Cosby Campground
Camp in the Quiet Corner of the Great Smoky Mountains
Escape to the peaceful side of the Smokies at Cosby Campground!
Set beneath a cool canopy of trees beside Cosby Creek, this is one of the park’s largest yet quietest campgrounds — beloved by campers who want the beauty of the Smokies without the crowds. At around 2,460 feet, it offers a mild mountain climate and a true back-to-nature feel.
Each site comes with a fire ring, picnic table, and a level 16’×16′ tent pad, with a handful of sites suited to smaller RVs. A picnic area and amphitheater host seasonal ranger programs, and some of the park’s best trails start right here — including access toward Hen Wallow Falls and the Appalachian Trail.
For families craving a genuine national-park camping experience — starry nights, crackling campfires, and morning birdsong — Cosby is a hidden gem, and an easy drive from the comforts of Smith Creek Resort when you’re ready for a hot shower.
Information
Opening Hours
- Open seasonally, mid-April through late October
- Reservation only (book via Recreation.gov)
At a Glance
- Type of Experience: Outdoor Adventure, Family Fun
- Best For: Families, Groups, Nature Lovers, Tent & small-RV campers
- Top Season / Time to Visit: Late Spring through Fall
The Essentials: What’s Here, What’s Nearby & Why You’ll Love It
From shady creekside sites to nearby trailheads, here’s everything you need to plan a stay at Cosby Campground. Reserve your spot, pitch your tent, and enjoy the quiet side of the national park.
What You'll Experience
Camp beneath the trees beside Cosby Creek
Gather around your own fire ring and picnic table
Hike straight to Hen Wallow Falls and the Appalachian Trail
Catch seasonal ranger programs at the amphitheater
Fall asleep under some of the darkest skies in the SmokiesAmenities & Features
Fire ring, picnic table, and 16'×16' tent pad at every site Flush toilets and drinking water (no showers or hookups) A few RV-friendly sites (up to ~25 ft) ADA-accessible sites and group sites available Small camp store just outside the entranceWhy We Love It
The quiet, uncrowded side of the national park
Real dark-sky camping and campfire nights Trailheads right from the campground
Spacious sites that suit families and groupsNearby Attractions
Hen Wallow Falls Trail – ~2 mi (from campground) Cosby Nature Trail – at the campground Foothills Parkway (east) – ~5 miFrequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation?
Yes — all Cosby sites are reservation-only. Book online at Recreation.gov or call 877-444-6777. There’s no cash accepted at the campground.
Are there showers or hookups?
No. Cosby has flush toilets and drinking water but no showers or electrical/water hookups. Private pay-showers are available outside the park.
Is it open in winter?
No. Cosby is seasonal, typically open mid-April through late October.
Can it fit an RV?
A limited number of sites accommodate smaller RVs (around 25 feet). Check site details when booking, as most sites are best for tents.
What Guests Are Saying About the Attractions
Stay Close to the Adventure
After an adventurous day exploring the Smoky Mountains, unwind in one of our cozy pigeon forge cabins or plan your stay in our scenic smoky mountain vacation rentals for the perfect mountain escape.Getting There from Smith Creek Resort
Route: From the resort, take US-321 N/E toward Cosby, then follow TN-32 south about 1.5 miles and turn at the Cosby sign; the campground is about 2 miles further in.
Drive time: ~45 min
Cosby Campground
Off Hwy 32, Cosby, TN 37722, USA