Big Creek Campground

Closed — Closed indefinitely due to federal budget reductions. The park's larger campgrounds remain open: Cades Cove, Elkmont, and Smokemont. Historically, Big Creek operated seasonally from mid-April through October.

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About

Big Creek Campground is located in a remote portion of Great Smoky Mountains National Park at 1,700 feet elevation, offering tent-only camping alongside the pristine waters of Big Creek. With just 12 campsites, this is the smallest campground in the park, providing a secluded backcountry atmosphere with front country amenities including flush toilets and potable water. Sites require a short walk from the parking area and feature picnic tables and fire rings. The Big Creek area is a haven for experienced hikers, with some of the most challenging trails in the park. The Baxter Creek Trail begins near the campground and climbs 4,200 feet to the summit of Mount Sterling, providing a strenuous workout for strong hikers. The nearby Big Creek Trail offers a more moderate hike along the creek, featuring a beautiful waterfall. The area is renowned for trout fishing, particularly fly fishing during spring hatches. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound in this remote corner of the park. Black bear sightings are common, and lucky visitors may spot river otters playing in Big Creek. The campground is surrounded by picturesque mountain ranges and offers a peaceful soundscape of flowing water. Access is via a winding mountain road from I-40 Exit 451 at Waterville, following Big Creek Entrance Road past the ranger station and horse camp to the campground at road's end.

Directions

From I-40, take Exit 451 at Waterville (16 miles east of Newport, TN). Cross the Pigeon River and pass the Walters Power Generating Station. Continue 1 mile to the 4-way intersection at Mount Sterling Gap and follow signs to Big Creek. Drive to the end of Big Creek Entrance Road, passing the ranger station, horse camp, and group camp.