You know how to camp. Now let's find you a place to do it. Use this tool to explore campsites near you—or anywhere you want to go. Filter by experience level, camping type, and amenities, then see exactly what each site offers: reservation links, rules, beginner tips, and what to expect when you arrive.
Planning doesn't have to be overwhelming. It can actually be the exciting part.
Chapter 06 - Campsite selection
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Cosby Campground
Cosby, Tennessee • Beginner-Friendly • $17.50/night • 52 miles from you
Quiet, wooded campground on the less-visited northeast side of the Smokies. Drive-up sites with plenty of privacy and easy access to hiking trails. Perfect for your first solo trip.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Paved road all the way to campground (2WD vehicles fine)
Active bear area. Store all food and scented items in your vehicle at night.
Spotty to none (Verizon occasionally works at entrance, not at sites)
2,460 feet - nights are cool, even in summer. Bring warm layers.
Allowed in provided fire rings only. Check for bans before your trip.
Open late March through October (weather-dependent)
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Booking
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Overview
About This Campground:
Cosby is the quietest developed campground in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Tucked into the northeast corner, it sees far fewer visitors than Cades Cove or Elkmont, making it ideal for solo campers who want solitude without total isolation.
The campground has 157 sites spread across four loops (A, B, C, D). Most sites are well-shaded by hardwoods and have good privacy screening. You'll hear neighboring campers occasionally, but it doesn't feel crowded.
Sites Include:
Picnic table
Fire ring with cooking grate
Tent pad (level gravel area)
Parking spur (pull-in, not pull-through)
Facilities:
Flush toilets (centrally located in each loop)
Potable water spigots (seasonal — bring backup in late season)
No showers (nearest showers in Gatlinburg, 20 miles)
No electric hookups
No dump station
Camp Store:
Small camp store at entrance sells firewood, ice, and basic supplies. Hours vary. Don't count on it for meals — bring all your food.
Reservations:
Sites can be reserved up to 6 months in advance at recreation.gov. Weekend sites (Friday-Saturday) book quickly in summer and fall. Weeknights often have availability.
Book at recreation.gov
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