Reservations possible?
Yes
RV Hookups
No
Potable water
No
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Tucked away in a quiet little corner of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park lies a peaceful spot known as the Cosby Campground. This campground is much different than the others inside the most visited national park in the country. You'll only find 26 campsites in Cosby that are available for reservations, while there are 131 sites that are first-come, first-served. This open system makes Cosby a perfect location for a last minute escape to the mountains.

You'll find trailheads for beautiful hikes such as, Hen Wallow Falls and Mount Cammerer Fire Tower in the campground. The campground also includes a nature trail, an amphitheater, and a picnic area that includes a picnic pavilion that can be reserved for groups. Although Cosby is located just 20 miles from the hustling and bustling attractions of Gatlinburg, Tennessee, the camping area will give you a true sense of being in nature. The campground does include some RV camping, but it is mostly used by tent campers, making the spot perfect for a true family adventure. The area is filled with possibilities and places to explore. The historic Greenbrier community and Greenbrier section of the Smoky Mountains is also located just minutes from Cosby. Camp in the tranquility of Cosby and then head into Greenbrier for a day hike to Ramseys Cascades, the tallest waterfall in the park, or up Porters Creek to Fern Branch Falls. A little local tip as you're passing through: The Cobbly Nob Cafe really does have the best burgers in the south, and the Hungry Bear BBQ is local as well - and delicious! Visiting in the summer? At an elevation of 2,460 feet, the area does get hot and humid, but you can always hang your hammock, take a nap, and then take a dip in a Smoky Mountain stream to cool off. After all, that's what a summer in the Smokies is all about. 

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Summer
Fall

Parking Pass

Not Required

Pros

Solitude. Fewer crowds. Available campsites. 131 first-come, first-served campsites.

Cons

None.

Pets allowed

Allowed with Restrictions

Managed by

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Features

Picnic tables
Covered picnic areas
Amphitheater

Location

Nearby Adventures

Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Nearby Lodging + Camping

Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park

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