If sleeping under the stars sounds like your kind of getaway, you’ll love these tent-friendly campgrounds in the Smokies. You’ll wake up to cool mountain air and fall asleep to peaceful forest sounds. Plus, tent camping in the Smoky Mountains is one of the easiest ways to enjoy East Tennessee. Whether you want a quiet wooded spot or a campsite with extra comforts, you’ll find great options in the Smoky Mountains.
So, if you’re planning a trip to the Smokies and searching for reliable tent-friendly campgrounds, you’re in the right place.
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You Just Can’t Beat Tent Camping in the Smokies
You just can’t beat tent camping in the Smokies. With cooler mountain temperatures, endless hiking trails, and those classic mountain views, it’s the kind of place that turns a simple weekend into a memory you’ll always talk about. So, whether you’re chasing waterfalls, spotting wildlife, or cooking dinner by the fire, the Smoky Mountains will certainly make your trip special.
Best Tent-Friendly Campgrounds in the Smokies
Here are some of the best campgrounds for tent camping to get you started, with a mix of rustic in-park sites and easy, tent-friendly stays near Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, and Townsend.
Cades Cove Campground (Inside the Park): Tent Camping Near the Cades Cove Loop
Cades Cove Campground is one of the most iconic Smokies tent-friendly camping spots, and staying inside the park feels like total nature immersion. Even better, you can wake up and hit the Cades Cove Loop early—by foot or bike—before the gates open.
- Super easy access to the Cades Cove Loop (you’re basically right there)
- Restrooms available, but no showers, plus a wash station for dishes
- Close to trails, including Abrams Falls Trail
➜ Check availability for campsites at Cades Cove Campground in the Smoky Mountains
Elkmont (Inside the Park): Our All-Time Favorite Tent-Friendly Campground in the Smokies
Elkmont Campground is another great option for Smoky Mountain tent campsites if you want to stay inside the park but prefer a more central location. It’s surrounded by forest and river views, so it still feels fully immersed in nature. Plus, it’s about 8 miles from Gatlinburg, which makes grabbing supplies (or hopping into town) super easy while still camping in the Smokies.
- Level tent pads that make setup easier
- Close to Little River and several popular hiking trails
- Restrooms available, but no showers, plus a wash station for dishes
➜ Check availability for tent-friendly campsites in the Smokies at Elkmont Campground
Looking for More Places to Camp Inside the Park? For more great tent camping options inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, check out our full guide to Camping Inside the Smokies.
Mountaineer Campground (Townsend): Riverside Tent Campsites Near the Smokies
Mountaineer Campground is a solid choice for Smokies tent camping spots if you want a quieter stay on the peaceful side of the Smokies. It’s close to the park while still offering easy access to Townsend.
Photo credit: Mountaineer Campground
- Shaded tent sites with a traditional campground feel
- Restrooms, hot showers, and laundry available
- Convenient access to Townsend, Cades Cove, and nearby trails
➜ Check availability for tent sites at Mountaineer Campground in Townsend TN
Greenbrier Campground (Near Gatlinburg): Tent Campsites Close to the Smokies
Greenbrier Campground is a great pick for Smokies tent camping spots if you want to stay close to Gatlinburg but still feel tucked into the trees. It’s a quieter, nature-forward option that keeps you near the park and the fun.
Photo credit: Greenbrier Campground
- Convenient access to Gatlinburg and nearby Smoky Mountain trails
- Tent-friendly sites in a wooded setting
- Restrooms and hot showers available
➜ Check availability for tent campsites at Greenbrier Campground near Gatlinburg
Pigeon Forge / Gatlinburg KOA Holiday (Pigeon Forge): Tent Campsites Near the Mountains
Pigeon Forge / Gatlinburg KOA Holiday is a solid pick if you want a tent-friendly campground in the Smokies area with easy access to town and a few extra comforts.
- Designated tent campsites, plus RV sites and cabins if you’re traveling with a group
- Restrooms and hot showers available, along with added amenities that make camping simpler
- Close to Pigeon Forge attractions, and a convenient drive to Great Smoky Mountains National Park
➜ Check availability for tent sites at Pigeon Forge / Gatlinburg KOA Holiday
Whether you want full immersion inside the national park or an easy, tent-friendly stay near town, these Smokies tent camping spots offer something for every camping style.
From early mornings in Cades Cove to laid-back nights near Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, tent camping in the Smokies certainly makes it easy to slow down, soak in the views, and enjoy the mountains a little more.
Want fun beyond the campground? Explore the Smoky Mountains below.
Happy Trekkn!
We love camping in the Smokies, and we hope you find the perfect site to pitch your tent for an unforgettable Smoky Mountain getaway.
Comment below and tell us if you’re the camper who packs all the cozy extras, or the one who shows up with a tent and calls it good! 😄
Also, grab a pic or two on your trip and tag @Tennessee Trekkn so we can see where you camped and cheer on your adventure!
Disclosure: This site contains links from our trusted partners, including Amazon. If you book or purchase through these we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We appreciate your support!