Gatlinburg, TN
Elkmont Campground
Elkmont Campground is the largest developed campground in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with 211 total sites spread across standard, walk-to, and tent-only options near Gatlinburg, Tennessee. The campground sits along the Little River, offering direct waterfront access for campers seeking fishing and water-based recreation.
Sites range from traditional loop camping to tent-only and walk-to setups, with 10 ADA-accessible sites available. The campground accommodates tents, RVs, vans, fifth wheels, trailers, pickup campers, pop-ups, and other rigs—making it flexible for different camping styles. No permit is required; reservations can be made in advance through the standard recreation system.
At 2,150 feet elevation, Elkmont provides cooler mountain air and access to the park's extensive trail network and backcountry fishing opportunities. If Elkmont fills, Cades Cove Campground and Abram's Creek Campground are popular alternatives within the same park, each offering their own distinct setting and amenities.
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Current Availability
The following dates have one or more sites available
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Common Questions
What campers most often want to know about Elkmont Campground.
Do I need a permit to camp at Elkmont Campground?
No permit is required to camp at Elkmont Campground. You simply need to make a reservation in advance through the standard reservation system.
How many campsites does Elkmont Campground have?
Elkmont Campground has 211 total campsites. The campground is the largest in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
What types of campsites and equipment are available at Elkmont?
Elkmont offers standard sites, walk-to sites, and tent-only sites that accommodate tents, RVs, vans, fifth wheels, trailers, pickup campers, pop-ups, and other equipment. Ten sites are ADA-accessible.
Is fishing available at Elkmont Campground?
Yes, the Little River runs through the campground and offers backcountry fishing opportunities in its cool waters and other streams throughout the area.
Can I camp right next to the water at Elkmont?
Yes, waterfront camping is available at Elkmont since the Little River runs through the campground, giving you the option to camp directly along the water.