Outer Haven Campground, Cosby, TN

For residents of Tennessee, the call of the Great Smoky Mountains is a powerful one, beckoning with promises of breathtaking vistas, winding trails, and serene natural beauty. While many flock to the bustling tourist centers of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, a quieter, more authentic experience awaits those who venture into the charming and less-traveled community of Cosby. Here, you'll discover Outer Haven Campground, a true gem that offers a peaceful and welcoming retreat, perfect for Tennesseans looking to reconnect with nature and create lasting memories.

Outer Haven Campground has quickly gained a reputation for its ease of use, meticulous cleanliness, and, most notably, its exceptional ownership. As one delighted customer shared, "First time ever camping with a camper. This campground was easy to navigate and easy to back the camper in and to hook up the water and sewage to the camper. Had it hooked up within several minutes. The owners are great and friendly and came by to check on us several times. The area is good and close to several things in Cosby and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Will be back for sure. Thank you for helping us make a great memory." Another echoed this sentiment, stating, "Truly is an amazing place to stay, very clean and friendly people. It is peaceful and quiet and amazing ownership and camp host. Highly recommended!" This consistent feedback highlights Outer Haven Campground as a place where convenience meets genuine hospitality, set against the backdrop of the stunning Smoky Mountains. Whether you're an experienced RVer or trying camping with a camper for the first time, this campground provides a comfortable and stress-free environment to enjoy the best of East Tennessee.

Location and Accessibility

Outer Haven Campground is wonderfully situated at 4111 Chavis Rd, Cosby, TN 37722, USA. This address places it in the scenic and tranquil community of Cosby, which is widely known as the "quiet side" of the Great Smoky Mountains. This location offers a perfect balance: a peaceful escape from the everyday hustle, yet still conveniently close to the majestic national park and other regional attractions.

For Tennessee residents, reaching Outer Haven Campground is a pleasant and manageable drive. Cosby is accessible via U.S. Route 321, a well-maintained road that connects to Newport to the north and leads directly into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the south. From major East Tennessee cities like Knoxville, the drive is approximately an hour, offering picturesque views of the rolling hills and burgeoning mountain landscape as you approach. The camp's specific location on Chavis Road suggests a turn off the main thoroughfare, leading to a more secluded and private setting, which is a significant draw for those seeking true relaxation.

The advantage of being in Cosby is paramount for locals. It means being directly on the doorstep of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park without the intense traffic and crowds often associated with the Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge entrances. This allows for easier access to hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic drives like the Foothills Parkway, providing an authentic mountain experience. Additionally, while offering a serene atmosphere, Outer Haven Campground is still within a 35-45 minute drive of the major attractions in Dollywood, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg, offering the flexibility to experience both peaceful nature and lively entertainment when desired. This convenient yet tranquil location makes Outer Haven an ideal base for exploring the best of the Tennessee Smokies.

Services Offered

Outer Haven Campground provides a thoughtful selection of services designed to make your camping experience comfortable, convenient, and truly enjoyable. Their focus on essential amenities, combined with personal touches, sets them apart.

Full Hookup RV Sites: The campground offers dedicated RV spots that are easy to navigate and feature full hookups, including water, sewer, and electricity. As one reviewer noted, hooking up "the water and sewage to the camper" was quick and simple, indicating well-maintained and accessible connections.
Community Bathhouse: A highly valued amenity, especially for tent campers or those in glamping units, is the "well-appointed bathhouse" with hot showers and toilets. The emphasis on cleanliness is a recurring theme in guest reviews, ensuring a comfortable experience.
Unique Glamping Accommodation: Outer Haven features distinctive glamping options, specifically mentioning "Gypsy's BoHo Retreat," which is a "Lotus Bell tent." These tents come "beautifully decorated" and are equipped with comforts like "comfy memory foam mattresses," air conditioning, heating, electricity, and WiFi. Each glamping tent also boasts its "own private pergola," a picnic table, and a grill.
Fire Pits and Grills: Whether you're in an RV site or a glamping tent, each spot typically includes a fire pit or ring and a grill, perfect for campfires and outdoor cooking under the stars.
Complimentary WiFi: Guests can stay connected during their mountain escape, with WiFi available at the glamping tents and likely throughout parts of the campground.
Owner and Camp Host Presence: A significant service highlight is the active and friendly presence of the owners and camp host. Reviews commend them for being "great and friendly," "amazing ownership and camp host," who "came by to check on us several times." This personal attention ensures guests feel welcomed and supported.
Pet Policy for RV Sites: Pets are generally allowed on RV sites (under 50 pounds and on a leash), making it a suitable option for those traveling with their furry companions. Note that pets are generally not allowed in the glamping tents or bathhouse.
Firewood Sales: Guests can purchase firewood on-site for convenience, with a stated price of "$5.00 a tote/bucket."

These services collectively ensure that Outer Haven Campground caters to both traditional RVers and those seeking a unique glamping experience, all within a clean and well-managed environment.

Features / Highlights

Outer Haven Campground stands out in the Cosby, TN, area due to several distinctive features and highlights that enhance the camping experience for its guests.

Exceptional Owner/Host Hospitality: This is a consistent highlight. Reviewers praise the "great and friendly" owners and "amazing ownership and camp host" who "go above & beyond" and "came by to check on us several times." This personal, welcoming touch makes guests feel truly at home and well-cared for.
Ease of Navigation and Hookup: Especially beneficial for RVers, the campground is designed for easy navigation, making it simple to "back the camper in and to hook up the water and sewage to the camper" within minutes. This reduces stress for both novice and experienced RVers.
Peaceful and Quiet Environment: Located on the "quiet side" of the Great Smoky Mountains, the campground offers a "peaceful and quiet" atmosphere. This serenity is ideal for those looking to truly relax and disconnect from the noise of city life.
Unique Glamping Tents: The availability of "beautifully decorated Lotus Bell tents" like "Gypsy's BoHo Retreat" provides a luxurious and comfortable alternative to traditional tent camping. These glamping tents come with amenities such as memory foam mattresses, AC/heating, private pergolas, and grills.
Proximity to Great Smoky Mountains National Park: The campground's location in Cosby offers direct and easy access to the less crowded entrances of the national park. This allows for more immediate enjoyment of hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic drives without navigating heavy tourist traffic.
Natural Surroundings: While specific natural features are not detailed, the Cosby area is renowned for its lush forests and mountain views. The reviews imply a natural setting conducive to making "lifelong memories around the fire" and enjoying outdoor activities.
Clean Facilities: The emphasis on "very clean" facilities, particularly the bathhouse, ensures a comfortable and pleasant stay for all guests, regardless of their chosen accommodation type.

These features collectively create a highly inviting, convenient, and relaxing environment, making Outer Haven Campground a top choice for a memorable Smoky Mountain adventure.

Promotions or Special Offers

Specific, ongoing promotions or special offers for Outer Haven Campground are best confirmed directly with the owners, as these can change seasonally or be part of limited-time campaigns. However, based on common practices for campgrounds of this nature, and the emphasis on personalized service, guests might inquire about:

Longer Stay Discounts: Campgrounds often offer reduced rates for extended stays (e.g., weekly or monthly rates), which could be appealing for those looking to immerse themselves in the Smoky Mountains for a longer period.
Off-Season Rates: During less busy periods outside of peak summer or fall foliage seasons, rates for both RV sites and glamping tents may be more economical.
First-Time Visitor Specials: Occasionally, new visitors might be offered a small discount or a special amenity to encourage them to experience the campground.
Military/Senior Discounts: Some campgrounds offer special rates for military personnel, veterans, or seniors.
Package Deals for Glamping: The glamping tents, being a unique offering, might be bundled with certain amenities or experiences as a package deal.

Given the owners' reputation for being "friendly" and "responsive," contacting Outer Haven Campground directly via phone is the most reliable way to inquire about current pricing, availability, and any special offers that might be available for your intended stay.

Contact Information

To learn more about Outer Haven Campground, inquire about campsite availability (for RVs or glamping tents), or make a reservation for your peaceful retreat in Cosby, you can contact them using the following details:

Address: 4111 Chavis Rd, Cosby, TN 37722, USA

Phone: (865) 304-4145

Mobile Phone: +1 865-304-4145

It is highly recommended to call ahead, especially during peak camping seasons or if you have specific requirements for your RV or a glamping tent. Direct communication with the friendly owners, as highlighted in customer reviews, will ensure you receive the most accurate and up-to-date information on availability, rates, and any specific policies. They look forward to helping you plan your visit and make lasting memories in the Great Smoky Mountains.

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for Locals

For residents of Tennessee, Outer Haven Campground in Cosby offers an exceptionally suitable and appealing option for their next outdoor adventure, particularly for those who cherish peace, convenience, and genuine hospitality. Its location on the "quiet side" of the Great Smoky Mountains provides the perfect antidote to the stress of daily life, allowing locals to truly unwind in a serene natural setting.

The ease of navigating and hooking up campers, as consistently praised by first-time and returning visitors, removes much of the typical hassle associated with RV camping, making it a stress-free experience for any Tennessean with a recreational vehicle. The availability of a clean, well-appointed bathhouse and unique glamping tents ensures that comfort is not sacrificed, even for those preferring a more rustic experience.

What truly sets Outer Haven apart for locals is the personalized care from the owners. Their active presence, friendliness, and willingness to "go above & beyond" create a welcoming atmosphere that transforms a simple camping trip into a cherished memory. This level of hospitality fosters a sense of being cared for, which resonates deeply with the spirit of Southern charm. Furthermore, the campground's direct access to the less crowded areas of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park means locals can enjoy the park's beauty without the common tourist congestion, truly immersing themselves in nature. For Tennesseans seeking a peaceful, convenient, and genuinely friendly retreat in their own backyard, Outer Haven Campground offers an ideal escape where great memories are sure to be made.