Glamping and camping options abound within a 45-minute drive of Alcoa, Tennessee, situated at the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains at 869 feet elevation. The area experiences moderate seasonal variations with summer temperatures averaging 85-90°F and winter lows around 28°F. Tent sites in this region typically provide more seclusion than RV sites, with most campgrounds offering access to multiple trailheads and waterways.
What to do
Mountain biking on closed roads: Cades Cove Campground offers a unique biking opportunity when they close the loop to motor vehicles. "On certain days they close off the loop of Cades Cove for bicycles to be able to ride. At the store near the campground they rent bikes for a reasonable rate. We took the entire family on the loop bike ride. This was so much fun," shares Jeremy H.
Tubing in Little River: Townsend Great Smokies KOA offers direct river access for water activities. A camper mentions, "We had a great spot on the river. The staff is very helpful and it's beautiful. We spend thanksgiving here every year." Tube rentals are available from vendors within walking distance of the campground.
Explore historical ghost town: Visit the Daisy Town ghost town near Elkmont Campground. "Once you've set up camp, walk or drive down the road toward the Little River and Jakes Creek trails. Follow the signs for additional parking and you'll find yourself at the end of a road lined with assorted cottages and cabins that used to be vacation homes. Some are open for exploration, others are cordoned off," notes a ranger review.
Fishing and paddling: Indian Boundary offers excellent fishing opportunities with lake access. "There is a lake for paddling, swimming, or fishing. For those who like to hike, there is a trail around the lake. One can also use this trail for bike riding," says Jason J. The campground store rents kayaks and paddleboards for day use.
What campers like
Private bathroom facilities: Greenbrier Campground offers exceptional bathroom amenities. "The bath house appeared to be newer, and will trump your home facilities in many cases! Within the bath house, there are several private doors leading to your own 3 piece bath with shelving and granite counters with outlets, and a stunning double shower," explains one camper.
Wildlife viewing: Cades Cove provides excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. "This is a very unique spot in the smokies. I have never seen more black bear. It was a very safe distance we watched them about a football field away across a field pretty amazing experience," reports Ashley Y. Early mornings and evenings offer the best viewing times.
Firefly viewing: Elkmont is famous for its synchronous fireflies in late spring. "This is also the viewing area for the synchronous fireflies in late May/early June (dates vary; parking passes by lottery in April) if you don't have a campsite reservation," notes a visitor. Viewing requires advance planning as parking passes are distributed by lottery each April.
Upscale outdoor accommodations: Little Arrow Outdoor Resort offers premium glamping options near Alcoa. "If Pottery Barn made a campground...This is a BEAUTIFUL outdoor resort with five star amenities, truly. The grounds are well appointed, landscaped, and maintained. The community firepit with rocking chairs around it looks like it came out of a Martha Stewart magazine," describes Jenny J.
What you should know
Site selection considerations: At Elkmont, choose your loop carefully. "I was in site A14, beside a branch of the Little River with a large tent pad, fire ring, picnic table, and paved, slightly sloped, parking pad. It was a compact site; the location of the picnic table between the tent and fire ring made it a challenge to set up a screen house over the picnic table and maintain sufficient distance from the fire."
Wildlife precautions: Bear safety is important throughout the region. "Very strict rules regarding food storage and park has managed to control bears and raccoons," explains Kim L. about Elkmont. Most campgrounds require all food and scented items to be locked in vehicles overnight.
Seasonal planning: Peak tourism affects traffic significantly. "Approx 20 miles from main visitor center. The scenic drive increases congestion and traffic," notes Kim L. about Cades Cove. Visit popular attractions early morning or evening to avoid crowds, especially during summer and fall color season.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds near major roads experience traffic noise. "When the noise of the amusement parks and traffic dies down you get about an hour of peace before the food warehouse on the other side (about 50 yds) starts loading trucks non stop through the night," reports a camper at Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Gateway RV Campground offers excellent facilities for children. "The bath house was clean (and warm!) it was cold, so we didn't get to use the playground, but the kids really wanted to use it!" mentions Hannah P. The campground provides a swimming pool and playground within a secure environment.
Swimming options: Indian Boundary offers a beach area ideal for families. "Great beach area and they rent SUP and kayaks. I would highly recommend booking your next adventure at this campground!" shares Tiffney B. The swimming area features a gradually sloping sandy entrance suitable for younger children.
Activity planning: Cades Cove provides good opportunities for family engagement. "This is a great campground, but can get a little busy. That doesn't make it good or bad, but you need to know what to plan for. If you want nature and solitude, go somewhere else. If you want nature, love community, and want someone for your kids to play with, this is perfect," advises DrDavid P.
Rainy day alternatives: River Plantation RV Resort offers indoor options when weather doesn't cooperate. "This resort had a lot of great activities from a lazy river to GaGa ball. Most sites are back-ins and the roads are gravel. But everything is well maintained," notes Gordon K. The arcade room provides additional entertainment during inclement weather.
Tips from RVers
Level sites: Mountaineer Campground provides well-prepared sites. "All driveways shaded, paved, and level. Very pleasant place," notes a reviewer. However, another camper mentions: "Our neighbor had to loan blocks to set camper," so bringing leveling blocks is still recommended.
Quiet vs. active options: Townsend offers a more peaceful alternative to busier areas. "If you're going to go to Smokie Mountain National Park, this is the side to stay on. Gatlinburg is absolutely nuts while Townsend is about 1000% calmer," recommends Steve D. The Townsend area provides easier access to the park with less traffic congestion.
Connectivity challenges: Cell service varies widely throughout the region. "We needed to work and do school while there and the Verizon cell service was limited and the WiFi signal was not great at our rig. The Lizard Lounge has a separate WiFi but you have to be inside or just outside to use it," reports John about Townsend Great Smokies KOA. Consider downloading offline maps and information before arrival.
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds have year-round dump facilities. "The nearest dump station is a seasonal one at the Sugarlands Visitor Center (doesn't open until late May); the one at Cades Cove is open year round," advises a camper. Plan accordingly for longer stays or when traveling in shoulder seasons.
