Tennessee / Cocke County / Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Cosby Picnic Pavilion

Closed — Closed for the season. The picnic area typically operates from mid-April through October. The hiker parking area remains open year-round.

About

Cosby Picnic Pavilion offers a peaceful day-use experience in the less-crowded northeast section of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Located at 2,179 feet elevation along Cosby Creek, the facility features 35 picnic sites and a sheltered pavilion that accommodates up to 55 people and can be reserved up to a year in advance through Recreation.gov. The picnic area provides a tranquil setting under a canopy of trees with the sounds of flowing water nearby. The area serves as an excellent base for exploring numerous hiking trails, including the nearby Gabes Mountain Trail and Low Gap Trail. The Appalachian Trail is just three miles away via the Lower Gap Trail. Fishing is popular in Cosby Creek, though a Tennessee or North Carolina fishing license is required. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with the park home to approximately 1,500 black bears and diverse plant and animal life. Cosby Picnic Area is a day-use only facility with accessible restrooms and bear-proof trash receptacles. Charcoal grills are provided at picnic sites, though wood fires are not permitted. Pets are allowed in the picnic area but must be kept on a leash at all times and cannot be left unattended. The nearby Cosby Campground offers overnight camping options.

Directions

From Cosby, TN, proceed south on TN 32 about 1.5 miles from junction with US 321. Turn right at Cosby sign. The picnic area is another 2.2 miles.

Nearby Campgrounds