Cosby Group Camp
4.6814 reviews127 Cosby Park Road, Cosby, TN, 37722, USA
Cosby Group Camp
$50.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group tent-only area is $50 per night during peak season (April 18 to October 26, May 26 to September 1). Fees are non-refundable if canceled less than 14 days before arrival, and late cancellations incur forfeiture of the first night's use fee. Additional service fees apply for reservations made online ($8), through the contact center ($9), or in person ($3).
About this campground
Nestled beneath a cathedral of ancient hardwoods, Cosby Group Camp offers an intimate escape where the gentle murmur of Cosby Creek provides nature's soundtrack. This hidden gem in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park combines the serenity of backcountry camping with the convenience of modern amenities, including flush toilets and fresh drinking water. Perfect for groups seeking authentic tent camping experiences, the campground invites you to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with the timeless rhythms of the mountains.
Cosby Group Camp caters exclusively to group tent camping with three group sites, one of which is accessible. The campground is located in a peaceful, shaded area ideal for large gatherings.
Historical SignificanceThese mountains hold stories spanning millennia, from the Paleo Indians who first walked these ridges to the hardy European settlers who carved out lives in the 1800s. Today, the park stands as a living museum of Southern Appalachian heritage, where weathered cabin foundations and old homestead clearings whisper tales of moonshine stills, fiddle music, and the resilient mountain folk who called these hollers home.
Weather and SeasonsPerched at 2,460 feet, Cosby enjoys a delightful mountain climate where gentle winters give way to spectacular springs painted with trilliums and bloodroot. Summer brings warm days perfect for creek exploration, while autumn transforms the canopy into a breathtaking tapestry of gold and crimson. The sweet spot for camping stretches from April through October, when wildflower enthusiasts and leaf peepers alike find their paradise among these ancient hills.
ElevationAt 2,460 feet above sea level, Cosby Group Camp occupies that sweet spot where mountain breezes keep summer heat at bay and winter's grip remains gentle. This moderate elevation creates an ideal microclimate where morning mists drift through the trees and afternoon temperatures invite leisurely exploration rather than seeking shade.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a world where time moves at nature's pace, surrounded by towering hemlocks and rhododendron thickets that frame crystal-clear Cosby Creek. Spring wildflowers carpet the forest floor in delicate whites and purples, while autumn sets the mountainsides ablaze with color. Keep your eyes peeled for native brook trout darting through the creek's pools and the occasional black bear foraging for berries. This is the Smokies at their most authentic—unspoiled, unhurried, and utterly enchanting.
Geological RegionCosby sits within the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, where some of the oldest mountains on Earth tell a billion-year geological story. This UNESCO World Heritage Site harbors more biodiversity than all of northern Europe, creating a natural wonderland where temperate rainforest conditions nurture an astounding variety of plant and animal life. Here, the Southern Appalachian ecosystem thrives in all its ancient glory, offering visitors a glimpse into what much of eastern North America looked like before European settlement.
Campsite details
AccessibilityOne group site is fully accessible and features accessible parking and pathways. Accessible flush toilets and other facilities are available, but reviews indicate some challenges for elderly campers in accessing steeper areas.
Sites SizeThe three group sites each include tent pads that can accommodate about 4 large tents or 6-8 smaller ones. One reviewer noted, 'Each site has one or two picnic tables, one fire ring, one grill, plus the tent pads mentioned in the details section (appx 3 large per site).'
Sites PrivacySites are relatively private due to tree cover, but proximity among the three group sites means noise may carry. One user reported that 'quiet hours on Saturday night weren't enforced' during their stay.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUsers recommend booking multiple group sites for larger groups, as single sites might feel cramped. Site A is most convenient for parking.
Best CampsitesGroup Site A is praised for its proximity to parking and suitability for large tents.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- Official check-in time is unspecified but users indicate no need to check-in
- proceed directly to campsite.
Check-out
Check-out time is unspecified.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 consecutive nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 20 guests allowed per group site.
Groups
The three group sites accommodate up to 20 people each and are equipped with tent pads, grills, picnic tables, and fire rings. One reviewer mentioned, 'Sites 2 and 3 work better together as 1 is slightly separated.'
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutComprises three group sites, one of which is ADA accessible. Sites are equipped with fire rings, grills, tent pads, and tables.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations from April 18 to October 26, and May 26 to September 1 during peak season. Closed outside these dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, app, contact center, or in person.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot stated explicitly for group sites. The nearby Cosby Campground offers first-come, first-serve sites for smaller groups or overflow.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations less than 14 days before arrival incur a $10 service fee and forfeiture of the first night's use fee. Refund requests for early departures must be made on the day of departure, and late cancellations are subject to additional penalties.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Cosby Group Camp is a hub for outdoor recreation. Activities include hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and whitewater rafting. The proximity to the Appalachian Trail and other maintained trails make it a prime destination for hikers. The natural environment offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy diverse flora and fauna.
Hiking
The campground is located near multiple hiking trails, including the Appalachian Trail, accessible via the Lower Gap Trail about three miles away. Other trails nearby include the Hen Wallow Falls trail. A reviewer noted, 'Good proximity to an amazing hike (Hen Wallow Falls).'Fishing
Backcountry fishing in nearby cool streams and rivers is a popular activity. Trout is abundant, and a Tennessee or North Carolina fishing license is required.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a common activity, with opportunities to spot black bears among other species. One review mentioned, 'The park is a sanctuary for a magnificent array of animal and plant life.'Winter Activities
Winter activities were not specified, but the campground is closed from late October through late May, limiting seasonal use.Water Sports
No activities such as kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding are available near the campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires allowed only in designated fire rings. Heat-treated firewood is required.
- Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 6 AM, but enforcement is sometimes inconsistent.
Hazards
General hazardsHigh bear activity reported; visitors must follow strict food storage guidelines to avoid fines. Improper food storage can lead to impoundment of items and fines.
Active alertsNone explicitly mentioned.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 59%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6.5 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 the campground. Additional emergency services are likely in Cosby, TN (~5 miles away), which has convenience stores and fuel.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 18, 2025 to October 26, 2025; May 26, 2026 to September 1, 2026.
Trash and recyclingTrash bins are available and noted for their cleanliness and accessibility. 'Trash bins were clean and easily accessible,' one reviewer said.
Proximity to water featuresCosby Creek runs near the campground, providing soothing background sounds.
Common complaintsUser reviews frequently mention the lack of showers, challenges with parking logistics, and occasional quiet hours enforcement issues.
HostUsers mention super sweet staff from reviews, but detailed contact information is not provided.
Campground Map
127 Cosby Park Road, Cosby, TN, 37722, USA
Driving directionsFrom Cosby, TN, proceed south on TN 32 about 1.5 miles from junction with US 321. Turn right at Cosby sign. Group camp is another 2.2 miles.
The campground is accessible via TN 32 and US 321, with paved roads leading to the campground. The area appears to be well-marked with signage.Nearby places
Cosby, TN: 5 miles (~10 minutes)
Gatlinburg, TN: 20 miles (~30 minutes)
Sevierville, TN: ~20 miles (~30 minutes)
Pigeon Forge, TN: ~20 miles (~30 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Convenience stores and fuel stations in Cosby, TN (~5 miles from the campground). Additional amenities available in Gatlinburg (~20 miles).
Camper Reviews
4.7
14 reviews
Cosby Group Camp is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Most reviews highlight the peaceful, shaded environment of Cosby Group Camp. Visitors were pleased with the cleanliness of the facilities, including bathrooms and trash bins. The lack of showers and cell service was noted as a downside, but many appreciated the serene atmosphere and opportunities for hiking and group gatherings.
Review Summaries
Based on 14 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean and well-maintained facilities, quiet environment, accessible trails such as the Appalachian Trail, and convenient group camping features like tent pads, fire rings, picnic tables, and grills.
Based on 14 reviewsCommon Concerns
Limited parking near the sites, no showers, occasional noise from other groups, and the need to carry gear uphill to campsites.
Based on 14 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring portable shower solutions if needed; purchase firewood early due to irregular store hours; plan for no on-site cell service; and consider booking multiple group sites if your group size exceeds...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is most popular during its spring-to-fall open season. Summer brings hot and humid weather but more crowded conditions, while spring and fall offer moderate temperatures and beautiful...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Bathrooms were in excellent condition. Thank you for the hand soap in the bathroom!!'
2. 'No cell service and we are okay with that. Very peaceful.'
3. 'Good mature trees to hang some hammocks,...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site GP03 was praised for its quiet atmosphere and suitability for large families. Sites GP02 and GP03 are recommended for groups exceeding 20 people, with one reviewer saying, 'Good space for my...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
One group site is accessible, with nearby parking and pathways. However, steep terrains were noted as challenging for elderly or less mobile campers.
Based on 14 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be on a leash and cannot be left unattended. One reviewer emphasized the importance of adhering to pet regulations to maintain a safe environment for all campers.
Based on 14 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025