Elkmont Campground
4.49621 reviews434 Elkmont Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Elkmont 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$30.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Individual campsite fees are $30 per night, regardless of type (standard, tent-only, walk-in). Discounts may apply with qualifying passes, but reservation fees are not eligible for discounts.
About this campground
Nestled along the banks of the Little River, Elkmont Campground beckons as the crown jewel of Great Smoky Mountains National Park's camping destinations. As the park's largest and most beloved campground, it welcomes thousands of adventurers each year to its 220 sites scattered beneath towering hemlocks and hardwoods. Whether you're pitching a tent beside the soothing sounds of the river, settling your RV into a spacious site, or seeking one of the secluded walk-in spots for a more intimate wilderness experience, Elkmont delivers the quintessential Smokies camping adventure. Thoughtfully designed ADA-accessible sites ensure everyone can experience the magic of sleeping under the mountain stars.
Elkmont Campground offers a mix of tent and RV camping options, with specific accommodations for group and walk-in sites.
Historical SignificanceStep beyond your campsite and you'll discover you're camping next to history itself. The haunting beauty of Elkmont Ghost Town whispers tales of a bygone era when wealthy families escaped to these mountains for summer retreats in the early 1900s. Weathered cabins and the remains of the once-grand Wonderland Hotel stand as monuments to the area's transformation from exclusive resort community to logging hub to protected parkland. Walking these historic grounds, where nature slowly reclaims human ambition, offers a profound glimpse into Appalachian heritage and the evolution of conservation in America.
Weather and SeasonsPerched at 2,150 feet, Elkmont enjoys the sweet spot of Smokies weather—where summer heat gives way to cool mountain evenings perfect for campfire stories, and mild winters occasionally dust the landscape with snow. Spring arrives in a symphony of wildflowers and frequent refreshing showers, while summer brings warm days ideal for river play, though afternoon thunderstorms often roll through the mountains. Pack layers and rain gear any time of year—the mountains have their own agenda when it comes to weather.
ElevationAt 2,150 feet above sea level, Elkmont occupies a perfect middle ground in the Smokies' vertical world. This elevation gifts campers with noticeably cooler temperatures than the valleys below—often 10-15 degrees cooler on summer days—while the crisp mountain air carries the scent of pine and the promise of adventure. Here, you're high enough to escape the summer swelter but low enough to avoid the harsh conditions of the peaks, creating an ideal basecamp for exploring both the gentle river valleys and the challenging high country.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the melodic rush of the Little River threading through camp, its crystal waters tumbling over moss-covered boulders and creating natural swimming holes that have delighted generations. Ancient forests press close, their canopy filtering sunlight into a green cathedral where black bears amble, fireflies dance in summer synchrony, and wildflowers carpet the forest floor. Premier trails like the gentle Little River Trail and the cascading Laurel Falls path begin just steps from camp, while the more adventurous Jakes Creek Trail winds deep into the backcountry. This is the Smokies at their most accessible yet wild, where every sunrise brings new possibilities for discovery.
Geological RegionElkmont rests within one of Earth's most ancient landscapes—the Great Smoky Mountains, where peaks older than the Rockies or Alps tell a billion-year story written in stone. This UNESCO World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve protects one of the planet's most diverse temperate ecosystems, where northern and southern species mingle in extraordinary abundance. The surrounding mountains, carved by millennia of wind and water, create a rumpled blanket of ridges and valleys that harbor more tree species than all of northern Europe and provide sanctuary for creatures from tiny salamanders to roaming black bears.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNine campsites are ADA-accessible, equipped with wide concrete driveways, raised fire rings, and accessible picnic tables. Three of these sites offer 5-amp electrical service for medical equipment.
Sites SizeTent pads are generally 16x16 feet and accommodate one large or two small tents. Campsites vary in size, with some suitable for RVs up to 30 feet.
Sites PrivacyThe level of privacy varies by site. Many sites near the river offer more seclusion, while others are closely spaced without natural dividers. "The L-loop is generator-free and more secluded," according to a camper.
Total Campsites220 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites B08, B10, and D01 are praised for their riverfront locations. Walk-in sites B22 and B23 offer seclusion and quiet.
Best CampsitesRiverside sites in loops B and D are highly recommended for their proximity to Little River and scenic beauty.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Campers arriving after hours must check in the next day by noon.
Check-out
Check-out is by 12 p.m.
Stay Limit
The maximum consecutive stay limit is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Amaximum of six people are allowed per site.
Groups
Group sites accommodate multiple vehicles and are equipped with fire rings and picnic tables. Feedback indicates that the group sites have a shared restroom facility.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into loops, including generator-free and generator-allowed sections. Walk-in sites are separate, providing more privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from March 14 to November 30.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov, via their website, mobile app, or contact center at 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is limited. Reviews suggest booking well in advance to secure preferred sites, especially riverside ones.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made the day before or on the day of arrival incur a $10 service fee and forfeit the first night’s use fee. Late cancellations for one-night reservations forfeit the entire fee paid.
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
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Elkmont Campground offers a wide variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and cultural exploration. The campground’s proximity to trails, rivers, and historic sites makes it a hub for adventure.
Hiking
Campers have access to multiple hiking trails directly from the campground, such as the Little River Trail, Jakes Creek Trail, and Elkmont Nature Trail. "The nearby and popular Laurel Falls Trail leads to a spectacular 80-ft. waterfall," according to official descriptions.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in the Little River and other nearby streams. A Tennessee or North Carolina fishing license is required.Swimming
Swimming and tubing are popular in the Little River, which flows through the campground. Campers frequently enjoy floating down the river.Wildlife viewing
With 1,500 bears in the park, wildlife viewing is a key attraction. Deer, elk, and various bird species are also commonly observed.Cultural and Educational Programs
The campground offers proximity to the historic Elkmont resort community and remnants of the Little River Lumber Company’s logging camp. Rangers and interpretive programs are occasionally available.Winter Activities
Winter activities are unavailable as the campground is closed during the winter season.Water Sports
Non-motorized water activities like tubing are popular in the Little River.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated fire rings using certified heat-treated firewood or collected deadwood from the park.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity is significant, and campers must adhere to food storage guidelines. Frequent rain creates slippery trails and muddy conditions. Campers may encounter ticks and snakes.
Active alertsNo current active alerts listed.
Weather forecast
69
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 46%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 3.4 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
The nearest RV dump/fill station is located across from Sugarlands Visitor Center (6 miles). Emergency services are accessible in Gatlinburg, which is the nearest city.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 14 - November 30.
Trash and recyclingThere are bear-proof dumpsters throughout the campground. Campers are advised to promptly dispose of garbage to avoid wildlife encounters.
Proximity to water featuresLittle River runs through the campground, offering opportunities for fishing, tubing, and swimming. Jakes Creek also flows nearby.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include lack of showers, high firewood prices, and poor restroom cleanliness. Staff interactions have also been noted as inconsistent.
HostHosts are available and perform regular rounds. Reviews indicate helpful interactions as well as complaints about enforcement of rules.
Campground Map
434 Elkmont Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Driving directionsFrom Cherokee, NC: Take Newfound Gap Road (aka U.S. 441) North through the park into Tennessee. Turn left at Sugarlands Visitor Center. Follow Little River Road approx. 4.5 miles. Turn left at the Elkmont Campground sign and proceed 1.5 miles to the campground office.
From Gatlinburg,TN: Take Newfound Gap Road (aka U.S. 441) South into the Park. Turn a right at Sugarlands Visitor Center. Proceed 4.5 miles to the Elkmont entrance and turn left at the Elkmont Campground sign. Go 1.5 miles to the campground office.
Road access to Elkmont Campground is generally good. The roads are paved, but RVs and trailers cannot use the bridge at Metcalf Bottoms due to weight and length restrictions. RVs should access the campground through Gatlinburg or Townsend entrances.Nearby places
Gatlinburg (9 miles, approximately 15-minute drive)
Pigeon Forge (approximately 30-minute drive)
Townsend (approximately 20 miles, 30-minute drive).
Nearby supplies
The nearest supplies, including groceries, fuel, and camping essentials, can be found in Gatlinburg (9 miles away). The campground also offers a small store for basic items like firewood and ice.
Camper Reviews
4.5
621 reviews
Elkmont Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Elkmont Campground is celebrated for its proximity to trails and rivers, but the absence of showers and occasional restroom issues received criticism.
Review Summaries
Based on 621 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers praised the peaceful atmosphere, riverside sites, and the availability of firewood and ice. Many enjoyed the central location for exploring the Great Smoky Mountains.
Based on 621 reviewsCommon Concerns
Frequent complaints included the lack of showers and inconsistent restroom cleanliness. Some campers were also frustrated with the lack of cell service and high prices for firewood.
Based on 621 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
"Bring your own soap and hand sanitizer," "Book riverside sites for the best experience," and "Buy firewood off-site to save money," were common tips from reviewers.
Based on 621 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Peak seasons are summer and October, with high demand for riverside sites. Winter closures limit access from November to March.
Based on 621 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The sound of the river was the perfect white noise," "The bathrooms needed attention," and "Fireflies were magical," were recurring sentiments.
Based on 621 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Highly recommended sites included B10 and H05 for their proximity to the river. N07 offered more privacy.
Based on 621 reviewsAccessibility Features
ADA sites received positive feedback for their accessibility features but were noted to be near noisy restrooms.
Based on 621 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet-friendly policies were appreciated. Reviewers noted that pets are not allowed on trails but can stay in campsites.
Based on 621 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025