Where to Stay in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park: Best Areas, Towns, and Hotels
Where to stay in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park has a lot to do with what you like to do. Below are suggestions for campers, hikers, families (with kids), or budget-friendly. My top 3 suggestions for each category are highlighted and a list of honorable mentions.
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Where to stay in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park: Best Areas and Towns
The question that often comes up is, “Is there lodging in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park?” The answer is yes! Both campgrounds and the LeConte Lodge (which is only accessible on foot by hiking routes that are from 5 to 8 miles) are available in the park.
The next four sections offer suggestions for places to stay within the park (campsites) and nearby, including campsites and hotels.
Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Where to Stay in or near the Park for Campers
If you love to hike and commune with nature, then camping inside the park or near the park may be the best choice for you.
Some campgrounds offer only tent camping, some offer only RV camping, and some offer a mixture of both, so be sure to select what works best for your situation.
📍 Book Your Campsite near the Great Smoky Mountain National Park
Where to Camp in the Park
In the park, there are 10 campgrounds available. You will find some in Tennessee, some in North Carolina, and a couple along the border of the two states. My top three recommended campgrounds are as follows:
Cades Cove Campground in TN
With so much to see and do in Cades Cove, you will enjoy visiting the historic structures, hanging out with the wildlife, and taking in all the scenic beauty that the seasons bring. Cades Cove is open year-round. Check out all the facilities and information on Cades Cove Campground.
👉 Book your campsite in Cades Cove Campground
Cataloochee Campground in NC
Cataloochee Campground is located in the remote historic Cataloochee Valley and offers visitors activities like hiking and fishing, often without the crowds that other parts of the park may have. This campground is open from spring (April/May) through the end of October. Check out all the facilities and information on Cataloochee Campground.
Elkmont Campground in TN
Located closest to Gatlinburg at only 8 miles away, Elkmont is the largest and also the business campground in the park. Depending on the weather, this campground is open from early spring to late fall. Check out all the facilities and information on Elkmont Campground.
Where to Camp in the Park with Horses
In the park, there are 5 horse campgrounds available. My top recommended horse campground is:
Big Creek Horse Campground in NC
First, you must have a horse to stay in Big Creek Horse Campground. It is located on the northeastern side of the park and has the waters of the Big Creek and miles of horse trails with stunning scenery. This campground is pretty rustic, offering only the basic amenities. Check out the facilities and information on Big Horse Campground.
Where to Camp Near the Park
If you are looking for campgrounds closer to the towns of Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Cherokee, and Sevierville, there are plenty to choose from. These campgrounds will often have additional amenities like pools and activities that the park campgrounds do not have. Here are my top 3 recommendations.
KOA Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg
KOA offers tent camping to RV camping, to cabins for rent and is open year-round. Amenities include basketball, a gem mine, horseshoe pits, a laundry room, pet facilities, and more.
👉 Book your KOA Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg Campground
Greenbrier Campground
Situated in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Greenbrier Campground is the perfect place to experience all that Tennessee has to offer. From hiking and biking trails to fishing and swimming holes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And with its convenient location just minutes from Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, it’s the perfect basecamp for exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
So come on down and enjoy all that Greenbrier Campground has to offer! I know you’ll love it here as much as we do.
👉 Book your Greenbrier Campground site
Imagination Mountain
Imagination Mountain Campground is a family-oriented campground located in Cosby, TN. Offering a variety of activities for guests, including hiking, fishing, swimming, and more. The goal is to provide a fun and safe environment for families to enjoy the great outdoors. Check out all the amenities offered.
Other recommended campgrounds near the park
- Outside the park
- The Little Sundrop
- Pond Springs
- Happy Valley Hideaway
- Wildercamp
- Hidden Creek Retreat Tent Camping
- By the Creek Campspot
- Cedar Rock
- Camp Tuck
- Mill Creek Resort
- Balsam Mountain Campground
- Cherokee/Great Smokies KOA Holiday
- Yogi Bear in the Smokies
👉 Book other campgrounds near the Great Smoky MountainNational Park
Best Things To Do In Great Smoky Mountain National Park
In the park, you can do many activities on your own or you can choose to go with professional guides on driving tours, hikes, and other activities.
The top 3 tours I recommend are as follows:
Driving Tour
One of the ways many people enjoy the park is by driving through the many roads to sightsee. I really enjoy using a self-driving tour app to enhance the experience by listening to information about what I am seeing. This app will explain the history and legends of the area.
Hike the Trails
In the park, you can hike the trails on your own or go with a professional guide. I like to do a little of both.
You can explore Cades Cove on your own or use a self-driving tour that will narrate what you are seeing so you don’t miss anything!
Of course, there are many additional activities in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. For more information check out Is the Great Smoky Mountain National Park worth visiting?
Smoky Mountains, Where to Stay in Gatlinburg for Hiking
Gatlinburg, TN, is a beautiful mountain town set along the Little Pigeon River. There are plenty of hotels, places to eat, and activities to do.
Where to Stay in Gatlinburg, TN
When planning a trip to Gatlinburg, TN, consider staying at one of the many hotels located near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Hiking is a popular activity in the park, and there are many trails of varying difficulty levels to choose from. Staying at a hotel near the park will allow you to easily access the trails and enjoy the many scenic views.
Some of the best hotels for hiking in Gatlinburg, TN, include the following:
📍Book Your Hotel in Gatlinburg, TN
The Lodge at Buckberry Creek
The Lodge at Buckberry Creek is a rustic hotel located only fifteen minutes from the park. Rooms include a private balcony, a gas fireplace, a kitchen with a full-size refrigerator, and much more. All the included amenities can be found here.
👉 Book your room at The Lodge at Buckberry Creek
The Appy Lodge
On the Appalachian Trail with rustic decor, you can’t ask for more from The Appy Lodge. The room includes a free parking pass in downtown Gatlinburg, along with a free breakfast, pool, and a refrigerator in the room.
Not in Gatlinburg, but worth mentioning for hiking, The Swag
The Swag is pricey but includes breakfast, lunch (available “to go” in a backpack if you plan to hike), and dinner, beautiful rooms, and you will not have to leave with so many trails available from this location. Check out the many experiences available at The Swag.
Other Recommended Hotels in Gatlinburg
- Bearskin Lodge On the River
- Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg
- The Park Vista – a Double Tree by Hilton Hotel
- Courtyard by Marriot Gatlinburg Downtown
- Hilton Garden Inn Gatlinburg
- Greystone Lodge on the River
- Carr’s Northside Cottages & Motel
- Hampton Inn Gatlinburg Historic Nature Trail
- Valley Forge Inn
- Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Spa
- Hilton Garden Inn Gatlinburg
Best Things To Do In Gatlinburg, TN
The top 3 tours I recommend are
- Explore a Simpler Time Smoky Mountain Tour
- Hidden Cascade Hiking Tour in the Great Smoky Mountains from Gatlinburg
- Moonshine Mountain Coaster Ride
Of course, there are many additional activities in Gatlinburg. For more information check out Is Gatlinburg Worth Visiting?
Smoky Mountains, Where to Stay in Pigeon Forge for Families & Kids
Pigeon Forge is a mountain resort city in Sevier County, Tennessee, located just five miles from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With its convenient location and wide range of attractions, Pigeon Forge is a popular destination for families and couples looking for a romantic getaway.
Some of the most popular attractions in Pigeon Forge include Dollywood, an amusement park featuring rides, shows, and dining; The Island in Pigeon Forge, a family entertainment complex with shops, restaurants, and a Ferris wheel; and Titanic Museum, a museum with all type of artifacts from the Titanic.
Where to Stay in Pigeon Forge
When it comes to accommodations, Pigeon Forge offers a wide range of options to suit every family’s preference. There are several kid-friendly hotels with pools, play areas, and kids’ clubs.
📍Book Your Hotel in Pigeon Forge, TN
Tru by Hilton Pigeon Forge
One of my favorite hotels in Pigeon Forge is Tru by Hilton. It has both an indoor and outdoor pool, and the outdoor pool has a water play area or splash zone. Also, it offers a rooftop area with tables, games, and a wonderful view. Check out all the amenities Tru has to offer.
Next door is a Home2 Suites that shares the outdoor pool, so if you can’t get into Tru or you need more space, try Home2 Suites.
👉 Book your room at Tru by Hilton Pigeon Forge
Black Fox Lodge Pigeon Forge, Tapestry Collection
The Black Fox Lodge is a beautiful, rustic lodge family-friendly hotel located in the heart of the Smoky Mountains. It’s the perfect place for a weekend getaway and offers plenty of activities for families to enjoy, including its close location to Dollywood.
The lodge also has a restaurant on site, which serves up delicious Southern cuisine. I highly recommend spending a weekend at the Black Fox Lodge to enjoy all it has to offer!
👉 Book your room at the Black Fox Lodge Pigeon Forge
Margaritaville Island Inn
Margaritaville Island Inn is family-friendly because it offers a wide variety of activities for people of all ages. There is a pool, arcade, and playground on the property, as well as a restaurant and shop. The inn is also close to several attractions in Pigeon Forge, including Dollywood, The Island, and the Titanic Museum. This makes it the perfect place to stay for a family vacation.
Other Recommended Hotels in Pigeon Forge
- Riverstone Resort & Spa
- Dollywood DreamMore Resort & Spa
- The Inn on the River
- Arbors at Island Landing Hotel & Suites
- Courtyard by Marriott Pigeon Forge
- The Inn at Christmas Place
- Margaritaville Island Hotel
- Econo Lodge Pigeon Forge Riverside
Best Things To Do In Pigeon Forge, TN
The top 3 tours I recommend are
- Wine Me, Shine Me, Dine Me – Must do Tour
- Jeep Tour of Smoky Mountains Foothills Parkway (Small Group)
- Titanic Museum
Of course, there are many additional activities in Pigeon Forge. For more information, check out Is Pigeon Forge worth visiting?
Smoky Mountains – Where to Stay in Sevierville for Budget Travelers
Sevierville is home to several museums and historical sites, such as the Smoky Mountain Museum and the Sevier County Courthouse.
The town of Sevierville is also a great place to enjoy some shopping and dining. There are many unique shops and restaurants located in the downtown area. Visitors can also find a variety of entertainment options, such as live music and theater.
Where to Stay in Sevierville, TN
Sevierville is an ideal destination for anyone on a budget visiting the Smoky Mountain area. No matter what your budget is, Sevierville has something to offer everyone.
📍Book Your Hotel in Sevierville, TN
Hampton Inn Sevierville
The Hampton Inn in Sevierville is a great place to stay if you are looking for a budget-friendly option that includes an indoor pool and free breakfast. The hotel is located just minutes from downtown Sevierville and Pigeon Forge and offers a variety of room types to fit your needs.
Whether you are traveling with family or friends, the Hampton Inn is a great place to stay with lots of amenities for the price!
👉 Book your room at Hampton Inn Sevierville
Berry Springs Lodge
Berry Springs Lodge is a budget-friendly luxury Sevierville, TN resort that offers guests plenty of activities. The resort features comfortable rooms and suites, an indoor pool and hot tub, a fitness center, a game room, and meeting spaces.
Guests can also enjoy the beautiful grounds, which include a river and waterfall. Berry Springs Lodge is the perfect place to stay for those who want to enjoy all that Sevierville has to offer without spending a lot of money.
The Resort at Governor’s Crossing
The Resort at Governor’s Crossing is a great place to stay for a budget-friendly family vacation. The resort offers a variety of amenities, including an on-site indoor and outdoor water park, a miniature golf course, and a game room. The rooms are spacious and come equipped with a refrigerator and microwave.
Families can also enjoy budget-friendly breakfast and dinner options at the on-site restaurant. The Resort at Governor’s Crossing is the perfect place to stay for a family vacation in Sevierville.
NOTE: A 2-day minimum stay is required.
Other Recommended Hotels in Sevierville
- Blue Mountain Mist Country Inn and Cottages
- The Lodge at Five Oaks
- Clarion Inn Willow River
- La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Sevierville/Kodak
- Club Wyndham Smoky Mountains
- Comfort Inn Apple Valley
- Days Inn by Wyndham Apple Valley Pigeon
- Pigeon River Inn
- Central Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection
- Sleep Inn Sevierville
Best Things To Do In Sevierville, TN
The top 3 tours I recommend are
- Douglas Lake View Scenic Helicopter Tour (inexpensive)
- Small Group 7-Line Zipline
- Winery Tour & Tastings from Tennessee
Of course, there are many additional activities in Sevierville. For more information check out Is Sevierville Worth Visiting?
Visiting Great Smoky Mountain National Park
People visit Great Smoky Mountain National Park for many reasons. Some come to hike the park’s 800 miles of trails. Others come to enjoy the park’s scenic beauty, which includes over 100 waterfalls. And still, others come to learn about the park’s rich cultural history.
Keep in Mind
No matter why you’re visiting Great Smoky Mountain National Park, there are a few things you should know before you go.
First, the park is huge – almost 500,000 acres. That means there’s a lot to see and do, so you’ll want to plan your visit accordingly.
Second, the park is located in a temperate climate, so it’s important to dress for the weather.
Third, because of its popularity, the park can be crowded, so it’s important to be patient and respectful of other visitors.
How many days should I stay?
There is so much to see in the park and surrounding areas, with scenic drives, hiking trails, wildlife, and tourist attractions at nearby towns like Gatlinburg, Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Cherokee.
I would recommend 2-3 days in the park and another 2-3 days for attractions like Dollywood, helicopter tours, and dinner theaters.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Where to Stay Near the Great Smoky Mountain National Park
Yes, the American Black Bear can be found in the park. There are around 1500 in the area. Do not approach. Give them their space.
You will need reservations during the busy times of the year Summer months, October, and around the holidays.
Animals in the park
For the fishermen, there are several places to fish for trout. Lynn Camp Prong of Little Pigeon River is a popular place as well as Douglas Lake, Little River, Cataloochee Creek, Abrams Creek, Deep Creek, and Fontana Lake.
Please keep in mind you need a valid fishing permit or license for anyone over 16 in both North Carolina and Tennessee.
The best place to see elk is near the Cherokee, NC entrance most often at the Cataloochee Valley and near the Oconaluftee Vistors center.
Yes, there are 17 waterfalls in the park and more than 40 in the Smoky Mountains. Most of the waterfalls in the park you will need to hike to. Some of the most popular include Laurel Falls, Juney Whank Falls, Abrams Falls, and the tallest in the area Mingo Falls.
There are three falls you can drive to Meigs Falls, The Sinks, and the Place of a Thousand Drips.
Pets including dogs are allowed in campgrounds, picnic areas, and by the roads, but must be kept on a leash.
In general, National Parks do not allow dogs, especially in the backcountry for several reasons. Dogs can carry diseases that will threaten the park’s wildlife and they may also chase and kill wildlife. Dogs can also become prey for predators such as bears and coyotes.
Yes, you can book vacation packages on TripAdvisor or book vacation packages on Expedia to the park. If you are flying, the closest major airports are McGee-Tyson Airport (TYS) in Alcoa, TN, just south of Knoxville, TN, or Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) in Asheville, NC.
Things to see
The best place to see the synchronous fireflies is at the Elkmont Campground inside the park. Each year, thousands of fireflies show up to put on a fabulous display.
Synchronous firefly males flash in unison in a way to attract the females, so in order to see them, you need to be at the park during mating season, which lasts 2-3 weeks each year.
You will be able to see the synchronous fireflies sometime in June. Check for the actual dates, which will be posted in April, and instructions for obtaining parking confirmation through a lottery held in late April through early May.
Yes, there are stores at all of the Visitor Centers in the park. You can also shop online.
There is limited food to purchase within the park. You can find some food, beverages, and groceries in the park visitor centers during peak season at the Cades Cove store.
The park is about 200 miles from Nashville. Plan to come and spend a weekend when visiting from Nashville.
The Wrap-Up: Where to Stay in Great Smoky Mountain National Park
There are many different options for places to stay near the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, depending on your budget and what activities you want to do. If you are a hiker, Gatlinburg is a great option with its many trails.
Sevierville is a good choice for families or those traveling on a budget because of its affordable hotels and motels. Pigeon Forge also has several family-friendly attractions, such as Dollywood. Whatever your preference, be sure to book soon as these places fill up fast!
