2 campgrounds with availability this weekend
Tent campers around Bryson City, North Carolina, can find good spots throughout the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Cheoah Bald Campground has flat areas for tents and sits close to the Appalachian Trail, which attracts many hikers. The tent sites are fairly spread out with trees between them for some privacy. Bathroom buildings aren't too far from most tent areas, though distances vary depending on which site you choose. The national park has built tent pads that work well for different sized tents, from small backpacking models to larger family ones. Most of the ground is smooth without too many rocks or roots to deal with when setting up. You can park pretty close to the tent sites, so you won't have to haul your gear very far. The tree cover provides good shade for most sites, which helps during hot days. It's smart to book ahead, particularly in summer and fall weekends, since the Smokies get busy and sites fill up quickly.
"Cosby is a small town about a 45 minute easy drive from Gatlinburg. Heavily wooded, lends itself nicely to hammock camping."
"Most of the sites are better suited to tent campers, though a few of them are designated RV sites offering a back-in parking pad."
from $50 / night
"It is located right off of US Highway 441 just 7 miles to the North Carolina Entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park."
"We went to the Tsali biking trails, tubed down Deep Creek, and hiked around in the Smokies. It was perfect. We already have our next visit booked. Thank you!!"
Available this weekend
from $45 - $50 / night
"Primitive campsite on trail near highest mountain peak. There were several primitive campsites in close proximity. Our campsite had a large metal bear box in which you could store food and packs."
"The only way to get to the site is to hike in for several hours on one of the many trails that get you up the mountain."
"Double Island Remote Campground Fontana Lake in the Smoky Mountain National Park is available by watercraft only. There are boat ramps in the surrounding area that provide access."
"This is a campsite at the peak of Cheoah bald along the AT and a short way off of the Bartram trail. We came up on this peak while hiking the Bartram a year and a half ago."
from $4 / night
"About a year and half ago my wife and I backpacked a 50 mile section of the Bartram trail over 4 days and on the last night of the trip I proposed to her on top of a mountain."
"Addendum for spring is that it can get overgrown so be prepared to watch closely for the trail markers."
LegendBeautiful campground with all the amenities. If you like rustic in the woods this is not your place, but they advertise what they are. Top dollar for top service and gorgeous sites. All the frills if that’s what you want. We love both. Lots of grass for dogs and good dog parks if that’s important.
TravelerNext door to trolley depot, and Old Mill heritage. Walking path along river. Walking distance to shops. Nice camping spots, clean showers and bathrooms. Lots of kids amenities, pool open most of the time.
GuideI'm excited about visiting this place and being secluded by all the greenery and enjoying the sound of silence… I heard it was a wonderful place to visit and stay!
TravelerWe have stayed here several times over the years. It's nothing fancy but it is on the creek, sites are level and spaced fairly good. Kids have a pretty good play area and like to feed the goats. Love the tubing access!
TravelerMy family and I stayed here for our first ever family trip since we’ve all been grown - 5 kids, 3 boyfriends/husbands, 2 parents, 1 dog, so much fun. My parents stayed in one of the rentable RVs and my mom booked the 2 campsites next to each other on the little “island” for the kids, which gave us awesome privacy. The running water was amazing to listen to at night. My biggest complaint is the road noise, it’s close to an occasionally busy road for that area. Big 18 wheelers and motorcyclists using the road at times. But the campsite itself was beautiful and had so much open sunshine. They had recently added a bathhouse with 2 toilets and a shower, which was great. I will be back here.
GuideThis location can’t be beat. Nestled between Asheville and Brevard, close to Pisgah NF and Sierra Nevada brewing! We loved the access to fishing here, even though we didn’t catch anything. The streams were pristine, the campground very well kept and the hosts were kind. And our dog obviously loved it!
TravelerWe were probably lucky, but we drove in on a Monday and found a nice site with the creek/stream burbling in the background. Yes, there is dirt entrance/road and traffic, but not much and way quieter than family campgrounds. This site is my perfect idea of an amazing free off grid camping spot.
TravelerBeautiful spot in the smoky mountains. State park style amenities, no showers. No hookups. Very busy very open campground. Nice that some trails are walking distance from campground. I would not camp here again as I prefer more separation and privacy. No cell service. STARLINK is usable but obstructed with tree canopy
GuideDrove 5 hrs from our last campground to here for event Campground was very well maintained and liked the site. Wasn’t overly crazy about the event not a lot of vendors mainly jeeps went to a few local shops in town had a great lunch at the cookie dough monster.
Camping around Bryson City ranges from primitive backcountry sites to established campgrounds within Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The region sits at elevations between 1,800 and 6,600 feet, creating distinct microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the year. Summer temperatures typically stay between 70-85°F during the day, while spring and fall camping requires preparation for nighttime temperatures that can drop below 40°F.
Hiking on the Appalachian Trail: Access multiple trailheads near Cosby Campground, where you can connect with the AT. "Several wonderful hikes right out of the campground," notes Molly K., who regularly camps in the area. The Mount Cammerer Trailhead offers particularly challenging terrain with substantial elevation gain.
Fly fishing in backcountry streams: Site 65 provides direct access to Noland Creek for fishing. "It is a great place for solitude and fly fishing," according to Myron C., who hiked the Benton-MacKaye Trail to reach this remote campsite. Pack lightweight gear and check local regulations before fishing.
Water activities at Fontana Lake: During summer months when water levels are higher, boat-in camping at Double Island offers a unique experience. "More fun while boating when the water level is up prior to Labor Day," explains Dennis A., who has camped there multiple times. The island requires watercraft access and check-in at Fontana Dam Boat Ramp.
Solitude away from crowds: The less-visited areas provide peaceful camping experiences. At Cosby Campground, "Much quieter than the other campgrounds in the park," according to Molly K. Tricia L. adds, "Arrived close to dark and had our pick of gorgeous, wooded sites - even on a weekend in July."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The mountains support diverse wildlife populations. Dennis A. notes that at Double Island, "We did see more wildlife including bear when the level was down as they had to travel down to the low level shore." Always follow proper food storage guidelines in bear country.
Stream-side camping: Many sites feature natural water sounds that enhance the camping experience. At Bartram Trail Backcountry, Asher K. found "a beautiful spot right along a stream and in a very secluded area. There are also plenty of trees further down the trail to hang your food for the night."
Water availability varies by location: Not all campgrounds have reliable water sources. At Site 67, Myron C. advises, "You will need to take water unless you have a good water filtration system." Research water access before your trip.
Bear precautions are essential: Bear activity occurs throughout the region. "Bears have been present in the area, so you also want to make sure you do not eat near your tent or leave garbage that would attract them," Myron C. cautions about Site 67.
Permits required for backcountry camping: Most sites within the national park require advance permits. Lynn G. noted about one location, "Campground use is via the Check-in Stations, there is one at Fontana Dam Boat ramp." Rangers regularly patrol to verify permits during peak season.
Choose established campgrounds for amenities: Families often appreciate the infrastructure at developed sites. Janine B. says about Cosby, "The campsites are well maintained as well as the bathrooms. Please note than none of the campgrounds within GSMNP have showers." She adds, "On Fridays they have special Ranger programs."
Select sites with nearby activities: Gateway to the Smokies offers convenient access to regional attractions. Liz L. shares, "This campsite is a great base camp. We went to the Tsali biking trails, tubed down Deep Creek, and hiked around in the Smokies."
Check for pet restrictions: Pet policies vary significantly. Janine B. points out, "Note that dogs are welcome in the campground but not on the majority of the trails." Gateway to the Smokies allows pets at their sites, making it more accommodating for families camping with animals.
Research access roads carefully: Many campgrounds have challenging approaches. Michael G. notes about Gateway to the Smokies, "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."
Consider generator policies: Not all sites permit generators. Michael G. explains, "Generators are allowed with no restrictions unless there is other campers on property then quiet times are from 10pm-7am."
Look for convenience features: Small amenities can make a big difference. Michael notes, "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!"
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping amenities and facilities are available at Bryson City tent sites?
Tent camping amenities around Bryson City vary by location. Big Creek Campground offers large tent pads, firepits, picnic tables, and lantern poles at each site, with nearby restrooms but no RV access. Cosby Campground provides basic flush toilets with toilet paper, but no showers. Many sites feature hammock-friendly wooded surroundings with clean sites and strategically placed bath houses. Some campgrounds like Ammons Branch are more primitive with minimal facilities. National Park campgrounds typically include tent pads, fire rings, picnic tables, and access to water sources. For those seeking an unusual experience, Greenheart Forest focuses on healing and offers a unique camping environment within Pisgah National Forest.
Where are the best tent camping spots in and around Bryson City, NC?
Bryson City offers excellent tent camping options for all preferences. Gateway to the Smokies provides spacious, private tent sites on large acre plots just 7 miles from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park entrance. For a more remote experience, Blue Valley Dispersed Camping offers secluded sites with minimal traffic on dirt roads. If you're willing to venture slightly further, Ammons Branch Campground provides tent-friendly sites along curvy mountain roads that aren't suitable for large RVs. The area surrounding Bryson City features numerous options within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, perfect for tent campers seeking different levels of amenities and wilderness experiences.
Where can I buy camping supplies and propane in Bryson City?
Bryson City has several options for camping supplies and propane. There's a Dollar General near Burrells Ford area that carries basic camping supplies and some food items. For more specialized camping gear, Bryson City Outdoors in downtown offers equipment, supplies, and local knowledge about the area. Propane can be purchased at local hardware stores, gas stations, and at the Ingles supermarket. If staying at Ammons Branch Campground or other remote sites, it's advisable to stock up on supplies before leaving town, as the mountain roads can be curvy and remote. For emergency supplies during your stay, several small convenience stores dot the highways around Bryson City.
Keep Exploring
