Camping in Greenback, Tennessee sits at the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains with elevations ranging from 850 to 1,200 feet. The area experiences mild winters and warm summers with average July temperatures reaching 85°F. The region's heavy annual rainfall of 50+ inches creates lush vegetation around the campgrounds, with peak camping season running April through October when humidity levels moderate.
What to Do
Cycling on Cades Cove loop road: Certain days feature vehicle restrictions at Cades Cove Campground. "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," notes Jeremy H.
Watercraft rentals: Paddleboats, kayaks and other water equipment available at Yarberry Campground. "The swimming area is in a great spot with a sandy beach. There are also other areas around the campground where you could enter the water with floats, kayaks, paddle boards, etc. They also rent all of those things, as well as paddle boats. They rent bikes too," reports Lori H.
Wildlife watching: Dawn and dusk offer prime viewing opportunities. "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," shares Ashley Y. about Cades Cove.
What Campers Like
Lakefront camping access: Direct water access at multiple sites around Tellico Lake. "Even the non-lake site spots have lake views. Lots of nice amenities, but still rustic. My site was a little tough to back into, but worth it," says Shawn about Yarberry Campground.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses and amenities throughout the region. "The bathrooms were nice and clean, and individual rooms with a shower and toilet. There are two bathhouses in the campground, I just used one of them, so I assume they were both the same," notes Lori H. at Yarberry Campground.
Firefly viewing opportunities: Seasonal natural phenomenon in early summer. "This year my partner and I stayed there during the peak of firefly season, and once the sun went down we walked down the short gravel road that leads to the parking lot for day-hikers. There is a meadow here where we watched fireflies for hours and it was MAGICAL!" shares Phoebe A. about Abrams Creek Campground.
What You Should Know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak season. "Make sure you make reservations BEFORE stunning out there. Way off beaten path and reservations can ONLY be made online. No cell service no internet for at least ten miles away from camp," advises Jay A. about Abrams Creek Campground.
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly throughout the area. "No cell service for Verizon and none for many miles on the drive to the site," notes Carol B. about Cades Cove.
Security features: Gated entrances at multiple locations enhance safety. "The campground is gated, so there's not really any traffic passing through," explains Lori H. about Yarberry Campground, while Ivan adds that staff are "very friendly as well, my wife approves it lol and we are definitely coming back."
Tips for Camping with Families
Beach areas for swimming: Designated swimming zones with sand beaches at Toqua Beach Campground. "There is a Beach area with volleyball. We didn't have much luck fishing but we tried anyway. Always relaxing," reports Timothy T.
Historical exploration: Educational opportunities through preserved structures. "Go on the car tour loop and make sure to stop and look at the cabins and church. History at its finest," recommends Buck R. about Cades Cove Group Campground.
Multi-generational activities: Options for various age groups and mobility levels. "If you have some people in your family who can't do or aren't interested in longer hikes into the backcountry, Cades Cove is the perfect place to take them thanks to the wildlife driving loop," shares Justin S.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Variable terrain requires preparation. "The parking area is an asphalt slab and many have a slant to them and will require leveling," warns Sara M. about Melton Hill Dam Campground.
Hookup availability: Different sites offer varying levels of service. "No sewer hook-ups and alcohol is not allowed on the grounds. Supposed to have a 14 day maximum stay but walking around you can tell there are plenty of long-term parkers," notes Jacob S. about Lotterdale Cove Campground.
Arrival timing tips: Allow extra time for check-in procedures. "Only negative is the requirement to check in between 9-10:00 am the following day if one arrived later than check in time, which caused me to change hiking plans," mentions Kim L. regarding Cades Cove.
