How much does camping cost at Big Creek Group Camp?

Camping fees at Big Creek Group Camp are $30/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Big Creek Group Camp first-come first-served or reservation?

Big Creek Group Camp accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Big Creek Group Camp before I book?

Yes! Big Creek Group Camp has 5 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve.

What is the best time to visit Big Creek Group Camp?

Big Creek Group Camp is open May 15 to September 07. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Big Creek Group Camp?

Big Creek Group Camp does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Big Creek Group Camp have?

Big Creek Group Camp has 1 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Big Creek Group Camp?

Yes, pets are allowed at Big Creek Group Camp. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Big Creek Group Camp?

Big Creek Group Camp offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Big Creek Group Camp?

Popular activities at Big Creek Group Camp include Hiking, Fishing, Biking, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Big Creek Group Camp

Q: Can I have a campfire at Big Creek Group Camp?

Fire policies at Big Creek Group Camp: Firewood Restriction: Only heat-treated firewood bundled in its original packing and bearing a certification seal from the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) or a state department of agriculture may be brought into the park. This rule is strictly enforced. Campers may also collect dead and down wood in the park for campfires.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.61

92 reviews

236 Big Creek Park Road, Newport, Tennessee, 37821

Top 2% in NCSpring

Pet Friendly

Featured in:Mountain Camping North Carolina Group Camping North Carolina Forest Camping North Carolina +9 more

Quick Facts

1,755 ft

Price

$30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

The campground is op...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Top 8% in state

Book on Recreation.gov Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,755 ft

Price

$30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

The campground is op...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Top 8% in state

Book on Recreation.gov Official Website

Get Directions

Big Creek Group Camp

$30.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP TENT ONLY AREA NONELECTRIC: $30.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

Group Site Fee$30.00

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Provider

423-487-2683

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Campground Map

236 Big Creek Park Road, Newport, Tennessee, 37821

Big Creek Group Camp

236 Big Creek Park Road, Newport, Tennessee, 37821

Nearby places

Newport, TN - 16 miles (approximately 25-minute drive)

Driving directionsThe campground is located off I-40 Exit 451 (Waterville), sixteen miles east of Newport, TN. Follow Waterville road, crossing over the Pigeon River, past the Walters Power Generating Station and continue one mile to the 4-way intersection at Mt Sterling Gap. Follow the signs to Big Creek. Drive up to the end of Big Creek Entrance Road. You will pass the Ranger Station and horse camp. Group camp will be the last left turn immediately before hiker parking.

Weather at Big Creek Group Camp

Current alerts(13)

A Tennessee or North Carolina fishing license is required to fish in the park. Special regulations apply in the park.
A minimum of 7 people is required for group site use. Maximum site capacity is 25 people. The park stay limit is 14 consecutive days.
A reservation is required to use a group camp.
A valid parking tag is required for any vehicle parking for more than 15 minutes in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Front country campers parked at their designated campsite will not be required to have a parking tag.

Best Time to Camp at Big Creek Group Camp

Best season: spring. Spring offers the best balance of mild weather, full streams and peak wildflower displays — daytime highs typically sit in the mid-50s to low-70s°F with cool nights around 35–50°F — making hiking, trout fishing and waterfall viewing at their peak. Big Creek’s cascades run strong from snowmelt and spring rains, drawing anglers and photographers while the group camp stays quieter than more accessible Smokies trailheads except for weekend use. In short, spring provides ideal conditions for creek‑or Peak months: May, June, October, April Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.5 / 5

Top 2% in NC

Spring is best: peak wildflowers, full streams, ideal hiking, fishing and waterfall flows.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 15 to September 07. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: The campground is open from April 18 to October 26 during peak season. No bookings are available from October 26 to May 26.

About Big Creek Group Camp

Big Creek Group Camp sits in the foothills of Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Newport, North Carolina, operated by the National Park Service. This primitive group site offers access to Big Creek's cascades and trout streams, with hiking trails departing directly from camp. Spring brings peak wildflower displays and strong waterfall flows, drawing anglers and photographers to this quieter corner of the park.

Big Creek Group Camp is exclusively for group tent camping, accommodating up to 25 people per site. It is situated in a forested area near hiking trails, offering a rustic experience with essential amenities.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: spring. Spring offers the best balance of mild weather, full streams and peak wildflower displays — daytime highs typically sit in the mid-50s to low-70s°F with cool nights around 35–50°F — making hiking, trout fishing and waterfall viewing at their peak. Big Creek’s cascades run strong from snowmelt and spring rains, drawing anglers and photographers while the group camp stays quieter than more accessible Smokies trailheads except for weekend use. In short, spring provides ideal conditions for creek‑or Peak months: May, June, October, April Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation1755 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryAt 1,755 feet elevation, the campground occupies a valley carved by Big Creek through metamorphic rock formed over 800 million years ago. The creek has sculpted smooth granite channels and a network of cascades and pools, including the popular swimming hole at Midnight Hole a short hike upstream. Old-growth tulip poplars, hemlocks, and hardwoods form a dense canopy overhead. Mouse Creek Falls drops 35 feet into a pool surrounded by rhododendron thickets. In spring, wildflowers including trilliums and bloodroot cover the forest floor.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe campground does not include hotel-style lodges or alternative lodging accommodations.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are described as being offered at this site.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Guests may not stay longer than 14 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Aminimum of 7 people is required for group site use. Maximum site capacity is 25 people.

Groups

The group site accommodates up to 25 guests. Tent pads, grills, and fire rings are provided. A minimum of 7 people is required for group site use.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, online or through the app.

AccessibilityThe site includes accessible flush toilets and nearby parking areas. However, no specific details about ADA-compliant features for mobility-impaired visitors are provided.

Site SizeThe campsite can host up to 25 people, and tent pads are provided, ensuring enough space for group camping.

PrivacyThe site is surrounded by a heavy forest canopy, providing shade and relative privacy. User reviews highlight the secluded nature of the area, stating, "You're pretty much alone except the camp host being right there.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesGroup tent sites are ideal for larger groups with ample space and proximity to forested trails.

Need help booking Big Creek Group Camp?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

There are no showers or electric, water or sewer hook-ups in the park. Some group sites are accessible.

Potable water

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Group Sites

I manage this campground

Things to do at Big Creek Group Camp

Big Creek Group Camp is surrounded by recreational opportunities including hiking, swimming, fishing, birding, biking, and more. The nearby Big Creek Trail and Appalachian Trail offer stunning hikes, while Midnight Hole and Mouse Creek Falls provide memorable natural features.

Hiking4.0/5

Trails depart directly from camp; Appalachian Trail accessible via Chestnut Branch Trail (2.1 mi).

Hiking opportunities are abundant, with the Appalachian Trail accessible via the Chestnut Branch Trail (2.1 miles). The Big Creek Trail leads to Mouse Creek Falls and Midnight Hole, which one reviewer described as "an area where Big Creek squeezes between large boulders, forming a deep, beautifully-colored pool." Another reviewer noted the trail to Mouse Creek Falls as "fantastic," with views of the water nearly the entire way.

Fishing4.0/5

Spring draws anglers; Rainbow and Brook trout present; park fishing rules noted.

Swimming4.0/5

Midnight Hole is a nearby deep river pool for swimming/jumping; swimming described as popular.

Wildlife viewing3.5/5

Forest and creek create diverse habitats; birding and wildlife viewing noted.

Biking3.0/5

Biking paths are connected to the campground but terrain and trail details are limited.

Winter Activities

Signature experiences

Photography4.5/5Spring wildflowers, waterfalls and sculpted granite channels draw photographers.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyFirewood Restriction: Only heat-treated firewood bundled in its original packing and bearing a certification seal from the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) or a state department of agriculture may be brought into the park. This rule is strictly enforced. Campers may also collect dead and down wood in the park for campfires.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM

Trash & RecyclingTrash must be disposed of in bear-proof dumpsters provided at the site. Recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned.

Cell CoverageCell phone service is not explicitly described, and users have not commented on the availability or quality of service.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.6

92 reviews

Top-Rated

Big Creek Group Camp is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Big Creek Group Camp is well-regarded for its natural beauty, with many reviewers praising its trails, secluded location, and clean facilities. However, some users have reported issues with maintenance and the reservation system.

Review Summaries

Based on 92 reviews

What Campers Love

Reviewers highlight the "beautiful location," proximity to hiking trails, and clean bathrooms. One user stated, "One of the best campgrounds...you can swim, fish, or just relax listening to the...

Based on 92 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include issues with the reservation system, such as the gate being closed upon arrival, and sporadic utility outages. One user mentioned, "Potable water and electricity in the...

Based on 92 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

GP01 was mentioned in one review, where the group encountered issues with access and facilities not being prepared despite prior reservations.

Based on 92 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing swim gear for Midnight Hole and planning for potential utility issues. Additionally, securing reservations early is advised, as the site is popular.

Based on 92 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and summer are the most popular seasons due to the ideal conditions for hiking, swimming, and fishing. However, the campground is closed from late October to late May.

Based on 92 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The bathroom was always clean" (Melinda Bevins). "You're pretty much alone except the camp host being right there" (Melinda Bevins). "Bring swim gear for Midnight Hole; it's a blast for the kids"...

Based on 92 reviews

Accessibility Features

There are limited comments on accessibility. While flush toilets and nearby parking are accessible, no further details are available.

Based on 92 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be leashed and are not permitted on trails. One reviewer noted, "Quiet. Dog loved it. Lots of places around to explore even if he could not go the trails."

Based on 92 reviews

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Big Creek Group Camp

$30.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP TENT ONLY AREA NONELECTRIC: $30.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

Group Site Fee$30.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

423-487-2683

Go if

You want a National Park Service group site with immediate trail access and don't need electric hookups.

Skip if

You need RV hookups or want individual sites instead of group-only reservations.

Nearby Campgrounds

236 Big Creek Park Road, Newport, Tennessee, 37821

Big Creek Horse Camp sits in the foothills of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a National Park Service equestrian facility near Newport, Tennessee. This very small primitive campground serves riders exploring the park's backcountry trail system, with designated stalls, flush toilets, and potable water. Visitors come for spring wildflower rides, waterfall access, and wildlife viewing along less-traveled park routes.

Big Creek Group Camp

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Ask Camp Sage about Big Creek Group Camp

Campground Map

Weather at Big Creek Group Camp

Current alerts(13)

Best Time to Camp at Big Creek Group Camp

Planning Tips

About Big Creek Group Camp

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Big Creek Group Camp?

Amenities available

Things to do at Big Creek Group Camp

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews

Get Notified When Available

Go if

Skip if

Directions

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Ask Camp Sage about Big Creek Group Camp

Current alerts(13)

Best Time to Camp at Big Creek Group Camp

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Big Creek Group Camp?

Amenities available

Things to do at Big Creek Group Camp

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews