CAMPING IN THE GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK The Great Smoky Mountains National Park Service maintains developed campgrounds at ten locations in the park. This kind of camping is termed "Frontcountry Camping." Frontcountry campsite can be found at Abrams Creek, Big Creek, Cades Cove, Cataloochee, Cosby, Elkmont, Look Rock, and Smokemont campgrounds. Each campground has restrooms with cold running water and flush toilets, but there are no showers or electrical for water hookups in the park. Each individual campsite has a fire grate and picnic table. From May 15th - October 31st Elkmont, Smokemont, and Cades Cove campsite may be reserved up to five months in advance. All other campgrounds are first come, first serve. Up to six people may occupy a campsite. Two tents or one RV and one tent are allowed per site. Maximum stay during the summer and fall is seven days, but in the off-season the stay can be fourteen days. Pets are allowed in the campgrounds as long as they are restrained on a leash or otherwise confined at all times. Quiet hours are from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. Park campgrounds are located in areas that are frequented by bears and other wildlife. All food, coolers, utensils, stoves, etc. must be stored out of sight in a closed vehicle when not in use. Always remember not to throw food scraps or packaging in fire rings or to feed any wildlife. There are seven areas for group camping in the park. You must have reservations to stay at these areas. The group camping areas are for tents only. Trailers, campers, or other wheeled units are not permitted. The minimum party size is eight, and the maximum length of stay is seven nights. For the more adventurous there is backcountry camping. These are campsite for the avid backpacker. All backcountry campers are required to have a free backcountry permit. They are available at most ranger stations and visitor centers. Anyone staying overnight in the backcountry must camp only in a designated site or shelter. Campers need reservations to stay in any of the shelters. Campers can make reservations by call 865-436-1231 during regular business hours. A backcountry map, showing all the hiking trails, camping areas, and a list of rules, regulations, and safety concerns is available at any ranger station or visitor center. For backcountry information call (865) 436-1297 or for backcountry reservations call (865) 436-1231. Get prepared before heading into the backcountry by getting a local weather forecast and be aware of the local climate. Proper clothing, food, water, and equipment are all musts. Food storage regulations are in place and should be followed for your safety.