How much does camping cost at Cades Cove Group?

Camping fees at Cades Cove Group are $50 - $94/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Cades Cove Group first-come first-served or reservation?

Cades Cove Group 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 Cades Cove Group before I book?

Yes! Cades Cove Group has 27 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. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Cades Cove Group?

Cades Cove Group is open May 01 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 Cades Cove Group?

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

How many campsites does Cades Cove Group have?

Cades Cove Group has 4 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Cades Cove Group?

Yes, pets are allowed at Cades Cove Group. 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 Cades Cove Group?

Cades Cove Group offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Dump Station, Pets Allowed, Camp Store. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Cades Cove Group?

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

Cades Cove Group

Q: Can I have a campfire at Cades Cove Group?

Fire policies at Cades Cove Group: Fires are allowed in fire rings only! 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. For additional information about these firewood regulations, please visit the park website at http://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/f. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.48

713 reviews

107 Park Headquarters Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

Top 17% in TNFall

B-Report Card

Pet FriendlyScenic ViewsGreat HikingGreat for Groups

Featured in:Best Campgrounds Tennessee#2 Tent Camping Tennessee#3 Group Camping Tennessee#3 +11 more

Quick Facts

2,014 ft

Price

$50 - $94/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

4 campsites

Season

Open April 18 - Octo...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Top 1% in state

WiFi

Book on National Park Service Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

2,014 ft

Price

$50 - $94/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

4 campsites

Season

Open April 18 - Octo...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Top 1% in state

WiFi

Book on National Park Service Official Website

Get Directions

Cades Cove Group

$50.00 - $94.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP TENT ONLY AREA NONELECTRIC-206044: $94.00; GROUP TENT ONLY AREA NONELECTRIC-206045: $75.00; GROUP TENT ONLY AREA NONELECTRIC: $50.00. Plus...

Group Site Fee$94.00

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Provider

865-448-4103Dawn_Pekarchick@nps.gov

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Campground Map

107 Park Headquarters Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

Cades Cove Group

107 Park Headquarters Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

Nearby places

Townsend (9 miles, approximately 20 minutes)

Weather at Cades Cove Group

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 varies from 15 to 30 people. The park stay limit is 14 consecutive days.
A reservation is required to use a group camp. All group sites are TENT ONLY. No pop ups or RV's are allowed.
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 Cades Cove Group

Best season: fall. Fall offers the most striking scenery—crisp, clear days and the valley ablaze with autumn color (peak in Cades Cove is usually mid- to late-October). Daytime temperatures in October typically range from the mid-50s to low 70s°F with nights dipping into the 30s–40s, making hiking, biking the 11-mile loop, and wildlife photography very comfortable. Fall foliage and lower humidity make outdoor activities feel at their best, though expect higher visitation on weekends and peak leaf‑peeping days (arr Peak months: October, May, September, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

5.0 / 5

Top 17% in TN

Best season — valley ablaze with autumn color; crisp, clear days and peak viewing in Oct.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 01 to September 07. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open April 18 - October 26 (peak season); closed October 27 - May 25.

About Cades Cove Group

Cades Cove Group sits in the foothills of Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Townsend, operated by the National Park Service. This group-only campground provides direct access to the famous Cades Cove Loop Road, where visitors hike, watch for black bears and white-tailed deer, and photograph historic structures. Sites are close together with limited privacy, but the location delivers unmatched fall foliage and wildlife viewing in one of the park's most scenic valleys.

Cades Cove Group Campground specializes in group tent camping, offering a primitive experience with no RV accommodations.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall offers the most striking scenery—crisp, clear days and the valley ablaze with autumn color (peak in Cades Cove is usually mid- to late-October). Daytime temperatures in October typically range from the mid-50s to low 70s°F with nights dipping into the 30s–40s, making hiking, biking the 11-mile loop, and wildlife photography very comfortable. Fall foliage and lower humidity make outdoor activities feel at their best, though expect higher visitation on weekends and peak leaf‑peeping days (arr Peak months: October, May, September, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation2014 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a fertile basin at 2,014 feet elevation, surrounded by slopes covered in pine-oak forest, hemlock groves, and rhododendron. Lush meadows stretch across the valley floor. White-tailed deer, black bears, and wild turkeys frequent the area. Reviews consistently mention the scenery as beautiful, with wildlife sightings a major draw. Morning mist settles over the valley, and the mountain views frame every direction.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere is no hotel-style lodging within the campground; only group tent camping is available.

Programs & ActivitiesSeasonal interpretive programs are hosted in the nearby amphitheater. These programs often highlight the area's rich history and biodiversity.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

14 consecutive days per visit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum of 20 guests per group site.

Groups

Each group site accommodates up to 20 people, with multiple fire pits, picnic tables, and spacious tent areas. Some sites include 3-4 fire rings and 7 picnic tables.

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 through Recreation.gov online or via the mobile app, or by calling the contact center.

AccessibilitySome group sites are accessible for individuals with disabilities, and bathrooms are within walking distance of group sites.

Site SizeThe group campsites are large, accommodating up to 20 people per site, with spacious areas for tents and multiple fire pits and picnic tables.

PrivacyPrivacy is limited as campsites are close together. Reviews frequently mentioned the lack of separation between sites, stating that there is "little to no undergrowth to provide any privacy.

Total Campsites4 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites away from garbage bins for reduced odor and noise. G001 offers shade and privacy; G004 is ideal for large groups and includes multiple fire pits and picnic tables.

Best CampsitesSites G001 and G004 receive high marks in reviews for spaciousness and proximity to amenities. All four group sites are large, with room for multiple tents and fire pits.

Need help booking Cades Cove Group?

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

Cades Cove Group Camp provides a primitive camping experience, with conveniences such as flush toilets and drinking water, but there are no hookups or showers at the campground. All group sites are TENT ONLY. No pop ups or RV's are allowed.

Potable water

WiFi

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Picnic tables

I manage this campground

Things to do at Cades Cove Group

Visitors to the Cades Cove Group Campground can enjoy a variety of recreational activities. Popular options include biking, hiking, horseback riding, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Seasonal activities like Bicycle Only Days on the loop road and interpretive programs at the amphitheater add to the experience. "The 5-mile roundtrip hike to Abram Falls is a must-do," one camper suggested. Another review mentioned the abundance of wildlife sightings, including black bears, deer, and turkeys.

Hiking5.0/5Top 5% in Tennessee

Direct access to Cades Cove Loop; 5-mile roundtrip to Abrams Falls is a major draw.

Wildlife viewing5.0/5Top 3% in Tennessee

Frequent sightings of black bears, white-tailed deer and wild turkeys; wildlife viewing is a highlight.

Fishing4.0/5

Park streams/trout abundant; Abrams Creek runs by campground but fishing requires a license.

Biking4.0/5Top 9% in Tennessee

Bike rentals available; excellent access to the Cades Cove Loop and Bicycle-Only Days.

Cultural and Educational Programs

Winter Activities

Signature experiences

Stargazing4.0/5Located in a national park valley with low light pollution; good potential for stargazing.

Photography5.0/5Iconic loop, historic buildings, abundant wildlife and peak fall color make it top-tier for photos.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

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 PolicyFires are allowed in fire rings only! 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. For additional information about these firewood regulations, please visit the park website at http://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/f

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM

Trash & RecyclingBear-proof dumpsters are available for trash disposal. Some campers noted that these dumpsters were placed too close to certain campsites, resulting in noise and odor issues.

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

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.5

713 reviews

Recommended

Cades Cove Group is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Overall, Cades Cove Group Campground is highly rated for its scenic location and proximity to the Cades Cove Loop, but receives criticism for its lack of showers, crowded conditions, and occasional cleanliness issues in restrooms.

Review Summaries

Based on 713 reviews

What Campers Love

"The scenery is absolutely beautiful," and "Great access to the Cades Cove drive" are common sentiments. Wildlife sightings, spacious group sites, and the peaceful atmosphere are frequently praised.

Based on 713 reviews

Common Concerns

The absence of showers, "filthy" bathrooms during peak times, and tight spacing between campsites are recurring complaints. The camp store's high prices also drew criticism.

Based on 713 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Group sites like G001 and G004 are highly recommended for their spaciousness and proximity to bathrooms.

Based on 713 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring soap and hand sanitizer due to the lack of soap in bathrooms. "Book early during peak season," one user advised. Others recommend arriving at the loop early for the best wildlife sightings.

Based on 713 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and fall are the most popular and recommended seasons due to milder temperatures and active wildlife. Winter offers solitude but requires preparation for freezing conditions.

Based on 713 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Camping in Cades Cove makes it easy to drive the 11-mile loop road early in the morning and at dusk, the best times for sighting wildlife." Another wrote, "Be prepared for extremes. Peaceful!"

Based on 713 reviews

Accessibility Features

Several group sites are accessible, but the lack of showers and steep trails may limit options for some visitors with disabilities.

Based on 713 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are permitted but must be leashed and are not allowed on trails. "Great place for camping with pets," noted one user.

Based on 713 reviews

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Cades Cove Group

$50.00 - $94.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP TENT ONLY AREA NONELECTRIC-206044: $94.00; GROUP TENT ONLY AREA NONELECTRIC-206045: $75.00; GROUP TENT ONLY AREA NONELECTRIC: $50.00. Plus...

Group Site Fee$94.00

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

256,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

865-448-4103Dawn_Pekarchick@nps.gov

Go if

You're organizing a group trip and want guaranteed proximity to the Cades Cove Loop and its wildlife.

Skip if

You need private, spaced-out sites or expect spotless facilities during peak season.

Nearby Campgrounds

Highly Popular

4.5

(671)

Cades Cove Group Campground

107 Park Headquarters Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

Cades Cove Group Campground sits in a historic valley within Great Smoky Mountains National Park, operated by the National Park Service near Gatlinburg. The foothills setting offers tent, RV, and primitive group sites with flush toilets, a dump station, and potable water. Visitors come for wildlife viewing — deer, black bears, and turkeys are common — and biking the scenic loop road, especially during fall color season.

Cades Cove Group

Quick Facts

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Amenities available

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Common Concerns

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