How the Reservation System Works

Some campgrounds and day use facilities at the national park operate on a reservation system for at least a portion of their operating season, while others operate strictly on first come, first served basis. For reservable facilities, reservations can be made at www.recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Online reservations can be made 24 hours a day. Reservations by phone can be made between 10:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.

Advance reservations are required at Cataloochee Campground, Group Campsites, Horse Camps, and the Appalachian Clubhouse and Spence Cabin.

The facilities listed below operate on the reservation system for at least some portion of their season. Unless otherwise noted, all sites at that facility operate on the reservation system during the reservation period.

Facility	Reservation Period	Reservations Can Be Made
Cades Cove, Elkmont, and Smokemont campgrounds	May 15-Oct 311	6 months in advance
Cataloochee Campground	Same as season dates2	6 months in advance
Cosby Campground	Same as season dates.2 Limited reservation sites; most sites are first come, first served.	6 months in advance
Group Campsites	Same as season dates2	1 year in advance
Horse Camps	Same as season dates2	6 months in advance
Picnic Pavilions	Same as season dates2	1 year in advance
Appalachian Clubhouse and Spence Cabin	Same as season dates3	1 year in advance

¹ Walk-up, same day reservations may be available at the campground during the reservation period.
² You can make a reservation on the same day as your arrival via www.recreation.gov or by calling [phone]. Reservations are not available at the facility.
³ Minimum 2 day advance reservation.