534 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Camping in the Del Rio area of Tennessee includes both primitive and developed options, with sites set among the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains and near Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Round Mountain Campground, located in Del Rio, offers rustic tent and RV camping from April to November in a secluded forest setting. Other nearby options include Long Creek Haven with riverside sites and Fox Fire Riverside Campground along the Pigeon River in Hartford, about 15 minutes from Del Rio. The region encompasses both National Forest and National Park lands with varying levels of development.
The camping season typically runs from spring through fall, with most developed campgrounds closing for winter. Round Mountain Campground features basic amenities with vault toilets but no drinking water, making it suitable for self-sufficient campers. Many visitors note the rustic nature of camping in this area, particularly at the National Forest sites. Water levels on the Pigeon River can fluctuate significantly due to controlled releases from nearby dams, particularly affecting riverside campgrounds. A camper noted, "Very primitive campground but great for a night's stay while exploring the Pisgah National Forest."
Several visitors highlight the tranquility of camping in the Del Rio area, particularly at Round Mountain where the forested setting creates a secluded experience. One visitor described it as "very cool, rustic, and secluded" while noting its convenient location just a few miles from panoramic views at Max Patch. Riverside campsites receive consistently positive reviews, with campers appreciating the sound of flowing water. The area provides good access to hiking trails in both the Cherokee National Forest and Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Though some campgrounds are relatively basic in terms of amenities, the natural setting compensates with scenic beauty, creek access, and forest surroundings. Road noise can be an issue at campgrounds near Interstate 40, though many find the sound of flowing water helps mask this disturbance.
"Drive in is a nice paved road, got our information on where our sites where from the Camp Host, Who was super informative."
"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."
from $50 / night
Check Availability"With mountains in the distance and the constant rush of the French Broad River, the setting is awesome. Even the occasional train whistle gives me a feeling of nostalgia and of simple days."
"The bathhouse (clean private showers and private bathrooms) was a 1/4 mile walk from our spot, but a Porta John was close by. Our particular spot had a lot of shade and easy access to the river."
"Had a blast at The Greenbrier Campground in Gatlinburg Tennessee. We had a view of the river which was right next to.our campsite."
"The campground is surrounded by a little river so many sites have river views. Most are relatively spacious. There are also a few spots on the road side of the island. The amenities were spotless."
from $35 - $258 / night
Check Availability"This is a great little campground in the Smokey Mountains in Tennessee."
"Plenty of area to walk the dog and a nice open field with a pavilion you could use for groups. The tent area was down by the river and was absolutely beautiful."
from $30 - $40 / night
Check Availability"NIce campground with a gated entrance, very safe. Beautiful location. Excellent tent sites on creek. RV sites are ok, narrow and your fire ring is so close to next RV, we were uncomfortable using it."
"Triple Creek Campground lives up to it’s name being surrounded by 3 Creeks. We stayed here over Labor Day weekend in 2020 and although it was completely full, it didn’t feel crowded."
"The camp is beautiful and you are surrounded by the magical sounds of rushing water. There are two creeks nearby, one big and one small. We spent one day simply enjoying the campground."
"Many sites have direct access to the creek where you can cool off on a hot day. Plenty of trails near campground. Parking was not far from site."
from $30 / night
Check Availability"The Tennessee and NC sides each have great things to offer. Just feel that the NC side has more smaller campgrounds and is generally a little more quiet and laid back. Go NC!"
"This: Access to Cataloochee is via a narrow, winding, mountain road. A 3-mile stretch of gravel road contains many narrow, blind curves."
from $30 / night
Check Availability"picnic table, rocky terrain, a legit fire ring with two grill options, and a nice packed tent pad didn’t get lucky tonight as far as neighbors go, super loud and annoying groups at two of the sites nearby"
from $7 / night
Check Availability"Perfect spot near the national forest and not too far from the great Smokey mountains national park. The property has flat spots to park your rig right next to the creek and it’s very peaceful."
"Close to lots of attractions and easy to find. Oh…and they’re right about the showers."
from $35 - $55 / night
Check Availability"Location is excellent, borders the national park.
On the con side, though dogs are allowed, no cleanup bags provided, and no trash bins for dog waste at all, not even at dog run.""Tucked away in the Smokey Mountains with a friendly and helpful staff. Restrooms are clean with good water pressure. Camp ground well kept with easy to access connections."
TravelerCrowded with small sites. Saturated grassy and muddy area all around our site. Way over priced! Staff was polite and helpful with replacing 50amp breaker at the shore connection.
ScoutThe main road can be quite noisy. Though the local authorities do what they can to keep it down. The creek is by far the best thing about the campground.
GuideEverything is new after Helene came through. I liked the park, and the staff was very helpful. Sometimes vehicles on the bridge near the dam could be noisy. After exploring Great Smoky Mountains National Park each day, I was too tired to care. It's conveniently located and I'd stay here again when I'm in the area. There were Canadian geese, otters, and nesting bald eagles in the area.
ScoutVery nice campground with very good sites easy to back into and pretty level
TravelerIf I was reviewing for just the location and how beautiful it was I’d give a 4 stars for a dispersed campsite however your neighbors do impact your experience.
The site itself I really loved. I was about 200 -300 feet from where you park your car right off the road (the roads by the way are definitely passable by most vehicles but keep in mind I was there in May). While there was alot of traffic going by (cars and bicyclists) the way it was set up it gave more privacy than most especially if you put your tent in the right place.
It was nice to have some distance between the car and the campsite with the large black bear population. Highly recommend keeping all food far from your site and washing any dishes as far from where you sleep as much as you can. Also keep all soaps, perfumes, or toiletries out if your tent. That also attracts.
Wash creek was close by. So accessing water for filtering for use was very easy. I used a 0.01 Micron, 6-Stage, portable BKLES (BKLES Camping Water Filter –... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BGLHX2JK?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share) for the two weeks and had no health issues or otherwise. The water tasted great.
There was a hiking trail that was between the site and the path to the creek. I never saw anyone while I was there (2 weeks) but it’s something to consider if your a solo camper as other campers could easily travel it to access your site without you being aware. I had Portable Outdoor Perimeter Alarm... (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FXGJRD2K?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share) to keep me safe and alert at night which I can’t recommend enough. It ended up saving my life. Towards the end of my stay for the first time all four alarm sensors put in several different places yards apart were going off. It continued off and on for over an hour. I did not risk opening my tent to see what it was.
I decided to go to an air bnb the next night. when I returned my tent was riped in several places and my dewalt tool box I was using for storage had what looked like puncture marks and was opened (full disclosure - I forgot I had some dried chick peas in it). Pretty safe to assume I was visited by a bear. I went back to the air bnb waiting for things to dry up before packing.
Upon returning items were stolen. A few things were taken with a note from a nearby camper with his cell (no name ?) letting me know he was keeping them safe for me. When I was at the site inspecting things he showed up. Was nice enough and did return some of my items but my portable firepit and large propane tank were gone.
Granted I had left the site unattended for a few days after the seeing my tent ripped up and was waiting for things to dry (as it had been raining for several days) before packing. Having said this the stolen items could have been because the more permanent folks living in the area thought I had just abandoned my things. I’ll leave it up to you to decide.
So while the spot itself was profoundly beautiful the neighbors add an element that should be considered in your decision to come.
On a positive note, I did see blue ghost fireflies several nights during my stay. I Eastern Tiger Swallowtails two days in a row my site had maybe 50-100 right next to my tent. Then the Spicebush Swallowtail, and Azures decided to join. One day a cardinal sat right on the rock in the middle of the campsite 10 feet from me. If you love rocks like I do be prepared for some really truly beautiful gems (pun intended) if you go wading in the creek. I forgot to mention I accidentally caught a fish when trying to fill my bucket up in the evening (how did it taste? Well, unfortunately I don’t have the skills to prep fish like that so I quickly released it but tells you a bit about the water nearby 🌞)
ScoutWe stayed for a month in Site 27 with our 40’ Brinkley fifth wheel, our tow vehicle, and a follow-behind Toyota Highlander. The site easily accommodated all of it without feeling cramped.
Elk Valley Farm RV Park made the perfect home base for exploring western North Carolina. It’s conveniently located near grocery stores, restaurants, and some wonderful hiking, and it’s an easy drive to Cherokee, Bryson City, Sylva, Franklin, and other nearby towns.
The sites include sturdy picnic tables and nice fire rings with attached cooking shelves.
Some sites also feature paved patios.
The campground is new and still expanding, but it’s already a great place to stay. The only amenity we missed was on-site laundry, but Heather and Jeff told us they’re planning to add a laundry room, which will make longer stays even better.
Heather and Jeff are wonderful owners—kind, friendly, flexible, and genuinely committed to making sure their guests have a great experience. You can tell they care about the campground and the people who stay there.
As an added bonus, Angry Elk Brewing right at the entrance to the RV park is absolutely worth a visit. Great beer, delicious food, and so convenient after a day of exploring.
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and wouldn’t hesitate to return the next time we’re in the area.
TravelerOverall, a decent dispersed camping spot. I saw and heard no one my entire time at this spot. It’s right on the river which is great. The drive in is mostly paved, but a little narrow. Please pack your trash out though. It seems like no matter the state I camp in, people leave their trash. This site was particularly bad. It’s good to go now, but bring a bag and leave it nicer than you found it.
ScoutAbsolutely zero provide or trees between sites. Might as well be in an RV lot. Reserved a site and immediately left after getting there.
ScoutJust what I needed to unwind. Large tent site with a shelter, picnic table and fire ring. Rhododendrons and trees surround the campground. Creek bubbling and birds singing. Quiet campers during our visit. Clean bath house.
Camping opportunities near Del Rio, Tennessee are situated in the lush Cherokee National Forest with elevations ranging from 1,500 to 4,000 feet, creating distinct seasonal experiences. Summer daytime temperatures typically reach 80-85°F with cooler evenings, while spring and fall bring significant temperature swings. Most campgrounds in this area don't offer cell service, and campers should be prepared for unpredictable mountain weather patterns even during peak season.
Explore hiking trails: The area around Del Rio offers access to multiple trail systems including connections to the Appalachian Trail. Big Creek Campground features "great hiking trails and creek access" with one camper noting that "there are several hiking trails for a variety of hiking abilities."
Wildlife viewing: The region is known for its diverse wildlife including elk viewing opportunities. At Cataloochee Campground, a visitor shared: "If you want to see the elk, you're going to have to be up early. I use to be in the park at 5 AM with night vision gear, I saw some very nice elk."
Water activities: Many campgrounds offer creek and river access for recreation. At Triple Creek Campground, "lots of places for the kids to float down on intertubes" and another camper mentioned "Kids are welcome get wet and stroll down one of the creeks in tubes and there's plenty of shade."
Secluded forest settings: Campers appreciate the remote feel of many sites in the Del Rio area. Round Mountain Campground gets praise for being "very cool, rustic, and secluded site only a few miles from a great panoramic view ontop or max patch."
Creek sounds: The sound of moving water is consistently mentioned as a positive feature. At Triple Creek Campground, one visitor noted "the most amazing thing here is the water... Since it is a rolling creek it makes such beautifully tranquil noise. I slept so good when it wasnt too hot to sleep with the windows open."
Historical structures: The region offers access to preserved buildings and sites. At Cataloochee, campers can explore "historical homesteads, a school, churches and cemetery to take you back in time." Another visitor mentioned "There are historical structures in the area--a school, a church, barns, old houses, etc."
Road conditions: Many of the best places to camp near Del Rio, Tennessee have challenging access roads. For Cataloochee, "It's a long 13 miles into the valley down a very narrow, curvy gravel road," and another camper reported "the twist interns grew narrow the bumps grew frequent and then encountering a motorist was a hairy experience."
Limited amenities: Most campgrounds in the area provide basic facilities only. Round Mountain is described as a "very primitive campground but great for a night's stay while exploring the Pisgah National forest," offering just "a space to park, put your tent and have a fire. Only 'amenities' are vault toilet."
Seasonal water levels: Water features can change dramatically throughout the season. At Fox Fire Riverside Campground, campers should note that "the dam does release the water around 2pm so be aware that the water will rise."
Look for water play areas: Creek and river access provides natural entertainment. At Fox Fire Riverside, "the tent sites are on the bank of the river. The kids were able to get into the water and swim."
Consider noise factors: Some campgrounds are quieter than others. At Greenbrier Campground, a visitor noted the campground "offers activities for kids, wonderful hot shower rooms, a laundry room. and gas grills for anyone to use!" Another mentioned "My kids enjoyed the swimming hole as well although the water was freezing."
Check for organized activities: Some campgrounds offer structured recreation. Triple Creek has "a big field where kids could play, with a play set and many other things to keep them busy" and "the staff was always present and even brought rocks to paint with all of the supplies right to the campsite!"
Site sizing: Many campgrounds in the Del Rio area have limitations for large rigs. At Hot Springs Campground, a camper noted "nice clean gated park. Nice big spots. Only 3 fifty amp full hook up sites. Lots of 30 amp and tent camping."
Road access considerations: The mountain roads can be challenging for larger vehicles. One camper at Cataloochee mentioned, "large RVs we're not permitted however I saw one precariously going down the mountain side."
Full hookup options: For RVers wanting amenities, Fox Fire Riverside offers "full hookups or primitive sites with picnic tables and fire rings" and a visitor in a 33-foot travel trailer reported "plenty of room in the pull thru site 2. Not a lot of privacy between sites but I didn't think it was bad at all. Full hookups were a plus."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Del Rio, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, Del Rio, TN offers a wide range of camping options, with 534 campgrounds and RV parks near Del Rio, TN and 29 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Del Rio, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Del Rio, TN is Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park with a 4.5-star rating from 72 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Del Rio, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 29 free dispersed camping spots near Del Rio, TN.
What parks are near Del Rio, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 30 parks near Del Rio, TN that allow camping, notably Cherokee National Forest and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
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