Anthony Creek Horse Camp
As part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Anthony Creek Horse Camp is set within a pristine valley perfect for outdoor activities. Camping along beautiful Anthony Creek is popular throughout the year. In the spring, the area is decorated with colorful wild flowers, while the orange and auburn hues of fall are an unbeatable sight. In keeping with nature and the history of the area, Anthony Creek Horse Camp features woods camping at its finest. There are no electrical hookups or showers. For more modern camping facilities, the nearby Cades Cove Horse Camp is located within walking distance and includes electrical hookups, flushing toilets and drinking water.
Both campgrounds are located within close proximity to a huge range of outdoor activities. Once a Cherokee Indian hunting ground, Cades Cove was later settled by early pioneers who remained here until the founding of the national park in the mid 20th century. As a result, the Cades Cove area features a unique mix of historical and natural attractions including a number of historic log buildings, churches and mills which can still be viewed. Aside from the historical attraction, the wildlife that roams the region ranges from wild turkeys and raccoons to white-tailed deer, coyotes and black bears. Both Cades Cove and Anthony Creek Campgrounds are considered to be black bear territories by the local parks authority so campers must take the necessary precautions in order not to attract bears into the campgrounds. This means that all food and food preparatory items must be keep in vehicles when not in use and that all waste must be disposed of properly.
With all the natural scenery, hiking is by far the most popular activity in the area. Trails from the campgrounds lead to Bote Mountain and Abram’s Falls as well as a number of other destinations. Along the way, hikers can enjoy the sounds of wild birds fluttering through the forest canopy and the various plant life along the trail. Lucky visitors will encounter wild turkeys or even deer along the way. The creeks and streams that flow through Cades Cove are a popular spot for fly fisherman seeking the area’s native trout.
Camping at both Anthony Creek Horse Camp and Cades Cove Campground is available throughout the year with approximately 160 sites open (3 horse sites at Anthony Creek). Though the facilities are basic, the town of Townsend is located just 9 miles away and offers a full service grocery store and gas station, making the trip more convenient. Whether visiting in the middle of the spring bloom or as the leaves begin the fall, the Great Smoky Mountains offers the finest in American camping experiences.
Contact Details
Campground 865-448-2472
Reservation 877-444-6777
Customer Service 888-445-1474
Backcountry Permits 877-550-6777