Smokemont Group Campground
4.54151 reviewsnull
Smokemont Group Campground
$21.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$25.00
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 fees range from $21 to $25 per night depending on the site type. No showers on-site; amenities include restrooms with flush toilets and sinks. Purchase firewood locally sourced and certified vendors (~$8 per bundle). Additional fees apply for reservations made via Recreation.gov.
About this campground
Nestled deep within the heart of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Smokemont Group Campground beckons adventurers with 142 thoughtfully placed campsites that welcome both tent campers and RV enthusiasts. This mountain sanctuary serves as your gateway to some of the park's most treasured experiences—from the historic water-powered Mingus Mill to the breathtaking views atop Clingmans Dome. Just minutes from the culturally rich town of Cherokee, North Carolina, Smokemont has earned its reputation as a beloved basecamp where modern explorers gather to share stories under starlit skies.
Smokemont Group Campground accommodates a range of camping preferences, from tent camping to RVs. It is a traditional campground without luxury features, catering to those seeking a rustic outdoor experience.
Historical SignificanceEvery trail and clearing at Smokemont whispers stories of those who came before. This Cherokee homeland preserves echoes of ancient footsteps alongside remnants of early Appalachian settlers. The weathered walls of historic Smokemont Church stand as a testament to the mountain communities that once thrived here, while nearby Mingus Mill continues its centuries-old dance of water and wheel, grinding corn as it has since 1886. The campground's proximity to Cherokee offers visitors a living connection to Native American heritage, where traditional crafts, stories, and ceremonies continue to honor the original inhabitants of these sacred mountains.
Weather and SeasonsSmokemont's ever-changing weather patterns paint the landscape in different moods throughout the year. Summer brings warm, humid days perfect for creek exploration, while gentle mountain breezes offer evening relief. Spring awakens the forest with delicate wildflowers and rushing streams, and autumn sets the mountainsides ablaze with golden yellows and fiery reds. Winter whispers through bare branches with crisp air and occasional frost, reminding visitors to pack layers. The mountains' famously unpredictable weather means rain can arrive any season, creating misty mornings and dramatic afternoon thunderstorms that add to the Smokies' mystique.
ElevationPerched at 2,200 feet where mountain air meets valley warmth, Smokemont occupies a sweet spot in the Smokies' vertical landscape. This elevation gifts campers with refreshingly cool evenings that invite campfire gatherings and peaceful slumber, even during summer's peak. The mountain atmosphere here carries more moisture than the valleys below, often wrapping the campground in mystical morning mists and delivering afternoon showers that keep the forest lush and streams singing.
Natural Features and SceneryAt Smokemont, nature performs a year-round symphony of sights and sounds. Crystal-clear mountain streams tumble past campsites, their gentle music providing nature's soundtrack for your stay. Ancient forests of oak, hickory, and pine create a living cathedral overhead, while the understory bursts with rhododendron, mountain laurel, and seasonal wildflowers. Lucky visitors might glimpse the majestic elk grazing in nearby meadows at dawn or hear the distinctive huff of a black bear foraging for autumn berries. Each season brings its own spectacular show—from spring's delicate trilliums to summer's firefly light displays, autumn's kaleidoscope of colors to winter's stark, beautiful simplicity.
Geological RegionSmokemont rests within the ancient embrace of the Appalachian Mountains, one of Earth's oldest mountain ranges. This geological wonderland showcases the power of time itself, where weathered peaks and valleys tell stories spanning hundreds of millions of years. The campground's streams have carved their paths through layers of metamorphic rock, creating the rippling cascades and quiet pools that define the Smokies' aquatic landscape. Dense forests blanket these time-worn mountains, supporting one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in North America—a temperate rainforest where salamanders thrive in hidden crevices and over 100 species of trees reach skyward in an endless competition for light.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySome sites are accessible, but not all loops have the same level of accessibility. Certain amenities like electric outlets or specific accommodations are not universally available, so campers with disabilities should confirm site details prior to arrival.
Sites SizeSites are described as average in size for both tents and RVs. Pull-through sites are available, and some sites are large enough to accommodate big RVs, but maneuvering can be challenging due to trees and rocks.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is limited at Smokemont Campground. Many reviewers note that the campsites are close together, with minimal separation between neighboring sites. Riverfront sites, however, tend to be quieter and offer a slightly more secluded experience.
Total Campsites142 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose riverfront sites for tranquility and scenic views. Tent campers should avoid Loop D due to generator noise. Families may prefer Loop F for its larger RV-friendly sites and proximity to the stream.
Best CampsitesSites near the Oconaluftee River are highly rated (e.g., Site F42). Loop F is recommended for RVs due to larger spaces. Site D42 is noted for spaciousness and proximity to the stream.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 12 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 11 AM.
Stay Limit
No specific maximum stay limit documented. Typical stay limits in national parks are 14 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact number of allowed guests per site is not documented, but standard policies typically allow up to 8 guests per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized into multiple loops (e.g., Loops A, D, F, etc.), with sites arranged closely together in some areas. Loop F is preferred for RVs due to spacious sites near the river.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground operates year-round but may have limited loops available during the off-season (winter months).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or directly at the campground during off-season walk-up availability.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability during off-season (no reservation necessary). Limited loops open during winter; early arrivals recommended.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 fee applies for canceling a reservation before the arrival date. Late cancellations for individual campsites forfeit the first night's fees. No refunds on the day of check-in.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Smokemont Group Campground offers a variety of recreational activities that take advantage of its location within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Hiking trails and wildlife viewing are among the most popular activities, along with opportunities for fishing and exploring nearby historical sites.
Hiking
A number of hiking trails are accessible directly from the campground, including a short nature trail loop and longer backcountry trails. Some trails are described as challenging, while others are suitable for novice hikers. Visitors praise the variety and the proximity of the trails to the campground.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in the streams near the campground. Anglers can enjoy catching trout in the pristine waters, though specific details of fishing regulations and fish types are not provided.Wildlife viewing
Elk sightings are a highlight for many visitors, with herds often passing through the campground. Other wildlife such as deer, turkeys, and even bears have been spotted in the area. Campers are advised to use bear-proof containers and follow park guidelines to avoid wildlife encounters.Winter Activities
Visitors report fewer crowds and a serene environment during winter months. Campground loops may be limited during this time, but hardy campers enjoy the solitude and rustic atmosphere.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as tubing are mentioned in some reviews, particularly around the streams and creeks within the campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire pits. Firewood must be purchased locally to prevent the spread of invasive tree pests.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 8 PM to 8 AM; however, reviews indicate enforcement issues.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity is common; campers must secure food and trash. Occasional visitors report heavy generator noise disrupting quiet hours. Streams can swell during heavy rains, and trails may become slick.
Active alertsNo current alerts documented.
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 55%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6.2 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
Cherokee Indian Hospital (Cherokee, NC); Ranger Station within Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Good to know
Peak season datesSpring through Fall, with peak visitation during Summer months and Autumn foliage season.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available within the campground, and campers are required to use bear-proof dumpsters to prevent wildlife encounters. Campers are advised to keep food and trash secured at all times.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to the Oconaluftee River, providing opportunities for wading, fishing, and enjoying the soothing sound of water.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include lack of showers, noise from generators, and insufficient enforcement of quiet hours. Sites are close together, leading to privacy concerns during peak seasons.
HostHosts are reportedly very involved, performing frequent inspections. Mixed reviews mention helpfulness but also over-zealousness.
Campground Map
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Driving directionsDrive via Newfound Gap Road (US 441), heading south from Gatlinburg, TN towards Cherokee, NC. Smokemont Campground is located within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, approximately 2 miles north of Cherokee. Additional details may be available at http://www.nps.gov/grsm/. Ensure to follow signs and directions within the park, as cell coverage is limited.
Accessible year-round via paved roads. Newfound Gap Road (US 441) connects Gatlinburg to Cherokee, but it may close temporarily during winter storms. Generally suitable for cars, RVs, and trailers. Roads within the campground may be narrow and tight, particularly challenging for large RVs.Nearby places
Cherokee, NC (2 miles, ~5-minute drive)
Gatlinburg, TN (44 miles, ~60-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Cherokee, NC (~2 miles away) offers groceries, firewood, ice, and camping supplies. Firewood and ice are available near the horse stable within the campground area.
Camper Reviews
4.5
151 reviews
Smokemont Group Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Smokemont Group Campground is highly rated for its scenic beauty, well-maintained facilities, and tranquil atmosphere. It is particularly praised for its proximity to hiking trails and the sound of the nearby creek, which many find soothing. However, some visitors report issues with noise, lack of privacy, and strict enforcement of rules by camp hosts.
Review Summaries
Based on 151 reviews
What Campers Love
- Excellent cleanliness and maintenance of facilities
- Scenic location with a creek running through the campground
- Variety of hiking trails nearby
- Elk sightings and other wildlife experiences
-...
Based on 151 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
- Lack of showers at the campground
- Sites are close together, limiting privacy
- Noise from generators and occasional enforcement issues with quiet hours
- Limited cell phone service
- Strict or...
Based on 151 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring bathing wipes or a portable shower due to the lack of shower facilities.
- Choose a site near the river for a quieter, more scenic experience.
- Plan for the lack of cell phone service by...
Based on 151 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are the most popular seasons due to the blooming wildflowers and vibrant autumn foliage. Winter camping offers solitude and fewer bugs but comes with the challenge of colder...
Based on 151 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- "Wonderful campsites that are well maintained and cleaned. Bathrooms are nice and the atmosphere is pleasant." - Neko Robinson-Heim
- "The sound of the water running over the rocks in the river was...
Based on 151 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Section F is noted for its riverfront sites, which are quieter and more scenic, but primarily for RVs. Section D is described as having smaller sites with limited privacy. Some reviewers recommend...
Based on 151 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Some sites are accessible, but not all loops have equal accessibility features. Reviews indicate that campers with disabilities may want to confirm details before booking.
Based on 151 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and many visitors bring their dogs. The campground's pet-friendly policy is appreciated, though campers are reminded to keep pets leashed and to clean up after them.
Based on 151 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025