Camping: The Adventure Side of the Smokies

What’s your perfect camping style? Do you prefer the simplicity of primitive camping, the convenience of an RV, or the classic tent experience under the stars? Maybe you love waking up by a rushing river, perched on a mountainside, or enjoying the comforts of a resort-style retreat. Whatever your preference, the Adventure Side of the Smokies offers the perfect getaway for those seeking a true outdoor experience.

Escape the crowds and discover a camper’s paradise—where breathtaking trout streams wind through the valleys, scenic hiking trails lead to hidden wonders, and the excitement of Gatlinburg is just a short drive away. Whether you’re an avid adventurer or a weekend explorer, this side of the Smokies invites you to unplug, unwind, and embrace the beauty of the great outdoors.

Where will your next adventure take you? 🌲🔥🏕️ Here is a list of camping sites to choose from:

Cherokee National Forest- French Broad

https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/cherokee/recreation/recarea/?recid=34896

primitive dispersed and Paint Creek Campground- tent and camping trailers

Cosby Campground- GMSP
https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232479
Cosby Campground, 127 Cosby Entrance Rd, Cosby, TN 37722
877-444-6777
Located in the national park- RVS and tents

Cosby Run Campground
https://www.cosbyruncampground.com/
311 South HWY 32, Cosby, TN 37722
(423) 487-3178
Tent sites, open year-round

Gatlinburg East KOA
https://koa.com/campgrounds/gatlinburg
423-532-7183
4874 Hooper Highway, Cosby, TN 37722
Can accommodate large rigs. In the Smokies

Fox Fire Riverside Campground
https://foxfireriversidecamp.com/
3541 Hartford Rd, Hartford, TN 37753
(502) 641.5369
Tents, RVs, Cabin Rentals

Martha Sundquist State Forest

1250 Hwy 73, Newport, TN 37821

6 primitive back country sites along the Gulf Trail

Newport KOA
https://koa.com/campgrounds/newport-smoky-mountains/
240 KOA Lane, Newport, TN 37821
423-623-9004

Pigeon River Campground
https://campinginthesmokymountains.com/
3375 Hartford Rd., Hartford, TN 37753
888-827-3404
Tent Pads. RV Sites, Riverside cabins. Between GSMNP and Cherokee National Forest

Roamstead Campground in the Smokies
https://www.roamstead.com/
4946 Hooper Highway, Cosby, TN 37722
(423) 487-5534
Family friendly, streamside, activities, Yurts, Cabins

Shoestring Creek Campground
https://www.facebook.com/ShoestringCreek/
(925) 759-6579
6035 Shoestring Way, Cosby, TN 37722
Primitive tent and Overlanding

Triple Creek Campground
https://triplecreekcampground.com/
141 Lower Bogard Rd., Cosby, TN 37722
423-465-3060