Elkmont Campground

Elkmont Campground is in Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee, about 15 km (9 miles) by road southwest of Gatlinburg in the Little River valley, at roughly 650 m (2,150 ft). It has about 220 sites (200 for tents and RVs, 20 walk-in tent sites) plus group sites. The National Park Service built it in the 1960s on the site of a former logging town. The historic cabins of the Elkmont Historic District are within walking distance.

Elkmont is known for its synchronous fireflies, which can be seen in late May or early June. Viewing is a managed event: in 2026 it ran from May 20 to 27, with a lottery for vehicle reservations on recreation.gov, and during that time access is limited to reservation holders and registered campers. The rules change every year, so check ahead. Unlike Cades Cove and Smokemont, Elkmont is not open year-round. There are no hookups, no showers and no dump station at the campground (the nearest is about 10 km or 6 miles away). RVs and trailers may not cross the Metcalf Bottoms bridge and should arrive via Gatlinburg or Townsend. Because of the bears, keep food in a closed vehicle.