Cades Cove Campground
With so much to offer, it is no wonder that Cades Cove is visited by over 2 million every year. Of course many of those visitors simply drive in and drive out. For the true nature lover, there is no better experience than camping in Cades Cove. With 159 camping sites, the Cades Cove campground affords a wonderful opportunity see Cades Cove in a much more intimate way than simply driving the loop. As a camper in Cades Cove, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the sunrise, as well as the grandeur of the sun setting behind the mountains. It is truly an experience that is not to be missed.
The Cades Cove Campground offers amenities for both tent and RV camping. RVs of up to 35 feet can be accommodated, and there are a few full service sites to make your stay comfortable. For the campers who are keeping things a little closer to nature, there are tent sites throughout the campground with restrooms close by no matter where you elect to stay. There is also a store nearby that will help you pick up those things that you left behind. Campsites include a picnic table, fire pit with cooking grate, and sand pit for tents.
The Cades Cove Campground is located right at the entrance of Cades Cove, so campers are afforded easy access to the area right from the campground. You can easily walk in and walk out of Cades Cove from the convenient site. Please keep in mind that while Cades Cove Campground does have full bathroom facilities including running water and toilets, it does not have showers.
The Cades Cove Campground is a Natural Area
Keep in mind, the campground located in a totally natural area, so there are often animals in and around the area. You may even have occasion to see bears. Generally speaking this will not be an issue, but you do want to take the same precautions you would were you on a back-country hike. If you simply follow proper precautions, you are unlikely to have anything other than a wonderful bear sighting. Remember, the wildlife was there long before the campground, and your goal should be to enjoy your time in the habitat while remember they will still be there long after you have returned home.
Because the campground is in such a naturally pristine area, it is important to follow the same rules you would in any outdoor setting. Make sure that you pack out what you packed in, and make sure that you leave the campsite in at least the shape you found it.
In addition to the Cades Cove Campground, there are shelters at both the Russell and Spence fields. There are also sixteen back-country campsites throughout the network of trails in and around Cades Cove.
To make reservations, call 865-436-1200.
For a map of the Cades Cove campground click here.
Mailing Address:
CADES COVE CAMPGROUND
10042 Campground Drive
Townsend TN 37882
To make your reservation online during summer or fall click here, or call 877-444-6777, toll free. Please note, reservations are only available from May 15 thru October 31.
Campground Amenities
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Cades Cove Season Schedule (Subject to change so please call ahead)
Campground Season
Peak Season Mid-May – October
Walk-in November – December
Walk-in April – Mid-May
Thing to Know Before You Go
- Parking Tags Required: From March 1, parking tags needed for parking over 15 minutes.
- Bear Habitat Precautions: Secure all food and scented items.
- Firewood Regulation: Only certified heat-treated firewood allowed.
- Generator Use: Restricted hours, especially in designated loops.
- Fishing License: Required for fishing in the park.
- Pet Rules: Pets allowed but must be on a leash; not allowed on trails.
- Campsite Occupancy: Maximum of 6 people per site, 14-day limit.
- Check-in Protocol: Check-in upon arrival; specific rules for late arrivals.
- Bicycle Only Days: Specific dates for non-motorized access to Cades Cove Loop.
Cades Cove Campground Pictures
