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AtlantaGuy's avatar
AtlantaGuy
Explorer II
May 19, 2020

Questions Re Cataloochee Campground in GSMNP

I'm planning my first trip to Cataloochee campground in the Great Smoky Mountains National park.

Does anyone know if they allow you to attach a hose to the water source there and fill your RV tank? I know they don't allow hook ups for extended periods of time but was just wondering if you could fill at the source and then return to your site?

Also, do cell phones work in the campground? I've heard some say Verizon is "spotty" there but that was years ago.

Thanks for any help you can provide.
  • A couple of years ago we drove from Maggie Valley to that CG in our SUV and it scared my DW to death. I grew up driving that kind of road and had no problem with it, but I remember thinking there was no way I would ever take a camper on that road. Like melandme said, someone would have to back up out of a blind curve if you met anyone.
  • How big is your RV? I have only driven there coming in from the south on Cove Creek Rd. We left the MH at the CG and drove the Wrangler It is narrow and crooked with some gravel section inside the park. If you have a big 5th wheel or Class A it may be diffcult. I could drive my 26 ft C back there just hope I don't meet anyone. Many places someone would have to back up. What I saw in the CG where pop ups and small TT. Don't want to scare you just wanted to make you aware. Every driver is different, some would never attempt it and others wouldn't think twice. Google map it to see. Enjoy your trip. Cataloochee is my favorite place in GSMNP
  • I live in the area. SMNP today went to phase 2 of their opening plan. I am not sure when you plan on camping but the campgrounds are still not open.
  • So if there’s a rule or regulation, MDK, and you violate it but don’t get caught it’s ok?
  • AtlantaGuy wrote:
    I'm planning my first trip to Cataloochee campground in the Great Smoky Mountains National park.

    Does anyone know if they allow you to attach a hose to the water source there and fill your RV tank? I know they don't allow hook ups for extended periods of time but was just wondering if you could fill at the source and then return to your site?

    Also, do cell phones work in the campground? I've heard some say Verizon is "spotty" there but that was years ago.

    Thanks for any help you can provide.


    If nobody sees you do it, or rats you out, go for it.
    I got caught and warned by a ranger in GCSR about 10 years ago. I guess she noticed the hose running across the roadway, and failed to see the humor. I was almost full, when I got caught, so no real harm. I was using the gravity fill, and not connected at both ends.