Cabin accommodations near Farragut, Tennessee range from rustic to fully-equipped units with varying amenities and pricing. Most cabin rentals in the region sit between 850-1500 ft elevation with moderate temperatures—summer highs averaging 85°F and winter lows around 28°F. Seasonal availability varies across locations, with several resorts offering year-round cabin access while others maintain limited seasonal operations.
What to do
Biking at Cades Cove: The scenic loop at Cades Cove Campground offers excellent cycling opportunities. "We rented bikes on site, perfect day. We also did longer hikes in the area. Stayed here for 4 days as a basecamp, just a great wooded site," notes Dan N. On certain days, they close the loop to vehicle traffic specifically for cyclists.
Wildlife viewing: The valley area provides excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. Ashley Y. reports, "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."
Historic exploration: Take time to visit the historic buildings and cabins at Elkmont Campground. "One of the more intriguing areas to explore at Elkmont is the Daisy Town ghost town... lined with assorted cottages and cabins that used to be vacation homes. Some are open for exploration," according to a visitor. Historically significant structures provide insight into the region's past.
What campers like
Riverfront settings: Many cabin locations offer water access. At Little Arrow Outdoor Resort, "Our site was pretty, right on the water," notes one camper. The resort offers various accommodation options including cabins situated near the water.
Bath facilities: Cleanliness and quality of bath facilities significantly impacts cabin camping experiences. Jenny J. shares about Little Arrow: "The bathrooms were FABULOUS. SERIOUSLY. I've never wanted to bathe in a campground bathroom before, but I do it out of necessity. Well these bathrooms were luxurious and modern and so SO clean."
Quieter location options: Whispering River RV Resort offers a more peaceful setting than other areas. "Great campground on the quiet side of Gatlinburg. We stayed there in July and November," according to Michael. Cabin rentals here provide a less commercialized experience compared to busier tourist areas.
What you should know
Road noise factors: Location impacts noise levels at cabin sites. At some locations, "there is a A LOT of road noise coming from the other side of the little river at all hours of the day and night. It was not exactly relaxing and peaceful with dozens of motorcycles going by at a time," reports a camper.
Off-season advantages: Winter months offer reduced crowds but require preparation. One visitor to Windrock Campground notes their cabins operate year-round: "1/30/22 Nice sites. Nice staff. Mike kept up on everything and didn't forget to tell us about anything. Got down into the 20s and the staff made sure we knew what to do in the cold."
Connectivity challenges: Wifi and cell service vary by location. At Whispering River Resort, one camper reported: "Verizon service shotty with poor WIFI. Suppose to be installing Wi-Fi extenders shortly." Many cabin locations have limited connectivity, particularly those closer to national park boundaries.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Select cabins with on-site recreation options. At Sweetwater KOA, "The park has quite a few large sites for big rigs that are about 80-100ft long. For amenities there is a bouncy blob (dry), small pond with fountain and memorial bench, large playground for the kids, volleyball, basketball."
Social opportunities: Family-friendly cabins often include community activities. "This park goes all out for the holidays. We are a month out from Halloween and they have done a spectacular job with decorating. They have lots of kids events. On Saturday there is a train that takes kids and adults on a ride around the park," shares Laura H.
Cabin selection criteria: Check for specific family-friendly features. Jenny J. notes, "There is a coffee shop on site also, with a playroom for small kids, and nice comfy chairs to lounge in. The coffee comes from a local artisan coffee roasters up the road."
Tips from RVers
Site locations: When selecting a cabin at Halfmoon Camp Ground, consider sun exposure. "RV sites have power (up to 50amp) and water, and have decent separation between sites. The RV sites are in a grassy field so minimal shade. The majority of the Tent sites are dry camping (no power or water), however, there are 3 tent sites near the bathhouse that do have power and water."
Utility considerations: Check what utilities come with cabins. Steve V. observed, "Clean and functional bathhouse. Dump station near the bathhouse. Fire wood and ice is available near the bathhouse and has a self pay setup." Many cabins require guests to handle waste properly and purchase necessities on-site.
Accessibility factors: Access roads can impact cabin arrival. At Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA, visitors should note potential traffic congestion. For Elkmont, a camper mentions, "Had level, shaded, and private camp sites. Flush toilets clean but no showers. Traffic was a beast but there were good hiking trails from campground."
