North Carolina / Swain County / Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Deep Creek Group Camp

Closed — Closed for the season. Typically operates mid-April through late October. Reservations required and available up to six months in advance via Recreation.gov.

About

Located in the southeastern portion of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Deep Creek Group Camp sits at 1,800 feet elevation along one of the park's most popular creeks. The campground provides traditional primitive group camping with stunning mountain scenery that changes dramatically with the seasons, from bright spring wildflowers to vivid fall colors. The camp features three group sites, each equipped with grills, tables, and campfire rings. Deep Creek runs along the edge of the campground, providing easily accessible fishing, wading, and tubing opportunities. An easy 1.6-mile roundtrip hike allows visitors to enjoy Tom Branch Falls and Indian Creek Falls. The Deep Creek Trail system connects to the park's extensive hiking network, making this an ideal base for exploring the Smokies. The moderate climate features mild winters and hot, humid summers, though weather can change rapidly in the mountains. The campground is reservation-only and requires a minimum of 7 people per group site, with maximum capacities ranging from 15 to 30 people per site. All food and scented items must be stored in sealed vehicles or hard-sided camping units due to frequent bear activity. Only USDA-certified heat-treated firewood may be brought into the park, though campers may collect dead and downed wood. Bryson City is located three miles away for supplies and services.

Directions

From downtown Bryson City, NC, follow signs to Deep Creek, approximately 3 miles away. The group camp is located at 1912 East Deep Creek Road.

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