Best RV Parks & Resorts near Great Smoky Mountains National Park

North Carolina's Great Smoky Mountains National Park draws millions of visitors annually for its unbridled beauty and free admission. Expect long entrance lines but know that your experience will make it all worthwhile.

Great Smoky offers 10 front-country camping locations for tents and RVs. For those looking for a longer trek, the park has a host of backcountry campgrounds at just $4 per night. Ideally, you camp in the park. However, as this is the most visited national park, you may have to make other plans. If you can’t stay in the park, the best camping near the Great Smoky Mountains is usually found in the nearby national forests. If you’re looking for something with more amenities, the eclectic city of Asheville, NC is where you’ll want to be.

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Best RV Sites Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park (325)

    1. Riverbend RV Park-Campground

    1 Review
    Franklin, NC
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 524-7846

    $25 - $50 / night

    "Great campground for RVers near downtown Franklin, NC. The campground itself is not very large but it is well maintained and provides a great option to camp with an RV."

    2. Creekside RV Park

    14 Reviews
    Pigeon Forge, TN
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (865) 234-4101

    $55 - $72 / night

    "Gravel sites with a concrete pad for picnic table. Many sites are narrow, but accommodating and plenty to space between sites. Sites on the back section near creek bed are beautiful. Full hook ups."

    "Clean showers and restrooms. Very quiet. A little tight, but nice picnic tables and cement slab patios. Would come again."

    3. Riveredge RV Park

    17 Reviews
    Pigeon Forge, TN
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (877) 881-7222

    "The sites are level and the people super friendly. The pool and church services were an added bonus. With it being 4th of July the owners hosted a cook out with some awesome food."

    "It was close to where we wanted to be and got us out of traffic quickly. As an added bonus it was also near a donut shop that we had a gift card for. It was convenient, clean and compact."

    4. Up the Creek RV Camp

    19 Reviews
    Pigeon Forge, TN
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (865) 453-8474

    "The sites are decently sized, with picnic tables, fire rings and cement pads for basic sites, and tables and chairs with larger fire pits at premium sites."

    "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."

    5. Twin Creek RV Resort

    9 Reviews
    Gatlinburg, TN
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 252-8077

    $112 / night

    "Awesome RV resort. Had a river stream right out the front door. Clean, quiet, heated pool, and close to downtown and Sugarland gate. Definitely recommend."

    " This campground is located on the Parkway in Gatlinburg, so it is a short drive or trolley ride to the heart of town."

    6. Anchor Down RV Resort

    48 Reviews
    Sevierville, TN
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (877) 784-4446

    $49 - $139 / night

    "The Amenities - Bath House, restrooms and laundry are the finest I have ever encountered."

    "This RV resort had everything we needed. Water, electric and sewage hookups. We had access to cable TV, although we don't have a TV in our camper."

    7. Little River Campground & RV Resort

    11 Reviews
    Townsend, TN
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (865) 738-3665

    $30 - $160 / night

    "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."

    "Neighbors will be close but pull through was easy. Peaceful “little river” and lots of shade. Great location for day tripping to several great hikes in the Smokies."

    8. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Camp-Resort Yogi Bear in the Smokies

    8 Reviews
    Cherokee, NC
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 929-3791

    "The facility was clean and well kept although the road leading up to the park left a lot to be desired, rundown shacks, garbage and broken down cars in yards. The staff was pleasant and helpful."

    "They have an amazing playground with an activity center. They always hold events for families. They have everything you could possibly think of. Staff is wonderful."

    9. Pigeon Forge RV Resort

    10 Reviews
    Pigeon Forge, TN
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (865) 428-5841

    $55 - $130 / night

    "Very nice facilities and campground. Onsite laundry, showers, heater saltwater pool with slide, dog park, store, pizza place, daily trash pickup, very stable wifi you can stream with."

    "This was our first time camping with our new travel trailer and we wanted to make sure we had an accommodating area. This ground was perfect!"

    10. River Plantation RV Resort

    11 Reviews
    Pigeon Forge, TN
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 758-5267

    $30 - $71 / night

    "Centrally located near Dollywood about half way between Knoxville and Gatlinburg.  Close to many restaurants and activities for all ages.  The lots are gravel and level with full hookups. "

    "The campground is family friendly, very clean, and easy to maneuver your camper through. We love this campground."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 325 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


RV Park Reviews near Great Smoky Mountains National Park

2313 Reviews of 325 Great Smoky Mountains National Park Campgrounds


  • 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!

  • 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.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 1, 2022

    Creekwood Farm RV Park

    Beautiful grounds on creek

    Great campground, fair amount of sites on creek, park like setting. Pull through sites for big rigs interior, full hookups include, cable, good wifi, good cell service. Great location to explore the quieter side of the smokies, Maggie Valley, Waynesville, Cherokee, Blue Ridge parkway, etc.

  • Harold W.
    Jun. 16, 2018

    Creekwood Farm RV Park

    Nice spot on the creek

    Many creek side spots. All are back in. 30,50 amp power, sewer and cable TV hookups.

    Reliable wi fi and good cell service. Spotless bath house with private shower,toilet sink.

    laundry and community dining area with themed events. Premium sites have a permanent fire ring, concrete patio and fire wood for first night.

  • A
    Sep. 18, 2021

    Pisgah National Forest Davidson River Campground

    Hiking, Waterfalls, Fishing, Biking + Even Ice Cream

    OVERVIEW

    • No Water/Sewer Hookups on Any Site

    • Electric Hookup Sites Limited 

    • WiFi/Cell Signal Limited[Booster Recommended]

    • Kid Friendly

    • Dog Friendly

    • Bath Facilities On-site

    LOCATION

    The location is incredible! We enjoyed the accessibility of hiking, biking and fishing right from the campground. ART LOEB trailhead is right outside the campground entrance and is excellent for hiking and mountain biking. Several loops and even sites provide access to the river for fishing. Just outside the campground are endless trails and several beautiful waterfalls that can be accessed within a 5-15 min car ride. Convenient to a few restaurants, grocery stores and even a Walmart (which is slightly dodgy so be warned).

    SITE

    014 WOAK site is an RV site. It’s spacious and very private. We loved how much room we had to spread out and entertain as we were traveling with several other camping families. Our site was the go to spot! Backing in wasn’t difficult. It was convenient that the pull through site across from us was vacant, this made backing in super easy. There are no hookups on this site. So be sure you have a generator! One bonus on the location of this site is the water access just feet away. We needed to fill up and had forgot to do so when we pulled in to the campground. What a relief to see a water access just steps from the campsite! The only downside was that generator hours are very limited. If you are traveling during warmer months or must have AC, this is not the site for you. We felt that the tree coverage really provided us protection from the heat and did very well without AC in early August.

    ACTIVITIES

    • Slide Rock is a natural water slide that is fun for the whole family. Yes… it’s COLD and honestly worth every moment of chilly suffering.

    • Hiking is abundant and all levels are accessible within minutes to a few miles of the campsite. Our favorites are: Looking Glass Falls (steps going down make this a breeze), Moore Cove Falls is a MUST and an easy trail that leads to the perfect waterfall for a good photo, Looking Glass Rock is a moderate to difficult hike and worth it. Looking Glass Rock is a long hike so be prepared to go early and bring a rain jacket.

    • Fishing right within the campground makes it perfect for an early morning or late afternoon activity. The hatchery is nearby and offers some wonderful opportunities to catch and release. Be sure to look in to a guided tour for a hands on experience filled with lots of educational info on local fish.

    • Biking is a top activity for lots of overnight and day campers. The Art Loeb Trail provides endless miles that proves fun for the whole family.

    • Ice Cream at Dolly’s should make your list if you love a refreshing treat. This iconic little stop if right by the entrance to the Pisgah Forest and just around the corner from the campground. Also a great spot for a cell signal!

    • Breweries aren’t hard to find nearby. Small microbreweries are within a few minutes and Sierra Nevada Brewery is 25 minutes away.

    DON’T FORGET

    • Generator (in case your site doesn’t offer electric)
    • Headlamps and Flashlights (tree coverage is heavy so it gets darker faster)
    • Fishing Poles
    • Rain Jackets (it rained almost daily in the afternoon)
    • Cordless Leaf Blower (for removing leaves from slide outs)
  • Meg  S.
    Jul. 1, 2015

    Cades Cove Campground

    Beautiful and Quiet in the Fall, Tons of Wildlife

    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. Remember to keep your food well locked, this is black bear territory, and since many people can't follow simple directions, and do feed the wildlife, the black bears in the smokies are not afraid of people, and associate them with food. There is some nose pollution from the generators. No electricity, no showers, no cell service, perfect for a weekend getaway into the wild.

  • Cristy M.
    Jul. 21, 2018

    Townsend-Great Smokies KOA

    Right outside of Great Smoky Mountain National Park

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

    You have a choice of "rustic" tent sites, tent sites with water/electric/cable hook-ups, RV, or Cabins. All sites are pet-friendly including cabins. All camp sites include fire pit and picnic table.

    Lots of amenities are included in your stay. 2 bathroom areas, 1 shower area, pool, wi-fi, etc.

    There's a general store in front of the campgrounds with gas station and small cafe attached. The general store will even deliver your purchased firewood to your site.

    This Koa is near a lot recreational places and some restaurants. Also near towns like Gatlinburg, Pidgeon Forge and Knoxville.

    A nice vacation spot.


Guide to Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Experience the beauty of RV camping near Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina, where stunning landscapes meet well-equipped campgrounds.

RVers appreciate clean facilities and convenient hookups

  • At Greenbrier Campground, guests enjoy spacious sites with electric hookups and clean, private bathrooms.
  • Deep Creek Campground offers a peaceful atmosphere with simple yet clean facilities, including cold water bathrooms and a dump station.
  • Camp Riverslanding features well-maintained restrooms, a pool, and riverfront sites perfect for relaxation.

RVers like these nearby activities

  • Enjoy tubing and fishing at Deep Creek Campground, where the river provides endless fun for families.
  • Greenbrier Campground is conveniently located near hiking trails and offers a free trolley service to Gatlinburg for easy access to local attractions.
  • At Whispering River RV Resort, guests can explore scenic trails along the river and enjoy fly fishing right on-site.

Some prices for RV Parks range from $30 to $60

  • Rates at Greenbrier Campground are competitive, making it an affordable choice for families looking to enjoy the Smokies.
  • Camp Riverslanding offers reasonable pricing for riverfront sites, ensuring a great value for a memorable camping experience.
  • Kirkland Creek Campground and Cabins provides a charming setting with prices that cater to various budgets, perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the size restrictions for RVs in Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

Great Smoky Mountains National Park generally accommodates RVs up to 40 feet in length, though specific limits vary by campground. Melton Hill Dam Campground provides easy access for large rigs, with campers reporting good experiences with 40-foot fifth wheels. For those with larger RVs, Little Arrow Outdoor Resort just minutes from the park offers large, paved pull-through buddy sites specifically designed for big rigs. When planning your trip, it's advisable to check the specific size restrictions for your intended campground and consider the narrower, winding mountain roads within the park that may present challenges for larger vehicles.

What amenities are provided at RV campgrounds in Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

RV campgrounds inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park offer basic amenities but lack full hookups. Just outside the park, Creekwood Farm RV Park provides full hookups including 30/50 amp power, sewer, and cable TV, plus reliable WiFi and good cell service. Many sites feature creek-side locations with permanent fire rings and concrete patios. For a more upscale experience, Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA Campground offers large, level sites with full hookups in a resort-like setting that caters to every need. Inside the park itself, expect more rustic facilities with restrooms, drinking water, and fire grates, but limited or no hookups, dump stations, or internet connectivity.

When is the best time of year for RV camping in Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

The optimal time for RV camping in Great Smoky Mountains National Park is late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October). These periods offer mild temperatures, reduced crowds compared to summer, and spectacular natural displays—spring wildflowers or fall foliage. Summer months provide full access to all campgrounds but come with higher humidity, afternoon thunderstorms, and peak visitation. Gateway to the Smokies offers year-round access just 7 miles from a park entrance, making it convenient for off-season visits. Tuckaleechee Campground provides a peaceful retreat during busy seasons when you want proximity to the park without the crowds.

What RV campgrounds are available inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers limited RV camping options within its boundaries. Cades Cove Campground is one of the primary options inside the park that accommodates RVs, offering a rustic camping experience surrounded by abundant wildlife and beautiful hiking trails. The campground is well-maintained with helpful staff. For those seeking alternatives just outside the park, Townsend-Great Smokies KOA is located just 10 minutes from a park entrance and provides both rustic and hookup sites. Most RV-friendly campgrounds with full amenities are located in the gateway communities surrounding the park rather than within its boundaries.