OutReserve

Cataloochee Campground

Elk
CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND

Featured amenities

Restrooms

About Cataloochee Campground

Cataloochee campground is located in the historic Cataloochee Valley--a relatively remote part of Smoky Mountain National Park. The secluded setting offers visitors the ability to enjoy a multitude of recreational activities like hiking and fishing, without the crowds, which are sometimes common in other parts of the park.

Number of accommodations: 27

Seasonal information

2026 (Current year)

2026 Season availability

Current season
Upcoming seasons
Past seasons
Closed periods
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Currently open - May 1 to Oct 25

Campground Amenities

Most popular amenities

Restrooms
Water and Hygiene

Water and Hygiene

  • Potable Water
  • Restrooms
Missing information?

Rates, Sites & Availability

Select check-in and check-out dates to see real-time availability for each site.

27 Sites Available

Site
Price
🚐 1, Loop: CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND
Electric Only
Price not available
🚐 10, Loop: CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND
Electric Only
Price not available
🚐 11, Loop: CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND
Electric Only
Price not available
🚐 12, Loop: CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND
Electric Only
Price not available
🚐 13, Loop: CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND
Electric Only
Price not available
🚐 14, Loop: CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND
Electric Only
Price not available
🚐 15, Loop: CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND
Electric Only
Price not available
🚐 16, Loop: CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND
Electric Only
Price not available
🚐 17, Loop: CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND
Electric Only
Price not available
🚐 18, Loop: CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND
Electric Only
Price not available
🚐 19, Loop: CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND
Electric Only
Price not available
🚐 2, Loop: CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND
Electric Only
Price not available
🚐 20, Loop: CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND
Electric Only
Price not available
🚐 21, Loop: CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND
Electric Only
Price not available
🚐 22, Loop: CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND
Electric Only
Price not available
🚐 23, Loop: CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND
Electric Only
Price not available
🚐 24, Loop: CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND
Electric Only
Price not available
🚐 25, Loop: CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND
Electric Only
Price not available
🚐 26, Loop: CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND
Electric Only
Price not available
🚐 27, Loop: CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND
Electric Only
Price not available
🚐 3, Loop: CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND
Electric Only
Price not available
🚐 4, Loop: CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND
Electric Only
Price not available
🚐 5, Loop: CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND
Electric Only
Price not available
🚐 6, Loop: CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND
Electric Only
Price not available
🚐 7, Loop: CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND
Electric Only
Price not available
🚐 8, Loop: CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND
Electric Only
Price not available
🚐 9, Loop: CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND
Electric Only
Price not available

Reviews (773)

What Guests Are Saying

Cataloochee Campground is a charming and peaceful spot, well-regarded for its clean facilities and friendly hosts. Many visitors appreciate the abundant wildlife, including elk and bears, and the serene, forested environment. While access can be tricky due to remote roads and no hookups, the spacious sites and beautiful scenery make it a favorite for campers seeking a simple, nature-focused experience.

Review Summary

4.7
773 reviews
5
78.7%
608
4
14.9%
115
3
3.9%
30
2
2.1%
16
1
0.5%
4

Paul O

Verified

September 29, 2022 β€’ Stayed at: 25, Loop: CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND

5

Great place. Many reserved sites vacant.

Tim S

Verified

September 26, 2022 β€’ Stayed at: 1, Loop: CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND

5

We saw and heard three bull elk in the same field during rut. Two of them posturing for top dog. There is no cell service, so reserve your site before you go. Very helpful host.

Jennifer S

Verified

September 26, 2022 β€’ Stayed at: 20, Loop: CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND

5

Tim S

Verified

September 26, 2022 β€’ Stayed at: 1, Loop: CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND

5

We saw and heard three bull elk in the same field during rut. Two of them posturing for top dog. There is no cell service, so reserve your site before you go. Very helpful host.

chrys h

Verified

September 26, 2022 β€’ Stayed at: 23, Loop: CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND

5

This is a small intimate campground. I came here for the elk watching in the valley, and was not disappointed. the sites are close together, not much privacy but everyone was friendly and the campground was quiet. The restroom was clean and well maintained. my only complaint is there was no light in the dishwashing station and I usually had to wash dishes after dark. A light would be helpful as there was no place to set down or hang a lantern. Warning: the gravel road in is narrow, with many tight blind curves. not for the faint of heart. bring everything you will need, you wouldn't want to have to drive that 9 mile road back for supplies.

chrys h

Verified

September 26, 2022 β€’ Stayed at: 23, Loop: CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND

5

This is a small intimate campground. I came here for the elk watching in the valley, and was not disappointed. the sites are close together, not much privacy but everyone was friendly and the campground was quiet. The restroom was clean and well maintained. my only complaint is there was no light in the dishwashing station and I usually had to wash dishes after dark. A light would be helpful as there was no place to set down or hang a lantern. Warning: the gravel road in is narrow, with many tight blind curves. not for the faint of heart. bring everything you will need, you wouldn't want to have to drive that 9 mile road back for supplies.

Jennifer S

Verified

September 26, 2022 β€’ Stayed at: 20, Loop: CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND

5

Rhonda E

Verified

September 23, 2022 β€’ Stayed at: 27, Loop: CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND

5

Very pleasant stay. Be prepared for all weather and no quick trips to town for forgotten items. Beautiful area and sites were very nice and spacious.

Rhonda E

Verified

September 23, 2022 β€’ Stayed at: 27, Loop: CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND

5

Very pleasant stay. Be prepared for all weather and no quick trips to town for forgotten items. Beautiful area and sites were very nice and spacious.

Michael S

Verified

September 23, 2022 β€’ Stayed at: 26, Loop: CATALOOCHEE CAMPGROUND

4

great environment, somewhat open campground, great place to stay to view the elk and other wildlife in Catalochee Valley

Location Cataloochee Campground

Address:
3576 Ranger Station Rd
Waynesville, NC, 37876
United States

Highway access

Cataloochee Campground is accessible via I-40, with Exit 20 providing the nearest access point. From the interstate, travelers can reach the campground by following Cove Creek Road to the park boundary.

Latitude & Longitude: 35.6312 / -83.0855

Elevation: 801 feet

Nearby National Park

Yosemite National Park

Arch Rock Entrance

Approximate driving time: 55 min

Nearby Campgrounds


Last updated: June 5, 2026

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