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Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Gatlinburg, TN

2,379 Reviews

Gatlinburg, Tennessee is known for two things: selling touristy t-shirts and being the main entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. As you can imagine, the best camping near Gatlinburg, TN is located in the park itself.

Since Gatlinburg is so closely associated with the park, the surrounding areas offer plenty of camping options and amenities. Whether you’re looking for privately-owned campgrounds or some souvenirs, you’ll be able to find them in Gatlinburg or any of the surrounding cities. If you’re looking for something more substantial, your best bet may be to pass Gatlinburg and head towards Pigeon Forge. You’ll find plenty of RV campsites there, and it’s a larger city. That being said, you can’t pass up a trip to Gatlinburg’s Space Needle observation tower or the Ober Gatlinburg ski resort in the winter.

Map showing campgrounds near Gatlinburg, TennesseeExplore the Map

Best Dog-Friendly Sites Near Gatlinburg, Tennessee (342)

    1. Elkmont Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    123 Reviews
    Gatlinburg, TN
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (865) 430-5560

    $30 / night

    "It’s located only a short drive from Gatlinburg and several major hiking trails including Chimney Top."

    "The tent site were large and very clean with the sound of rapids coming from the nearby river. There were multiple bathrooms available which were clean and well maintained."

    2. Greenbrier Campground

    70 Reviews
    Gatlinburg, TN
    5 miles
    Website

    $35 - $258 / night

    " Greenbriar campground is located in Pittman Center, west of Gatlinburg, adjacent to the Great Smoky Mountains. The campground is certainly one of the nicest camping spots I’ve n the area."

    "I will say that the lots are close to one another and it is not very private but it was pretty hot and we didn't hang outside by the camper much."

    3. Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA Campground

    54 Reviews
    Pigeon Forge, TN
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (865) 453-7903

    "There was even a dog wash! The spots were a little tight and our sewer connection was a foot up off the ground so drainage at site 122 was a bit of an issue."

    "Very kid friendly, pet friendly (Kamp K9), lots in the area to go do and see. Pools, hot tub, kitchen, firewood for sale, fishing access, snack bar, cable tv, and WiFi."

    4. Cades Cove Campground

    97 Reviews
    Townsend, TN
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (865) 448-4103

    $30 / night

    "This is away from the craziness of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. It puts you back into the outdoors as the National Parks should be."

    "You can easily bike through the loop, or drive. Nice spot to see wildlife as well. Cades Cove is well known for spotting bears, deer and turkey."

    5. Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    70 Reviews
    Cosby, TN
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (423) 487-2683

    $50 / night

    "It's very peaceful and close to awesome trails-Low Gap and Lower Mt Cammerer. Also the best hidden jewel nearby is Carver Orchard and Applehouse."

    "Spent 1/2 day hiking the trails and through the campground here. Observed Super camping sites in this less accessed entry point to the Smoky Mountains. I have this down for an actual stay here."

    6. Smokemont Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    53 Reviews
    Cherokee, NC
    16 miles
    +1 (828) 497-9270

    $30 / night

    "About 1 hour away from Gatlinburg, but this side is less crowded. The sites are plenty big, a little tight to back into, but not a big deal."

    "The campground is close nearby to many of the attractions in the area - the Cherokee village and museum are to the south of it."

    7. Camp Riverslanding

    21 Reviews
    Pigeon Forge, TN
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (865) 453-8181

    $76 - $92 / night

    "Located right by Parkway, it has easy access to plenty of things to do."

    "The strip, Dollywood, Gatlinburg and River tubing."

    8. Anchor Down RV Resort

    48 Reviews
    Sevierville, TN
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (877) 784-4446

    $49 - $139 / night

    "Also, there is no restroom even close to the playground area. Thankfully we didn’t have a bathroom emergency with our toddler.

    The beach area they’ve constructed on the lake is INSANE! So so nice!"

    "Beautiful views of the lake from almost everywhere in the park. Sites are meticulously maintained by staff and the staff was more than helpful."

    9. Townsend-Great Smokies KOA

    28 Reviews
    Townsend, TN
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (865) 448-2241

    "The River is flowing behind the park, open to Tubers (Rental from the office), great outdoor playground and pool."

    "Amazingly clean campgrounds 10 minutes from the entrance of the National Park and 20 minutes from the Visitor's Center."

    10. Up the Creek RV Camp

    19 Reviews
    Pigeon Forge, TN
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (865) 453-8474

    "There is a small dog park, two creeks (wadable) and lots of peace and quiet. We stayed for a week and were impressed by both the staff and the guests friendliness and helpfulness."

    "We spent four days here while exploring Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Great Smoky Mountain National Park, and surrounding areas."

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Showing results 1-10 of 342 campgrounds

Recent Dog-Friendly Camping Photos near Gatlinburg, TN

260 Photos of 342 Gatlinburg Campgrounds

Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Gatlinburg, TN

2379 Reviews of 342 Gatlinburg Campgrounds

Guide to Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a fantastic destination for pet owners looking to enjoy the great outdoors with their furry friends. With several well-reviewed campgrounds that welcome pets, you can explore the beauty of the Smoky Mountains while keeping your pets by your side.

Tips for camping with dogs near Gatlinburg

  • Elkmont Campground offers a picturesque setting with easy access to trails, making it perfect for hiking with your dog.
  • Cades Cove Campground features spacious sites and nearby wildlife viewing opportunities, allowing your pet to enjoy the natural surroundings.
  • Greenbrier Campground provides a family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of activities, ensuring your dog has a great time too.

Dog owners appreciate the amenities available

  • Cosby Campground has well-maintained sites and access to scenic trails, ideal for long walks with your pet.
  • Anchor Down RV Resort boasts clean facilities and a friendly atmosphere, making it a comfortable stay for both you and your dog.
  • Little Arrow Outdoor Resort features a variety of activities and amenities, ensuring your pet can enjoy the outdoors just as much as you do.

Pet owners like the variety of activities nearby

  • Smokemont Campground is close to hiking trails and offers opportunities for wildlife spotting, perfect for adventurous pets.
  • Cades Cove Group Campground allows for easy access to the Cades Cove Loop, where you can enjoy scenic drives and pet-friendly trails.
  • Indian Creek Campground is situated by a creek, providing a relaxing environment for your pet to explore and enjoy nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Gatlinburg, TN?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Gatlinburg, TN is Elkmont Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park with a 4.7-star rating from 123 reviews.

What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Gatlinburg, TN?

TheDyrt.com has all 342 dog-friendly camping locations near Gatlinburg, TN, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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