Elkmont Campground

Booked this campsite without warning that the restrooms were out of service. Nothing but porta potty’s to use (which were full & not in good condition). Also had to endure the sound of the guy’s generator at the next site over. Needless to say we will not be back. Couldn’t even stay the one night we booked. If you’re looking for a good campground to book might as well make the drive to Cosby campground. Better campground, more privacy, overall better experience. 0/10 do not recommend.

Loved the Jakes cave trail. Moderate grade that was challenging but fun for our kids age 5-10. Some old structures that are fun to explore along the way.

This was the first time we've visited the Smokies. This campground didn't offer much privacy, though there were a handful of relatively private sites. We stayed in two sites--one set back from the creek (L06) and one right on the creek (K16)--and we actually liked our site that was set back from the creek best for this reason. You can hear the creek throughout the campground, which is lovely. Old but relatively clean bathrooms. This campground was very convenient and centrally located for exploring the park and had several hikes within a 15 minute drive (or walk). Wild turkeys roamed the grounds daily, which was also a treat. I really prefer a little more space and privacy between camp sites so unless I could get one of the few sites that offers more of that I'm not sure I'd return. That said, I imagine the other front country campgrounds in this national park are similarly configured. Otherwise it was a really great place to stay and the convenience was a big selling point. Hopefully you'll be spending most of your time out in the park anyway!

Bathrooms were clean, checking in and out went without a hitch. The tent pads were as expected, and just fit our large tent.

Awesome campground that's generally pretty quiet.nnThis was our second stay at Elkmont (G9 this time), which is by the water. The camp site was perfect. Every campus site here is very close to bathrooms and is very easy to get in and out of. The camp staff make rounds at least once or twice an hour during the day to check on things.nnThere is zero cell service at this campground.nnWe stayed two nights our first time and had no problems with neighbors. Our second stay (three nights), we had a single overnight stay of some girls who were pretty loudly talking and giggling until around 11:15pm, which kept us up. You're pretty close to your neighbors, but normal talking, in our experience, won't disturb anyone around you. In fact, I don't remember hearing a single other neighbor after they left!nnFinally, depending on your arrival, the ranger guy at check-in will tell you someone has already checked in from your party. It's caught me off guard twice... just play along. ud83dude04