Campground

    Now called Little River Campground, absolutely wonderful!

    Husband and I wanted to get away and found this campground- it is such a gem! You can't see it well from the road, but there is a huge sign out by the road. Trust it! You're in the right place. You drive across a small bridge across the Little River when you get to the campground, but it can handle big rigs. We saw many massive Class A campers while we were here for 6 nights. We pull a 30 ft travel trailer and used a pull through site- very large spot as far as rv sites go. They have back in spots for campers and tents literally on the bank of the river and you're allowed to swim, play, tube, etc in the river at your own risk. Camp store has firewood and a few essentials, but they don't sell propane. We got ours filled at the Tractor Supply in Alcoa, TN nearby. They had crafts and hayrides while we were here. Wifi is free but not great. Verizon cell service was good enough at 3 bars the whole time. No on-site laundry services, so we had to go into town to use laundromat (nearby town of Townsend is adorable but no laundromat). The grounds offer tent, cabin, and rv sites with various levels of electric, water, cable and sewer access. Our site had 30amp, water, sewer and cable. Nice and level site, large fire pit, sturdy plastic and metal picnic table and large beautiful mature trees. The bathhouse is seriously impressive and is, by far, the nicest campground bathhouse I've ever used! One of my favorite features was random and I never knew I was missing it in my life until now.. the bathrooms have strong AC pumping right into each bathroom, making everything nice and cool when you come in from the hot campsite.. wonderful! Good view of the mountains in the distance and minutes away from Great Smoky Mountain National Park entrance. This is a wonderful find!

  • Davina B.
    May. 9, 2019

    Elkmont Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    Great place to base a Smokies trip!

    Elkmont is a huge campground in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

    They have plenty of sites for tents and RVs. There is a camp store, showers, and restrooms. They provide potable water access. Some sites do have electric hookups for medical needs, which are also handicap accessible. Most site are primitive sites with no water or electric hookup available. Some loops do allow the use of generators during certain hours. Pets are allowed in the campground, but not on the trails.

    This campground has great access to hiking and fishing, as well as wildlife viewing.

    We spent our weekend trip hiking and enjoying the butterflies that fill the park in September.

  • Ember M.
    Jul. 4, 2024

    The Ridge Outdoor Resort

    Beautiful campground in the Smoky Mountains

    Clean, well maintained campground close to everything Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge has to offer.

    Also super close to Great Smoky Mountains National Park which we enjoyed during our visit.

  • Michael G.
    Mar. 8, 2021

    Gateway to the Smokies

    Small Family Owned Campground with two very large and private campsites.

    Gateway to the Smokies is a small family owned and operated campground with two very large and private campsites on over an acre of land. It is located right off of US Highway 441 just 7 miles to the North Carolina Entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. There is a Dollar General located right across the highway which was very convenient for refilling coolers with ice. They also sold propane, charcoal for the grill, drinks, snacks and any thing you'd need for camping! Site 1 sits along the creek and is a walk-in Tents Only campsite with a 16' tent pad. Site 2 is up the hill on a nice grassy area large enough to turn around a 1/2 ton size pickup truck and 20' travel trailer without having to back up. Both sites have a fire pit, park style grill, and a picnic table. There is also a shared portable toilet located near the site 1 parking area. There is no potable water and no hookups but I'm sure you could boil water from the creek. Generators are allowed with no restrictions unless there is other campers on property then quiet times are from 10pm- 7am. Verizon service worked fine w 3 bars of service. Great spot for exploring the NC side of the Smoky Mountains. Saved money using Dyrt Pro Discount compared to other apps the property is listed on.

  • M
    Oct. 1, 2016

    Deep Creek Tube Center & Campground

    Love the tubing and hot showers

    yea technically you are just outside of the great smoky mountain national park, but its so much fun here. Great spot to be on the NC side of the smokies. Hot showers and a big variety of camping options. Hook ups, tents whatever you need! Small enough to be quaint and quiet! Reserve early!

  • Dennis A.
    Dec. 23, 2018

    Double Island — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    GSMNP Remote Island Available by Watercraft

    Available by watercraft. Remote Island in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park.

    Check - In is available at the Fontana Boat Ramp.

    This is two Islands at high water. One at low pond after Labor Day. There are a couple of places to setup tents or hammocks. There are no services

  • Marshall P.
    Apr. 14, 2021

    Up the Creek RV Camp

    Highly recommended if you’re visiting the Smoky Mountains

    What a great park.

    From the well maintained and equipped sites and the trolly stop for transportation downtown to the good WIFI and beautiful creeks on each side, we would highly recommend this campground.

    We spent four days here while exploring Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Great Smoky Mountain National Park, and surrounding areas.

    The registration office was closed while we were there due to COVID but that didn’t change anything for us.

    The only things that could make this better would be laundry on site, a larger dog area, and possibly a camp store but with everything that is located so close by, it is not a big need.

    We much prefer this to the campgrounds on the strip because it felt secluded but was still close enough to not miss a thing.

Guide to Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Discovering the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with your furry friends is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors. Several pet-friendly campgrounds in the area offer a range of amenities and activities that cater to both you and your pets.

Pet owners like the variety of amenities available

  • Elkmont Campground features picnic tables and allows pets, making it a great spot for family outings with your dog.
  • Cades Cove Campground offers a peaceful environment with drinking water and fire pits, perfect for a cozy evening with your pet.
  • Greenbrier Campground is known for its clean facilities and proximity to nature trails, allowing you and your pet to explore the beautiful surroundings together.

Tips for camping with dogs near Great Smoky Mountains National Park

  • Always keep your dog on a leash while at Cosby Campground to ensure their safety and the comfort of other campers.
  • Bring plenty of water and snacks for your pet, especially when hiking from Cades Cove Campground, where trails can be long and challenging.
  • Make use of the trash disposal facilities at Indian Creek Campground to keep the area clean and safe for wildlife and pets alike.

Pet-friendly campgrounds include great activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Are dogs allowed in Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

Dogs are allowed in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, but with significant restrictions. They must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times and are only permitted in campgrounds, picnic areas, and along roads. Dogs are not allowed on most hiking trails, in the backcountry, or in most buildings. Elkmont Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Look Rock Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park both accommodate pets within these park guidelines. Always clean up after your pet and never leave them unattended.

Where can I find dog-friendly camping in Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

Within Great Smoky Mountains National Park, all developed frontcountry campgrounds permit leashed dogs, including Deep Creek Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Remember that dogs must be leashed at all times and cannot be left unattended. While dogs can stay at these campgrounds, they're prohibited on most hiking trails inside the park, so plan your activities accordingly. These campgrounds offer basic amenities like potable water and restrooms, making them suitable for campers traveling with pets.

What family-friendly camping options allow pets near Great Smoky Mountains?

Several family-friendly campgrounds near Great Smoky Mountains National Park welcome pets and offer excellent amenities. Little Arrow Outdoor Resort is an upscale option just minutes from the park with pull-through buddy sites perfect for families. Tuckaleechee Campground offers a tranquil setting with river access, ideal for families with pets. Other pet-friendly options include Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA Campground with amenities like a heated lazy river, and The Ridge Outdoor Resort, which is clean, well-maintained, and conveniently located near Gatlinburg attractions.

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