Peak fall color mid-October — arguably the best foliage camping in America
Elkmont Campground — Great Smoky Mountains
Synchronous fireflies + Little River — the Smokies at their best
Gatlinburg, TN4.6 (3210)2,260 ft
The largest and most popular campground in the most-visited national park in America. Elkmont sits on the Little River in a mature hardwood forest — firefly season in late May/June draws thousands to watch synchronous fireflies pulse in choreographed unison. Easy trail access to Alum Cave and Laurel Falls without driving.
Best For
FamiliesHikersWildlife WatchersPhotographersFall Foliage Seekers
Site Types
TentRV (no hookups)
Amenities
Flush Toilets
Drinking Water
Picnic Tables
Fire Rings
Dump Station
Camp Store
Amphitheater
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Season
Year-round
Max/site
6 people
Known Issues
Extremely popular — sells out 6 months in advance for summer/fall. Bear encounters common (follow park food storage rules strictly). No hookups. Summer humidity and heat. Gatlinburg tourist trap nearby.
Cancellation Policy
Recreation.gov standard policy applies.