About Cades Cove Campground — Great Smoky Mountains
Set in one of the most biodiverse regions in North America, Cades Cove Campground offers access to historic log
cabins, grist mills, and some of the best black bear and white-tailed deer viewing in the eastern US. The most
visited national park in America rarely disappoints.
Highlights
- 11-mile Cades Cove Loop Road for wildlife viewing
- Historic 19th-century homesteads and churches
- Black bear sightings very common
- Firefly events in summer (permit required)
- Access to Appalachian Trail segments
Directions & How to Get There
From Knoxville, TN: Take I-40 W to TN-321 S to US-321 W, then south through Townsend, approximately 1.5 hours.
From Asheville, NC: Take I-40 W to US-19 N to US-441 N (Newfound Gap Road), then west — approximately 2 hours.
Follow signs through Townsend to Cades Cove.
Nearby Attractions
- Cades Cove Loop Road (on-site)
- Alum Cave Trail (20 mi)
- Newfound Gap Road
- Chimney Tops Trail
- Laurel Falls (15 mi)
Insider Tips
- America's most visited national park — plan everything in advance
- Synchronized firefly events in June require a free shuttle reservation
- Wildlife viewing is best at dawn and dusk on the Cades Cove loop
- Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge nearby for supplies — avoid weekends
Best Time to Visit
Best months: April–June (wildflowers), October (foliage)
Season: Year-round
Access difficulty: Easy access
What to Pack for Tennessee Camping
- Navigation: downloaded offline maps, compass, and GPS device
- Water: at least 3 liters per person per day (more in desert parks)
- Food: bear canister or use provided bear boxes where required
- Shelter: 3-season tent, rain fly, and ground tarp
- Clothing: moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layer, waterproof shell
- First aid kit: including blister treatment, pain reliever, and any personal medications
- Sun protection: SPF 50 sunscreen, wide-brim hat, UV-blocking sunglasses
- Lighting: headlamp with extra batteries, lantern for camp
- Safety: whistle, emergency bivy, and knowledge of your emergency exit route