Campground Regulations

GSMNP: Campground and Group Campground Regulations

Great Smoky Mountains National Park operates several front country campgrounds for individuals and families, as well as designated group campgrounds for larger parties. These facilities provide opportunities for tent camping, with limited amenities focused on preserving the natural environment.

All regulations are enforced by the National Park Service (NPS) to ensure safety, resource protection, and enjoyment for all visitors.

Our updated guide incorporates the latest information as of October 2025. Note that advance reservations are now required year-round for all campgrounds, eliminating first-come, first-served options.

The park maintains 10 frontcountry campgrounds:

Most are seasonal, typically operating from March or April through October or November, with specific dates varying by site.

Amenities

  • Restrooms with cold running water
  • Flush toilets
  • Picnic tables
  • Fire grates at each site
  • No showers or utility hookups are available in the park
  • Dump stations with potable water are at Cades Cove, Cosby, Deep Creek, Look Rock, and Smokemont
  • A separate dump station is near Sugarlands Visitor Center for Elkmont users

Group Campgrounds

Group campgrounds are tent-only sites with no trailers, campers, or wheeled units allowed, and generator use is prohibited. Minimum group size is seven people, with capacities ranging from 15 to 30 per site depending on the location.

Group campgrounds are available at seven locations:

  • Big Creek: 25 people
  • Cades Cove: 20–30 people (pavilion option)
  • Cataloochee: 25 people
  • Cosby: 20 people
  • Deep Creek: 20 people
  • Elkmont: 15–30 people
  • Smokemont: 20 people

Reservations and Registration

Advance reservations are mandatory for all individual and group sites year-round. Book via Recreation.gov or 877-444-6777.

  • Individual sites: Up to 6 months in advance
  • Group sites: Up to 12 months in advance
  • Check-in time: 1:00 PM
  • Check-out time: Noon
  • Registration: Upon arrival, register at the campground office or follow posted instructions.
  • Cancellation: Refer to Recreation.gov for cancellation policy details.

Length of Stay

  • Stays are limited to 14 consecutive days at any one campground.
  • For longer visits, relocate to a different campground.
  • Park-wide, the maximum is 60 days per calendar year across all campgrounds.

Parking

Park entrance is free, but a parking tag is required for vehicles parked longer than 15 minutes. America the Beautiful Senior or Access passes do not cover parking.

  • Up to two motor vehicles or one vehicle with a trailer per site.
  • Keep all wheels on pavement
  • Use designated overflow parking for extras.
  • At RV sites, only one RV or trailer is permitted.

Read: Everything You Need to Know About Parking Tags in GSMNP

Tents and Hammocks

  • Tents must be placed on provided pads.
  • Hammocks are permitted within the campsite footprint, limited to trees at least 10 inches in diameter with padding; no more than two per tree.
  • All camping structures must stay within the site boundaries.

Food Storage

  • To protect against black bears, all food, cooking equipment (stoves, pots, coolers), scented items (candles, soap), and water containers must be stored in a vehicle (preferably the trunk) or solid camping unit when not in use.
  • Limited food storage lockers are available at Abrams Creek, Big Creek, Cades Cove, Cataloochee, Cosby, Deep Creek, Elkmont, and Smokemont.
  • Dispose of garbage in provided dumpsters; violations may result in fines or impoundment.

Fires and Wood Gathering

  • Fires are allowed only in designated fire rings.
  • Collect only dead, downed wood from the ground within the park.
  • Only USDA or state-certified heat-treated, bundled firewood may be brought in.
  • Firewood is available for purchase at concessioners in Cades Cove, Smokemont, and Elkmont (March–November) or local vendors.

Pets

Pets are permitted in campgrounds but must be leashed (maximum 6 feet) or confined. They are prohibited on trails (except Oconaluftee River Trail and Gatlinburg Trail), cannot be left unattended, and must not bark excessively. Dispose of waste properly.

Read: Paws in the Park Pet Policy

Waste Water

  • Drain dishwater, bathwater, and RV sewage only at utility sinks or dump stations, not on the ground, in streams, or at fountains.
  • No bathing in streams.
  • Showers are available in nearby communities.

Quiet Hours and Generators

  • Quiet hours: 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM. Turn off noise-producing equipment.
  • Guests: Campground entry limited to registered campers.
  • Generators: Generator use prohibited 8:00 PM to 8:00 AM park-wide, and entirely in generator-free areas or group sites.
  • Idling Engines: No engine idling for battery charging in restricted zones.

Alcohol

Permitted in campgrounds and picnic areas for those 21 and older.

Firearms

Visitors may possess firearms in the park provided they comply with applicable federal, state (Tennessee or North Carolina), and local laws, and are not otherwise prohibited from possessing firearms.

  • Firearms must be unloaded and cased or otherwise not readily accessible when in vehicles or structures. Loaded firearms are prohibited within 150 yards of any park building, except for authorized law enforcement.
  • The use or discharge of firearms is prohibited throughout the park, including in campgrounds, except as authorized by law (e.g., for law enforcement).
  • Hunting is not permitted in the park.
  • Bear pepper spray (EPA-registered with 1-2% capsaicin, labeled specifically for bears) may be carried solely for self-defense against aggressive wildlife.
  • A special use permit is required for carrying or possessing certain weapons, traps, or nets not otherwise authorized under federal regulations. Contact the Chief Ranger’s Office for permits.

Read: What to Do If You Encounter a Black Bear

Bicycles, Inline Skates, and Skateboards

  • Bicycles must follow traffic rules and are limited to roads, parking areas, and designated routes.
  • Helmets required for under 16, recommended for all.
  • Inline skates, skateboards, and scooters are prohibited.

Read: Bicycling in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Prohibited Items and Activities

  • Fireworks, traps, chainsaws, and camping in pull-outs or parking lots are banned.
  • All regulations are strictly enforced, with fines for violations.

For the most current updates, visit nps.gov/grsm or recreation.gov. Regulations may change; always check upon arrival.

Disclaimer

My Smoky Mountain Guide aims to provide accurate, up-to-date information about Great Smoky Mountains National Park and surrounding areas, using reputable sources. However, details about events, attractions, trails, or businesses may change without notice due to factors like weather or park policies. We cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of our content. Visitors should verify details with official sources, such as the National Park Service or local businesses, before planning. My Smoky Mountain Guide is not liable for inaccuracies, omissions, or consequences from using this information. You are responsible for your own decisions based on our content. For feedback or corrections, please contact us.