Elkmont Campground

The sound of Little River's rushing waters sets the tone at Elkmont Campground, where pristine forest meets rich Appalachian history in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This sprawling campground offers a mix of secluded riverside sites and more social loops, with easy access to scenic hiking trails and remnants of an early 20th-century resort community.

Elkmont's 200+ campsites accommodate tents and RVs up to 35 feet, with some walk-in tent sites providing extra seclusion. While amenities are basic - flush toilets and drinking water but no showers or hookups - the campground's prime location and natural beauty make it a coveted base for exploring the Smokies. Campers can fish for trout in Little River, hike directly from the campground to attractions like Laurel Falls, or simply relax by their campfire surrounded by towering hemlocks and tulip poplars.

Located just 8 miles from Gatlinburg, Elkmont offers a tranquil forest retreat with convenient access to the town's attractions. The campground sits at 2,150 feet elevation, providing a cool summer escape. Popular park destinations like Cades Cove and Newfound Gap are within a 30-minute scenic drive. For history buffs, the abandoned cottages of the Elkmont Historic District offer a fascinating glimpse into the area's past as a logging town and vacation community.