The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Cosby. Cosby is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Find the best campgrounds near Cosby, TN. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.
Located eight miles from Gatlinburg, Tennessee, Elkmont Campground is the largest and busiest campground in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. At an elevation of 2,150 feet, the area enjoys a moderate climate, characterized by mild winters and hot, humid summers.
The Little River runs through the campground offering visitors the option to camp waterfront. Campers can enjoy high-quality backcountry fishing in the cool waters of the Little River and countless other streams and rivers that snake through the mountains. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a hiker's paradise, with over 800 miles of maintained trails ranging from short, leg-stretchers to strenuous treks, with a number of those trails easily accessible from Elkmont Campground. The nearby and popular Laurel Falls Trail leads to a spectacular 80-ft. waterfall. Hiking and fishing are not the only reasons for visiting the Smokies: Picnicking, wildlife viewing and auto touring are popular activities. With around 1,500 bears living in the park, it's not uncommon for visitors to spot one. From the big animals like bears, deer, and elk, down to microscopic organisms, the Smokies are the most biologically-diverse area in the world's temperate zone. The park is a sanctuary for a magnificent array of animal and plant life, all of which is protected for future generations to enjoy. The park also holds one of the best collections of log buildings in the eastern United States. Over 90 historic structures, including houses, barns, outbuildings, churches, schools and grist mills have been preserved or rehabilitated in the park.
Generations of campers have returned to Elkmont year after year, drawn by the sounds of the river, the tranquility of the forest, and the variety of recreational activities in the Elkmont area. Little River and Jakes Creek run through the campground, offering easy access for fishing or cool summertime splashing. Trailheads for Little River Trail, Jakes Creek Trail, and Elkmont Nature Trail are located adjacent to the campground. Historic remnants of Little River Lumber Company's logging camp and old buildings from the Elkmont resort community offer campers a glimpse of life at Elkmont nearly a century ago.
Gatlinburg, one of the Smokies' most famous tourist towns, is located about nine miles from Elkmont and offers organized rafting trips, museums, restaurants, galleries, an aquarium, skiing and more.
$30 / night
Greenbrier Campground TN is surrounded by the Little Pigeon River and offer RV sites, tent camping, RV rentals, cabins, and bell tents. Located only 6 miles from downtown Gatlinburg and 8 miles from the entrance to the GSMNP, we are convenient to all area attractions.
$35 - $258 / night
This KOA campground in Pigeon Forge is perfectly located to take everything the Great Smokies has to offer. Spend the day taking in the local area attractions such as Dollywood theme park, Dolly Parton's Stampede, Wonderworks, or the Old Mill just to name a few. Pigeon forge is bursting with over 70 attractions the whole family will love. Gear up for an adventure of hiking, fishing, biking or driving in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The options here are endless! For a home away from home, try our fully furnished Deluxe Cabins or Camping Cabins. Park your RV at our Pull-Thru RV Site with KOA Patio®, all with free cable and Wi-Fi. Pitching a Tent? We have beautiful waterfront sites conveniently situated with picnic tables and fire rings. Whatever accommodation you choose, you can rest assured you will enjoy your stay in this beautiful location. Explore our abundant entertainment options such as the NEW Gravity Rail, pan for fossils and gems at our Gem Mine, play at the NEW Playground, rent bikes or play in the zero-entry pool complete with a Rain Tree. There's even a safe place for Fido to play within the Kamp K9® Dog Park. As your day winds down, settle in to watch a movie at the Outdoor Cinema, sit around the Community Fire Pit or relax in the Hot Tub.
Over 2 million visitors annually come to enjoy the scenic beauty of Cades Cove and its many historic structures. Popular activities here include hiking, biking, touring the 11-mile Cades Cove loop road and observing wildlife. Whether blanketed in bright wildflowers in the spring or vivid colors in the fall, the scenery at Cades Cove never disappoints.
The Great Smoky Mountains are a hikers paradise and visitors to Cades Cove Campground love the 5-mile roundtrip hike to Abram Falls. From Cades Cove Loop Road, follow the signage at the turnoff for directions to the trailhead. Although Abrams Falls is only 20 feet high, the large volume of water rushing over falls more than makes up for its lack of height. The long, deep pool at its base is very picturesque. The trail to the falls traverses pine-oak forest on the ridges and hemlock and rhododendron forest along the creek. The waterfall and creek are named for Cherokee Chief Abram or Abraham whose village once stood several miles downstream. A nearby horse stable provides one-hour horseback rides as well as hay rides and carriage rides from March through October, offering recreational activities for the entire family. Campers can also enjoy high-quality backcountry fishing in the cool waters of the countless streams and rivers that snake through the mountains, with trout available in abundance.
Cades Cove is a broad, verdant valley surrounded by mountains and is one of the most popular destinations in the Great Smokies. It offers some of the best opportunities for wildlife viewing in the park. Large numbers of white-tailed deer are frequently seen, and sightings of black bear, coyote, ground hog, turkey, raccoon, skunk, and other animals are also possible. For hundreds of years Cherokee Indians hunted in Cades Cove but archeologists have found no evidence of major settlements. The first Europeans settled in the cove sometime between 1818 and 1821. By 1830 the population of the area had already swelled to 271.
The park holds one of the best collections of log buildings in the eastern United States. Over 90 historic structures, including houses, barns, outbuildings, churches, schools and grist mills, have been preserved or rehabilitated in the park, a few of which are easily accessible from the Cades Cove loop road. Townsend, located about nine miles away, offers full service grocery stores and fuel.
This location has limited staffing. Please call (865) 448-4103 for general information.
If you plan to arrive at a date later than your arrival date you MUST contact the campground office 865-448-4103 in order to avoid a cancellation to your reservation. If you wish to cancel your reservation the day of your arrival you MUST contact the campground office 865-448-4103 in order to receive a refund. Rules and reservation policies can be found at https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies
$30 / night
$26 - $37 / night
Come to where Mother Nature waved her magical wand and created one of the most natural of all wonders, Natural Hot Mineral Waters. Heated deep within the earth, these crystal clear carbonated waters are world famous for their mineral content and legendary healing powers. We pipe these waters to modern outdoor Jacuzzi type hot tubs that are drained and sanitized after each use. Hot Springs, located in the mountains of Western North Carolina, and cuddled along the banks of Spring Creek and the French Broad River, is a town rich in history and beaming with natural charm, this town serves as an intersection along the historic Appalachian Trail and is part of the Southern Appalachian Mountains. The heart of Hot Springs, North Carolina, is our 100 acre Resort & Spa. We feature modern Jacuzzi style hot tubs, positioned outside along the tranquil banks of Spring Creek and the French Broad River; our tubs are supplied with a continuous flow of World Famous Natural Hot Mineral Water. We have a nationally certified & state licensed staff of massage therapists on hand to compliment your soaks or for separate service altogether. Located across the road from the Mineral Baths is the Hot Springs Campground. Here you can find peace of mind with ease and comfort. We feature eight primitive camping cabins, over a hundred tent sites (primitive, group & sites with partial hook up) & Full RV Hookups. On site comfort station features hot showers (seasonal) and clean bathrooms. Our beautiful grounds play host to several large events per year and we have the capacity for many more. Whether you’re coming off a long hike on the Appalachian Trail or just passing through, you don’t want to miss the charm and beauty of the Hot Springs Resort & Spa. Hot Springs Resort & Spa also offers other lodging options for those looking for a relaxing getaway. We have four luxury suites that have a Jacuzzi style tub with mineral water in the room. We also have a deluxe cabin with a full size outdoor Jacuzzi style tub.
Triple Creek Campground is a family owned and operated campground surrounded by the beautiful mountain creeks of the Great Smoky Mountains. We are a short drive from Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. Most of our campsites are located creekside with large beautiful shade trees. Some of the things you will find at the campground are RV, camper, and tent camping sites, camper nightly rentals, a camp store, tubing, fishing, outdoor games, kids’ playground, outdoor live music, special events, and more. Located around us you will find some of the best home style restaurants, like Carver’s and Janice’s, and hiking trails, like Mt. Cammerer and Greenbrier. The Foothills Parkway, White Water Rafting, Douglas Lake, Chattahoochee Valley, Asheville, NC, Maggie Valley, Cherokee, NC, Hot Springs, and many other places are also located close by. So, come let us help you make the most of your family camping experience. We look forward to seeing you in the coming year!
__Glamping sites are now available at Lake Powhatan! Experience nature and outdoor recreation without sacrificing the comforts and luxuries of home. Choose one of 12 custom designed, fully furnished canvas platform tents in the heart of the national forest for your next mountain adventure, only 10 minutes from downtown Asheville, NC. Learn more about glamping near Asheville . To book your glamping site, click here.__ Located just minutes from the popular city of Asheville, North Carolina, Lake Powhatan has something for everyone. The campground is convenient to a variety of cultural and natural attractions, including art and music venues, shopping and dining in Asheville, scenic driving on the Blue Ridge Parkway, numerous hiking trails and lakeside recreation.
Visitors have a number of different activities to choose from. Kids love the lake's sandy swimming beach and anglers enjoy the calm waters for trout fishing. The French Broad River, popular for fishing, is also nearby. Note that use of personal watercraft is STRICTLY PROHIBITED in the lake due to potential introduction of foreign material to the Lake Powhatan riprarian ecosystem. The forest is known for its hiking and mountain biking trails, several of which are located near the campground.__
Visitors have a number of different activities to choose from. Kids love the lake's sandy swimming beach and anglers enjoy the calm waters for trout fishing. The French Broad River, popular for fishing, is also nearby. Note that use of personal watercraft is STRICTLY PROHIBITED in the lake due to potential introduction of foreign material to the Lake Powhatan riprarian ecosystem. The forest is known for its hiking and mountain biking trails, several of which are located near the campground.__
The campground is situated in a heavily wooded area on the banks of Lake Powhatan in the Appalachian Mountains of western North Carolina. The elevation is 2,200 feet. The surrounding land boasts mile-high peaks, cascading waterfalls and slopes thickly forested with hardwoods and conifers.
For facility specific information, please call (828) 577-7278.
Among the more popular nearby destinations are Sliding Rock, Looking Glass Falls, the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, The NC Arboretum and the Biltmore Estate.
Any cancellations must be taken care of directly with recreation.gov. Note that this facility does not provide refunds for No Shows or incliment weather.
$43 / night
Scout
Spent Labor Day weekend there. Awesome trip! Super clean campground and showers. Lots for the kids to do. Trolley that goes into Gatlinburg. Friendly, Christian atmosphere. Great Sunday service. .
Traveler
That's a great recommendation! Elkmont Campground sounds like a wonderful place to experience the Great Smoky Mountains. The variety of accommodation options makes it accessible to campers of all preferences. Therefore SRSLY Low Carb helps me stick to a diet and it reflects well on my body. I love active recreation. However, I always take care of my diet because I have health problems. Have a nice trip and take care of your health.
TravelerWe had an amazing time, the campground is beautiful and the park rangers were awesome. Hoping to come back soon.
Traveler
If you're looking for peace and quiet, then this is the place to be. Had numerous sightings of wildlife even in the campground. Note... Do not forget to remove the drip pan on the Blackstone!!!! Doing so just erritates the bears.
Scout
This "campground" is two camp sites max being sold as like 6 "LARGE" sites. My brother and I were genuinely confused because it's essentially two group sites with individual sites being grouped together sharing a fireplace. The individual "sites" themselves are not level and barely big enough for a tent. My brother and I took one set of sites and the other person that showed up with small children took the other set of sites thankfully. I'm not trying to be crammed in with other people's small children while I'm camping. Was not expecting that to be a possibility. Any other people had shown up to the campground my brother and I would have just left. The porta potty is an absolute nightmare of spiders and insects. Don't bother opening it. No water supply
Scout
I highly DO NOT RECOMMEND this place. They completely do not respect their guests. I booked a half a year in advance and asked the question if they have a separate bed for each and they assured me they do. Unfortunately, my child ended up sleeping on the table. I tried to ask for an additional mattress or a partial/full refund but they didn’t want to hear me. They offered me to go to the store and buy one for myself. A complete disrespect I drove for six hours to be as disappointed as I had never been in life. Please, beware that coming here you’re going to sleep either on the floor or on the table and the staff doesn’t care about you or do not respect you. People, please do not come here.
Scout
Very tiny cabin, grass overgrown, far distance from pool. We paid in advance for 2 nights but checked out after 2 hours. Very gross, unkept. Because it’s pigeon forge I expected it to be good but it’s disgusting. The videos of JellystonePark show trampolines and water park like activities but this park had one small pool with no parking. Even my kids wanted to leave. Do not go here it is a Huge disappointment!
Scout
Very quiet, secluded and private. I have been out there several times and enjoy it every time. Great people and family.
Traveler
This was a perfect spot to explore the Cashiers and Sapphire area. Owners are super attentive and facilities are clean and well kept.
Guide
We frequently visit this campground for weekend trips as it is close to us. It is easily accessible and does have areas for your garbage but there are no bathrooms which puts a small damper on a family visit. The water is pretty clear and has an abundance of trout so it is great for fishing and swimming.
Scout
Lovely spot near the hot springs but it's for sale now
GuideI was passing through on my way north and this was midway. I picked this site because it met my criteria for quick tent camping and has the awesomely easy instant book feature. More of that please!
The hosts were really great and what they’ve done with the campsite and what they are working on is amazing. The views of the lake were amazing. There is a sitting area and a dock with paddle sport launches. There is a wash house with toilet and sink but no showers yet.
I was tent camping. There were tents/yurts for rent. A few other tent campers, a full size RV motorhome and a camper van. There was plenty of room and it was peaceful and quiet.
Scout
Very clean and well maintained. The staff is very nice and helpful. Location is perfect if you want to enjoy all Gatlinburg has to offer yet have a quiet, peaceful place to rest and relax. We have always had the pull through sites and they are very easy to pull into. The tree houses, tent sites and retro campers they have set up are adorable and perfect if you have family or friends visiting. We are coming back next month with family!
Guide
Very nice place to camp. The bath houses are kept very clean. The owner is very friendly. The fishing is great and so is the environment. Already looking to book again.
ScoutBooked a place to stay for vacation and ended up having to cancel in enough time for a refund. They said they would do a full refund wait 10-15 business days. Waited the time frame and no deposit was made. Ended up calling and they told us to email someone, emailed said person and haven’t heard anything. Careful if you might end up canceling cuz they will take your money. Just seen another post where the same thing happened with someone.
ScoutIt looks so good so far. Thank you so much for sharing. Have a very good day!
ScoutCampground did not follow advertised online information. No escort to spot, no dog park, no food delivery, just to name a few. It also appears that with the volume of rules you are required to comply with, your camp sites of individuals staying annually should also have to follow. Sites 64, 99 and 102 were a real disappointment to see each day when leaving. The camp spots were so small to be able to park our single vehicle. We were overall disappointed and our bi annual stay in the area, will not include Jellystone.
GuideSuper easy booking, great host communication. This is brand new lakefront campground with tent and RV sites. Currently there are no hookups, conveniently located off I40 and a perfect place to overnight for us. An additional 40 sites are currently being built.
Ranger
We had a lot of fun at our glamping campsite. The gorgeous tent was on a platform and included a large bed and decorated interior. The site had a campfire ring and was close to the bathroom. The platform had some chairs and the campfire wood was there for us.
I did have a bear encounter on my way to the bathroom during the night, but we both just backed away slowly. This was actually the experience that made me pro-camper with a bathroom lol.
The camp host arrived shortly after we did to check in on us and to give us the lay of the land. He fortunately also came around the next morning when our car battery was dead and gave us a jump.
The best thing about Lake Powhatan is the the nice hike around the lake and the fun little lake beach. It’s the perfect size for kids. Plenty of people also seem to enjoy the biking, but it’s a bit uphill for me and there can be a fair amount of cars.
Lake Powhatan is a great little getaway!
TravelerGreat management. Clean grounds; level concrete pads; quiet area and very close to downtown Gatlinburg.
ScoutMy family of five camped three nights at Elkmont the last week of March 2024. High was in the 50's and 60's and low in the 30's. It was windy and cold at nights. I did a ton of research attempting to book a"private" site at this campground--but now I'll share what I have learned-- there are none! We had site A-7, which is"walk-in", but the walk is incredibly short and not far from your car. All of the campsites are extremely close together, and there is no brush to divide them. That said, the campsite is gorgeous and I do recommend it. Despite having no visual privacy, the sound of the rushing water masks all the sounds of talking, etc. and I slept great with the rushing water. Considering the walk-in sites are no more private than any other, I think my highest recommendation would be the B sites. Otherwise try to book any site along the river.
The bathrooms were adequate--sinks and toilets and cleaned daily (no showers). We did one of our hikes from our site--the Little River Trail to Cucumber Gap at it was beautiful. While the technical distance of that loop is 5 and a half miles, it was 7 miles total from our site. I recommend doing Little River Trail first, as it is a gradual uphill on a gravel road. While the wide road is not ideal, it is along the beautiful river. Cucumber Gap trail is single track with some nice views. The final portion of that loop, Jakes Creek Trail to the Elkmont Historic District is STEEP--so I was glad we were going down, not up.
Guide
This is a great campground if you like to disconnect. To road in is a narrow gravel road so be prepared if you're not used to that. If you are used to that you'll love the ride. If you come in from the north around Big Creek and down the old Chattahoochee highway you're in for a real treat. Once you get to the campground turn off your phone it won't work there!!! That's great when you're camping!!!
ScoutMy adventure was quiet and full of stars at night. I liked the clean restroom and bike friendly space
Scout
Stayed a few days and everything was what you expect from a KOA. I've stayed in much nicer KOAs but this is still not bad. The interstate was particularly loud, a bridge on the interstate made for some very loud 'ka-booms' when trucks went over.
RangerThe sites are a little close together, but everything was clean and taken care of. Beautiful views of the river and there are TeePees to rent in the back of the campground as well.
Guide
My wife and I visited Indian Creek from Alabama. The campground was very quiet and clean. There is a creek going through the campground and it so relaxing and pretty. The hospitality received from staff was outstanding. Our site (19 I believe) was very tight but you have to book way in advance to get a nicer spot. Great place overall!
GuideStayed here in the Fall of 2023. It was perfectly quiet at night which was great. The bathrooms are clean and there’s a dish washing room as well. Due to the amount of black bears in the area they’re very vigilant about keeping trash in trash cans (apparently bears break into the bathrooms… so there’s ZERO trash cans in the bathrooms and you have to walk your paper towels or other items to the big dumpsters)
Coming from the Rocky Mountains where black and brown bears are also very active, I was surprised to see that there were no bear boxes of any kind.
This minor complaint won’t affect most people. but to those who need a bear boxe to store items while away from their campsite or perhaps while they’re there, just keep that in mind. 😊
Camping near Cosby, Tennessee, offers a fantastic escape into nature with beautiful scenery and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.
Camping near Cosby, Tennessee, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, you can find the perfect spot for your next adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Cosby, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Cosby, TN is Elkmont Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park with a 4.7-star rating from 121 reviews.
What is the best site to find glamping camping near Cosby, TN?
TheDyrt.com has all 87 glamping camping locations near Cosby, TN, with real photos and reviews from campers.
