Big Creek Campground
The Quick Take
Big Creek is the Smokies' best-kept secret, and regulars would prefer it stay that way. Tucked into the park's quiet northeastern corner with barely a dozen sites, this tiny campground trades every modern convenience for something increasingly rare: genuine solitude in America's most visited national park. The creek itself is the main attraction -- a rushing, clear mountain stream that doubles as your white noise machine and swimming hole. You won't find showers, a camp store, or even reliable cell service here, which is exactly the point. Compared to the controlled chaos of Elkmont or Cades Cove, Big Creek feels like a different park entirely. This is the campground for experienced tent campers who want to hike the Midnight Hole and Mouse Creek Falls trails by day and fall asleep to moving water at night -- not for families expecting amenities or RVers looking for hookups.
Booking
Reserve Your Campsite
All 12 sites are reservable.
Book at Great Smoky Mountains LodgesWhat You Get
Sites & Setup
RV Information
RVs allowed. No electrical hookups. Generators permitted during designated hours.
Accessibility
Accessible restrooms available. Campground is not ADA accessible. Unpaved Roads - All vehicles OK in good weather
Rules to Know
- Fires:Campfires are permitted only in fire rings.
- Generators:Quiet hours are 10 pm-6 am.
Pro Tips
With only a handful of sites, Big Creek books up fast during summer and fall color season. Set a calendar reminder for when recreation.gov opens reservations -- waiting even a day can mean missing your window entirely. Midweek stays in late May or September are your best bet for snagging a spot without a months-ahead scramble.
The trailhead for Midnight Hole is practically at your tent flap -- it's a relatively easy two-mile walk to one of the Smokies' most photogenic swimming holes. If you want more of a challenge, continue past it to Mouse Creek Falls. Starting early from camp means you'll have both spots largely to yourself before day hikers arrive from the interstate.
No camp store means no safety net -- pack in everything you need, including firewood that's USDA-certified or bundled and heat-treated (the park is serious about this to prevent invasive species). Bear activity is real here, so keep all food sealed in your vehicle when you're not actively cooking. A headlamp and a good camp chair are non-negotiable since there's nothing to do after dark but enjoy the quiet.
Photos
NPS Photo
