Open seasonally, mid-April to late-October, sunrise to sunset.

Big Creek Picnic Area—elevation 1,713 feet (~522 meters)—includes 10 sites nestled in a beautiful, remote section of the park. Big Creek is a popular fishing spot (fishing license required). Baxter Creek Trail and Mouse Creek Falls are nearby.

Tips for a Great Picnic

• Black bears reside in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and can die as a result of access to human food and trash. Promptly dispose of garbage in bear-proof trash cans. If you see a bear, do not approach it.
• Provided grills are for charcoal fires. Wood fires are not permitted.
• A Tennessee or North Carolina fishing license is required to fish in the park.
• Pets are permitted in picnic areas but cannot be left unattended. All pets must be kept on a leash at all times. Pets are allowed on the Oconaluftee River Trail and Gatlinburg Trail but not permitted on any other trails.