Camping Near Gatlinburg

Camping Near Gatlinburg

Gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains—America's most visited national park.

5+ Campgrounds4.5★ AverageBest: Year-round (varies by season)
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Featured Campgrounds

Handpicked destinations that define the region

1
Cataloochee Group Camp
Star
4.5
(33)
Cataloochee Group Camp
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Waynesville, NC

Excellent 4.81 rating with solid review count, offering authentic Great Smoky Mountains National Park camping experience perfect for groups visiting Gatlinburg.

Tents
2
Cheoah Point Cabin 2
Star
4.5
(37)
Cheoah Point Cabin 2
National Forests in North Carolina
Robbinsville, NC

Strong 4.75 rating with diverse accommodation options including cabins, tent and RV camping, providing flexibility for different types of Gatlinburg visitors.

Tents
RVs
3
Tsali Recreation Area
Photo coming soon
Star
4.7
(144)
Tsali Recreation Area
National Forests in North Carolina
Robbinsville, NC

Highest review count (144) with excellent 4.71 rating and full amenities including swimming, making it a well-established choice for families camping near Gatlinburg.

Tents
RVs

Campground Locations

Showing top 4 campgrounds near Gatlinburg

Map of campgrounds near Gatlinburg
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Map Key
1
Cataloochee Group Camp
2
Cheoah Point Cabin 2
3
Tsali Recreation Area
4
Cataloochee Horse Camp
View all 5 campgrounds on interactive map

About This Destination

Gatlinburg, Tennessee camping provides unparalleled access to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, making it one of the premier mountain camping destinations in the Southeast. As the primary gateway to the Smokies, Gatlinburg offers everything from developed campgrounds within the national park to luxury cabin rentals and private RV parks, all within minutes of world-class hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic drives.

Best Time

May, June, September, and October offer the best camping conditions near Gatlinburg. Spring brings wildflower blooms and full waterfalls, while early summer provides warm days and cooler mountain nights perfect for campfires.

Destination Highlights

  • 5+ campgrounds within 30 miles
  • Located in Tennessee
  • Options for every camping style

Plan Your Trips

Tips & Recommendations

  • 1Book campgrounds and cabins well in advance, especially for October foliage season and summer weekends.
  • 2Arrive at popular trailheads before 8 a.m. to secure parking and beat crowds.
  • 3Store all food and scented items properly - black bears are common and active throughout the area.
  • 4Pack layers for dramatic temperature variations with elevation changes of 20-40°F between valleys and ridges.
4 campgrounds ranked
Based on real camper reviews
Curated for Camping Near Gatlinburg

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Camping Near Gatlinburg FAQ

There are 5+ campgrounds within 30 miles of Gatlinburg, Tennessee. 3 accept online reservations and 1 are first-come, first-served.
Camping fees near Gatlinburg range from $20 to $50/night depending on the campground, site type, and season. RV sites with hookups tend to cost more than tent-only sites.
It depends on the campground. 3 campgrounds near Gatlinburg accept online reservations. 1 are first-come, first-served. During peak season, reservable campgrounds fill quickly — use Outdoorithm alerts to catch cancellations.
Based on camper reviews, the top-rated campgrounds near Gatlinburg include Tsali Recreation Area, Cataloochee Group Camp, Cheoah Point Cabin 2. These campgrounds consistently receive high ratings for their facilities, location, and overall camping experience.
3 of the 4 campgrounds near Gatlinburg are pet-friendly. Dogs must typically be on a leash (6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Check individual campground policies for breed or size restrictions.
Yes, 2 of the 4 campgrounds near Gatlinburg have shower facilities. These range from coin-operated to free hot showers depending on the campground.
Availability Alerts

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Cataloochee Group Camp
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