Big Creek Campground

Star4.64
53 reviews
236 Big Creek Park Road, Newport, TN, 37821

Quick Facts

1,700 ft

Price

$30/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

12 campsites

Season

Open from May 19 to ...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Great Smoky Mountains National Park site

Official Website
Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Big Creek Campground
$30.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Camping fee is $30 per site, per night.
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
828-486-5910GRSM_Smokies_Information@nps.gov
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What Campers Say

4.64

Top-Rated

Based on 53 reviews

76 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanspacioushikingsites

Some mention

noise

"The majority of user reviews praise Big Creek Campground for its scenic beauty, peaceful environment, and proximity to excellent hiking trails. However, some users expressed concerns about maintenance issues such as trash and unauthorized fires, as well as construction disturbances during certain periods."

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Campground Map

236 Big Creek Park Road, Newport, TN, 37821

Big Creek Campground

236 Big Creek Park Road, Newport, TN, 37821

Driving directionsBig Creek Campground directions and information are available at: https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/camping-at-big-creek.htm.
Big Creek Campground is tucked away in a remote setting but accessible via paved roads. Seasonal closures may apply (e.g., October 28–May 19).
Nearby places
Gatlinburg: approximately 36 miles away, about 50 minutes of driving time.
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies can be found in Gatlinburg, including groceries and fuel.

Best Time to Camp at Big Creek Campground

Mother Nature keeps things interesting at Big Creek, where the mountain climate shifts like a living, breathing entity. Winter brings crisp, mild days perfect for hiking without summer's crowds, while summer transforms the forest into a verdant paradise – though the humidity reminds you you're in the South. The mountains have their own weather personality, capable of surprising visitors with sudden afternoon thunderstorms or unexpected cool fronts. Seasoned campers know the secret: pack layers like you're preparing for all four seasons, and always keep rain gear within reach.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Open May–Oct; summer reviews praise lush natural beauty and hiking access.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.0 / 5

Open into October with good foliage, but some fall reviews note construction/noise issues.

Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Spring reviews emphasize lush beauty and excellent hiking from the campground.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed Oct 28–May 18; winter stays not supported.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: Peak season pricing applies from May 19 through October 27 annually.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open from May 19 to October 27. Closed from October 28 to May 18.
  • Current Alerts: Several alerts are active: Gatlinburg Bypass closed nightly, Straight Fork and the one-way section of Balsam Mountain Road closed. Old 284 bridge near Cataloochee is closed.

About Big Creek Campground

Escape to Big Creek Campground, where the authentic tent camping experience brings you closer to the heart of the Smoky Mountains. This peaceful retreat welcomes those seeking simplicity and connection with nature, offering essential comforts like flush toilets, fresh drinking water, and fire rings for evening gatherings under the stars. While you won't find RV hookups, camp stores, or shower facilities here, what you will discover is something far more valuable – an unspoiled gateway to mountain wilderness where the only sounds at night are crackling campfires and the gentle rush of Big Creek.
Big Creek Campground is exclusively a tent-only facility, offering a serene and remote camping experience in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It caters to individuals and families seeking a rustic escape without the amenities commonly associated with RV or group camping.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in begins at 12:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out is by 12:00 AM.
Stay Limit
Your stay is limited to 14 consecutive days at a time.

Amenities available

Potable water
Flush toilets
Fire rings
Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

Big Creek Campground offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and swimming in nearby natural water features. Visitors praise the availability of trails starting directly from the campground and the scenic beauty of the surrounding area.
HikingThe campground provides access to multiple hiking trails, including the nearby Big Creek Trail, which features views of Mouse Creek Falls and opportunities for creekside exploration. Trails vary in difficulty and are described as peaceful and scenic.
FishingFishing is permitted in Big Creek, where anglers can enjoy a serene environment. Specific details about fish species are not provided in the source data.
SwimmingSwimming is a common activity at Big Creek, with popular spots such as Midnight Hole offering natural swimming opportunities. Visitors recommend bringing swim gear to enjoy these refreshing areas.
Wildlife viewingThe remote location and natural setting of the campground make it ideal for observing local wildlife. Specific species are not mentioned, but the area is praised for its tranquility and natural beauty.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include unpredictable mountain weather, steep trails, and wildlife encounters.
Active AlertsSeveral alerts are active: Gatlinburg Bypass closed nightly, Straight Fork and the one-way section of Balsam Mountain Road closed. Old 284 bridge near Cataloochee is closed.
No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Weather at Big Creek Campground

Reviews

4.6
53 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Big Creek Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The majority of user reviews praise Big Creek Campground for its scenic beauty, peaceful environment, and proximity to excellent hiking trails. However, some users expressed concerns about maintenance issues such as trash and unauthorized fires, as well as construction disturbances during certain periods.
Review Summaries
Based on 53 reviews

What Campers Love

Users highlight the serene and secluded atmosphere, spacious campsites, clean bathrooms, and the opportunities for hiking, swimming, and relaxing by the creek. Many appreciate the lack of RVs and the...
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Based on 53 reviews

Common Concerns

Recent construction and maintenance activities disrupted some stays, with complaints about noise and early morning disturbances. Some users also noted a lack of ranger presence, leading to litter and...
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Based on 53 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring swim gear for the natural swimming spots, pack all necessary supplies as there is no camp store, and be prepared for a short walk to the campsites from the parking area. Plan to arrive during...
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Based on 53 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Positive reviews emphasize the lush natural beauty and hiking opportunities during spring and summer. Complaints during the fall include construction disturbances and maintenance issues, while winter...
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Based on 53 reviews

Camper Quotes

"One of the best campgrounds. All campsites are by the Big Creek and are all well maintained." - Weekend Adventures. "What I love is that everything is the same. Picnic tables, fire rings, other...
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Based on 53 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

There are no specific site numbers mentioned in user reviews. However, all 12 sites are described as spacious and well-maintained with easy access to Big Creek.
Based on 53 reviews

Accessibility Features

The campground is not ADA accessible, as all sites require a short walk from the parking area and the terrain may be challenging for individuals with mobility issues.
Based on 53 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Dogs are mentioned in one review, suggesting pets may be allowed, but no official confirmation is provided in the source materials.
Based on 53 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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