BALSAM MOUNTAIN REGION
The Balsam Mountain Region of Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the least developed areas in the park. Most of it is reached via Balsam Mountain Road, a one-way dirt road that forms a loop using roads that lie mainly outside the park boundaries: the Blue Ridge Parkway and Big Cove Road. The region has a small campground for tent and RV camping, a campground for those with horses, a picnic area, and many hiking trails. I was not able to do any hiking in this area, so be sure to pick up a trail map at any of the park’s Visitor Centers to plan your own hiking trips.
CAMPGROUNDS
Balsam Mountain Campground
43-site campground that accommodates both tent campers and RVs no longer than 24 feet long. This campground is usually open from late May through early October. Reservations are required.
Round Bottom Horse Camp
5-site campground for those with horses. Open early April through the end of October. Reservations are required.
PICNIC AREAS
Heintooga Picnic Area
Small picnic area located at the end of Heintooga Ridge Road. Typically open from late May though mid-October. First come, first served.
SCENIC DRIVES
Balsam Mountain Loop Drive
50-mile loop drive that circles the Balsam Mountain area.
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Last updated on June 27, 2022
