Deep Creek - Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Creek · North Carolina
About this swimming hole
Great Smoky Mountains tubing headquarters, where you grab a tube near the park entrance and float Deep Creek's gentle rapids. The upper whitewater section ends at a wide, deep swimming hole; the lower section is a lazy float back to the parking lot. It's the classic Smokies summer day.
Good to know
| Water type | Creek |
|---|---|
| Depth | shallow to 8 ft |
| Best season | May-September |
| Fees | Free; park entrance fee; tube rentals from outfitters |
| Reservations required | No |
| Hours | Daylight hours |
| Parking | Deep Creek trailhead lot |
| Amenities | tube rentals nearby, picnic tables |
| County | Swain County |
| Nearest town | Bryson City |
| Safety notes | No lifeguard; upper section has rapids - know your limits |
Map
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Does Deep Creek - Great Smoky Mountains National Park require reservations?
No reservations are required at Deep Creek - Great Smoky Mountains National Park based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Deep Creek - Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
Reported fee info: Free; park entrance fee; tube rentals from outfitters. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Deep Creek - Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
The best season is typically May-September.
⚠️ Verify before you go. Conditions, fees, reservations, and access can change — confirm details with the official link before visiting. Last verified: September 2026