BIG CREEK CAMPGROUND (GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK)
federal · Gatlinburg, TN
- dump station5.5 mi
- fuel station4.9 mi

NPS · Data Source: Recreation.gov
About
Overview Big Creek Campground is located in a remote portion of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Backcountry camping in a front country setting. There are flushing toilets and potable water. This is a tent only campground with a short walk from the parking area. The beautiful flowing waters of Big Creek parallel the campground offering the visitor a pleasant soundscape and peaceful beauty. Big Creek is an oasis for hiking, swimming, wildlife, fishing, and relaxation. Recreation Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a hiker's paradise, with over 800 miles of maintained trails ranging from short, leg-stretchers to strenuous treks. The Big Creek area offers some of the most challenging hikes within the Park. Baxter Creek trail begins near the campground and with an elevation gain of 4200' from trail head to the summit of Mt Sterling provides a strenuous work out for the strongest of hikers. The nearby Big Creek trail offers a pleasant hike along the waters of Big Creek with a beautiful waterfall along the way. Local anglers agree that Big Creek offers some of the best trout fishing in the area. Fly fishing is particularly good during spring months when aquatic insects hatch in large numbers. Wildlife viewing is a popular pastime, and with around 1,500 black bear living in the park, it is not uncommon for visitors to spot one. The park is a sanctuary for a magnificent array of animal and plant life, all of which is protected for future generations to enjoy. Facilities Big Creek Campground offers 12 TENT ONLY campsites for a traditional outdoor camping experience with the added convenience of flush toilets and drinking water. There are no hookups or showers at the campground. There is an emergency phone available at the Big Creek Ranger Station located 1 mile from the campground. No generator use or recreational vehicles are allowed in Big Creek Campground. There is a food storage locker available for public use. Natural Features Located at an elevation of 1,700' Big Creek Campground is surrounded by picturesque mountain ranges and a pristine mountain stream. Black Bear sightings are not uncommon and some lucky visitors may spot River Otter playing in Big Creek. Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (423) 487-2683. Nearby Attractions Nearby attractions include the Cataloochee Valley, Newport, TN, Cosby Campground, Hartford Whitewater Rafting, the Appalachian Trail and the Max Patch/Pisgah National Forest.
Around this stay
Nearest surrounding services and recreation within ~25 mi — not on-site amenities.
- 5.5 mi
dump station
Dump station
- 4.9 mi
fuel station
Citgo
- 13 mi
grocery
Smoky Mountain Farmers Co-op - Waynesville
- 0.1 mi
potable water
Potable water
- 0.1 mi
trailhead
Big Creek Trail Trailhead
- 5.1 mi
attraction
Wildwater Pigeon Rafting and Zipline Canopy Tours
- 1.8 mi
recreation site
Boat launch
Contact & access
- 107 Park Headquarters Road · Gatlinburg, TN 37738
- 865-436-1261
Reservations & demand
August weekends are typically reserved about 74 days ahead.
Based on 65 Recreation.gov reservations (Oct 2023–Sep 2024). Historical demand — not live availability.
Outbound provider links only. Roam Atlas does not book sites or show live availability.
Source and verification
Last verified: 10/6/2026
See the Sources tab for provenance detail.

