Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Dense hardwood forest means trees are never the problem in the Smokies. Follow the 10 inch tree rule, pad your straps and you will have one of the best hangs in the East.
Yes, hammocks are allowed in campsites and designated backcountry sites with tree saver straps, but never in or on shelters.
- Frontcountry campgrounds: hammocks are allowed over the footprint of the campsite.
- Only use trees at least 10 inches in diameter, with adequate padding around the tree.
- No more than two hammocks may hang from one tree.
- Backcountry: hammocks may be set up where a tent would be suitable and follow the same rules as tents.
- Use Tree Saver straps or other wide straps that will not cut into trees.
- Hammocks may not be set up inside shelters or attached to any part of a shelter.
Rules change. Confirm with the land manager or campground host before you hang.
Hammockability breakdown
Mosquitoes, gnats and ticks are common from late spring through summer, lighter at higher elevations.
Humid summers with frequent afternoon storms. Higher ridges stay cooler and wetter.
- Alum Cave Trail
- Laurel Falls Trail
- Abrams Falls Trail
- Elkmont Campground
- Cades Cove Campground
- Smokemont Campground
What to bring
Gear picks that suit a hang at Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
If you like Great Smoky Mountains National Park, try
Likely yes, since campsites list hammocks as permitted equipment, but the park has no published hammock rule, so use wide straps and stay inside your site.
Yes, hammocks are officially permitted as long as you use straps that do not damage the trees.
Yes in many areas, but camping is banned at Graveyard Fields and limited to designated sites in parts of the Pisgah Ranger District.