The great outdoors is calling, it’s time for you to plan your camping trip to the incredible Smoky Mountains! Camping in the Smoky Mountains offers majestic scenery, a peaceful atmosphere, and fun activities — but if you’ve never camped in this incredible landscape before, there are a few things to consider before you embark to ensure an epic camping trip.
Essential Camping Considerations
Spontaneity might be the spice of life, but poorly planned camping can be a recipe for disaster. When it comes to camping in the Smoky Mountains, it’s best to research and plan ahead of time. Here are essential considerations when it comes to the camping itself.
Types of Camping
To state the obvious, you’ll need to decide how you’ll be camping before you leave for your trip. If you want a classic experience, try tent camping. Not ready to give up your everyday luxuries? You may choose to opt for a more comfortable experience at an RV site — each with a full hookup (water, sewer, and electric), BBQ, fire pit, and picnic table. Cabins are also available for rent if you need a little more elbow room.
What to Pack
Search the web for packing checklists to ensure you don’t forget anything important, like food, water, bedding, cookware, toiletries, or first aid kits. Remember — the temperature in the Smokies can fluctuate, so be sure to pack clothes you can layer and blankets to stay warm as you make s’mores by the campfire.
Staying Safe
You know what they say — “it’s all fun and games until somebody gets hurt.” Unfortunately, serious injuries and fatalities occur every year in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The two leading causes of death are motor vehicle accidents and drownings. We recommend that you and your family review the park’s safety guidelines before the camping trip so everyone can stay safe and have an amazing time.
Things to Do on Your Camping Trip
Camping is an adventure in and of itself, but if you are looking for more to explore, we have some options for you!
National Park
A quintessential thing to do when camping in the Smoky Mountains is exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This sprawling natural preserve encompasses lush forests, wildflowers, streams, rivers, and waterfalls. The park also offers many activities, like bicycling, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, and so much more!
Little Pigeon River
Located in Sevier County, Tennessee, the Little Pigeon River flows along the borders between Tennessee and North Carolina within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. In addition to fun activities like hiking, fishing, and swimming, there are lots of other things to do close by like stroll along the Riverwalk Greenway or visit the Old Mill.
Area Attractions
There’s something for everyone on your camping trip thanks to Pigeon Forge’s many area attractions. Dollywood (yes, as in Dolly Parton) — one of the world’s best amusement parks, is a thrilling place to spend the day with your kids and is just a short drive away. Looking for grown-up fun? Taste the flavors of the Smoky Mountains with a wine tasting from Mountain Valley Vineyards, or dine at one of the 80+ restaurants at The Island — a 23-acre entertainment and dining complex.
Stay in the Heart of Pigeon Forge
Take the plunge and start planning your Smoky Mountains camping trip today! Make your camping experience unforgettable by booking your stay now at RVC’s new destination, Pigeon Forge Landing RV Resort. We offer the newest accommodations and amenities set along a natural lazy river in the best location in Pigeon Forge. Enjoy the beauty of the Smoky Mountains just minutes away from all the wonderful attractions and things to do.
