Cades Cove Group

Star4.49
713 reviews
107 Park Headquarters Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA
Scenic Views

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

WiFi

Opens National Park Service site

Official Website
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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
Cades Cove Group
$50.00 - $94.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Group Tent Only Area Nonelectric: $50-$94 per night during peak season. Fees vary by season dates. Reservation fees apply when booking online ($8) or...
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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$94.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
865-448-4103Dawn_Pekarchick@nps.gov
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What Campers Say

4.49

Recommended

Based on 713 reviews

2250 Google reviews

Most mentioned

scenerypeacefulspacioussites

"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."

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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

Driving directionsFrom Maryville, TN: Take U.S. 321 North (you'll actually be driving south!) from Maryville to Townsend, TN (about 22 miles). At the traffic light in Townsend, continue straight on TN 73 and follow signs to Cades Cove. From Pigeon Forge, TN take US 321 South (you'll be driving westerly) to Townsend, TN. Turn left (south) at Townsend onto TN 73. Follow signs to Cades Cove.
Access to Cades Cove Group Campground is straightforward via paved roads. Seasonal closures may affect accessibility, such as the 'Bicycle Only Day' on Wednesdays during May to September.
Nearby places
Townsend (9 miles, approximately 20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Townsend (9 miles away) provides full-service grocery stores and fuel. The campground itself offers a camp store for basic necessities, bike rentals, and snacks like ice cream.

Best Time to Camp at Cades Cove Group

Experience the refreshing mountain climate where summer nights offer a cool respite from daytime warmth, perfect for cozy campfire gatherings. As autumn arrives, crisp air mingles with vibrant foliage, while winter transforms the landscape into a frozen wonderland where temperatures can plunge to a bracing -10°F. Spring brings renewal and mild days ideal for exploration. Pack layers and prepare for Mother Nature's mood swings—the mountains have their own weather rules, and part of the adventure is embracing whatever conditions greet you.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Cool summer nights and campfire-friendly weather; popular but can be crowded.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.5 / 5

Crisp air and vibrant foliage; fall is a recommended season with active wildlife.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.5 / 5
Top 11% in TN

Spring is popular and recommended for mild temps and active wildlife; campground opens Apr 18.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground is closed Oct 27 - May 25; winter camping not available.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: April 18 - October 26. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open April 18 - October 26 (peak season); closed October 27 - May 25.
  • Current Alerts: Bear activity is significant, and improper food storage can result in fines.

About Cades Cove Group

Nestled in a serene mountain valley, Cades Cove Group Campground invites you to experience the authentic wilderness of the Great Smoky Mountains. This primitive camping haven combines the raw beauty of nature with essential amenities including flush toilets and fresh drinking water. Wake up to misty mountain mornings, explore nearby historic structures, and embark on scenic hiking adventures—all from your basecamp in one of the park's most beloved destinations.
Cades Cove Group Campground specializes in group tent camping, offering a primitive experience with no RV accommodations.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
1:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
14 consecutive days per visit.

Amenities available

Potable water
WiFi
Flush toilets
Dump station
Fire rings
Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

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.
HikingHiking is a major draw for visitors, with the 5-mile roundtrip hike to Abrams Falls being a highlight. "The trail is flat, easy but has lots of ups and downs," noted a user. Trails range from beginner to moderate, traversing pine-oak forests and hemlock areas near streams.
FishingThe park offers high-quality backcountry fishing in its streams and rivers, with trout being abundant. However, a valid Tennessee or North Carolina fishing license is required to fish in the park.
BikingBike rentals are available at the campground store. Bicycle access to the Cades Cove Loop is a standout feature, particularly during Bicycle Only Days when the loop is closed to motorized traffic. "Riding the loop in the early morning is a great experience," shared one reviewer.
Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is a highlight, with frequent sightings of black bears, deer, turkeys, and other animals. "The best times for wildlife sightings are early morning and dusk," advised a camper.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsSeasonal interpretive programs are hosted in the nearby amphitheater. These programs often highlight the area's rich history and biodiversity.
Winter Activities
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsHigh bear activity; food and equipment must be secured at all times. Wildlife like deer, turkeys, and coyotes frequent the area.
Active AlertsBear activity is significant, and improper food storage can result in fines.
No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Weather at Cades Cove Group

Reviews

4.5
713 reviews
Recommended
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

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

Site-Specific Reviews

Group sites like G001 and G004 are highly recommended for their spaciousness and proximity to bathrooms.
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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Last updated January 13, 2026
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