Elkmont Campground Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Nestled by the Little River, Elkmont Campground offers serene camping and the magical synchronous firefly display. A true Smoky Mountains gem.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Synchronous firefly peak display
Elkmont Campground Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Best Time
Synchronous firefly peak display
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Nestled by the Little River, Elkmont Campground offers serene camping and the magical synchronous firefly display. A true Smoky Mountains gem.
"Once-in-a-lifetime firefly magic at Elkmont Campground."
🎯 Firefly Lottery is Key
Secure your spot for fireflies via Recreation.gov lottery well in advance.
🐻 Bear Safety First!
Store all food and scented items properly. Bears are active in the area.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Synchronous Fireflies
Elkmont Campground
A breathtaking natural light show where thousands of fireflies flash in unison. A truly magical, once-in-a-lifetime event.
Little River & Jake's Creek
Elkmont Campground
Camp alongside the soothing sounds of the Little River or Jake's Creek. Many sites offer beautiful waterfront views.
+1
Elkmont Ghost Town
Near Elkmont Campground
Explore remnants of the historic Elkmont community, including old chimneys and structures, offering a glimpse into the past.
Troll Bridge
Little River Trail (near Elkmont)
A whimsical, hidden gem along the Little River Trail, perfect for a short, enchanting hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Synchronous Fireflies Lottery
Bear Safety & Campground Etiquette
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Firefly Lottery is Key
Secure your spot for fireflies via Recreation.gov lottery well in advance.
🐻 Bear Safety First!
Store all food and scented items properly. Bears are active in the area.
🔇 Respect the Quiet
Keep noise levels down, especially during firefly viewing and at night.
🚗 Drive Slowly & Safely
Adhere to the 5 mph speed limit; children and pedestrians are common.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Firefly Lottery is Key
Secure your spot for fireflies via Recreation.gov lottery well in advance.
🐻 Bear Safety First!
Store all food and scented items properly. Bears are active in the area.
🔇 Respect the Quiet
Keep noise levels down, especially during firefly viewing and at night.
🚗 Drive Slowly & Safely
Adhere to the 5 mph speed limit; children and pedestrians are common.
💧 No Showers Available
Be prepared for basic facilities; there are no showers at Elkmont.
📱 Limited Cell Service
Embrace being 'off the grid' – cell service is minimal to non-existent.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Elkmont Campground is beloved for its stunning natural setting, particularly its riverside campsites and proximity to hiking trails. While the lack of showers and basic facilities are noted drawbacks, the breathtaking synchronous firefly display and peaceful atmosphere make it a highly recommended destination for nature lovers. Some visitors find ranger enforcement of rules to be overly strict.
"I really like this campground, however the beautiful setting compensates for several negatives. The location is great with a beautiful river next to the campground and streams running throughout. The spots are nicely separated. You do need to put away (essentially) everything each night due to bears and that’s a bit of a hassle but not much you can do about that. The bathrooms are old and there is no soap. There are also no showers but bathrooms were kept fairly clean. The ice is overpriced and I think their supplier is shorting them on ice - a 7 pound bag seemed to have about 4 pounds of ice. There are several great trails nearby. If you can deal with the (relatively) minor issues, it’s a great place to stay."
D B
"Favorite Campground. Have stayed several times. Peaceful. The riverfront sites are great. We were in the B section this time. Easy check in. Bathrooms were clean. Dishwashing stations are convenient. Wood was $9.87 a bundle and ice was $5 a bag. People need to slow down driving through. Saw several cars speeding through campground going WAY over the 5mph speed limit. Lots of people and kids out walking & biking, and sites to close to road to be in such a rush on such a small roadway."
David & Rachel M
"I've been camping in the campground for forty years. My parents brought me as a baby, and I definitely feel like I'm at my "summer home" when I visit.
The campground is very dear to my heart; however, I will say my last few visits have been met with frustration.
I now have children of my own and have been fussed at by park rangers for allowing the use of sidewalk chalk on pavement of my specific rented spot. I've also been fussed at for allowing my four year old to ride her old-fashioned, non-electric scooter directly in front of our rented spot.
I've seen others fussed at for their tire narrowly missing the drive pad and touching 1 inch of the grass.
The rangers I think need something to do. Maybe if they gave them a chainsaw and a paint bucket, the old Elkmont town restoration could go quicker?
I think this nit-picking of what children are allowed to do in a primitive campground is excessive.
The whole point of getting away is to find creative, healthy activities to connect and enjoy nature, family, and friends.
Please remember that when you walk around critiquing families who are minding their own business, trying to relax."
Laura Dunn
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Elkmont Campground is located within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Access is typically via Gatlinburg, TN. During peak firefly season (early June), Elkmont is closed to general vehicle traffic and requires a lottery-obtained parking pass or a camping reservation.
There is no public transportation directly to Elkmont Campground. You will need your own vehicle. Consider ride-sharing services if available in Gatlinburg, but cell service is unreliable within the park.
The best way is to secure a parking pass through the Recreation.gov lottery system or to have a confirmed camping reservation for Elkmont during the firefly viewing period.
Outside of the peak synchronous firefly viewing week, you can generally drive through Elkmont. However, during the peak week, access is restricted to ticket holders and campers.
The closest major airports are McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) near Knoxville, TN, about an hour's drive, and Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) in North Carolina, about 1.5 hours away.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
For general visits outside of peak firefly season, no ticket is required. However, during the synchronous firefly viewing period (typically early June), a lottery-based parking pass is mandatory for entry to Elkmont.
Tickets are obtained through a lottery system on Recreation.gov. The lottery usually opens in late April. It's highly competitive, so apply early!
Elkmont Campground is open year-round, but access and amenities may vary seasonally. During the firefly event, specific entry times apply for ticket holders.
Yes, you can reserve campsites at Elkmont Campground outside of the peak firefly viewing week without needing a special firefly ticket. However, during the peak week, campers also need a special pass to enter the campground.
Campsite fees vary but are generally affordable for national park campgrounds. Expect to pay around $25-$30 per night, plus potential fees for firewood and ice.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Elkmont offers basic amenities including restrooms, potable water, and dishwashing stations. There are no showers or laundry facilities. Bear-proof food storage is essential.
No, there are no shower facilities available at Elkmont Campground. Visitors should be prepared to go without showers during their stay.
Cell service is extremely limited to non-existent at Elkmont Campground. It's a great place to disconnect and enjoy nature.
Enjoy hiking on nearby trails like the Little River Trail, explore the Elkmont Ghost Town, and of course, witness the synchronous fireflies. The Little River is also great for wading.
Pets are generally allowed in Great Smoky Mountains National Park campgrounds, including Elkmont, but must be kept on a leash at all times and cannot be left unattended.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no restaurants or food services within Elkmont Campground. You'll need to bring all your own food and cooking supplies.
The nearest town with grocery stores is Gatlinburg, TN, which is a short drive from the campground.
Campfires are typically allowed in designated fire rings, but check current park regulations for any fire bans or restrictions, especially during dry seasons. Firewood can be purchased at the campground.
Yes, ice is usually available for purchase at the campground, though it can be a bit pricey.
All food, coolers, toiletries, and anything with a scent must be stored in a bear-proof container or your vehicle when not in use. Never leave food unattended.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer beautiful soft light for landscape photography. The firefly display at night is a unique photographic challenge and opportunity.
The riverbanks, the historic Elkmont Ghost Town structures, and the trails offer picturesque scenes. Don't forget to capture the fireflies if you're there during the season!
For personal photography, no special permit is usually required. However, commercial photography or videography may require permits from the National Park Service.
A tripod is essential for low-light conditions. A camera with good low-light performance and a wide-angle lens are recommended. Consider bringing a red-light flashlight to preserve night vision.
Drone usage is restricted in all National Parks, including Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Check NPS regulations for current drone policies.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to emphasize bear safety and ensure all food is stored properly to keep everyone safe. While there are no showers, the basic facilities are manageable for short stays. The lack of cell service can be a blessing, allowing kids (and adults!) to truly disconnect and engage with the outdoors. Consider bringing sidewalk chalk for the campsite pavement, but be aware of ranger guidelines regarding its use.
✨ Firefly Enthusiasts
Plan your visit around this event and be prepared for crowds and specific viewing protocols, such as using red-light flashlights and maintaining silence. Even if you don't secure a pass for the peak week, camping at Elkmont during other times offers a chance to experience the magic of the Smokies. The campground's natural beauty and proximity to hiking trails make it a worthwhile destination for any nature lover.
🏕️ Budget Campers
While amenities are basic (no showers), the stunning natural setting and access to hiking trails provide immense value. The cost of firewood and ice can add up, so consider bringing your own if possible. The trade-off for fewer amenities is a more authentic, immersive nature experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Synchronous Fireflies
To experience this wonder, visitors must apply for a parking pass through Recreation.gov. The lottery usually opens in late April. Even with a pass, campers are advised to be prepared for a unique viewing experience: using red-light flashlights to minimize disturbance, sitting in silence, and respecting the natural rhythm of the display. The park closes Elkmont to general traffic during this peak week, emphasizing the exclusivity and special nature of the event.
Beyond the fireflies, the campground itself offers a serene setting along the Little River and Jake's Creek, providing a peaceful backdrop for this extraordinary natural event. The combination of the tranquil environment and the dazzling firefly display makes it an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and photographers alike.
+1Exploring Elkmont's History and Trails
The campground is also a gateway to numerous hiking trails. The Little River Trail is a popular and relatively flat path that follows the river, perfect for leisurely strolls and offering access to natural features like the whimsical Troll Bridge. This trail is ideal for families and those seeking a less strenuous outdoor experience. Other trails in the vicinity cater to various fitness levels, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the park's diverse flora and fauna.
+1Many campsites are situated along the river or creek, providing the soothing sounds of flowing water and beautiful natural scenery. This proximity to nature enhances the camping experience, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The well-spaced campsites also contribute to a sense of privacy and connection with the surrounding wilderness.
+1Camping Essentials and Campground Life
Bear safety is paramount at Elkmont. Visitors are strictly required to store all food, coolers, and scented items in bear-proof containers or their vehicles when not in use. Rangers actively patrol and enforce these regulations to ensure the safety of both visitors and wildlife. This practice, while a minor inconvenience, is crucial for maintaining the park's natural balance.
Campground life also involves adhering to a strict 5 mph speed limit due to the presence of many families, children, and pedestrians. Respecting this rule is vital for everyone's safety. While cell service is virtually non-existent, encouraging a digital detox, the peaceful ambiance, river sounds, and scenic surroundings make Elkmont a cherished destination for many.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit