Look Rock Campground, nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offers a unique and picturesque camping experience for outdoor enthusiasts. This scenic campground, which recently reopened after a nine-year closure, provides visitors with a chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Smokies while enjoying a range of amenities and recreational opportunities.
Amenities and Regulations at Look Rock Campground
The Look Rock Campground boasts 68 campsites, some of which feature electric and water hookups. Reservations are required and can be made through the Recreation.gov website. It’s important to note that cell phone coverage is limited in the area, so it’s best to secure your reservation before arriving at the campground.
| Amenity | Description |
|---|---|
| Campsites | 68 campsites in a high country wooded landscape, with electric and water hookups available at some sites. |
| Reservations | Required and can be made through Recreation.gov. Cell phone coverage is limited, so reservations must be made before arriving. |
| Cancellation Policy | A $10 service fee and the first night’s use fee will be forfeited for cancellations made the day before or on the day of arrival. |
| Picnic Area | Nearby picnic area for day use. |
| Look Rock Observation Tower | Offers panoramic views of the park. |
| Fishing and Boating | Nearby lakes and streams provide opportunities for fishing and boating. |
| Hiking Trails | Over 802 miles of hiking trails in the park, although limited trails are accessible directly from the campground. |
| Wildlife Viewing | Abundant opportunities for wildlife viewing and birding. |
| Scenic Drives | The Foothills Parkway West offers a relaxing drive through the high country with scenic pulloffs. |
| Pet Policy | Pets are allowed on a leash no longer than six feet and are only permitted on roads and two trails: the Gatlinburg Trail and the Oconaluftee River Trail. |
Directions and Contact Information
To reach the Look Rock Campground, visitors can follow these directions:
- From Maryville, TN, take U.S. 321 North to Walland, TN, and then turn right onto Foothills Parkway Section 8G/Foothills Pkwy W.
- From Pigeon Forge, TN, follow US-321 S to Foothills Parkway Section 8G/Foothills Pkwy W.
The campground can be reached at the following contact information:
- Phone Number: 865-436-1261 for campground inquiries.
- Address: 10042 Campground Drive, Townsend, TN 37882.
History and Renovations
The Look Rock Campground has a rich history in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. After a nine-year closure, the campground reopened in 2022 with renovations that included new picnic tables, fire rings, and the addition of electric and water hookups at some campsites.
Elevation and Firewood Regulations
The Look Rock Campground sits at nearly 3,000 feet in elevation, providing a unique camping experience along the ridge with overlooks into the western end of the park. It’s important to note that certified heat-treated firewood is required, as it is not allowed to be brought into the park unless it is certified.
Conclusion
The Look Rock Campground in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers a truly remarkable camping experience. With its scenic location, abundant recreational opportunities, and recent renovations, this campground is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Smokies. Whether you’re looking to hike, fish, or simply enjoy the stunning views, the Look Rock Campground is the perfect gateway to your next adventure in the Great Smoky Mountains.
References
- https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10207636
- https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/look-rock-campground.htm
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g143031-d11646199-Reviews-Look_Rock_Tower-Great_Smoky_Mountains_National_Park_Tennessee.html
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jHkek_vyMAU
- https://www.nps.gov/grsm/learn/news/park-reopens-look-rock-campground-after-nine-year-closure.htm