Camping at Elkmont Group Campground
Elkmont Group Campground Overview
Elkmont Group Campground is situated in the beautiful Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is one of the most visited national parks in the United States. This campground offers a rustic camping experience for groups wishing to enjoy the serenity and natural beauty of the park.
Location
Elkmont Group Campground is located in Tennessee, approximately 8 miles from Gatlinburg, which is on the northern side of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It's situated near the Elkmont Nature Trail and Little River, making it a scenic spot for visitors.
Campground Features
Amenities & Facilities:
- Picnic tables
- Fire rings with grills
- Accessible flush toilets
- Drinking water
- No hookups available (This is not an RV campground)
Capacity:
- The group campsites are designed to accommodate larger parties, but they do have limits on the number of occupants, which can typically range from 15 to 20 people, depending on the specific campsite.
Activities:
- Hiking: There are numerous trails accessible from the campground.
- Fishing: The nearby streams are popular for trout fishing (state fishing license and park fishing permit required).
- Wildlife Watching: The park is home to abundant wildlife including black bears, deer, and a variety of bird species.
Reservations and Fees
- Reservations are required for Elkmont Group Campground and can be made up to 12 months in advance.
- Fees vary depending on the season and the size of the group site being reserved.
- To reserve a site, you can visit the National Park Service's official reservation website (Recreation.gov) or call their reservation line.
Rules and Regulations
Bear Safety:
- Due to the prevalence of black bears in the area, strict food storage regulations must be followed. All food and scented items must be stored in bear-proof containers or in a vehicle when not in use.
Firewood:
- To protect the park from invasive insects, you must use heat-treated wood available from certified vendors outside the park or collect dead and down wood in the park for campfires.
Quiet Hours:
- The park implements quiet hours, typically from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM (these hours may vary, so it's important to check the campground rules upon arrival).
Pets:
- While pets are allowed at the campgrounds, they must be restrained at all times, and there are limitations on which trails they can be taken on.
Accessibility
The National Park Service aims to make facilities as accessible as possible, but given the natural terrain, there may be some areas that are difficult to access for those with mobility impairments. Contact the park or visit their official website to get the most current information on accessibility at Elkmont Group Campground.
Seasonal Information
Elkmont Group Campground operates on a seasonal basis. Opening and closing dates vary each year, and certain amenities may only be available during peak seasons. Always check the park's official website or contact the park directly for the most up-to-date information regarding campground operation periods.
Contact Information
To learn more about Elkmont Group Campground or for any inquiries:
- Visit the official Great Smoky Mountains National Park website.
- Call the park's customer service line for assistance.
- Email or contact the park through their social media channels if available.
Before heading out to camp, always check for the latest updates regarding weather, trail conditions, and any possible alerts or closures that could affect your stay.
