Smokemont Campground

About

Smokemont Campground is one of the most popular frontcountry camping options in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, operating year-round on the North Carolina side of the park. Located along the Bradley Fork of the Oconaluftee River at 2,200 feet elevation, the campground provides a moderate climate with mild winters and warm summers. The 142 individual sites are spread across multiple loops, with Loop F designated exclusively for RVs (no tents) and accommodating units up to 40 feet. The campground serves as an excellent basecamp for exploring the park's 800+ miles of trails. The Smokemont Loop Trail and Bradley Fork Trail are accessible directly from camp, and the Smokemont Nature Trail begins across from site B31. Anglers can fish for trout in the nearby streams with a valid Tennessee or North Carolina license. Wildlife viewing is exceptional, though the park averages 339 negative bear encounters annually, so strict food storage is enforced. Amenities include flush toilets with cold running water, potable water, fire rings and picnic tables at every site, and a dump station. There are no showers or hookups, though some ADA-accessible sites have 5-amp outlets for medical equipment. Heat-treated firewood is available for purchase at Smokemont Riding Stables from March through November. Quiet hours run 10 PM to 6 AM, with generator use limited to 8 AM to 8 PM in permitted loops.

Directions

From Cherokee, NC: Take Newfound Gap Road (US 441) north 6 miles and turn right at the campground sign. From Gatlinburg, TN: Take Newfound Gap Road (US 441) south 27 miles and turn left at the campground sign.