Camping at Big Creek Campground in Gatlinburg

Destinations Southeast Tennessee Gatlinburg

Camping at Big Creek Campground in Gatlinburg

Camping at Big Creek Campground offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains, making it a popular destination for both seasoned campers and newcomers. With its stunning scenery and diverse outdoor activities, this campground stands out in Gatlinburg. The soothing sounds of Big Creek, surrounded by lush forests, create a tranquil environment perfect for relaxation and adventure alike.

Adventure Guide To Camp at Big Creek Campground

Location: Big Creek Campground is situated within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, just a short drive from Gatlinburg. Its proximity to the park makes it an ideal base for various activities.
Unique Features: The campground is best known for its primitive camping sites, allowing you to truly connect with nature. Each campsite features picnic tables and fire rings, and some are strategically placed along the rushing creek, providing a soothing soundtrack to your stay. The scenic beauty is complemented by opportunities for hiking and fishing, making it an oasis for outdoor enthusiasts.
Activities Options: The campground is a gateway to some amazing trails. Consider hiking the Pink Beds Loop, which offers a moderate trail that winds through rich forests and showcases the area's diverse flora. For fishing enthusiasts, the creek is stocked with trout, making it an excellent spot to cast a line and enjoy a peaceful day by the water.

Local Insights

Big Creek Campground is steeped in history; it was once home to early settlers who farmed this fertile land. You can find remnants of their existence while hiking the area. Engaging with local history can enrich your understanding of the landscape and its significance.

Visitor Tips

Best Times to Visit: Late spring through early fall is ideal, as the weather is most favorable for camping.
What to Bring:
- Tent and camping gear
- Hiking boots
- Fishing rod and tackle
- Food and cooking supplies
Driving Directions: From Gatlinburg, take Highway 321 N. It’s approximately a 30-minute drive, leading you directly into the Smoky Mountains.

Take the opportunity to enjoy camping at Big Creek Campground, where nature and adventure await.

Adventure Map

Reviews

Melinda Bevins5 years ago

Big Creek group campground was beautiful! You're pretty much alone except the camp host being right there and it was a park ranger who was super nice. The bathroom was always clean, there were trails nearby and we had enjoyed having all that space of the campground.

Lawrence Bishop5 years ago

Great location for several hiking options. The campgrounds are nice and affordable. There's group, horse and family areas apart from each other. Because of the easy access point it is busy. But once you get in a few miles on the trail traffic tapers off. The Big Creek Trail has several access points for solitude and a quiet secluded creekside day. Expect lots of horse manure on BCT but the Benton and AT have amnesty in this regard.

Joe Schmoe3 years ago

Spent the day and hiked up to Mouse creek and stopped at a number of beautiful spots along the way. Very easy walk but sometimes tricky to get to creek due to steep rocks and roots. But a blast for the kids. Bring swim gear for midnight falls swim hole. The bathrooms were clean and adequate.

Jahnavi Pathapati6 months ago

Campgrounds were amazing, spacious and clean. There is a little creek running next to the camp site where we can get into the creek and chill. There is trail which leads to midnight swimming hole. Bathrooms were clean but there are no showers.

Sagar Subedi2 years ago

One of the best campgrounds. All campsites are by the Big creek and are all well maintained. Has restrooms and water supply. Have to park your car in the parking lot and carry your stuff to camp sites which is like a minute walk. You can swim, fish or just relax listening to the creek . Lots of hiking trails right from the camp ground.