Spending the day in Cades Cove is always a good idea. What about staying a little longer to sleep under the stars? A camping trip will allow you to spend more time in this beautiful area. Need ideas for places to set up camp? We've got you covered. Keep reading to learn more! Here is a helpful guide to camping near Cades Cove:
Cades Cove Campground
One of the most popular places to go camping in Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the Cades Cove Campground. It is a frontcountry campsite, which means it’s open year-round for both tent and RV camping, allowing visitors to stay near their vehicle. They also have access to bathrooms with flush toilets and cold running water.
If you forget anything, stock up on essentials at the Cades Cove Trading Company. The store is located at the start of the loop road. The shop also sells cool souvenirs and provides bike rentals as well!
Backcountry Options
If you want to venture a little further into the wilderness, consider a backcountry campsite near Cades Cove. Visitors get to take a hike and then relax around the fire at their campsite. Keep in mind that these are only open during the warmer months!
Abrams Creek Campground
A great backcountry option for beginners is the Abrams Creek Campground. It is secluded while having necessary amenities, such as flush toilets. To drive there, take the Foothills Parkway to Happy Valley Road before turning onto Abrams Creek Road. You can also hike there by taking the Abrams Falls Trail. The hike is 5 miles roundtrip and leads to a stunning waterfall. Fun Fact: The creek and waterfall are named after a Cherokee Chief who once lived nearby.
Backcountry Campsite 01
Backcountry Campsite 01 is located on the Cooper Road Trail. To get there, park at the Abrams Creek Campground and walk across the bridge. You will then be on the Cooper Road Trail. The hike to Backcountry Campsite 01 is 0.9 miles along an old 19th-century wagon road. The terrain is mostly flat. Look for the junction where the Cooper Road Trail meets the Little Bottoms Trail.
Backcountry Campsite 17
Backcountry Campsite 17 is nearby Backcountry Campsite 01. It is located on the Little Bottoms Trail. Start on the Cooper Road Trail and hike for 1.3 miles until you reach the junction for the Little Bottoms Trail. Continue for another 1.6 miles to reach the campsite. While the distance to the campground is short, the terrain is narrow and rugged. It’s best to pace yourself and wear comfortable shoes.
Backcountry Campsite 06
Backcountry Campsite 06 is located on the Scott Mountain Trail. Start on the Rich Mountain Loop Trail and merge onto the Crooked Arm Ridge Trail. Continue here for about 2.2 miles until you reach the 3-way intersection with the Indian Grave Gap and the Scott Mountain Trail. Turn onto the Scott Mountain Trail and walk just 500 feet to reach the campsite. This is a secluded ridgetop campsite, so the route is very strenuous and has significant elevation gain.
Other Backcountry Site Near Cades Cove
- Sites 9 and 10: Located along the Anthony Creek Trail. The trailhead is at the end of the Cades Cove Picnic Area.
- Site 12: Located along the Forge Creek Trail that splits off from the Gregory Ridge Trail.
- Site 13: Located at the intersection of the Gregory Bald Trail and the Hannah Mountain Trail. It is one of the highest campsites in the national park.
- Site 14: Located on the Hannah Mountain Trail
- Site 15: Located on the Rabbit Creek Trail
- Site 16: Sits at the intersection of the Hannah Mountain Trail and the Rabbit Creek Trail.
Cades Cove Camping Tips
Follow these helpful tips when camping near Cades Cove:
- Plan Ahead: All campsites require a reservation and fee. It’s wise to plan ahead so that you can get a spot at your desired campsite on the dates you want.
- Parking Tag: No matter what campsite you choose, you will need a parking tag for your vehicle. Weekly passes are available!
- Pets: Pets are only allowed in the Cades Cove Campground. They are not permitted in any of the backcountry sites!
- Fire Safety: Only make fires in the designated fire rings. This will prevent damage to fragile vegetation and protect wildlife.
- Leave No Trace: Clean up after yourself and keep any food contained to avoid attracting wildlife.
There are plenty of spots for camping near Cades Cove. Once you pick one, consider activities for your trip! Look at our weekend itinerary for camping in Cades Cove to get some good ideas!
