Elkmont

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

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The park's largest campground is on Little River Rd, 5 miles west of the Sugarlands Visitor Center. Little River and Jakes Creek run through this wooded campground and the sound of rippling water adds tranquility. There are 200 tent and RV campsites and 20 walk-in sites. All are reservable beginning May 15.

Like other campgrounds in the park, there are no showers, or electrical or water hookups. There are restrooms. Be sure to explore some of the historic sites while you're here. The campground occupies land that was once a logging village, and the abandoned resort cabins of Daisy Town are nearby.

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Nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park attractions

1. Elkmont Historic District

0.49 MILES

Elkmont has much history hidden in its woodlands. Just south of the campground (crossing the bridge over Little River), you'll find a clubhouse and…

2. Carlos C Campbell Overlook

3.59 MILES

This scenic overlook provides a sweeping view of the various types of forests covering the slopes to the east. You'll see spruce-fir forest at the top,…

3. Metcalf Bottoms

3.8 MILES

A lovely spot for a picnic, with tables set up along the Little River. Afterwards you can dip your feet in the cool, rushing waters.

4. The Sinks

4.47 MILES

A requisite stop when driving Little River Rd is this series of cascades just off the road. Here, the Little River makes a sharp hairpin turn, with water…

5. Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook

4.67 MILES

If you don't have time to take a chairlift from downtown Gatlinburg to a scenic lookout, you can enjoy a lofty view of downtown and the surrounding…

6. Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway

4.88 MILES

Ride the scenic 2-mile aerial tramway to the Bavarian-themed Ober Gatlinburg ski resort and amusement park. At the amusement park you'll find an indoor…

7. Gatlinburg SkyLift

5.14 MILES

This ski-resort chairlift swoops you high into the Smokies, providing stellar views. The lofty SkyDeck and the 680ft-long SkyBridge, the longest…

8. Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

5.46 MILES

One of eight Ripley's attractions in Gatlinburg, the aquarium is a convenient rainy-day destination – just be aware that everyone else downtown will have…