Elkmont Campground in Knoxville
Adventure Destination

Elkmont Campground in Knoxville

Elkmont Campground, near Knoxville, Tennessee, offers family-friendly camping amidst historic structures and wildlife. Explore easy hikes like the Laurel Falls Trail. Best visited in spring and fall for blooming wildflowers and colorful leaves.

Camping7.8/10Easy
Photo Gallery

Category

Camping

Typical Duration

Overnight

Difficulty

Easy

About This Adventure Destination

Elkmont Campground, located in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is a premier destination just a short drive from Knoxville, Tennessee. This campground is notable for its scenic beauty and rich history, dating back to the early 1900s when it served as a summer retreat for tourists. Today, it stands as a vital area for outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in nature, camp under the stars, and explore Appalachian culture.

Editorial Assessment

Elkmont Campground in Knoxville offers a charming and serene setting with beautiful fall foliage and ample opportunities for hiking and camping. However, it lacks the distinctive geological features that would rank it as a top-tier, globally iconic natural destination.

Elkmont Campground in Knoxville

Adventure Guide to Elkmont Campground in Knoxville

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1. Scenic Hiking Trails

  • Overview: Elkmont Campground boasts direct access to the **Appalachian Trail** and numerous stunning hikes, such as the **Laurel Falls Trail**, leading to one of the park’s most visited waterfalls. The waterfall is approximately 80 feet tall, providing breathtaking views and a perfect photo opportunity. The trail is relatively easy, making it perfect for families. **2. Historic Structures Tour** While camping here, visitors can explore the **historic Elkmont district**, which features structures from the early 20th century. The **Daisy Town area** exemplifies turn-of-the-century architecture and provides insight into the lives of early settlers. These remnants highlight the area’s transition from a bustling resort town to a protected national park. **3. Wildlife Viewing** Elkmont is a prime location for spotting diverse wildlife, including black bears, deer, and several bird species. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times for wildlife sightings. Be sure to pack binoculars for a closer look and maintain a safe distance.
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Local Insights

  • Overview: Elkmont’s rich history is showcased in its cabins and cultural relics, making it both a recreational and educational experience. The area was once home to the **Appalachian Club**, a social group for wealthy individuals, adding to its historic significance.
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Visitor Tips

  • Details: **Best times to visit**: Spring and fall, when the wildflowers bloom and leaves change color.
  • Details: **What to bring**: Camping gear, hiking boots, ample water, and insect repellent.
  • Details: **Driving directions**: Located approximately 45 minutes from downtown Knoxville, take US-441 S to the National Park entrance.

Reviews

D
Dawn Pin the last week

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

D
Dakota Pryor3 weeks ago

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

S
Subagar M3 weeks ago

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

D
Dan Jones3 weeks ago

This is a VERY popular campground in GSMNP. There are multiple hiking options from very easy hikes up Little River trail, there are 2 options for a strenuous 8ish mile one way hike up to the Appalachian trail, and multiple variations of anything in between. The almost finished, refurbished vacation resort town of Elkmont gives you a great idea of higher end vacationing is from a nearly a century ago. Whether in Elmont or out on a trail remember that all this area was heavily logged a century ago. Imagine how huge the trees would have been in this beautiful forest.

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Isaac Suttona month ago

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

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