Campgrounds
Balsam Mountain Campground
107 Park Headquarters Rd, Gatlinburg, TN
Balsam Mountain Campground is a National Park Service facility operated within Great Smoky Mountains National Park at the highest elevation of all park campgrounds, situated at 5,310 feet on Heintooga Ridge. The campground provides 43 individual campsites, including six walk-in tent-only sites, with remaining sites accommodating tents, RVs, or combined use. Amenities include flush toilets and potable drinking water, though the facility operates without hookups or shower facilities.
The high-elevation location creates cooler summer daytime temperatures rarely exceeding 70 degrees and nighttime lows in the low 50s, offering refuge from valley heat. The campground season typically runs mid-May through mid-October due to lingering snowpack potential. A nature trail originating at the campground showcases high-reach Smoky Mountain ecology, and the area is known for wildlife viewing, particularly elk during spring and fall, along with less-crowded hiking access compared to lower park areas.
Common Questions
What is the elevation and climate at Balsam Mountain?
At 5,310 feet, it is the highest campground in Great Smoky Mountains National Park with cooler daytime temps rarely exceeding 70°F.
What facilities are available?
43 campsites including walk-in tent sites, with flush toilets and potable water, but no RV hookups or showers.
When is the campground open?
Typically mid-May through mid-October, with closure due to lingering snow and road conditions at higher elevations.
What activities and wildlife can visitors expect?
Nature trail, wildlife viewing including elk in spring and fall, hiking, and less-crowded access compared to lower park areas.