Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers front and backcountry camping, as well as a small number of group camping sites.
Front Country
There are ten front country campsites within the park. Each is equipped with flush toilet washrooms and cold running water. There is no electrical or water hookup facilities at the park. Every campsite has a picnic table and a fire grate. The area is home to bears and other creatures. Keep all food stuffs and equipment stored in a vehicle when not in use. Do not feed wildlife.
Back Country
All park visitors camping in the park’s back country must obtain a fee back country permit. These are available at all ranger stations and visitor centers. Overnight campers are obligated to stay in a designated shelter or campsite, which requires reservations.
Before setting off into the back country, check the weather predictions and be sure someone knows your route and when you plan to return.
Fishing
Smoky Mountains protects wild trout habitat. There are approximately 2,115 miles of streams within the park, which provide a wide range of angling experiences. Wet your line in a remote headwater trout stream or a smallmouth bass stream. Both of these species can be fished year ‘round.
Though fishing is allowed in most streams, there are a few that are posted as “no fishing” areas to protect fish that are endangered. Visit a ranger station or visitor center to get a complete list of fishing rules and regulations.
In order to fish within the park’s boundaries you must have possession of a North Carolina or Tennessee fishing license or permit. These are not available at the park, but may be purchased in nearby cities and towns; if you plan to fish in Cherokee or Gatlinburg, a special permit is needed.