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

Cosby Picnic Area—elevation 2,179 feet (~664 meters)—includes 35 sites and a pavilion near places for hiking, horseback riding, and fishing (license required). Proximal trails include the Gabes Mountain Trail and Low Gap Trail.

Impromptu use of pavilions is allowed only when the pavilion has not been reserved.

Hiker parking area open year-round.

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.