Elkmont synchronous firefly viewing at Great Smoky Mountains: what applies in 2026?

Exact conditions

Status

Required under the listed conditions

Applies to

specific area

Place or corridor

Elkmont area, including the Elkmont entrance road, during the synchronous firefly viewing period

Effective dates

May 20, 2026 through May 27, 2026

Published fee

$29

Release model

lottery

Release detail: Lottery "opens at 10 a.m. April 24 EDT and closes at 11:59 p.m. April 27 EDT" on Recreation.gov. "Visitors may select two preferred viewing days when entering the lottery." The park issued "120 reservations per night for a total of 960".

Fee detail: "$1 fee" to enter the lottery, plus a "$29 reservation fee" if selected, which "covers the reservation, portable restrooms, supplies and staffing". Separate from the parking tag.

Exceptions and limits

• "Access is restricted after noon during the viewing period to vehicles with reservations and registered campers in Elkmont Campground" — so before noon the restriction does not apply.
• Limit of one lottery application per household per season.
• Each reservation admits one vehicle with up to seven occupants.