Cosby Campground
A tranquil campground in the Great Smoky Mountains, offering a peaceful escape with direct access to challenging hikes and natural beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer crowds
Cosby Campground
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil campground in the Great Smoky Mountains, offering a peaceful escape with direct access to challenging hikes and natural beauty.
"Cosby was exactly that. The campground is tucked into a more peaceful corner of the park—clean, beautifully kept, and far less congested."
Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable. Download trail maps and campground info before you arrive. :iphone:
Embrace the Quiet
Cosby is known for its peaceful atmosphere. Perfect for a digital detox and reconnecting with nature. :zzz:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mount Cammerer Trailhead
Cosby Campground
Embark on a challenging 12-mile hike to a historic fire tower with breathtaking panoramic views of the Smokies.
Hen Wallow Falls
Near Cosby Campground
A beautiful waterfall hike, especially stunning in the snow. Easy to moderate trail with picturesque bridges.
Peaceful Camping Experience
Cosby Campground
Enjoy spacious, well-maintained sites offering privacy and quiet, perfect for a true escape into nature.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Escape the Crowds
Trailhead Access & Navigation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable. Download trail maps and campground info before you arrive. :iphone:
Embrace the Quiet
Cosby is known for its peaceful atmosphere. Perfect for a digital detox and reconnecting with nature. :zzz:
Dog-Friendly Vibes
Many visitors highlight Cosby as a great spot for dog owners. Your furry friends will love it! :dog:
Pack for Rain
Be prepared for rain, even in summer. It can add a serene ambiance but requires proper gear. :umbrella:
Tips
from all over the internet
Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable. Download trail maps and campground info before you arrive. :iphone:
Embrace the Quiet
Cosby is known for its peaceful atmosphere. Perfect for a digital detox and reconnecting with nature. :zzz:
Dog-Friendly Vibes
Many visitors highlight Cosby as a great spot for dog owners. Your furry friends will love it! :dog:
Pack for Rain
Be prepared for rain, even in summer. It can add a serene ambiance but requires proper gear. :umbrella:
Check Road Conditions
Cosby Entrance Road may have closures for rehabilitation. Check park alerts before your visit. :construction:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Cosby Campground is lauded for its peaceful atmosphere and direct access to stunning hikes like Mount Cammerer, offering a serene escape from crowded tourist spots. While it lacks showers and has limited cell service, its natural beauty and tranquility make it a highly recommended destination for those seeking a genuine connection with the Smokies.
"Before arriving at Cosby, I had just spent a couple of nights at Elkmont, the campground that carries all my childhood nostalgia. I love Elkmont, but it’s also the most crowded spot in the Smokies, so I was ready for something quieter.
Cosby was exactly that. The campground is tucked into a more peaceful corner of the park—clean, beautifully kept, and far less congested than Elkmont. With my Jeep Gladiator overlanding rig, I could just pull in and pop up my rooftop tent with ease. The sites were spacious, manicured, and from my experience, completely tranquil.
The real highlight is its access to Mount Cammerer. At the ranger station in Elkmont, I was told this hike was a must, and after some research I found the trailhead starts right at Cosby Campground. The route up Low Gap Trail to Mount Cammerer is no small task—about 12 miles round trip—but the fire tower at the summit rewards you with some of the most breathtaking views in the Smokies.
Cosby may not carry the personal memories that Elkmont does for me, but it offers something I treasure just as much—solitude, beauty, and direct access to one of the park’s greatest hikes. Highly recommended for anyone looking to escape the crowds and experience the Smokies in a more serene way."
Chaz Parks
"🍁 Cosby Tennessee:) 🍁 FALL LOVERS ! 🍁 !!!!One of the Most
Beautiful camping ⛺️ we ever !!!!
SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK !!! You can either book online or in person as longer is a Park person in office,,, or best booked through the national parks gov site , easy ,
The place is kept super clean bathrooms,,, also a beautiful hike just from the camp site ! To Hen Wallow waterfalls , the campground is just what the doctor recommended it ! You can see the effort from every person that works there ! Rangers volunteers,, Amazing 🤩. Just remember that is not electricity, or Showers ,, 🚿 that the best real campers ! Well enjoy"
sonia Cantillo
"I camped at Cosby Campground during the summer of 2021, and it remains one of my most peaceful camping experiences. It was raining heavily during my visit, which added a calm, meditative ambiance to the entire setting. The campsites are well spaced out, offering plenty of privacy and quiet—exactly what I look for when camping.
It wasn’t crowded at all when I visited, which made the experience even better. The surrounding trees felt fresh and vibrant, and the constant sound of birds chirping was soothing to the ears. If you’re looking for a serene escape into nature, Cosby is a hidden gem worth exploring."
Anup Sheshadri
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cosby Campground is located about 30 minutes from Gatlinburg, offering a less crowded alternative to park entrances closer to town. You'll typically take US-321 N. Be aware that the Cosby Entrance Road may experience closures for rehabilitation, so check park alerts before your trip. 
Yes, Cosby Campground accommodates RVs and tents. However, some sites have narrow and uneven parking areas, so it's advisable to check site specifics. Sites B20 and B21 are noted as accommodating larger vehicles.
Cosby Campground is approximately 1.5 hours from Asheville, North Carolina, making it a feasible day trip or a convenient starting point for exploring the Smoky Mountains from that region.
A Dollar General is located about 20 minutes from the campground, which is convenient for emergency supplies or forgotten items.
The Cosby Entrance Road is part of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and may undergo maintenance. A rehabilitation project is scheduled from December 2024 to Spring 2025, which will close the road. Always check for current conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While not explicitly stated that reservations are mandatory, it's highly recommended to book in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure a spot. Some new campgrounds in the area, like Roamstead, offer booking codes for discounts.
Campgrounds in national parks generally operate 24/7 for access, but quiet hours are strictly enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Cosby Campground is located within Great Smoky Mountains National Park. While there is no fee to enter the park itself, camping fees apply for overnight stays at the campground.
Some newer, privately-owned campgrounds near Cosby, like Roamstead, offer discount codes for bookings. For the national park campground, standard fees apply.
The park is very strict with its bear policies and safety measures. While visitors may not always see bears, it's essential to follow all guidelines for food storage and waste disposal to ensure safety.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Cosby Campground offers basic sites for tents and RVs, featuring grills. Sites are generally well-spaced, offering privacy and a tranquil setting. Some sites have gravel pads. +1
Based on visitor feedback, there are clean bathrooms with sinks, but no shower facilities are available at Cosby Campground. Visitors should plan accordingly.
Cell service is generally poor or non-existent at Cosby Campground, making it an ideal location for those seeking an 'off the grid' experience. Downloading offline maps is highly recommended.
Yes, a 1.2-mile loop near Cosby Campground is described as a beautiful and easy route suitable for the whole family. Hen Wallow Falls is also a popular, scenic hike.
Yes, Cosby Campground is noted as being very dog-friendly, making it a great choice for travelers with pets.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Cosby Campground itself does not have dining facilities. However, Doc's 321 Cafe in Cosby is a local spot recommended by visitors. For more options, Gatlinburg is about 30 minutes away.
The park enforces strict bear safety policies. All food and scented items must be stored properly in bear-proof containers or vehicles when not in use to prevent attracting wildlife.
Yes, campsites at Cosby Campground are equipped with grills, allowing you to cook your own meals. This is a common practice for campers.
A Dollar General is located approximately 20 minutes from the campground, providing basic grocery and convenience items.
Yes, Cosby Campground offers picnic areas for day visitors, in addition to the campsites.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit of Mount Cammerer offers incredible panoramic views, perfect for landscape photography. Hen Wallow Falls is also a picturesque subject, especially in different weather conditions. The natural beauty of the campground itself provides many photo opportunities.
While wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, the natural setting of Cosby Campground increases the chances of photographing birds and other small forest creatures. Always maintain a safe distance.
Early mornings and late afternoons (golden hours) offer the best natural light for photography, creating softer shadows and warmer tones. The forest canopy can create dappled light throughout the day.
The fire tower at Mount Cammerer provides a unique vantage point. Additionally, the bridges along the Hen Wallow Falls trail offer charming photographic elements.
Cosby Campground is ideal for landscape, nature, and wildlife photography. Its serene environment also lends itself well to capturing peaceful camping scenes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there are no showers, the clean bathrooms and picnic areas are functional for families. The proximity to Gatlinburg (about 30 minutes away) means you can easily access more family-oriented attractions if needed, but Cosby itself provides a great base for enjoying the natural beauty of the Smokies without overwhelming crowds. Remember to download offline maps for navigation, as cell service is spotty.
🏕️ Budget Travelers & Off-Grid Enthusiasts
The lack of cell service and electricity at most sites makes it ideal for digital detoxers. You can truly disconnect and immerse yourself in the natural surroundings. Packing essentials and planning meals around campsite cooking will further enhance the budget-friendly aspect of your trip.
🚶 Hikers & Nature Lovers
The serene environment of Cosby provides a peaceful basecamp after a day of exploring. The well-maintained trails and the opportunity to experience the Smokies with fewer crowds make it a top pick for those who prioritize outdoor adventure and natural beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails from Cosby
Another popular option is the hike to Hen Wallow Falls. This trail is often described as beautiful, especially in snowy conditions, and features charming bridges over water crossings. While generally considered moderate, its beauty makes it a must-do for many visitors. For those seeking easier routes, a 1.2-mile loop near the campground is recommended as a family-friendly option, providing a pleasant nature walk.
+2It's crucial to remember that cell service is unreliable in this area. Visitors are strongly advised to download offline maps of the trails and the campground before their arrival to ensure they can navigate effectively and find trailheads.
The Appeal of Cosby's Serenity
This quiet environment makes Cosby an ideal destination for those looking to disconnect and recharge. The lack of consistent cell service further enhances this 'off the grid' feeling, allowing campers to fully immerse themselves in nature. The sounds of birds chirping and the general quietude contribute to a truly relaxing stay.
While the campground itself is peaceful, it's also conveniently located about 30 minutes from Gatlinburg, providing access to amenities and attractions without the constant crowds. This balance makes Cosby a hidden gem for those who appreciate nature's calm.
+1Camping with Pets at Cosby
While the campground itself is welcoming to pets, visitors should always adhere to park regulations regarding pets, which typically include keeping them on a leash at all times and cleaning up after them. The peaceful environment of Cosby ensures that both human and canine visitors can enjoy a relaxing stay.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit