Camping at Big Creek Campground

Overview

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a popular destination for camping enthusiasts due to its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural history. The park straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee and is famous for its rolling mountains, dense forests, and diverse plant and animal life.

Campground Options

There are several camping options within Great Smoky Mountains National Park:

• Frontcountry Campgrounds: These developed campgrounds have restrooms with cold running water and flush toilets. Each individual campsite has a fire grate and picnic table.

• Backcountry Campgrounds: For those seeking a more secluded experience, backcountry camping is available, but permits must be obtained in advance.

• Group Campgrounds: These are available for groups of eight or more and reservations are required.

• Horse Camps: These camps are small and designed for visitors who wish to bring their horses into the park.

Reservations and Permits

• Frontcountry Campgrounds: Reservations for some of the more popular campgrounds can be made through Recreation.gov and are highly recommended, especially during peak season.

• Backcountry Campgrounds: A permit is required and must be obtained in advance. Permits can be acquired through the park's website or at one of the visitor centers.

• Group and Horse Camps: Reservations are necessary and can also be made through Recreation.gov.

Camping Seasons and Accessibility

• Peak Season: Most frontcountry campgrounds are open from spring through fall, while a few are open year-round. Check the park's website for specific opening and closing dates.

• Winter Accessibility: During the winter months, fewer facilities and services may be available, and some roads, as well as campgrounds, may be closed due to weather conditions.

Wildlife and Safety

• The park is a habitat for a variety of wildlife, including black bears. Proper food storage is crucial and the park requires the use of bear-proof food storage containers.

• Following park regulations and safety guidelines, like keeping a safe distance from wildlife, is important for a safe camping experience.

Activities and Recreation

• Hiking trails range from easy to strenuous. The Appalachian Trail and the Alum Cave Bluffs trails are popular among hikers.
• Fishing, wildlife viewing, and photography are also popular activities in the park.

Leave No Trace

The park operates under the Leave No Trace principles:

• Plan Ahead and Prepare: Check the weather, trail conditions, and park regulations before you head out.

• Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out all trash, leftover food, and litter.

• Leave What You Find: Do not disturb cultural or historic structures and artifacts.

• Respect Wildlife: Observe wildlife from a distance and never feed them.

• Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Respect other campers and maintain quiet hours in campgrounds.

Additional Information

Before setting out on your camping trip, check the National Park Service's official website for Great Smoky Mountains National Park for the most current information on campground status, reservations, regulations, and safety advisories. Consider stopping at one of the visitor centers for the latest updates, maps, and suggestions for your visit.