Details
10042 Campground Drive, Townsend, TN, 37882
National Park ServiceLast Updated: March 4, 2026
Table Of Contents
Campground Overview
Introduction
Cades Cove Campground—open year-round—combines the feel of primitive camping with the modern convenience of flush toilets and drinking water. With an elevation of 1,807 feet (551 m), the climate is moderate, characterized by mild winters and hot, humid summers. No hookups or showers. America the Beautiful passes (not accepted in lieu of the parking tag for parking outside your campsite) are sold at the campground ranger station in summer & fall or online through the USGS store.
Campsite Details
Operating Hours
Cades Cove Campground is open year-round. Loop B and parts of Loop C are open from mid-spring through Nov. 30. During the winter, only sites C1-12 and C26-61 are open (reservations required).
Weather
This campground is in the mountains and weather can rapidly change from warm and sunny to cold and rainy. Be prepared with layers and rain gear in all seasons.
Amenities
Trash & Recycling Collection
Toilets
Amphitheater
Dump Station
Camp Store
Staff or Host On-Site
Potable Water
Ice For Sale
Firewood For Sale
Food Storage Lockers
Directions
From Maryville, TN: Take US-321 North (you'll actually be driving south!) from Maryville to Townsend, TN (about 22 miles). At the traffic light in Townsend, continue straight on TN-73 and follow signs to Cades Cove. From Pigeon Forge, TN: Take US-321 South (you'll be driving westerly) to Townsend, TN. Turn left (south) at Townsend onto TN-73. Follow signs to Cades Cove.
Rates & Fees
Camping Fee
Camping fee is per site, per night.
Rules & Regulations
Fire/Stove Policy
Fires are permitted only in established fire rings provided at each campsite.Regulations Overview
When Loop B is closed for the season, generators are allowed in Loop C, with restricted hours, UNTIL Loop B reopens. All food and equipment used to prepare and store food must be sealed in a vehicle or in a camping unit constructed of solid, non-pliable material, or as otherwise directed, at all times when not in use. Campfires are permitted only in fire rings. You may collect dead and downed wood in the park for campfires. Only heat-treated firewood that is bundled and certified by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) or a state agency may be brought into the park. Quiet hours are 10 pm-6 am. Generator use is prohibited 8 pm-8 am. Your stay is limited to 14 consecutive days at a time. You may have up to six people per campsite. No more than two motor vehicles or one vehicle with trailer are allowed per campsite. Please keep wheels, including trailer wheels and guest cars, on the pavement. Park only in designated spaces. All tents must be pitched on the pad, where provided.Accessibility
Wheelchair Access
Accessible paths to restrooms and parking areas.
RV Allowed
Yes
RV Information
Roads are paved in the campground. Site driveways are also paved.
RV Maximum Length
40
Trailer Maximum Length
35
ADA Information
Eleven accessible campsites. Two CPAP campsites. Restrooms are accessible.
Trailer Allowed
Yes
Access Roads
Paved Roads - All vehicles OK
Classifications
Developed Campground
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