C
Colin G.
Scout
ScoutSunburst Campground
Parking Lot
Absolutely zero provide or trees between sites. Might as well be in an RV lot. Reserved a site and immediately left after getting there.
Camping near Pigeon Forge, TN
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Pigeon Forge, Tennessee serves as a gateway to several established campgrounds ranging from national park facilities to private resorts. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers camping at Elkmont and Cades Cove campgrounds, which typically operate from spring through fall. Within Pigeon Forge itself, accommodations include KOA campgrounds, Clabough's Campground, and multiple RV resorts catering to various preferences. Most developed campgrounds in the area support tent, RV, and cabin camping, with several offering glamping options and yurts for those seeking additional comfort.
Seasonal considerations are important when planning a Pigeon Forge camping trip. Most national park campgrounds operate on limited schedules, typically from March or April through October. Private campgrounds like Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA and many RV parks remain open year-round, providing consistent access regardless of season. Advance reservations are strongly recommended, especially during summer months and fall color season when visitation peaks. Many campgrounds offer amenities like swimming pools, laundry facilities, and access to trolley stops for convenient transportation to attractions. A visitor commented about one campground: "Totally clean and nice bathrooms, laundry facilities. Only 1 mile from all the things to do."
Proximity to attractions represents a significant advantage for many Pigeon Forge campgrounds. Several facilities are located within walking distance or a short drive to the main Parkway with its shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Campers report particular satisfaction with sites that balance convenience with natural settings. While some campgrounds are situated directly on busy routes, others offer more secluded experiences in nearby valleys. Reviews indicate mixed experiences with site spacing, with some noting tight quarters at popular locations. "This park was beautifully kept. The bathrooms and showers were cleaner than any I have seen," noted one camper about Creekside RV Park. For those seeking a more natural camping experience, the nearby national park campgrounds provide access to hiking trails, fishing streams, and wildlife viewing opportunities, though they typically offer fewer amenities than private facilities.
Best Campgrounds near Pigeon Forge (539)
1. Elkmont Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
"I had the most fantastic campsite right next to the river in Elkmont."
"Close proximity to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. Hiking trails, waterfalls, and Cades Cove. Well run and staffed camp. Lots of spaces available for RV or tents. Cheap."
from $30 / night
Check Availability2. Greenbrier Campground
"Easy access to Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge. Surrounded by hiking galore in the Great Smoky Mountains. Nice swimming hole for summer fun. Ping pong and other games."
"The campground itself is beautiful and completely surrounded on all sides by the Little Pigeon river."
from $35 - $258 / night
Check Availability3. Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA Campground
"Close to everything, right in the heart of pigeon forge. Best bath houses we’ve ever been too, all other reviews were spot on!"
"This KOA campground is within Pigeon Forge and accessible to where you want to go. A busy campground but quiet while campers do their own thing. The staff is superb and always checking on guests."
4. Cades Cove Campground
"This is away from the craziness of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. It puts you back into the outdoors as the National Parks should be."
"It's pure magic, and if you go to Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge you will be SO HAPPY to get back to your peaceful campsite. I will come back!!!!!"
from $30 / night
Check Availability5. Anchor Down RV Resort
"Lots to do here, don’t hesitate to rent a boat and enjoy Douglas lake. This place is very clean and the staff are amazing, doing whatever it takes to help you."
"Anchors Down is just outside Severville Tennessee and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Located on Douglas Lake with the Smokie Mountains in the back ground."
from $49 - $139 / night
Check Availability6. Camp Riverslanding
"The campground is only a block from the main drag in pigeon forge, but you feel much further away. A mountain river flows right beside the campground to give it a restful feeling. "
"The only place we will camp in pigeon forge"
from $76 - $92 / night
Check Availability7. Up the Creek RV Camp
"This campground is a short drive off the main strip in Pigeon Forge which makes for some peacefulness while camping."
"This campground is a hidden gem in the Pigeon Forge area. It is close enough to town for convenience, but far enough away that you are not bothered by the hustle and bustle of the Parkway."
8. Townsend-Great Smokies KOA
"Right next to the entrance to the Great Smokey mountains. Townsend is a lovely town for eating and lots of walking trails. It is a short drive into pigeon forge if you want more activities to do."
"The Lizard Lounge has a separate WiFi but you have to be inside or just outside to use it. Amazing river views and very close to the entrance of the National park."
9. Clabough's Campground
"It had a trolley stop in the middle of the campground that would take you to Pigeon Forge or Gatlingurg for 50 cents."
"Great spot with good access to pigeon forge, gatlinburg, and seveirville. Some spots are tight but the blob trampoline made my kids stay!"
from $70 - $109 / night
Check Availability10. Buddy Bear In The Smokies Campground
"Very clean and beautifully decorated campground located on the backside of Sevierville away from all those crowds on the main strip."
"Being in this area the traffic is awful but this place is away from that traffic but still close enough to enjoy everything. The back way into Gatlinburg is a direct shot from the entrance."
from $40 - $50 / night
Check Availability
Drive Time
- 35 min from Knoxville, TN
- 42 min from Morristown, TN
- 1 hr 57 min from Asheville, NC
Recent Camping Photos near Pigeon Forge, TN
932 Photos of 539 Pigeon Forge Campgrounds
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Buddy Bear In The Smokies Campground
Recent Reviews near Pigeon Forge, TN
2376 Reviews of 539 Pigeon Forge Campgrounds
- K
Kim Q.ScoutMoonshine Creek Campground
Didn’t want to leave
Just what I needed to unwind. Large tent site with a shelter, picnic table and fire ring. Rhododendrons and trees surround the campground. Creek bubbling and birds singing. Quiet campers during our visit. Clean bath house.
Nancy W.
LegendLittle Arrow Outdoor Resort
Nice amenities, tight for big-rigs, great location.
Overall, this is a nice campground with lots of amenities in a great location. They have easy online booking and when you arrive you are instructed to go straight to your site and come to the office later for campground information and parking pass. Little Arrow has lots of amenities with the most popular being the swimming pool. In fact, it was a little too popular as it was quite crowded most of the time. The community firepit is a great place to gather with lots of people. There is a restaurant onsite (which we did not eat at but heard it was very good). The nearby town of Townsend is a great town with shopping and restaurants. We loved the brewery in town (Peaceful Side Social) which had great food and beer and lots of space for kids to run around. Next store to the brewery was a delicious ice cream shop. This campground is in a great location to visit the Great Smokey Mountain National Park with the entrance being just a few miles away and it’s a short drive to the Cades Cove Loop which is a very interesting and popular driving route in the park with historic sites and great wildlife viewing along the way. We had a buddy site which was laid out so that RVs are on the same pad and share a common area in between. We enjoyed the table and chairs and “kitchen” area which was great for gathering. Some sites back up to a river and have nice covered pavilions. There is public river access at the campground which I liked for fly fishing and my dog loved for swimming. The only complaints are that some sites (including ours) was very close to your neighbor and it is really a tight squeeze getting big-rigs into the park and to our site. The entrance to our loop was really tight and we even noticed one tow hauler ripped off part of his bumper on an old gate post that was covered by overgrown bushes. There are low hanging trees at the entrance which I mentioned to the manager and she dismissed it that stuff was really growing since it was late spring and they didn’t have time to trim. She did indicate that they intended on trimming but we left so I’m not sure if it happened or not.
Carrie S.
TravelerMammoth Ridge RV Park
Great place!
This is the best place to park your travel trailer for a few days! Tons of space it’s not to crowded and everyone is so nice
- LLarry R.Scout
Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA Campground
Great Campground spaces are extremely hard to get pulled into being they have filled every inch of space with lots and parking is horrible after setting camper
A lot of amenities for the kids however getting camper backed in and parking is horrible
- Kathy G.Scout
Weaver Bend Road
Dispersed camping along the French broad river
We found the the best spot we have ever stayed. Big sandy beach down a 100 foot decline. Parked at the top where there is a fire ring and nice size flat spot for a small camper or truck set up like we had. Very secluded. Can’t believe we got this spot. So thankful. Pack it in pack it out
Erin TrattTravelerFontana Village Resort and Campground
Its okay for what it is
For a campground with a nice view, it's alright. Bathrooms and showers are functional but could use a little more tlc. Grass was freshly mowed when I stayed. Again, there is no cell service for ATT, not that it's the campsites fault or anything. it's just not there. For a tent site with no hookups, i thought it was a bit pricey, compared to other campsites I've visited in the area. I like the concrete slab and tables for every site though.
Shillelagh C.ScoutLittle River Campground & RV Resort
Careless about the guests
At my arrival, the office mistakenly saved my debit card information under the wrong customer file and charged my card. When I brought this to their attention, I was assured that my card information would be removed from the incorrect account and that the issue had been resolved. Despite those assurances, my debit card was charged again. This second charge occurred after I had already notified the staff of the mistake and after I was specifically told that my card information would be deleted. As a result, I spent a significant portion of my vacation dealing with a problem that should never have happened in the first place. Not only did these errors create financial stress and inconvenience, but they also ruined what was supposed to be a relaxing vacation. I trusted your staff to correct the mistake after it was first reported, and unfortunately that trust was misplaced when my card was charged again. I believe it is unreasonable for me to bear the consequences of repeated errors made by the office, particularly after I had notified you of the problem and received assurances that it had been corrected. For these reasons, I respectfully requested a refund and I was denied and told that it was my banks fault for letting the transactions to occur. They won't take accountability and refuse to work with me. This was my debit card that was charged and over$400 and was on hold for a total of 8 days. My bank cancelled my card. Just one headache after another because of all of this. I feel as though they should've accommodated me seeing how their actions and failure to pay attention caused all of this.
- Erin TrattTraveler
Pisgah National Forest Carolina Hemlocks Campground
This is NOT the Carolina hemlocks campground location
I plugged the GPS in for the location the app showed, and this is not the campground location. It is further northeast near Asheville, "Carolina hemlocks rec area" is what it is titled under.
Guide to Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge campgrounds connect visitors to the Great Smoky Mountains from elevations ranging from 1,000 to 1,500 feet. The area receives approximately 55 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush surroundings for camping. Most Tennessee campgrounds near Pigeon Forge stay open year-round, though amenities like swimming pools typically operate from April through October.
What to do
Scenic driving loops: Cades Cove Campground provides direct access to the famous 11-mile scenic loop. "The main attraction for most is a driving tour loop that starts & ends right at the campground. You drive around a valley with rivers running through and you're surrounded by mountains. Tons of wildlife, even saw a bear from a distance," explains one camper.
Mountain biking options: On select days, Cades Cove closes its loop to vehicles. "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 a visitor.
Eagle watching: Buddy Bear In The Smokies Campground offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities. "Did I mention the bald eagles that hang out by the campground? They are quite a treat," shares one camper. Another adds, "While sitting by the water I watched an eagle splash down in the river grabbing lunch."
Riverside relaxation: Many campgrounds feature water access. "There's hammocks and swings on the riverbank for anyone to enjoy and during the summer campers get an hour of tubing or kayaking in the Little Pigeon River as part of their reservation," notes a Buddy Bear visitor.
What campers like
Private bathroom facilities: Greenbrier Campground receives consistent praise for its bathroom facilities. "The bath houses were awesome with individual rooms equipped with toilet, sink and shower," explains one visitor. Another camper notes, "The bathrooms/showers were numerous and clean AND air conditioned."
Riverside campsites: Water access ranks high for campers. "Me and my family has been to this campground a few times now and it is hands down my favorite! We have tent camped back home but wasn't sure with bears and the kiddos as they are always scared of sounds at night lol. So we stumbled onto Greenbrier via web," shares a happy camper.
Escape from crowds: Up the Creek RV Camp offers a quieter alternative. "This is seriously the quietest campground I've ever been to. I wouldn't bring children to it (there's nothing for them to do there, anyway) but it's a very relaxing 'adult' campground," notes one visitor. Another adds, "It's a short drive off the main strip in Pigeon Forge which makes for some peacefulness while camping."
Creek access for kids: Smaller water features appeal to families. "My kids loved playing by the river. It's close to all the areas attractions but far enough where it feels like you are camping in the wilderness," writes an Up the Creek camper.
What you should know
Traffic noise varies: Road proximity affects different campgrounds. At Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA, "Photos of tent sites along the Little Pigeon River are misleading as can be. Being in Pigeon Forge I knew not to expect complete solitude but this was over the top nonsense."
Limited cell service: Connectivity challenges exist throughout the region. "Cell service wasn't great for me here, but then again in all the Smoky Mountains I cruised around with pretty much 1 bar or less," reports one Elkmont camper.
Distance between attractions: The Smoky Mountains cover vast territory. "The Smoky Mountains are too big to really navigate all from one camp area. Roads are narrow and windy and on busy days you hardly can accomplish even a couple things of interest on your list," notes an Elkmont visitor.
Campsite spacing concerns: Many campgrounds prioritize quantity over spacing. "Like all KOA places, they squeeze in as many sites as possible, with everyone stacked on top of each other," notes one KOA visitor. Similarly, at Clabough's, "Campers are pretty close together though."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming holes for cooling off: Elkmont Campground offers natural water features. "A mountain river flows right beside the campground to give it a restful feeling. This is a great site for kids, with a good pool and jump park area," shares a visitor.
Kid-friendly amenities: Clabough's Campground offers multiple recreational options. "There are 2 pools, a lazy river, a playground and air mattress, plus it is just a couple of minutes from the Parkway, yet it feels like it is much farther from town," notes a frequent visitor.
Bear safety awareness: Protect children by following park regulations. "Remember to lock your food in your car, this is bear country and they do not encourage you to entice the bears into camp!!" advises an Elkmont camper.
Off-peak visit advantages: Less crowded seasons provide better experiences. "We camped here in November and didn't have a problem getting a site, but the place did fill up! November is when the leaves are changing. Temps cool at night, moderately nice during the day," shares a Cades Cove visitor.
Tips from RVers
Premium site options: Townsend Great Smokies KOA offers upgraded sites. "After walking around the river front patios are amazing followed by the river front decks," shares an RVer. Another visitor adds, "Spots are clean, fire pits are great, well maintained pavers patio and nicely landscaped."
Utility hookup reliability: Electric access varies between campgrounds. "There are clean a lovely creeks around the campground that makes it nice to camp by or kids play in. The shade helps with cooling in the summer, and makes it nice to sit outside," notes an Up the Creek visitor.
Level site availability: Many campgrounds offer properly graded sites. "All driveways shaded, paved, and level. Very pleasant place," reports a Cades Cove camper. Another camper at Up the Creek notes, "Nice sized camping spots, concrete pads with picnic tables and fire pit, some have raised fire pits."
Navigating narrow roads: Some areas present challenges for larger rigs. "Long and windy road to get to the area," cautions a Cades Cove visitor about access routes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best campgrounds in Pigeon Forge near Dollywood?
What are the best campgrounds in Pigeon Forge near Dollywood?
Gateway RV Campground - Tennessee is perfectly situated just 3 miles from Dollywood, tucked away on the quiet side of Pigeon Forge. This family-owned resort offers pull-through and back-in sites with full hookups while maintaining a peaceful valley atmosphere despite its proximity to attractions. Buddy Bear In The Smokies Campground is another excellent option with a direct route to Gatlinburg and close proximity to Dollywood. This small but well-maintained campground offers a quieter experience while still providing easy access to Pigeon Forge attractions.
Are there any year-round campgrounds in Pigeon Forge, TN?
Are there any year-round campgrounds in Pigeon Forge, TN?
Clabough's Campground operates year-round in Pigeon Forge and offers excellent amenities including two pools, a small lazy river, and a bounce pillow for kids during the warmer months. They provide convenient access to town via a trolley stop within the campground that takes visitors to both Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. Pigeon Forge RV Resort is also open throughout all seasons, offering winterized facilities and hookups suitable for cold-weather camping while maintaining accessibility to Pigeon Forge attractions year-round.
What cabin camping options are available in Pigeon Forge?
What cabin camping options are available in Pigeon Forge?
Smoky Hollow Outdoor Resort offers unique accommodation options just minutes from Pigeon Forge. Instead of traditional cabins, they feature distinctive lodging in teepees and covered wagons. These accommodations come with amenities like fire rings, firewood, and access to heated bathhouses. The resort also provides golf carts to help guests move around the property. For travelers seeking cabin-style camping near Pigeon Forge, Honeysuckle Meadows in nearby Wears Valley offers a beautiful mountain setting surrounded by the Smokies, though you'll need to verify their current cabin availability.
Which RV parks in Pigeon Forge are most highly rated?
Which RV parks in Pigeon Forge are most highly rated?
Anchor Down RV Resort consistently receives top ratings for its exceptional facilities, cleanliness, and helpful staff. Located on Douglas Lake with Smoky Mountain views, it's about 20-30 minutes from Pigeon Forge attractions. The resort offers lake access for fishing and boating, plus spectacular mountain vistas. Riveredge RV Park is another highly-rated option that puts you closer to the heart of Pigeon Forge, with well-maintained grounds and convenient access to local attractions. Both parks feature full hookups and amenities designed specifically for RV travelers.
Are there campgrounds along Little Pigeon River in Pigeon Forge?
Are there campgrounds along Little Pigeon River in Pigeon Forge?
Up the Creek RV Camp offers waterfront camping along the Little Pigeon River, with sites that provide soothing water sounds and scenic views. This location combines the peaceful ambiance of riverside camping with convenient access to Pigeon Forge attractions. Elkmont Campground, while not directly in Pigeon Forge but nearby in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offers beautiful riverside sites where campers can set up hammocks and enjoy their morning coffee by the water. Both options provide the relaxing atmosphere of waterside camping while maintaining accessibility to Pigeon Forge.
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