The best dome rentals near Townsend, Tennessee

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.

96% (149)

Top-rated campgrounds 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.

96% (149)

Top-rated campgrounds near Townsend

1. Glamping Domes & A-Frame

97%

(16)

36mi from Townsend · 5 sites · Lodging

Welcome to our luxurious glamping dome nestled in the serene beauty of the Smoky Mountains, offering a secluded and peaceful retreat for nature enthusiasts. Our dome combines the comforts of a cozy stay with the awe-inspiring surroundings of the great outdoors. Located amidst lush greenery and towering trees, our dome provides the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Imagine waking up to the breathtaking views of the mountains greeting you each morning. For adventure seekers, there are ample opportunities for river rafting and hiking right at your doorstep. Spend your days exploring the numerous trails that wind through the mountains, leading to hidden waterfalls and panoramic vistas. After a day of outdoor exploration, return to your dome for a restful night's sleep under the starry sky. Our glamping dome is equipped with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay, including a plush bed, modern bathroom, and a cozy seating area where you can relax and unwind after a day of adventure. And for those chilly mountain nights, cozy up by the fireplace and enjoy the warmth of a crackling fire. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway or a solo adventure in nature, our glamping dome in the Smoky Mountains offers the perfect blend of luxury and wilderness, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all who visit. Book your stay with us today and immerse yourself in the beauty of the great outdoors.

2. LAKESIDE GETAWAY ON DOUGLAS

97%

(139)

34mi from Townsend · 56 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Lakeside Getaway is a seasonal peninsula on Douglas Lake of primitive camping sites in historic Dandridge, Tn just 30 min from Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg area. Come enjoy your boat, jet ski, or kayaks from our 75 foot boat dock and new concrete boat ramp for launching. Our pavilion is a nice commons area with a charcoal stove and can be reserved for private parties. We rent out Kayaks to parties or individuals. Our quite cove is about 2 miles long and very secluded... Great for Kayaking! Call for more details and questions: 423-231-9399 or 423-231-4094

3. Wanderlust Woods

96%

(35)

33mi from Townsend · 10 sites · Lodging

Wanderlust Woods is a hidden 10 acre property hosting a flowing creek, mountain views, and plenty of space to wander yet minutes from adventure activities, fishing, and hiking in the National Park. Perfect for all seeking the glory of the mountains in a unique & immersive setting. We are located in Cocke County Tennessee near the towns of Cosby and Hartford, 10 minutes from the Interstate and situated very near the boundary of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The natural beauty of the area is unparalleled with views of the Smokies at almost every turn. Hiking, fishing, kayaking, white water rafting, and ziplining are all within a 10 mile radius of the property. Gatlinburg, TN is a 25 minute drive and Asheville, NC is just over an hour, offering guests options for fun day trips in the area.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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Ben

November 2025

3 nights at Glamping Domes & A-Frame

This place is absolutely beautiful. Waking up to a sunrise over Appalachia is worth it on its own. The dome is well maintained, clean, and the area is super quiet and safe. It's an amazing place to relax in the hot tub and stargaze, play some games at the outdoor table, or just sit by the fire pit to talk and enjoy the scenery. There are two fire pits - a private metal one on the deck and a large communal area between the domes. There's also hiking and walking trails a short drive away in the Smokies (like Mouse Creek Falls). Ravi is super friendly and responsive to messages. We met him on our way out when he came up to do maintenance. He takes good care of this place. There are a few turns that are hard to see, so definitely arrive when it's daylight. If you use Waze, keep going up and around after it thinks you've "arrived".

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Patrick

July 2025

2 nights at Glamping Domes & A-Frame

We loved our stay at Contrast Cove! This was our anniversary getaway, and it couldn’t have been more perfect. The views were absolutely stunning — especially from the private deck where we could just relax and soak in the beauty of the mountains. At night, it was peaceful and quiet, with nothing but the sounds of nature around us and the stars in the sky. The dome itself was incredible. The bed was massive and super soft, and the whole space stayed cool — which was a lifesaver on a hot summer day. Every amenity worked flawlessly: the sink, shower, toilet, and air conditioning were all clean and functional. The bathroom was also well-stocked and well-maintained. While the hot tub didn’t get very hot (more lukewarm than anything), everything else made up for that tenfold. Honestly, we’d give the experience a 10 out of 10 — and would absolutely come back in the future. Special thanks to Ravi, who was an amazing host. He made us feel safe, welcome, and taken care of the whole time. 🌙 Pro Tip: Do not try to arrive at night. The road up the mountain is pitch black with no guard rails — definitely better to get there during daylight for a safer trip. Thank you again, Ravi! We can’t wait to return!

B

Brittaney

July 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to LAKESIDE GETAWAY ON DOUGLAS

Great set up for a nice relaxing day on the water. The pavilion was perfect for our family get together. Will definitely book again.

S

Sheri

June 2025

With kids

4 nights at Wanderlust Woods

What a fun time! Jamey was very accommodating to us and communicated clearly and promptly. Even with a broken foot, we enjoyed our stay in The Perch with our 4 kids. We would stay here again!

M

Marc

May 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Wanderlust Woods

My friends and I had a great stay at Wanderlust Woods. We found it to be a great mixture of comfort and camping, all at a reasonable price. We especially enjoyed the fire pit and the grill, in addition to the many hiking trails in the vicinity. Jamey was very accommodating and communicative. Highly recommend if you are visiting the Smoky's.

A

Athena

April 2025

Group trip

3 nights at Wanderlust Woods

My two daughters and I had an amazing stay in our creekside dome! The decorations were cool, the beds were incredibly comfortable, and the host was very responsive. We enjoyed the sounds of the creek, making smores under our dome in the wood stove, and snuggling on the couch together watching movies. During the day, it was a short drive to all of our favorite activities in the Smokies!

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Michael

January 2025

Weekend Trip to Glamping Domes & A-Frame

Ravi has a beautiful lot with excellent views. The dome was super clean with all the amenities you could ask for. We didn't leave the entire weekend. Just bring groceries. There is a nice wall unit that keeps the temp comfortable, PLUS an extra heater and fan. I'd definitely return.

Kaitlin

January 2025

With kids

5 nights at Glamping Domes & A-Frame

We stayed in the Contrast Cove dome in Hartford, Tennessee for 5 nights for NYE and after with our three boys (5, 5, and 7) and had a fabulous time! Our friends rented the dome next to it (Forest Fairy) for a few days and it was great to have everyone so close. I will start with my favorite part of the dome - the view! It was AMAZING. You can see mountains for miles. We even got snow so looking out to the snow cap mountains was very surreal for this southern girl. You do have a neighbor but we couldn’t even see the house and never heard anyone. We felt very secluded and the privacy was very nice. The dome itself was very cozy. We had snow and I believe one night it dropped down to 17 degrees but it was always nice and warm inside. There are heated blankets you can use as well. The kitchen had everything we needed and the induction stove, fridge, and dishwasher really made it beyond a “glamping” experience. The shower was always nice, clean and warm. There was plenty of storage as well. The enormous deck was perfect for our boys to run around and play. We enjoyed sitting in the hot tub and the fire pit on the deck. We made two trips to Gatlinburg while at the dome and it was pretty close. It was about 50 minutes away and pretty convenient to the dome’s location. Ravi, the host, quickly responded and helped with anything we needed throughout the trip. We will absolutely stay here again. Our boys called it “the igloo” and said they wanted to stay a million days. <3

M

Manoja Rajalakshmi

December 2024

Group trip

2 nights at Glamping Domes & A-Frame

Amazing stay with everything you need. We friends had so much fun. Highly recommended.

M

Marquis

November 2024

1 night at Wanderlust Woods

Awesome stay! Super responsive host, friendly visiting neighbors. Fresh sheets and towels, great directions provided to the property…10/10

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best domes 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.