Cabin camping near Morristown, Tennessee offers access to the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 3,000 feet. Situated within an hour's drive of the national park boundaries, the region experiences four distinct seasons with humid summers reaching 90°F and winter nights occasionally dropping below freezing. Fall camping brings colorful foliage from mid-October through early November, creating prime conditions for outdoor activities.
What to do
Visit Elkmont ghost town: Located near Elkmont Campground, this abandoned vacation community offers a glimpse into the area's past. "One of the more intriguing areas to explore at Elkmont is the Daisy Town ghost town... Follow the signs for additional parking and you'll find yourself at the end of a road lined with assorted cottages and cabins that used to be vacation homes. Some are open for exploration, others are cordoned off, and some are undergoing renovation," notes Jean C.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region's diverse habitats support black bears, white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and numerous bird species. "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 their experience at Cades Cove Campground.
Fishing access: Many cabins provide direct access to local streams and rivers for fishing enthusiasts. "I love to fish and fishing is just a few steps away," explains Tommy R. about the waterfront access at Greenbrier Campground, while Christopher H. notes that Ripplin Waters Campground offers "good places to catch smallmouth bass along the river."
What campers like
Private bathroom facilities: Cabin campers appreciate individual bathroom spaces at several locations. "The bath house appeared to be newer, and will trump your home facilities in many cases! Within the bath house, there are several private doors leading to your own 3 piece bath with shelving and granite counters with outlets, and a stunning double shower," mentions Elizabeth B. about her stay at Greenbrier Campground.
Water features: The sound of moving water enhances many cabin camping experiences in the area. Larry M. shares, "We stayed here over Christmas time in a 20' travel trailer. Very clean with heated bathrooms washing machines and other amenities. The sound of the rushing river is a plus." Many campers echo this sentiment about waterfront sites.
Proximity to attractions: Cabin locations provide strategic access to regional destinations. "This was a great little campground. It's just a very short drive to Gatlinburg and the Sugarlands Visitor Center of GSM National Park. The campground offers full hookups, PRIVATE bathrooms with great showers, ice and firewood sales, shuttle to downtown, and waterfront sites," reports Erica F.
What you should know
Winter accommodations vary: Some cabin locations remain open year-round with heating systems while others close seasonally. The Newport-Smoky Mountains KOA stays open through winter months with "standard RV Sites and Cabin Sites. They have bathrooms, a pool, WiFi, a dog park, firewood for sale, propane, and more," according to Laura H.
Site sizes differ significantly: Cabin spacing and privacy levels vary considerably between locations. "Sites are narrow and fairly close together, although they've done an excellent job of maintaining the heavy trees around the river and on the 'treelawn' area which separates each site. This helps to make a narrow space seem deceptively private," explains one Greenbrier visitor.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some locations more than others. Beth L. advises about Newport KOA: "Location is convenient but definitely more suited for campers than tents. Highway traffic noise (semis, engine braking) is LOUD...might be ok in a camper but not in a tent."
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated activity areas: Campgrounds with designated recreation zones keep children entertained. "This is a very kid-friendly KOA. Was always very busy with comers and goers due to the area being touristy," explains Laurie B. about the Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA, which features a "nice pool and playground."
Consider water safety: Many cabin locations feature water access requiring appropriate supervision. "Me and my family has been to this campground a few times now and it is hands down my favorite! The campground is surrounded by water and you can hear the creek from the site... My kids loved it and so did we," shares Tommy R.
Explore firefly viewing opportunities: Seasonal natural phenomena create memorable experiences for children. One camper notes that at Rocky Meadows Farm, "For those who want peace and quiet, it doesn't get much better than this! It's secluded but clean, and lots of fireflies and a great view! My girls loved exploring and catching fireflies."
Tips from RVers
Check site leveling needs: RV sites at some locations require additional adjustment. Marci R. explains about Ripplin Waters: "The sites are very tight, quite close together... It had rained heavily the day before so the ground was very soft and one side of our rig kept sinking. He ran off to get a piece of wood that did the job to keep our tires from sinking so we could get level."
Consider utility requirements: Different cabin camping locations offer varying hookup capabilities. At Baileyton KOA Holiday, visitors find "60 Pull thrus, RV-Tent-Cabins, 15-30-50 amp service" with "Gravel pads, fire rings, picnic table, trash. Beautiful green space and dog walk area," according to one reviewer.
Account for turning radius: Some locations accommodate larger vehicles better than others. "Positioned closest to Gatlinburg, Elkmont Campground is one of the easiest campgrounds to navigate in when it comes to wider roads and more widespread campsites," explains Crystal C., making it suitable for those with larger recreational vehicles.
