Cades Cove Campground

Cades Cove Campground is a developed, drive-up campground in the broad valley of Cades Cove, at 1,807 feet. Its 161 sites include 31 tent-only sites and four group sites on paved loops. It works best as an overnight base for the historic cove and its 11-mile loop road. Reservations are required year-round.

Flush toilets, potable water and food-storage lockers are available, with accessible restrooms and 11 accessible campsites. There are no showers, laundry facilities or electrical hookups. Fires are allowed only in the provided rings, and food and cooking equipment must be secured in a vehicle or solid-sided camping unit when not in use. Campers describe both peaceful, roomy stays and sites that feel close together; restroom upkeep also gets mixed reports.

Cherokee people hunted in Cades Cove for hundreds of years; the park reports no archaeological evidence of major settlements. European settlers arrived between 1818 and 1821, and 271 people lived in the cove by 1830. The broad green valley is ringed by mountains and known for wildlife: white-tailed deer are often seen, while black bears, turkeys and other animals are possible. Secure food and give wildlife space.

From Townsend, take TN-73 and follow signs to 10042 Campground Drive. The campground operates year-round, but winter camping is limited to sites C1–12 and C26–61 on Loop C. A seasonal camp store sells ice and firewood; food and grocery choices in the park are limited, so bring what you need. Leashed pets are allowed at the campground, though park hikes with pets are restricted to roads and the Gatlinburg and Oconaluftee River trails. The park lists no cell reception or internet at the campground.