For RV camping enthusiasts planning to visit the Great Smoky Mountains, this comprehensive guide provides all the essential details and recommendations to make your trip a memorable one. From the top-rated campgrounds to the must-have amenities, we’ve got you covered.
Best RV Campgrounds Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers a breathtaking backdrop for your RV camping adventure. Here are some of the best RV campgrounds in the area:
-
Smoky Mountain Premier RV Resort – Located in Cosby, TN, this resort offers full hook-up sites, a pool, horse shoes, playground, fitness room, and a store with RV accessories. It is close to Dollywood Theme Park and Dolly’s Splash Country Water Park.
-
Smoky Bear Campground – Situated in Gatlinburg, TN, this campground has paved roads, concrete pull-through sites, and gravel back-in sites. It offers amenities like a wheelchair-accessible bathhouse, community area, swimming pool, hot tub, playground, and a store.
-
Greenbrier Campground – Located near Gatlinburg, this campground offers RV sites with full hookups, including water, sewer, and electric (30 and 50 amp). It also features a swimming area, fishing, and horseback riding opportunities.
-
Townsend/Great Smokies KOA Holiday – This campground in Townsend offers on-site tubing and fishing, a pool, playground, wagon rides, and scheduled activities. It is close to the Cades Cove entrance to the park.
-
Little Arrow Outdoor Resort – This resort in Townsend offers RV sites, tiny homes, cabins, and tents. It features a swimming pool, river access, and organized activities.
Amenities to Expect from RV Parks in the Smoky Mountains
When planning your RV camping trip to the Great Smoky Mountains, you can expect the following amenities at the local campgrounds:
- Full hookups (water, sewer, electric)
- Dump stations
- Restrooms with flush toilets and cold running water
- Picnic tables and fire grates at each site
- Swimming pools and hot tubs
- Playgrounds and recreational activities
- Stores with RV accessories and supplies
- Pet-friendly facilities
- Wi-Fi and cable TV
- Fitness rooms and community areas
Important Details for RV Camping in the Smoky Mountains
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable RV camping experience in the Great Smoky Mountains, here are some important details to keep in mind:
Reservations
Advance reservations are required for most campgrounds. You can call 877-444-6777 or visit Recreation.gov to reserve a site.
Dump Stations
Dump stations with potable water are available at several campgrounds, including Cades Cove, Cosby, Deep Creek, Look Rock, and Smokemont.
Interagency Passes
The America the Beautiful – National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass covers entrance fees at sites managed by the National Park Service, USDA Forest Service, US Fish and Wildlife Service, and Bureau of Land Management.
Firewood Regulations
Firewood is available for purchase at some campgrounds, and regulations may apply to prevent the spread of invasive species.
Conclusion
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers a stunning natural backdrop for your RV camping adventure. With a wide range of top-rated campgrounds and essential amenities, you can enjoy a comfortable and unforgettable experience in this beautiful region. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or an action-packed getaway, the Smoky Mountains have something for every RV camping enthusiast.
References
- National Park Service. (2024). Frontcountry Camping – Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Retrieved from https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/frontcountry-camping.htm
- Greenbrier Campground. (n.d.). Smoky Mountain Campground near Gatlinburg. Retrieved from https://www.smokymountaincamping.com
- The RV Atlas. (2023). 12 Amazing Campgrounds Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Retrieved from https://thervatlas.com/podcast/campgrounds-near-great-smoky-mountains-national-park/
- RV LIFE. (2022). The Best Smoky Mountain RV Parks And Campgrounds. Retrieved from https://rvlife.com/smoky-mountain-rv-parks/
- My Smoky Mountain Park. (2024). Where to Camp in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Retrieved from https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/camping-rv-parks/where-should-i-camp-in-smoky/.