The Best Smoky Mountain Camping Spots

Getting outside is good for the soul. The Great Smoky Mountains are a treasure trove of scenic camping spots that can help you realign with the great outdoors. Check out some of the best Smoky Mountain camping spots we recommend.

Pigeon River Campground

With quaint little rustic cabins, you won’t exactly be roughing it at Pigeon River Campground. Overlooking the river, these cabins sleep up to five people and are equipped with some of the comforts of home like electric and private bathrooms on site. There are also tent pads and RV hookups for those looking for a more authentic camping experience. Pigeon River Campground is known for being squeaky clean. Also, it is right next door to a whitewater rafting launch spot, making it the perfect place for adventure seekers and nature lovers to set up camp.

Camp Riverslanding

Another great riverside location, Camp Riverslanding is one of the more luxurious Pigeon Forge campgrounds. Secluded in the woods, it is the perfect getaway and one of the most popular campgrounds in Tennessee. In addition to traditional camping accouterments, you and your family can enjoy the heated pool, play at the arcade or enjoy the basketball and tennis courts while you stay. One of the greatest parts about this spot is the tubing access. Relax and soak up the beauty around you as you float down the river right from your campsite! It doesn’t get more convenient than that.

Elkmont

Elkmont is a beautiful, spacious campground in Gatlinburg that also has riverfront campsites available. Fall asleep to the sounds of rushing water and understand true peace. Your family will create many photo opportunities and unforgettable memories in the Smoky Mountains. If you forget any necessities, the campground store is nearby to help. Pro tip: there are no showers at this campground, but the river is nature’s shower here. Just something to keep in mind when booking your stay at this Gatlinburg campground. Be sure to use eco-friendly products!

Cades Cove Campground

One of the greatest camping spots for nature lovers, Cades Cove is an incredible place to visit if you love observing wildlife, biking or hiking scenic trails, and exploring historic structures. This area offers more primitive camping without modern conveniences. The list of things to do in Cades Cove is endless, so plan on staying a little longer and exploring the Smokies as much as you can!

---

For more great places to camp in the Smokies, check out this list. We’d love to see how you camp in style! Tag us on Instagram in your Smoky Mountain camping photos @mobilebrochure.

Content on this page is subject to change. Please contact the locations mentioned to see if promotions, hours, pricing, etc. are still valid.