Camping near Townsend

·

Nicknamed “the peaceful side of the Smokies,” Townsend, Tennessee is a gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The area provides access to a wealth of camping accommodations, including primitive backcountry camping, glamping in canvas yurts equipped with wood-burning fireplaces, and tiny home rentals featuring full kitchens, soaker tubs, and cable TV. After setting up in any type of camp, venture into the Great Smoky Mountains to hike a section of the Appalachian Trail, view a snapshot of history in Cades Cove, or experience a bird’s-eye view from the observation tower on Clingmans Dome. For fun that’s a little closer to town, the underground natural world of Tuckaleechee Caverns awaits.

97% (9.3K) 1,497 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Townsend

Critter Camp

1. Critter Camp

91%
(179)
5.6mi from Townsend · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
I wanted to let everyone know , we lost our serval, Foose in February, he was 22 years old, he will be missed ... I loved him his whole life. We still have horses and and a few smaller rescues , including 5 dogs. We are in the Heart of it all. Looking for quiet nights and super starry skies? This is the place. We have 1 rescued horses and a donkey. Sugergliders and trained rats from a movie. 5 dogs , 2 house cats. We are located exactly in the middle between Pigeon Forge(with shows and go karts) andTownsend.. with the quiet side of the smokies... tubing, horseback riding, hiking, Cades Cove offers biking and car tours. We are one mile from the foothills parkway entrance and less than 2 miles to a Great Smoky mountains entrance. Our sites offer toilets, potable water and trash disposal. We are pet friendly, and you are permitted to have campfires (outside of any burn ban). We offer animal encounters.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$28
 / night
Twin Valley Horse Ranch

2. Twin Valley Horse Ranch

98%
(133)
7.3mi from Townsend · 5 sites
My late husband and myself bought the property in 1983 and it was all just overgrown land!We worked, cleared, built horse shelters/barns, cabins, cut trails, built the outdoor chapel for our wedding and of course fenced it all in for the horses! Started sharing with guests in 1993, so we have met so many amazing folks from all over the world!  Pass thru our gate into another world and leave all your worries and tensions behind. We are all about getting back to what is real -- nature, animals/horses and each other. Complete privacy!There are many mountain trails leaving right from our property! Lots to explore. You can even hike to the outdoor chapel with the pretty view of the Chilhowee Mountain range.  It is a short hike to the barn area for those who want to spend time rubbing the pot belly pigs' tummy, walk the mini horses, groom the love bug~Junebug (donkey), pet horses, cuddle with bunnies and feed chickens!  Every morning and night we set a time for all those who want to become involved with the care/feeding of petting animals and horses! 
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$48
 / night
Over The Hill Farm

3. Over The Hill Farm

98%
(45)
10mi from Townsend · 3 sites
Magestic 21 acre farm with mountain views. Single campsite far off the road with outdoor dining table, fire ring, water, sewer, and 50 amp electrical service. Near to all that Maryville has to offer. Maryville College is 10 minutes away. About 20 minutes from Townsend (the peaceful side of the Smokies). 55 minutes from Pigeon Forge and the Sugarlands Visitor Center. Knoxville airport is 25 min away.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$45
 / night
Great Smoky Mountains National Park

4. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

98%
(194)
National park 12mi from Townsend · 621 sites
Forest trails link campsites with waterfalls and reminders of once-bustling Appalachian communities.
Lake Barkley

5. Lake Barkley

Park 222mi from Townsend · 19 sites
Discover Lake Barkley's scenic beauty and outdoor adventures.
Hickory Grove Homestead

6. Hickory Grove Homestead

95%
(11)
10mi from Townsend · 1 site
Nestled on the last 11 acres of the historic Davis farm, our property offers a unique glimpse into the past. The farmhouse stands gracefully by the road, while a tranquil wooded expanse stretches behind it. A sprawling fallow pasture is home to the weathered charm of the old hay barn. The woods offers an array of Hickory, Oak, Walnut, Persimmon and various other varieties of trees, creating a harmonious natural setting. A mesmerizing vista of the Smokey Mountains unfolds across the pasture, a scene frequented by deer, rabbits, geese, and a symphony of birds. Your stay here offers more than just relaxation – it's an opportunity to engage in nature's classroom. Spend quality time identifying trees, plants, and birds while soaking in the serenity of the surroundings. You can enjoy a campfire, walking around the property and enjoying the view of the mountains and maybe catch a glimpse of the wildlife living in the area. The homestead has chickens and ducks free ranged in the daytime to enjoy watching. We are centrally located within about 30 minutes if you choose to visit Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge or the City of Knoxville for more traditional attractions.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$68
 / night
Happy Valley Hideaway

7. Happy Valley Hideaway

100%
(48)
11mi from Townsend · 1 site
Learn more about this land:This primitive campsite is located 5 minutes from the Abrams Creek Ranger Station at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is private, shaded, and next to a small stream that will lull you to sleep at night. There is a bathhouse with a composting toilet and cold shower available. An old concrete picnic table stands as a testament to the enjoyment and relaxation of several generations and is now glad to be uncovered and open for many generations to come. There are numerous species of wild flora and fauna right there in your campsite! Across the fence is an old barn and field that will remind you of mountain living from days gone by. You will have access to miles of backcountry hiking once you take the 5 minute drive to the GSMNP and you can come back to your campsite and enjoy your privacy! You may also enjoy motorcycling on the dragon which is 5 miles at the end of Happy Valley Road. Or...maybe you just want to hang up the hammock and listen to the frogs and watch the fireflies. Whatever your hobby is, this campsite is the place to call home.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
Appalachian Springs Outdoor Resort

8. Appalachian Springs Outdoor Resort

93%
(15)
13mi from Townsend · 57 sites
At Appalachian Springs, we envisioned a serene campground in Pigeon Forge, offering unparalleled beauty, quality amenities, and unbeatable convenience. Our RV campground serves as a gateway to exploration and rejuvenation. From cozy campfires under the stars to thrilling adventures in the great outdoors, Appalachian Springs is your ultimate destination for camping in the Smokies. Join us and discover the essence of outdoor hospitality like never before. Discover unparalleled amenities at Appalachian Springs Outdoor Resort, your premier choice for a campground near Dollywood, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg. We are an RV park in Pigeon Forge, nestled amidst the stunning beauty of the Smoky Mountains. We have top-notch facilities tailored your comfort and vacation memories. Our Pigeon Forge RV resort ensures your comfort with spacious RV campsites with modern hook-ups to our luxurious amenities. Take a refreshing dip in the pool, go shopping, or explore nearby hiking trails for a taste of Smoky Mountain RV camping at its finest. With Appalachian Springs, your adventure begins right at our doorstep.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$55
 / night
Foggy Bottom Farm

9. Foggy Bottom Farm

98%
(22)
13mi from Townsend · 15 sites · Tents, RVs
11 acres nestled in a valley at the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, ponds and creek run through property, with flat rolling farmland located between Rockford and Wildwood. 50 amp and 30 amp pull through sites. Float the Little river from Perry’s Mill back to within a mile of camp. Swim at the wye, trout fish, Tube the Little river in Townsend. Ft. Louden, Douglas, Cherokee, Melton Hill, and Norris lakes all within 30 minutes. 20 minutes to Walland, Maryville and Knoxville. 30 minutes to SMNP, the tail of the Dragon, Foothills Parkway, Sevierville, Louden, Townsend, Oak Ridge.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night
Nantahala National Forest

10. Nantahala National Forest

95%
(73)
National forest 34mi from Townsend · 438 sites
Discover what the Cherokee call the Land of the Noonday Sun.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Cherokee National Forest

11. Cherokee National Forest

96%
(49)
National forest 113mi from Townsend · 625 sites
Follow us to Tennessee and dive into the grandeur of the Cherokee National Forest! It’s filled to the brim with scenic forested trails, rushing rivers, and rainbow trout. During the day you can go rafting, and at night you can bask yourself in moonshine (of various sorts) and brush up on your constellations. If you are in pursuit of some Appalachian Mountain bliss, this is the right place to start. Don’t forget your camera, you're going to want to show these vistas off!
Big Ridge State Park

12. Big Ridge State Park

State park 40mi from Townsend · 50 sites
Discover Big Ridge State Park's lush landscapes and outdoor adventures.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
Panther Creek State Park

13. Panther Creek State Park

75%
(4)
State park 42mi from Townsend · 50 sites
From fishing to horseback riding, this park’s varied terrain offers an array of outdoor activities.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
Panther Creek Hideaway

14. Panther Creek Hideaway

96%
(56)
15mi from Townsend · 3 sites
Learn more about this land:Enjoy the quiet at our 35 acre cozy secluded hideaway with a pond. Surrounded by a mature wooded forrest and rolling hills with multiple locations at each sites to pitch a tent.. Close to Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg attractions. Note: Pappas Peak is a secluded hilltop and will not accommodate trailers due to the turning radius on the hilltop.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$25
 / night
Glamping at Smoky Hollow Resort

15. Glamping at Smoky Hollow Resort

95%
(21)
17mi from Townsend · 8 sites
Come visit our little hollow! Located right next to the Sevierville Convention Center and the brand new Soaky Mountain Water Park. Tucked away on 18 secluded, rolling acres yet 1 mile to the parkway where all the shopping, restaurants and tourist attractions are. We have lots of wildlife out here such as chickens, turkey, deer, bobcats, fox, coyotes and the occasional black bear. If you're looking for a unique camping experience with some creature comforts of home this is the place for you; glamping at Smoky Hollow Resort.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$144
 / night
Love Shack Hideaway

16. Love Shack Hideaway

100%
(17)
17mi from Townsend · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Located in Graham County in the Great Smokey Mountains. We have a small stream on our property and are within walking distance of a finger of Fontana Lake. We are in a quiet beautiful spot within a short distance of all the Smokey Mountains have to offer. Rafting, hiking, fishing, the best scenic drives, beautiful lakes, Great Smokey Mountains National Park, even Dollywood is an hour drive away. Come explore the beautiful Western North Carolina.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from 
$35
 / night
Camp LeConte

17. Camp LeConte

100%
(14)
17mi from Townsend · 36 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Camp LeConte Adjacent to the Great Smoky Mountains and only 4 miles to downtown Gatlinburg you can't get a better location than Camp LeConte. Camp LeConte is a family owned and operated campground since 2013. Ian and Linzy Nicely, and their three children, are happy to have a family business where they can share the love of nature, mountains and Gatlinburg with all their guests. Ian is a lover of all things outdoors. Mix that with Linzy's style and love of decorating and that's Camp LeConte. A glamorous camping destination where you can stay in a luxury tree house, European safari tent or a 1960's retro camper. Bring your own RV or camper and stay in one of our full -hook up sites with 20, 30 and 50 amp service, water, sewer, cable and free wifi. Maybe you are wanting your kids to pitch a real tent (just like you did when you were their age!). We offer primitive tent sites for those of you who really want to rough it!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$39
 / night
The Heart Center

18. The Heart Center

98%
(223)
18mi from Townsend · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The Heart Center sits on 30 acres of beautiful forest land and it is surrounded by the Nantahala National Forest.  The place is an old school site that was literally left to be buried by the forest, until I came along and decided to fix it up, and create a holistic sanctuary for people wishing to get away from it all. A place where one can heal, contemplate, re-energize, and relax in a quiet and pristine environment. Feel secluded enough to experience your own inner stillness; and, yet, connected enough to enjoy many beautiful area attractions that are just minutes away such as: Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, Fontana Dam and the Appalachian Trail, 20 Mile Ranger Station, Cherohala Skyway, and Santeetlah Lake!The Heart Center is about love, unity, harmony, joy and re-connecting with ourselves, others, and Mother Nature. At the Heart Center, we take special interest in providing our guests with a uniquely peaceful, positive, comfortable, and relaxing experience! Whether you are laying on a hammock, walking the labyrinth, or just sitting on the deck taking in the sights and sounds, we want you to enjoy. 
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Low Meadow Farms

19. Low Meadow Farms

96%
(966)
18mi from Townsend · 20 sites · Tents, RVs
Low Meadow Farms (formerly Brown Bike Farms) is a serene four-acre meadow bordered by Burnett Creek. The campground is an easy distance to Downtown Knoxville and an even easier access to all that South Knox's Urban Wilderness has to offer. It uniquely offers a hint of backcountry camping without the 25-mile hike in. It is a great way to test the waters for primitive camping or an easy stop close to the city for a seasoned traveler. It is best suited for car camping, RVs, tent, and hammock camping. There are fire pits and picnic tables at each site with enough room for tents and RVs. Most sites have trees suitable for hammock camping all along the creek. There is potable water, firewood for sale, solar showers, and a bike wash stand all next to the covered communal area. Each standard site can accommodate 2 people to keep space between groups and lessen the impact on the land. Sites 10 and 13 can each accommodate 6 guests. If you have more in your group, we recommend reserving an adjoining campsite. Sites 1, 2 and 3 are off the main path to the left of the property, and still by the creek. Sites 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 are all along the creek and gravel drive Site 10 is very private with creek access on three sides. Site 11 is private with creek access all along the front. Site 12 is up high on a hill, and Site 13 is open in the middle of the meadow.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
The Farm

20. The Farm

90%
(44)
18mi from Townsend · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land: 4th generation farm, 37 Acres in foothills of Smoky Mountains National Park. Primitive Camping in paradise! A few miles from Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge TN. Plenty of room for hiking and bike riding in general area on public roads. A fire pit is provided at the only camp site. Very quiet and secluded. Camper Van and Tent camping only. No RV's. leave no trace policy.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night

Nicknamed “the peaceful side of the Smokies,” Townsend, Tennessee is a gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The area provides access to a wealth of camping accommodations, including primitive backcountry camping, glamping in canvas yurts equipped with wood-burning fireplaces, and tiny home rentals featuring full kitchens, soaker tubs, and cable TV. After setting up in any type of camp, venture into the Great Smoky Mountains to hike a section of the Appalachian Trail, view a snapshot of history in Cades Cove, or experience a bird’s-eye view from the observation tower on Clingmans Dome. For fun that’s a little closer to town, the underground natural world of Tuckaleechee Caverns awaits.

97% (9.3K) 1,497 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Townsend

Critter Camp

1. Critter Camp

91%
(179)
5.6mi from Townsend · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
I wanted to let everyone know , we lost our serval, Foose in February, he was 22 years old, he will be missed ... I loved him his whole life. We still have horses and and a few smaller rescues , including 5 dogs. We are in the Heart of it all. Looking for quiet nights and super starry skies? This is the place. We have 1 rescued horses and a donkey. Sugergliders and trained rats from a movie. 5 dogs , 2 house cats. We are located exactly in the middle between Pigeon Forge(with shows and go karts) andTownsend.. with the quiet side of the smokies... tubing, horseback riding, hiking, Cades Cove offers biking and car tours. We are one mile from the foothills parkway entrance and less than 2 miles to a Great Smoky mountains entrance. Our sites offer toilets, potable water and trash disposal. We are pet friendly, and you are permitted to have campfires (outside of any burn ban). We offer animal encounters.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$28
 / night
Twin Valley Horse Ranch

2. Twin Valley Horse Ranch

98%
(133)
7.3mi from Townsend · 5 sites
My late husband and myself bought the property in 1983 and it was all just overgrown land!We worked, cleared, built horse shelters/barns, cabins, cut trails, built the outdoor chapel for our wedding and of course fenced it all in for the horses! Started sharing with guests in 1993, so we have met so many amazing folks from all over the world!  Pass thru our gate into another world and leave all your worries and tensions behind. We are all about getting back to what is real -- nature, animals/horses and each other. Complete privacy!There are many mountain trails leaving right from our property! Lots to explore. You can even hike to the outdoor chapel with the pretty view of the Chilhowee Mountain range.  It is a short hike to the barn area for those who want to spend time rubbing the pot belly pigs' tummy, walk the mini horses, groom the love bug~Junebug (donkey), pet horses, cuddle with bunnies and feed chickens!  Every morning and night we set a time for all those who want to become involved with the care/feeding of petting animals and horses! 
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$48
 / night
Over The Hill Farm

3. Over The Hill Farm

98%
(45)
10mi from Townsend · 3 sites
Magestic 21 acre farm with mountain views. Single campsite far off the road with outdoor dining table, fire ring, water, sewer, and 50 amp electrical service. Near to all that Maryville has to offer. Maryville College is 10 minutes away. About 20 minutes from Townsend (the peaceful side of the Smokies). 55 minutes from Pigeon Forge and the Sugarlands Visitor Center. Knoxville airport is 25 min away.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$45
 / night
Great Smoky Mountains National Park

4. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

98%
(194)
National park 12mi from Townsend · 621 sites
Forest trails link campsites with waterfalls and reminders of once-bustling Appalachian communities.
Lake Barkley

5. Lake Barkley

Park 222mi from Townsend · 19 sites
Discover Lake Barkley's scenic beauty and outdoor adventures.
Hickory Grove Homestead

6. Hickory Grove Homestead

95%
(11)
10mi from Townsend · 1 site
Nestled on the last 11 acres of the historic Davis farm, our property offers a unique glimpse into the past. The farmhouse stands gracefully by the road, while a tranquil wooded expanse stretches behind it. A sprawling fallow pasture is home to the weathered charm of the old hay barn. The woods offers an array of Hickory, Oak, Walnut, Persimmon and various other varieties of trees, creating a harmonious natural setting. A mesmerizing vista of the Smokey Mountains unfolds across the pasture, a scene frequented by deer, rabbits, geese, and a symphony of birds. Your stay here offers more than just relaxation – it's an opportunity to engage in nature's classroom. Spend quality time identifying trees, plants, and birds while soaking in the serenity of the surroundings. You can enjoy a campfire, walking around the property and enjoying the view of the mountains and maybe catch a glimpse of the wildlife living in the area. The homestead has chickens and ducks free ranged in the daytime to enjoy watching. We are centrally located within about 30 minutes if you choose to visit Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge or the City of Knoxville for more traditional attractions.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$68
 / night
Happy Valley Hideaway

7. Happy Valley Hideaway

100%
(48)
11mi from Townsend · 1 site
Learn more about this land:This primitive campsite is located 5 minutes from the Abrams Creek Ranger Station at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is private, shaded, and next to a small stream that will lull you to sleep at night. There is a bathhouse with a composting toilet and cold shower available. An old concrete picnic table stands as a testament to the enjoyment and relaxation of several generations and is now glad to be uncovered and open for many generations to come. There are numerous species of wild flora and fauna right there in your campsite! Across the fence is an old barn and field that will remind you of mountain living from days gone by. You will have access to miles of backcountry hiking once you take the 5 minute drive to the GSMNP and you can come back to your campsite and enjoy your privacy! You may also enjoy motorcycling on the dragon which is 5 miles at the end of Happy Valley Road. Or...maybe you just want to hang up the hammock and listen to the frogs and watch the fireflies. Whatever your hobby is, this campsite is the place to call home.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
Appalachian Springs Outdoor Resort

8. Appalachian Springs Outdoor Resort

93%
(15)
13mi from Townsend · 57 sites
At Appalachian Springs, we envisioned a serene campground in Pigeon Forge, offering unparalleled beauty, quality amenities, and unbeatable convenience. Our RV campground serves as a gateway to exploration and rejuvenation. From cozy campfires under the stars to thrilling adventures in the great outdoors, Appalachian Springs is your ultimate destination for camping in the Smokies. Join us and discover the essence of outdoor hospitality like never before. Discover unparalleled amenities at Appalachian Springs Outdoor Resort, your premier choice for a campground near Dollywood, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg. We are an RV park in Pigeon Forge, nestled amidst the stunning beauty of the Smoky Mountains. We have top-notch facilities tailored your comfort and vacation memories. Our Pigeon Forge RV resort ensures your comfort with spacious RV campsites with modern hook-ups to our luxurious amenities. Take a refreshing dip in the pool, go shopping, or explore nearby hiking trails for a taste of Smoky Mountain RV camping at its finest. With Appalachian Springs, your adventure begins right at our doorstep.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$55
 / night
Foggy Bottom Farm

9. Foggy Bottom Farm

98%
(22)
13mi from Townsend · 15 sites · Tents, RVs
11 acres nestled in a valley at the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, ponds and creek run through property, with flat rolling farmland located between Rockford and Wildwood. 50 amp and 30 amp pull through sites. Float the Little river from Perry’s Mill back to within a mile of camp. Swim at the wye, trout fish, Tube the Little river in Townsend. Ft. Louden, Douglas, Cherokee, Melton Hill, and Norris lakes all within 30 minutes. 20 minutes to Walland, Maryville and Knoxville. 30 minutes to SMNP, the tail of the Dragon, Foothills Parkway, Sevierville, Louden, Townsend, Oak Ridge.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night
Nantahala National Forest

10. Nantahala National Forest

95%
(73)
National forest 34mi from Townsend · 438 sites
Discover what the Cherokee call the Land of the Noonday Sun.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Cherokee National Forest

11. Cherokee National Forest

96%
(49)
National forest 113mi from Townsend · 625 sites
Follow us to Tennessee and dive into the grandeur of the Cherokee National Forest! It’s filled to the brim with scenic forested trails, rushing rivers, and rainbow trout. During the day you can go rafting, and at night you can bask yourself in moonshine (of various sorts) and brush up on your constellations. If you are in pursuit of some Appalachian Mountain bliss, this is the right place to start. Don’t forget your camera, you're going to want to show these vistas off!
Big Ridge State Park

12. Big Ridge State Park

State park 40mi from Townsend · 50 sites
Discover Big Ridge State Park's lush landscapes and outdoor adventures.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
Panther Creek State Park

13. Panther Creek State Park

75%
(4)
State park 42mi from Townsend · 50 sites
From fishing to horseback riding, this park’s varied terrain offers an array of outdoor activities.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
Panther Creek Hideaway

14. Panther Creek Hideaway

96%
(56)
15mi from Townsend · 3 sites
Learn more about this land:Enjoy the quiet at our 35 acre cozy secluded hideaway with a pond. Surrounded by a mature wooded forrest and rolling hills with multiple locations at each sites to pitch a tent.. Close to Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg attractions. Note: Pappas Peak is a secluded hilltop and will not accommodate trailers due to the turning radius on the hilltop.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$25
 / night
Glamping at Smoky Hollow Resort

15. Glamping at Smoky Hollow Resort

95%
(21)
17mi from Townsend · 8 sites
Come visit our little hollow! Located right next to the Sevierville Convention Center and the brand new Soaky Mountain Water Park. Tucked away on 18 secluded, rolling acres yet 1 mile to the parkway where all the shopping, restaurants and tourist attractions are. We have lots of wildlife out here such as chickens, turkey, deer, bobcats, fox, coyotes and the occasional black bear. If you're looking for a unique camping experience with some creature comforts of home this is the place for you; glamping at Smoky Hollow Resort.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$144
 / night
Love Shack Hideaway

16. Love Shack Hideaway

100%
(17)
17mi from Townsend · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Located in Graham County in the Great Smokey Mountains. We have a small stream on our property and are within walking distance of a finger of Fontana Lake. We are in a quiet beautiful spot within a short distance of all the Smokey Mountains have to offer. Rafting, hiking, fishing, the best scenic drives, beautiful lakes, Great Smokey Mountains National Park, even Dollywood is an hour drive away. Come explore the beautiful Western North Carolina.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from 
$35
 / night
Camp LeConte

17. Camp LeConte

100%
(14)
17mi from Townsend · 36 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Camp LeConte Adjacent to the Great Smoky Mountains and only 4 miles to downtown Gatlinburg you can't get a better location than Camp LeConte. Camp LeConte is a family owned and operated campground since 2013. Ian and Linzy Nicely, and their three children, are happy to have a family business where they can share the love of nature, mountains and Gatlinburg with all their guests. Ian is a lover of all things outdoors. Mix that with Linzy's style and love of decorating and that's Camp LeConte. A glamorous camping destination where you can stay in a luxury tree house, European safari tent or a 1960's retro camper. Bring your own RV or camper and stay in one of our full -hook up sites with 20, 30 and 50 amp service, water, sewer, cable and free wifi. Maybe you are wanting your kids to pitch a real tent (just like you did when you were their age!). We offer primitive tent sites for those of you who really want to rough it!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$39
 / night
The Heart Center

18. The Heart Center

98%
(223)
18mi from Townsend · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The Heart Center sits on 30 acres of beautiful forest land and it is surrounded by the Nantahala National Forest.  The place is an old school site that was literally left to be buried by the forest, until I came along and decided to fix it up, and create a holistic sanctuary for people wishing to get away from it all. A place where one can heal, contemplate, re-energize, and relax in a quiet and pristine environment. Feel secluded enough to experience your own inner stillness; and, yet, connected enough to enjoy many beautiful area attractions that are just minutes away such as: Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, Fontana Dam and the Appalachian Trail, 20 Mile Ranger Station, Cherohala Skyway, and Santeetlah Lake!The Heart Center is about love, unity, harmony, joy and re-connecting with ourselves, others, and Mother Nature. At the Heart Center, we take special interest in providing our guests with a uniquely peaceful, positive, comfortable, and relaxing experience! Whether you are laying on a hammock, walking the labyrinth, or just sitting on the deck taking in the sights and sounds, we want you to enjoy. 
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Low Meadow Farms

19. Low Meadow Farms

96%
(966)
18mi from Townsend · 20 sites · Tents, RVs
Low Meadow Farms (formerly Brown Bike Farms) is a serene four-acre meadow bordered by Burnett Creek. The campground is an easy distance to Downtown Knoxville and an even easier access to all that South Knox's Urban Wilderness has to offer. It uniquely offers a hint of backcountry camping without the 25-mile hike in. It is a great way to test the waters for primitive camping or an easy stop close to the city for a seasoned traveler. It is best suited for car camping, RVs, tent, and hammock camping. There are fire pits and picnic tables at each site with enough room for tents and RVs. Most sites have trees suitable for hammock camping all along the creek. There is potable water, firewood for sale, solar showers, and a bike wash stand all next to the covered communal area. Each standard site can accommodate 2 people to keep space between groups and lessen the impact on the land. Sites 10 and 13 can each accommodate 6 guests. If you have more in your group, we recommend reserving an adjoining campsite. Sites 1, 2 and 3 are off the main path to the left of the property, and still by the creek. Sites 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 are all along the creek and gravel drive Site 10 is very private with creek access on three sides. Site 11 is private with creek access all along the front. Site 12 is up high on a hill, and Site 13 is open in the middle of the meadow.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
The Farm

20. The Farm

90%
(44)
18mi from Townsend · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land: 4th generation farm, 37 Acres in foothills of Smoky Mountains National Park. Primitive Camping in paradise! A few miles from Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge TN. Plenty of room for hiking and bike riding in general area on public roads. A fire pit is provided at the only camp site. Very quiet and secluded. Camper Van and Tent camping only. No RV's. leave no trace policy.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near Townsend guide

Where to go

Cades Cove

A lush valley flanked by mountains, Cades Cove is a great place to spend the day when camping near Townsend. The 45-minute drive from town brings campers to this iconic paradise, where hiking, horseback riding, wildlife watching, and sightseeing amid historic buildings abound. Cruise down the 11-mile road that loops through the area, or wander on foot via the 5-mile trail to Abrams Falls. On-site campsites come with a range of amenities like picnic tables, fire rings for grilling, and access to restrooms with flush toilets.

Clingmans Dome

The highest point within the Great Smoky Mountains, Clingmans Dome has a steep, half-mile pathway that leads to an observation deck with 360° views of surrounding mountain peaks. Campers will be set with plenty of places to call home, including equestrian campsites, RV campsites with dump stations, and backcountry tent campsites. The access road is often closed due to weather conditions in winter, so double-check availability before booking.

Tuckaleechee Caverns

A 5-minute drive from the center of Townsend, Tuckaleechee Caverns is a must-see attraction. Boasting 24-foot-high stalagmites and the 210-foot Silver Falls—the world’s tallest underground waterfall—Tuckaleechee is a once in a lifetime experience. There are a variety of nearby campsites to choose from nestled into the shores of Little River. Campers can find perks like free wifi, fire rings, and picnic tables, as well as a mix of back-in and pull-through RV campsites featuring full hookups.

When to go

Townsend has relatively temperate year-round weather, but it gets chilly enough in winter for snow. Look into road or campsite closures prior to booking in the colder months. April, May, September, and October are prime picks for quieter campgrounds and warm weather for outdoor activities. Spring brings wildflower-filled valleys in Cades Cove, while fall revamps the forests with color as deciduous trees drop their leaves.