Camping at Great Smoky

The park has 1,008 developed campsites at 10 campgrounds and 100 primitive backcountry campsites on the ridges. For information on horse camps, please see page 52.

Reservations 

May 15 through October 31, reservations are required for Elkmont, Cades Cove and Smokemont campgrounds. Please call (877) 444-6777up to six months in advance, or visit www.recreation.gov. Sites at other developed campgrounds are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Camping fees range from $14 to $23 per night. 

Restrictions 

Stays of up to seven days are allowed from mid-May through October; 14 days during the rest of the year. 

Backcountry Camping 

Permits are required in the backcountry. Pick up a free permit at campgrounds, visitor centers and ranger stations. One permit covers up to eight people. Some 30 backcountry camping sites and shelters can be reserved; make permit and site reservations up to one month in advance. More than 60 sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. You may self-register at any ranger station or visitor center. Please contact the backcountry office at (865) 436-1231 for more information.