Big Creek Campground (Great Smoky Mountains National Park)

The campsite was great. Being in the forest so close to Big Creek pleased our 3 generations of ladies: 77,39,11,7,4😀. We hiked beside the creek, on rocks, in shallow water and among the trees. There were many butterflies and no mosquitoes! Bathroom was clean.
We did not see a ranger when we checked in. We saw two rangers when they closed a nearby trail on Tuesday. The two ranger kiosks need maintenance. The 911 phone had no dial tone. Thank heavens we did not have any need for emergency help.
Pack medium sized containers. There is a bit up hill to the sites. Bring fire starters or paper or corn chips for kindling. Wood at site is damp.
We had a wonderful time. We hope to return.

The campsite was great. Being in the forest so close to Big Creek pleased our 3 generations of ladies: 77,39,11,7,4😀. We hiked beside the creek, on rocks, in shallow water and among the trees. There were many butterflies and no mosquitoes! Bathroom was clean.
We did not see a ranger when we checked in. We saw two rangers when they closed a nearby trail on Tuesday. The two ranger kiosks need maintenance. The 911 phone had no dial tone. Thank heavens we did not have any need for emergency help.
Pack medium sized containers. There is a bit up hill to the sites. Bring fire starters or paper or corn chips for kindling. Wood at site is damp.
We had a wonderful time. We hope to return.

This was my favorite camping trip I have ever taken. The Big Creek trail was INCREDIBLE, with lots of little pit stops, steady incline, swimming hole, waterfall, all the good stuff. It was pretty accessible for those who are able to walk. Definitely not wheelchair friendly because of the rough terrain. But, if you can walk it is an awesome, fairly easy hike! We saw an array of wildlife as well. Chipmunks, butterflies, snails, frogs, snakes, SO many bugs (lol). The campsite itself was awesome. Being able to hear the rushing creek while falling asleep was amazing, lots to explore right by the campsite. Clean bathrooms! Overall this is one of my favorite trips and I have really fond memories of it. Remember to WATERPROOF YOUR TENT if its gonna rain or you will wake up in a puddle like me!!

This was my favorite camping trip I have ever taken. The Big Creek trail was INCREDIBLE, with lots of little pit stops, steady incline, swimming hole, waterfall, all the good stuff. It was pretty accessible for those who are able to walk. Definitely not wheelchair friendly because of the rough terrain. But, if you can walk it is an awesome, fairly easy hike! We saw an array of wildlife as well. Chipmunks, butterflies, snails, frogs, snakes, SO many bugs (lol). The campsite itself was awesome. Being able to hear the rushing creek while falling asleep was amazing, lots to explore right by the campsite. Clean bathrooms! Overall this is one of my favorite trips and I have really fond memories of it. Remember to WATERPROOF YOUR TENT if its gonna rain or you will wake up in a puddle like me!!

I normally stay at this campground twice a year and like it.

When I stayed there this June, there were 2 problems.

First, there was no soap in the Men's Restroom from Monday to Wednesday. I mentioned it to the person who cleaned it. He mentioned the park service is short staffed. They don't have enough employees to fill all of their positions. In addition to his regular duties this year, cleaning the restrooms has been added to his job. That is pretty sad.

Second, the reason I went to Big Creek campground in June was to fish Big Creek. I fish it from Mouse Creek Falls up. I made my reservation in late February, After that a decision was made to close the Big Creek Trail every Monday through Thursday from mid-May to mid-July. The park Service never notified me of this. Nor did they offer me the opportunity to change my reservation.

I was able to hike up on Monday to fish but I upset one or two Paark Service employees on the way.

The Park management is considering raising the camping fees at Big Creek in 2023. Unless there is a major improvement in what is offered, this will be a mistake.

I normally stay at this campground twice a year and like it.

When I stayed there this June, there were 2 problems.

First, there was no soap in the Men's Restroom from Monday to Wednesday. I mentioned it to the person who cleaned it. He mentioned the park service is short staffed. They don't have enough employees to fill all of their positions. In addition to his regular duties this year, cleaning the restrooms has been added to his job. That is pretty sad.

Second, the reason I went to Big Creek campground in June was to fish Big Creek. I fish it from Mouse Creek Falls up. I made my reservation in late February, After that a decision was made to close the Big Creek Trail every Monday through Thursday from mid-May to mid-July. The park Service never notified me of this. Nor did they offer me the opportunity to change my reservation.

I was able to hike up on Monday to fish but I upset one or two Paark Service employees on the way.

The Park management is considering raising the camping fees at Big Creek in 2023. Unless there is a major improvement in what is offered, this will be a mistake.

The most beautiful campground we have been to yet! Secluded and remote. It was right alongside the river and very peaceful to hear the water. Will definitely be back!

The most beautiful campground we have been to yet! Secluded and remote. It was right alongside the river and very peaceful to hear the water. Will definitely be back!

Couldn’t find the campground.

Couldn’t find the campground.