Elkmont Campground in Knoxville

Destinations Southeast Tennessee Knoxville

Elkmont Campground in Knoxville

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.

Adventure Guide to Elkmont Campground

1. Scenic Hiking Trails
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.

Local Insights

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.

Visitor Tips

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

Reviews

Jon J4 months ago

Great campground. Sites are great or just ok. The ones on the water vary. Creek or river, steep unsafe bank or nice path to the water. The bathrooms are nice but do not have showers. Some bathrooms were closed. The trails near buy are gravel roads... not my thing. It's really a great spot to camp and listen to the rapids while you fall asleep. Close enough to town but far enough away with plenty to do. The camp store is tiny and insanely pricey. We had a blast.

CRYSTAL FAULKNER3 months ago

The host stayed on to us the entire time. Can't park in grass , can't park in dirt, no coolers (just water) quiet time is 8:00!!!! No generator after that..not even a quiet one. Neighbors complaining. Beautiful place but we're very respectful people but this was ridiculous. We would never camp here again. I felt like a child.

Dan Schmidt4 months ago

Stayed in site E-7. It was an awesome campsite steps from the river! Very relaxing at night to listen to the noise of the water. This was a generator section of the park. However, I never heard one. It was mostly tent campers stay there. Maybe we got lucky. Bathrooms weren't anything special. Bring your own soap to wash your hands.

Dan Jones2 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.

P. Kelly4 months ago

Elkmont is my favorite place to camp in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. I have been going there for three decades now. Campsites are great. River sites are my favorite, but can be hard to come by if you don't book far in advance. Great value at $30/night. Also fun activities available like river walking, tubing, hiking, fishing, nature photography, Laurel Falls trail, Cucumber Gap trail. Follow the food storage guidelines and you won't have to worry about safety. Never had a problem with theft in all my years of camping there.

Camping

Elkmont Campground in Knoxville