Big Creek Campground (Great Smoky Mountains National Park)
4.53129 reviews107 Park Headquarters Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA
Big Creek Campground (Great Smoky Mountains National Park)
$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
Individual tent-only campsites are priced at $30 per night during the peak season. Reservation fees may also apply: $8 for online bookings, $9 through the contact center, or $3 for in-person reservations.
About this campground
Escape to the tranquil wilderness of Big Creek Campground, a hidden gem tucked away in the remote reaches of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This intimate tent-only retreat offers 12 peaceful walk-in sites, each just a short stroll from the parking area and perfectly positioned alongside the melodic waters of Big Creek. While embracing a back-to-nature experience without showers or hookups, the campground thoughtfully provides modern conveniences including flush toilets, fresh drinking water, and secure food storage lockers to protect your provisions from the local wildlife.
Big Creek Campground is a tent-only facility with walk-in campsites designed for those seeking a traditional and peaceful camping experience. RVs and generators are not permitted, preserving the serene environment.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape steeped in Appalachian heritage at Big Creek Campground, where centuries of mountain culture echo through the surrounding forest. This corner of the park preserves not just extraordinary biodiversity, but also the stories of the Cherokee people who first called these mountains home, and the hardy settlers who later carved out lives in these remote hollows. Today, campers become part of this continuing narrative, experiencing the same awe-inspiring wilderness that has captivated generations.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the ever-changing moods of the Smokies throughout the seasons at Big Creek. Summer visitors often find refuge from the heat in the naturally air-conditioned creek valley, where mountain breezes and rushing water create a refreshing microclimate. While most days bring picture-perfect camping weather, be prepared for the occasional dramatic thunderstorm that rolls through these ancient mountains. Winter transforms the campground into a serene wonderland, though temperatures can plunge into the crisp 20s—perfect for those seeking solitude and the magic of a frost-kissed forest morning.
ElevationPerched at 1,700 feet above sea level, Big Creek Campground offers a refreshing mountain retreat where temperatures run several degrees cooler than the valleys below. This sweet-spot elevation creates the perfect environment for both comfortable camping and the thriving mountain stream ecosystem that defines the area, making it an ideal basecamp for exploring the vertical diversity of the Smokies.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a pristine mountain sanctuary where towering hardwoods create a living cathedral above your tent and Big Creek's crystal-clear waters provide a natural soundtrack to your stay. At 1,700 feet elevation, the campground sits in the heart of one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth, where morning mists reveal ancient mountain ridges and evening light filters through a canopy of mature trees. Keep your camera ready—black bears regularly amble through the area, and lucky visitors might even spot playful river otters dancing in the creek's pools and riffles.
Geological RegionDiscover the raw beauty of the Appalachian Mountains at Big Creek Campground, where some of the oldest mountains on Earth reveal their secrets. This pristine corner of Great Smoky Mountains National Park showcases the region's dramatic geological heritage through soaring ridgelines, deep valleys carved by countless millennia of flowing water, and the clear mountain stream that gives the campground its name. The remote setting offers an authentic wilderness experience within one of America's most beloved national parks, where every rock and ridge tells a story spanning hundreds of millions of years.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground has a short walk from the parking area to the campsites, which may not be suitable for all visitors. No specific accessibility features for individuals with disabilities were mentioned.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as spacious with ample room for tents. Each site includes a tent pad, fire ring, picnic table, and lantern pole.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are relatively close together, but the sound of the creek helps to maintain a sense of privacy. Reviews highlight both positive and negative experiences regarding privacy.
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites close to the creek offer soothing soundscapes; however, sites are generally spacious enough to allow for privacy. Campsites #3 and #12 are particularly praised.
Best CampsitesCampsite #3 is highly recommended for its proximity to the creek and relative privacy. Campsite #12 is noted for its peaceful ambiance.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in can occur after 4:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out must occur by noon.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Amaximum of 6 people may occupy a campsite.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 12 tent-only sites, all within a short walk from the parking area. Sites offer tent pads, fire rings, picnic tables, and lantern poles.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season is from April 18th to October 26th. Reservations can be made for the period between June 21st and October 26th.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at Recreation.gov, online or through the app, or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityReservations are required and no walk-up availability is mentioned.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies, and the first night's use fee is forfeited for late cancellations made on or after the day prior to the scheduled arrival.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Big Creek Campground offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, and wildlife viewing. The campground is directly adjacent to some of the most challenging and scenic trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and features a peaceful creek for relaxation and exploration. Visitors frequently mention the beauty of the surrounding area and the variety of activities available.
Hiking
Big Creek Campground provides access to several trails, including the challenging Baxter Creek Trail, which climbs 4,200 feet to Mt. Sterling, and the more moderate Big Creek Trail, which features a waterfall and several scenic spots. Many reviews highlight the quality and variety of the trails, with one user stating, 'The Big Creek trail was INCREDIBLE, with lots of little pit stops, steady incline, swimming hole, waterfall, all the good stuff.'Fishing
The nearby Big Creek is praised for its excellent trout fishing, especially during the spring when aquatic insect hatches are at their peak. Fly fishing is particularly popular in the area.Swimming
Swimming is available in nearby natural spots, including the popular Midnight Hole swimming area. Visitors describe it as a perfect place to cool off, with one reviewer noting, 'Bring swim gear for Midnight Falls swim hole.'Wildlife viewing
The campground and surrounding park area provide ample opportunities for wildlife viewing. Black bears are commonly sighted, and river otters may occasionally be seen in the creek. One reviewer recounted, 'A bull and cow elk walked through my campsite one morning.'Winter Activities
No specific information about winter recreation is provided, but the campground is closed during part of the winter season.Water Sports
Natural swimming holes are available, but no structured water sports are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are permitted only in designated fire rings. Only certified heat-treated firewood may be brought into the park.
- Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 6 AM. Generator use is prohibited.
Hazards
General hazardsHigh bear activity has been noted in the area. Poison ivy is present around the campground. A persistent copperhead snake was reported at one campsite. Heavy rain and dead tree limbs pose additional risks. Potholes and mini-boulders on the access road are significant hazards.
Active alertsThere is no mention of active alerts in the source materials.
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
Emergency phone available at Big Creek Ranger Station, 1 mile from the campground. Closest hospital is located in Newport, TN, approximately 16 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 18th to October 26th.
Trash and recyclingBear-proof dumpsters are provided for garbage disposal, and campers are required to use them. Some reviews mention bear activity, emphasizing the importance of proper waste management.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is immediately adjacent to Big Creek, which offers swimming holes, cascading waters, and trout fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsComplaints include potholes on access roads, occasional dirty bathrooms, lack of ranger presence leading to rule violations, and issues with noise from large groups occupying multiple campsites.
HostThe campground hosts are described as helpful and friendly, though reviews mention inconsistent availability.
Campground Map
107 Park Headquarters Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA
Driving directionsThe campground is located off I-40 Exit 451 (Waterville) and is sixteen miles east of Newport, TN. Follow Waterville Road, crossing over the Pigeon River, past the Walters Power Generating Station and continue one mile to the 4-way intersection at Mt Sterling Gap. Follow signs to Big Creek. Drive up to the end of Big Creek Entrance Road, passing the Ranger Station, horse camp, group camp, and hiker parking.
The road to the campground is narrow and contains potholes. Approximately one mile past the Walters Power Generating Station, there are mini-boulders protruding into the road that are obscured by vegetation, posing potential hazards.Nearby places
Newport, TN (16 miles, approximately 30 minutes drive), Hartford (approximately 20 minutes drive), Gatlinburg, TN (approximately 45 minutes drive).
Nearby supplies
Ice and firewood are available through an honor system near the campground ($3 for ice, $10 for firewood). The nearest full supply stores and fuel are approximately 20 minutes away in Hartford, TN.
Camper Reviews
4.5
129 reviews
Big Creek Campground (Great Smoky Mountains National Park) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Big Creek Campground is highly praised for its serene and picturesque setting, proximity to hiking trails, and peaceful atmosphere. However, some reviewers have noted issues with maintenance, noise from large groups, and occasional wildlife encounters.
Review Summaries
Based on 129 reviews
What Campers Love
Many campers praise the peaceful environment, the sound of the nearby creek, clean bathrooms, and access to excellent hiking trails. One reviewer stated, 'The campground is great. The rushing water...
Based on 129 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common concerns include noise from large groups, limited ranger or camp host presence, occasional maintenance issues (e.g., potholes on the access road, lack of soap in restrooms), and challenges...
Based on 129 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring a wagon to transport gear from the parking lot to the campsites. Prepare for potential bear activity by using the provided bear-proof storage. Waterproof your tent if rain is in the forecast....
Based on 129 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Big Creek Campground is busiest during the summer and fall months when conditions are generally favorable for outdoor activities. Spring visitors often highlight the excellent trout fishing. Fall...
Based on 129 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'This has been my favorite spot for the past 22 years. What I love is that everything is the same.' - Dr. Xenan
2. 'The sound of the rushing water was the best part. I would 100% be booking again...
Based on 129 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews frequently mention that all 12 campsites are well-maintained and offer proximity to the creek. Campsite #3 is often highlighted as a favorite by visitors. Several reviewers noted that...
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Accessibility Features
No specific accessibility reviews were noted, though the short walk from the parking area to campsites may pose challenges for some visitors.
Based on 129 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are permitted but must be leashed at all times. Some reviewers noted enjoying the area with their dogs, though pets are not allowed on the trails.
Based on 129 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025