I love the Smokies, but I can’t stand the throngs of tourists. Cosby campground solved this conundrum.

Cosby is about half an hour outside of Gatlinburg and worth every minute.

A16 was big and shady. There were a few steps down to it. Plenty of trees and distance to the nearest neighbors. Backs up to a creek, but if you want a spot where you can play in the creek, choose A20.

Bathroom (no showers) and dish sink were an easy walk over.

Cute 1-mile trail for kids. Longer, more interesting ones if your travel companions aren’t whiny.