
SMOKEMONT CAMPGROUND
138
Total Campsites
Campground
136
Reservable Sites
Mixed (reservable + first-come)
7
Accessible
ADA-compliant sites
—
Organization
Managing agency
Overview
About SMOKEMONT CAMPGROUND
Overview Situated in the stunning Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this campsite offers an ideal setting to enjoy the outdoors. Ridge upon ridge of forest straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. World-renowned for its diversity of plant and animal life, the beauty of its ancient mountains and the quality of its remnants of Southern Appalachian culture, this is America's most visited national park. Recreation Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a hiker's paradise, offering over 800 miles of maintained trails ranging from short, leg-stretchers to strenuous treks, with a number of those trails easily accessible from the picnic area. But hiking is not the only reason for visiting the Smokies: Fishing, picnicking, wildlife viewing and auto touring are also popular activities. Campers can enjoy high-quality backcountry fishing in the cool waters of the countless streams and rivers that snake through the mountains, with trout available in abundance. The nearby Bradley Fork River provides a great place to go for a dip or fish for trout. Wildlife viewing is a popular pastime, and with around 1,500 bears living in the park, it's not uncommon for visitors to spot one. The park is a sanctuary for a magnificent array of animal and plant life, all of which is protected for future generations to enjoy. The park also holds one of the best collections of log buildings in the eastern United States. Over 90 historic structures, including houses, barns, outbuildings, churches, schools and grist mills, have been preserved or rehabilitated in the park. Facilities Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a hiker's paradise, offering over 800 miles of maintained trails ranging from short, leg-stretchers to strenuous treks, with a number of those trails easily accessible from the picnic area. But hiking is not the only reason for visiting the Smokies: Fishing, picnicking, wildlife viewing and auto touring are also popular activities. Campers can enjoy high-quality backcountry fishing in the cool waters of the countless streams and rivers that snake through the mountains, with trout available in abundance. The nearby Bradley Fork River provides a great place to go for a dip or fish for trout. Wildlife viewing is a popular pastime, and with around 1,500 bears living in the park, it's not uncommon for visitors to spot one. The park is a sanctuary for a magnificent array of animal and plant life, all of which is protected for future generations to enjoy. The park also holds one of the best collections of log buildings in the eastern United States. Over 90 historic structures, including houses, barns, outbuildings, churches, schools and grist mills, have been preserved or rehabilitated in the park. Natural Features Smokemont Campground is surrounded by picturesque mountain ranges, with pristine mountain streams and rivers setting the backdrop for your camping adventure. Whether blanketed in spring wildflowers or vivid fall colors, the scenery at Smokemont never disappoints. At 2,200 feet, Smokemont provides a moderate climate, characterized by mild winters and hot, humid summers. Great Smoky Mountains National Park preserves a rich cultural history of Southern Appalachia. From the prehistoric Paleo Indians to the early European settlements in the 1800s, the park strives to protect its historic structures, landscapes and artifacts that tell the stories of the people who once called these mountains home. Nearby Attractions The Museum of the Cherokee Indian, Oconaluftee Indian Village and Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual, located 6 miles away in Cherokee, North Carolina, provides cultural and historical information about the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Cherokee also has fuel.
- 138 total campsites listed.
- 136 reservable sites plus first-come options.
- 7 accessible campsites listed.
- Most common site type: standard nonelectric (96).
- Map coordinates are available for trip planning.


Our Take
What makes SMOKEMONT CAMPGROUND special
Smokemont Campground lies deep in the lush, ancient forests of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, set along the banks of the Oconaluftee River near Cherokee, North Carolina. The Great Smokies are the most visited national park in America, and Smokemont is one of its most accessible and atmospheric places to camp — a place where morning fog drifts through hemlock and tulip poplar groves like something from another century. With 138 sites arranged along the river and forested hillside, Smokemont accommodates both tent campers and RVs in a setting that feels remarkably wild given its proximity to the park entrance. Sites are generously spaced beneath a dense canopy, and the sound of the river is a constant, soothing presence. The campground is open year-round, though some loops close seasonally. From Smokemont, you can hike directly into the backcountry on trails that climb through old-growth forest to high-elevation balds with panoramic views of ridge upon ridge of blue-green mountains stretching to the horizon. The Bradley Fork and Smokemont Loop trails start right from camp. Clingmans Dome, Newfound Gap, and the Cataloochee elk herd are all within a scenic drive. Reservations are available through Recreation.gov from mid-May through October and are essential for weekends and holidays. The shoulder seasons — April through May for wildflowers, and October for peak fall color — are the most rewarding times to visit. Winter camping is quiet and beautiful, with frost-covered trails and the forest almost entirely to yourself.
Campsite Inventory
138 sites to choose from
STANDARD NONELECTRIC
95
Reservable
5
Accessible
RV NONELECTRIC
41
Reservable
2
Accessible
Amenities & Details
Everything you need to know
Accessibility
Yes
Campfire Allowed
Yes
Site capacity
Single
Check-in time
1:00 PM
Check-out time
12:00 PM
Condition Rating
Good, Prime
Double Driveway
Yes
Driveway entry
Back-In, Parallel, Pull-Through
Driveway Grade
N/A, Slight
Driveway length (ft)
24, 26, 27, 29
Driveway surface
Paved
Electricity Hookup
5 amp, N/A
Fire Pit
Yes
Food Locker
Yes
GRILLS
Yes
Generator Free
Yes
Location Rating
Good, Prime
Max guests
6
Reservations & Contact
Plan your stay
Phone
828-497-9270
Getting There
There is no street address for the campground. From Cherokee, NC: Take Newfound Gap Road (aka US 441) North 6 miles. Turn right at campground sign. From Gatlinburg, TN: Take Newfound Gap Road (aka US 441) South 27 miles. Turn left at campground sign.
FAQ
Common questions
Everything you need to know before your trip to SMOKEMONT CAMPGROUND.
How do reservations work for SMOKEMONT CAMPGROUND?
Reservation availability for SMOKEMONT CAMPGROUND can vary by season and campsite type. Check the contact and access section before booking.
What campsite types are available at SMOKEMONT CAMPGROUND?
SMOKEMONT CAMPGROUND currently lists STANDARD NONELECTRIC (96), RV NONELECTRIC (42).
Where is SMOKEMONT CAMPGROUND located?
SMOKEMONT CAMPGROUND is in North Carolina near Cherokee. Coordinates: 35.5533, -83.3086.
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