Elkmont Campground

Elkmont Campground is located just 8 miles from Gatlinburg inside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The campground is the largest and busiest campground in the park. However, it is surrounded by extensive history, river access, hiking trails and is also home to world famous synchronized fireflies.

In the past the historical district of Elkmont was a pioneer community, a location for heavy logging, and even a vacation resort for the elite from nearby cities. Explore Elkmont today and you'll find many clues to all of the above - some hidden, some out in the open. It is said by the locals that you can still hear the laughter of the children that played along the river and spent summer nights catching fireflies. The campground offers 211 campsites and a small camp store where you can pick up a few items, pay $1 to charge your electronics, or just simply grab a drink before heading out to explore the park. Looking to find balance between nature and city life? Take a trip into Gatlinburg, a city that is now thriving after tragic wildfires in the winter of 2016. You'll find the Nantahala Outdoor Center filled with outdoor gear, sharks in the Ripley's Aquarium, a chair lift to the top of the mountain, and funnel cakes on every corner. To connect with nature in Elkmont, take a trip up Jakes Creek or Little River.  Roam Daisy Town or seek out the previous site of the Wonderland Hotel to get a glimpse into the past. If you're visiting in late May or early June, keep an out for a phenomenal experience: Just as the sun starts to set and the Smoky Mountain sky becomes a show like no other, millions of fireflies appear synchronized  and light up the darkness. Regardless of when or how you experience Elkmont and the Elkmont Campground, one thing is certain: You will leave with a taste of Smoky Mountain magic.