Deep Creek Group Camp

4.50

9 reviews

1912 East Deep Creek Road, Bryson City, NC, 28713, USA

Quick Facts

1,867 ft

Price

$50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

92 campsites

Season

Open from April 18, ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Great Smoky Mountains National Park site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

1,867 ft

Price

$50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

92 campsites

Season

Open from April 18, ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Great Smoky Mountains National Park site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Deep Creek Group Camp

$50.00 - $50.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Facility rates during peak seasons are $50 per night for group tent-only areas. Displayed rates do not reflect discounts, taxes, or incremental...

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$50.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

828-488-3184 OR 865-436-1261

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What Campers Say

4.50

Recommended

Based on 9 reviews

2 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsspacioushiking

Some mention

noise

"User reviews highlight beautiful scenery, proximity to outdoor activities, and a spacious layout. Complaints focus on site proximity and noise from day users. Sentiment averages 4.4 specifically for campgrounds."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

1912 East Deep Creek Road, Bryson City, NC, 28713, USA

Deep Creek Group Camp

1912 East Deep Creek Road, Bryson City, NC, 28713, USA

Driving directionsFrom downtown Bryson City, NC: Follow signs to Deep Creek, located 3 miles away.

From Bryson City, access is straightforward on well-maintained roads; however, no mention of seasonal closures or challenging terrain.

Nearby places

Bryson City (3 miles, approximate travel time not specified)

Nearby supplies

Bryson City, 3 miles away, has grocery stores and general camping supplies.

Best Time to Camp at Deep Creek Group Camp

Deep Creek's enchanting seasonal tapestry unfolds throughout the year, painting the landscape with nature's most vibrant palette. Spring arrives in a breathtaking explosion of color as wildflowers carpet the forest floor—from delicate trilliums to bold rhododendrons—creating a photographer's paradise. Summer brings warm, humid days perfect for cooling off in the creek's refreshing waters, while gentle mountain breezes provide relief during evening campfire conversations. Autumn transforms the surrounding peaks into a magnificent canvas of crimson, gold, and amber as the famous Smoky Mountain foliage reaches its peak brilliance. Even winter holds its own quiet charm, with mild temperatures allowing for peaceful off-season exploration when the crowds have departed and the forest reveals its serene, contemplative character.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer is popular for water activities like tubing and favorable weather.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall offers vibrant foliage and mild conditions; popular season in description.

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring noted for wildflowers and pleasant conditions; good season for hiking.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

2.0 / 5

Winters are cold and quiet; campground has limited winter activity mention and some closures.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April 18, 2025 - October 26, 2025, and May 26, 2026 - September 01, 2026.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from April 18, 2025, to May 26, 2026; reservations are closed during out-of-season periods.
Current Alerts: Parking tags are required for vehicles parking more than 15 minutes in the park starting March 1. Additional firewood restrictions apply.

About Deep Creek Group Camp

Nestled in the heart of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Deep Creek Group Camp beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience. This expansive campground features 92 thoughtfully spaced primitive sites, each outfitted with essential amenities including sturdy picnic tables, cooking grills, and stone-ringed fire pits perfect for evening gatherings under starlit skies. As a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, Deep Creek serves as your gateway to crystal-clear mountain waters ideal for tubing adventures, pristine fishing spots teeming with native trout, and miles of scenic hiking trails that wind through ancient forests. While embracing the simplicity of traditional camping without modern hookups or shower facilities, this back-to-nature retreat offers the rare opportunity to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with the timeless rhythms of the mountains.

Deep Creek Group Camp specializes in group tent camping with a primitive focus. No RV or glamping options are available.

Historical SignificanceWhile Deep Creek's specific chronicles may be unwritten, this tranquil corner of Great Smoky Mountains National Park pulses with the broader heritage of America's most visited national park. These ancient mountains have witnessed millennia of human history, from the Cherokee people who first called these hills home to the hardy Appalachian settlers who later carved out lives in these remote valleys. Today, Deep Creek continues this legacy as a cherished gathering place where modern families and groups create their own stories against the backdrop of one of Earth's oldest mountain ranges, participating in the ongoing narrative of human connection to these timeless peaks.

Weather and SeasonsDeep Creek's enchanting seasonal tapestry unfolds throughout the year, painting the landscape with nature's most vibrant palette. Spring arrives in a breathtaking explosion of color as wildflowers carpet the forest floor—from delicate trilliums to bold rhododendrons—creating a photographer's paradise. Summer brings warm, humid days perfect for cooling off in the creek's refreshing waters, while gentle mountain breezes provide relief during evening campfire conversations. Autumn transforms the surrounding peaks into a magnificent canvas of crimson, gold, and amber as the famous Smoky Mountain foliage reaches its peak brilliance. Even winter holds its own quiet charm, with mild temperatures allowing for peaceful off-season exploration when the crowds have departed and the forest reveals its serene, contemplative character.

ElevationThough specific elevation markers remain nature's secret at Deep Creek, visitors will find themselves immersed in the characteristic mountain environment that defines the Great Smokies, where the interplay of altitude and atmosphere creates the park's signature misty vistas and diverse ecosystems.

Natural Features and SceneryDeep Creek emerges as a natural wonderland where rushing mountain waters have carved a verdant corridor through ancient forests. Towering hardwoods and evergreens create a living cathedral overhead, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The namesake creek provides both the soundtrack and centerpiece of the camping experience, its clear waters tumbling over smooth boulders and forming inviting pools that beckon swimmers and tubers during warm summer days. Spring transforms the understory into a botanical garden of native wildflowers, while autumn's arrival turns the surrounding mountainsides into a spectacular amphitheater of fall colors. Throughout it all, the dramatic mountain terrain provides an ever-changing backdrop of ridges, valleys, and distant peaks that remind visitors why these mountains have captivated hearts for generations.

Geological RegionTucked into the southeastern reaches of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Deep Creek occupies a privileged position within one of the world's most biodiverse temperate regions. This corner of the Smokies showcases the classic Appalachian landscape—ancient mountains worn smooth by eons of weather, yet still commanding respect with their impressive ridgelines and deep valleys. The area's unique geology supports an intricate network of mountain streams and rivers that have shaped the terrain over millions of years, creating the perfect blend of accessible creek-side camping and rugged mountain wilderness. The lush vegetation that blankets every surface speaks to the abundant rainfall and mild climate that make this region a temperate rainforest, supporting an incredible variety of plant and animal life that transforms a simple camping trip into an immersive natural experience.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Official check-in time not specified.

Check-out

Official check-out time not specified.

Stay Limit

You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Group sites can accommodate 15-30 guests.

Groups

Group sites can accommodate between 15 and 30 people, with a minimum requirement of 7 people per site.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground is divided into three group sites equipped with grills, tables, and fire rings.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.

Walk-in AvailabilityNearby Deep Creek Campground offers first-come, first-served camping, but Deep Creek Group Camp requires reservations.

Cancellation PolicyCustomers who cancel a group overnight facility reservation less than 14 days before the arrival date will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee.

AccessibilitySome group sites are noted as accessible. Specific details about accessibility features are not provided.

Site SizeThe campground consists of 92 individual sites and 3 group sites. User reviews call the spaces 'spacious and well set up.

PrivacyUser reviews describe the sites as close to each other, suggesting limited privacy.

Total Campsites92 campsites

Recommended SitesGroup sites 202 and 203 offer scenic views and easy access to the creek.

Amenities available

Potable water

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

The Deep Creek Group Camp offers a rich variety of recreational activities focused on water and hiking. Deep Creek itself is noted for water-based activities such as tubing, wading, and fishing, while hiking enthusiasts can access trails leading to waterfalls like Tom Branch Falls and Indian Creek Falls. Wildlife viewing is also highlighted as a possible activity.

HikingHiking trails are easily accessible from the campground. Key trails include the Deep Creek Trail to Tom Branch Falls (0.7 miles) and Indian Creek Trail to Indian Creek Falls (25 feet height). Reviews describe the hiking opportunities as excellent.

FishingFishing opportunities abound in Deep Creek and its surrounding streams, with trout being a common catch. Backcountry fishing is also available.

SwimmingWhile there are no designated swimming areas, tubing and wading in Deep Creek are popular water activities.

Wildlife viewingUser reviews and official sources mention opportunities for observing wildlife around the campground. High bear activity is noted in the area.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsHigh bear activity has been recorded annually. Visitors are advised to store food and scented items securely and follow best practices for bear encounters.

Active AlertsParking tags are required for vehicles parking more than 15 minutes in the park starting March 1. Additional firewood restrictions apply.

Fire PolicyFires are permitted only in designated fire rings. Campers may collect dead and down wood or purchase heat-treated firewood.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.

Emergency ServicesBryson City offers grocery stores and medical facilities, but specific emergency service locations such as hospitals or police stations are not mentioned.

Trash & RecyclingTrash must be disposed of promptly in bear-proof dumpsters. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.

Water FeaturesThe campground is adjacent to Deep Creek, offering fishing, tubing, and wading opportunities.

Camp HostHost information is not provided.

Weather at Deep Creek Group Camp

Reviews

4.5

9 reviews

Recommended

Deep Creek Group Camp is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight beautiful scenery, proximity to outdoor activities, and a spacious layout. Complaints focus on site proximity and noise from day users. Sentiment averages 4.4 specifically for campgrounds.

Review Summaries

Based on 9 reviews

What Campers Love

Reviews praise the campground's beauty, with mentions of scenic hiking trails, enjoyable tubing experiences, and proximity to Bryson City for shopping and amenities. 'This campground is spacious and...

Based on 9 reviews

Common Concerns

Noise from day users and closely spaced campsites are cited as negatives. 'Sites are a little close, and the noise from day users across the creek is a little much,' says one review.

Based on 9 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend early bookings due to high demand during summer months. Safety tips include storing food in sealed vehicles due to bear activity.

Based on 9 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer months are popular due to favorable weather and water activities. Fall and spring offer vibrant foliage and mild conditions, though winters are cold and quiet.

Based on 9 reviews

Camper Quotes

Direct quotes: 'Great camping experience,' 'Once is not enough. Coming soon again,' 'The creek is the highlight but this is true camping in the woods.'

Based on 9 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

'This campground is spacious and set up well,' says Denise C about Site 202. Buddha M describes Site 203 as part of a great group loop area.

Based on 9 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility features are not widely discussed in user reviews but are noted in official descriptions.

Based on 9 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but restrictions apply. 'Pets are permitted but cannot be left unattended,' warns official sources. No reviews mention pet-specific experiences.

Based on 9 reviews

0 review