Big Creek Campground
4.6014 reviews236 Big Creek Park Road, Newport, TN, 37821
Big Creek Campground
$30.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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
Camping fee is $30 per site, per night.
About this 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.
Historical SignificanceYour tent sits on storied ground within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a living museum of Appalachian culture where generations of mountain families once carved out lives among these ancient peaks. The park serves as guardian to centuries of heritage – from Cherokee sacred lands to the cabins and mills of early European settlers who found both hardship and beauty in these hollows. Every trail you walk connects you to this rich tapestry of human history woven into the mountain landscape.
Weather and SeasonsMother 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.
ElevationPerched at 1,700 feet above sea level, Big Creek Campground occupies that sweet spot where mountain air begins to work its magic. This moderate elevation delivers the best of both worlds – cool enough to escape summer's oppressive heat in the valleys below, yet mild enough to extend your camping season well into autumn and early spring. The altitude creates a natural climate buffer, making those summer nights actually pleasant for sleeping and giving spring wildflowers a perfect environment to paint the forest floor.
Natural Features and SceneryBig Creek serves as your constant companion here, its crystalline waters tumbling over ancient stones while providing nature's soundtrack to your camping adventure. Towering hardwoods and evergreens create a living cathedral overhead, their canopy filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. A network of trails radiates from the campground like spokes on a wheel, each path promising its own rewards – from hidden waterfalls to ridgeline vistas where the blue-hazed mountains stretch to the horizon in endless waves.
Geological RegionDeep in the embrace of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Big Creek Campground sits atop some of the oldest mountains on Earth. These ancient peaks, worn smooth by millions of years of wind and rain, create a landscape of stunning contrasts – rushing mountain streams carving through valleys, dense forests clothing rounded summits, and a biological diversity that rivals the Amazon. The park's unique geology, where elevations range from valley floor to cloud-wrapped peaks, creates multiple ecosystems stacked atop one another like floors in nature's skyscraper.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is not ADA accessible. All sites require a short walk from the parking area, and while the restrooms are accessible, the terrain and setup may be challenging for individuals with mobility limitations.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious and include designated tent pads.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are generally well-spaced, providing a degree of privacy, with some reviewers noting a secluded and peaceful atmosphere.
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites are tent-only and located close to Big Creek. Visitors recommend choosing any site for creekside ambiance.
Best CampsitesAll 12 campsites are highly rated, particularly for their proximity to Big Creek.
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.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to six people per campsite.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground features 12 tent-only campsites, spaced apart and close to Big Creek. No loops or sections; sites are individually arranged.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 19 to October 27. Closed from October 28 to May 18.
Reservation PlatformsReservations required and can be made up to six months in advance on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are non-reservable and operate on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations may incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's fees if canceled after 12:00 AM local time the day before the reservation start date.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
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.
Hiking
The 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.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in Big Creek, where anglers can enjoy a serene environment. Specific details about fish species are not provided in the source data.Swimming
Swimming 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 viewing
The 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
The campground is closed during the winter season, and no winter activities are mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are not mentioned in the source material.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted only in designated fire rings, and visitors may collect dead wood from the park.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential 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.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 46%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services include Gatlinburg medical facilities and ranger stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season pricing applies from May 19 through October 27 annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling collection is available seasonally, ensuring proper waste management during the operational months.
Proximity to water featuresAll campsites are located near Big Creek, a pristine water feature suitable for swimming and fishing.
Common complaintsSome reviewers have noted noise disruptions from nearby construction activities. Complaints about lack of ranger or camp host presence leading to littering and enforcement issues.
HostSeasonal staff is available but reviewers noted limited ranger presence.
Campground Map
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.
Camper Reviews
4.6
14 reviews
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 14 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...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
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...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
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...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
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...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
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...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
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 14 reviewsAccessibility 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 14 reviewsPet-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 14 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025