One of the best ways to experience the beauty of the Smokies is with a camping trip to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park! There is nothing quite like pitching a tent and sleeping under the stars, all while being surrounded by the peaceful sounds of nature! Therefore, it is no wonder why so many folks come to the Smokies every year to enjoy one of the park’s scenic campgrounds! Here are the top 5 reasons why you’ll love camping in the Smoky Mountains:
1. Excellent Campground Facilities
The national park maintains developed campgrounds at 10 different locations, including stunning destinations such as Cades Cove and Elkmont! While staying at these campground facilities, you’ll have access to drinking water stations and restrooms. In addition, each campsite has a fire grate and a picnic table so that you can enjoy a delicious picnic lunch among the mountains! Keep in mind that all of these campgrounds are quite popular, so you’ll want to make your Smoky Mountain camping reservations as soon as possible!
2. Proximity to Hiking Trails
The campgrounds in Great Smoky Mountains National Park are located within close proximity to a ton of scenic hiking trails, some which lead directly from the campground! There are hundreds of trails throughout the park for all skill levels, ranging from easy trails that are ideal for families to difficult trails for more experienced hikers! After enjoying a challenging hike, you can look forward to returning to your campsite for a relaxing evening!
3. Total Immersion into the Natural Environment
Another reason why you’ll love camping in the Smoky Mountains is because you’ll feel totally immersed into the natural environment! Wake up each morning to the ambiance of a gently flowing creek, birds chirping in the distance and other peaceful sounds of the forest! While it’s certainly understandable that some folks prefer the comforts and amenities of a hotel room, it is the campers who get the full Smoky Mountain experience!
4. Traditional Campground Activities
While camping in the mountains, your family and friends can take advantage of traditional campground activities! Of course, one of the most popular activities is an evening campfire where you can tell ghost stories, roast s’mores and share stories about your adventures in the Smokies! Keep in mind that you may only use heat treated firewood that is bundled and certified by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) or a state department of agriculture, as well as dead and down wood found in the park.
5. Pets Can Join the Fun
If you happen to have a furry companion at home, you’ll be happy to know that pets can join the fun of camping in the Smokies! The park service kindly asks that pet owners prevent excessive barking and properly dispose of any pet waste. Also, note that pets must be confined or on a leash that is a maximum of 6 feet long. If you want to get some exercise with your canine companion, head over to the Gatlinburg Trail or Oconaluftee River Trail as these are the two trails within the park that are dog-friendly!
Now that you know why you’ll love camping in the Smoky Mountains, check out some of the best campgrounds in the National Park to plan your adventure!
