Cabin rentals near Greenback, Tennessee can be found throughout Blount and Loudon counties where the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains meet the Tennessee River watershed. The area sits at elevations between 800-1,200 feet, creating moderate temperatures that average 48°F in winter and 85°F in summer. Most cabin accommodations cluster near water features including Tellico Lake, Fort Loudoun Lake, and the Little River, offering both waterfront and mountain access options within a 30-minute drive of Greenback.
What to do
Cycling on closed roads: At Cades Cove Campground, the loop road periodically closes to vehicle traffic for cyclists. "What a great campground!! 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," notes Jeremy H.
River tubing: The Little River provides cooling summer recreation near many cabin rentals. At Townsend-Great Smokies KOA, visitors appreciate easy water access. "The river is beautiful," says Cathy O., while another camper notes, "Great access to the river for tubing!"
Historical explorations: Visit the abandoned vacation homes at Elkmont's ghost town. "The campground has a wonderful area and the history of the place is amazing," explains Amy P. Visitors can explore several renovated structures and learn about the area's past vacation community.
Fly fishing: Several cabin locations provide direct fishing access. Whispering River RV Resort features a half-mile riverfront trail specifically for anglers. According to Gary F., you'll find "a river with a very nice 1/2 mile trail and fly fishing."
What campers like
Quieter national park access: Staying in cabins near the western entrance avoids Gatlinburg traffic. "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," says Steve D.
Premium bathroom facilities: Little River Campground & RV Resort features exceptionally clean restroom facilities. One visitor mentioned that "the bathhouse is seriously impressive" and another camper noted, "One of my favorite features was random and I never knew I was missing it in my life until now.. the bathrooms have strong AC pumping right into each bathroom, making everything nice and cool when you come in from the hot campsite."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many cabins provide proximity to bear and deer habitats. "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. about Cades Cove.
Riverside campsites: Cabins with water views offer both recreation and relaxation. According to Timothy T. at Toqua Beach Campground, "We stayed at site 104...the lake is beautiful. We didn't see the beach till the last day we were there unfortunately. But it look like an awesome area. There is a Beach area with volleyball."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Communication can be spotty throughout the region. "Verizon cell service was good enough at 3 bars the whole time" at Little River Campground, but at Elkmont Campground, visitors note cell service is very limited.
Seasonal reservation requirements: Most cabin facilities book months in advance, especially during leaf-viewing season. Kim L. advises, "Make your reservations far in advance this is a destination!"
Noise considerations: Some cabin locations near roads experience traffic sounds. One visitor to Whispering River Resort noted, "We could hear quite a bit of noise from the highway into Townsend." Similarly, at Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA, a camper mentioned noise from nearby commercial areas.
Bear safety protocols: All cabin facilities require strict food storage practices. "Very strict rules regarding food storage and park has managed to control bears and raccoons," notes Kim L. about Elkmont Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground quality: Sweetwater KOA provides multiple kid-focused amenities. "Swimming pool, fishing pond, playground, jump pad. We don't have pets, but there is a small dog park area. Lots of planned weekend activities," reports Mary D.
Family-friendly cabin layouts: Look for cabins with separate sleeping areas. Little Arrow Outdoor Resort offers cabins and tiny homes with varying configurations. "Stayed in a tiny home with my family for Spring Break. Can't wait to go back," shares Justin D.
Child-friendly water access: When selecting a riverside cabin, check water depth and current. At Little River Campground, the "large fire pit, picnic table and large beautiful mature trees" create an ideal family setup where "you're allowed to swim, play, tube, etc in the river at your own risk."
Educational opportunities: History lessons abound throughout nearby cabin areas. Buck R. recommends, "Go on the car tour loop and make sure to stop and look at the cabins and church. History at its finest."
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Many cabins and sites need adjustment for comfort. "Our site wasn't very level (and in 90+ degree heat, that would've been nice)," notes one camper about Whispering River Resort. At Little Arrow Outdoor Resort, a visitor mentioned, "Only surprise was unlevel site, our neighbor had to loan blocks to set camper."
Hookup variations: Check exact utility specifications before booking. Wesley C. notes, "The hookups worked like they were supposed to, and we had zero problems." Sites at most facilities have different hookup configurations, from primitive to full service.
Site spacing considerations: Proximity to neighbors varies widely between facilities. Andrew W. notes about Whispering River Resort, "Kind of close but nice and clean with cabins on the river and primitive tent sites as well."
Off-season advantages: Winter cabin rentals offer lower rates and fewer neighbors. "We stayed here for 4 days as a basecamp, just a great wooded site," says Dan N., while another visitor noted, "We camped here in November and didn't have a problem getting a site, but the place did fill up!"
