Best Campgrounds near Pigeon Forge, TN

Some of the best camping in Tennessee is near Pigeon Forge, TN, surrounded by the magical Smoky Mountains. There's something for every kind of camper ⁠— backpackers, tourists, RVers, and boaters. With a variety of campgrounds and cabin rentals, amenities can range from very rustic to resort-style with heated pools. You can even get a glimpse of life in the 1800s with a stay in a covered wagon. Pigeon Forge is a short drive from Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which lies on the Tennessee-North Carolina border. The park is home to historic Southern Appalachian cultural sites, diverse animal and plant life, waterfalls and old-growth forests, and many miles of trails for hikers of all levels.

Best Camping Sites Near Pigeon Forge, Tennessee (502)

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Recent Reviews near Pigeon Forge, TN

2309 Reviews of 502 Pigeon Forge Campgrounds



Guide to Pigeon Forge

Camping near Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, offers a fantastic mix of outdoor fun and beautiful scenery. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails around the area. Many campers enjoy the nearby hikes, like the Little River Trail, which offers beautiful views. One visitor mentioned, "We did one of our hikes from our site... it was beautiful."
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. Campers at Cades Cove Campground reported seeing turkeys and bears during their stay. One camper said, "Had numerous sightings of wildlife even in the campground."
  • Fishing: The streams and rivers around the campgrounds are great for fishing. A reviewer at Cosby Campground noted, "There is a stream that runs through the back of the site that our kids loved."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Many campers appreciate the stunning landscapes. A visitor at Black Rock Mountain State Park Campground said, "The views are amazing."
  • Clean Facilities: Campgrounds like Davidson River Campground are praised for their cleanliness. One camper remarked, "Every time I go, it’s always clean and quiet."
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Campgrounds such as Greenbrier Campground offer plenty of activities for families. A reviewer shared, "My young family of six were instantly impressed... there were bounce houses, multiple playgrounds."

What you should know:

  • Site Privacy: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A camper at Elkmont Campground mentioned, "All of the campsites are extremely close together, and there is no brush to divide them."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For example, Cosby Campground lacks drinking water and electric hookups, which some campers found inconvenient.
  • Wildlife Precautions: Bears are common in the area. A visitor at Cades Cove Campground advised, "Do not forget to remove the drip pan on the Blackstone!!!! Doing so just irritates the bears."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. Greenbrier Campground has a lot of amenities, including a swimming hole and playgrounds.
  • Plan for Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have poor cell reception. A camper at Davidson River Campground noted, "No cell signal but we were able to set up our star link."
  • Pack for All Weather: The weather can change quickly in the mountains. A visitor at Smokemont Campground mentioned, "Temperatures were cool in the evenings, so we didn't need any A/C."

Tips from RVers:

Camping near Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, there's something for you in this beautiful area.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Pigeon Forge, TN?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Pigeon Forge, TN offers a wide range of camping options, with 502 campgrounds and RV parks near Pigeon Forge, TN and 20 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Pigeon Forge, TN?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Pigeon Forge, TN is Elkmont Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park with a 4.7-star rating from 122 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Pigeon Forge, TN?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 20 free dispersed camping spots near Pigeon Forge, TN.

  • What parks are near Pigeon Forge, TN?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 30 parks near Pigeon Forge, TN that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.