RV campgrounds in Smoky Mountains, is the best resource for finding the perfect spot to park your RV and start enjoying one of America's most beautiful National Parks.
There are lots of campgrounds to choose from, but finding a great RV park that meets your criteria can sometimes be tricky! We've provided helpful tips and recommendations on which Smoky Mountain RV campground to choose from!
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The Best RV Campgrounds in Smoky Mountains
The Smoky Mountains are the most visited National Park in the U.S., and there are many campgrounds. Choosing the RV park that works best for you can be time-consuming. We've done some of the leg work and found some parks for you!
All of our recommended campgrounds are located within easy driving distance to several of the Smoky Mountain National Park entrances and visitor centers.
The largest concentration of campgrounds are around Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, and next to the most popular entrance (Sugarlands Visitor Center).
Both Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg are busy towns loaded with fun activities, shopping, food, and entertainment for everyone in your family.
While busy towns may not be your cup of tea, there are a couple of RV-friendly campgrounds located in quieter areas so you can enjoy the outdoors!
We are not affiliated with any of these campground/RV parks (or paid). All opinions are our own 🙂
Why We Chose These RV Campgrounds in the Smoky Mountains
It is worth mentioning that everyone has their own criteria for a perfect RV Campground. Our criteria may be different than yours and that is totally fine! Each family has a different RV, different interests/hobbies, and different needs.
Some people have kids and pets, and others have none. Either way, the RV parks below are on the list because I believe they will work for most everyone - maybe not all, but MOST.
Luckily, there are many RV campgrounds in the Smoky Mountains to choose from so you will most definitely find one you love.
If, after reading this, you are still undecided about where to stay, I have given you some 'Best Of' options at the end. This may help swing your decision. One way or another we are going to find you the perfect RV campground in the Smoky Mountains! Happy searching!
Our Criteria For A Good RV Campground
Tell us what you look for in a great RV campground? What are your criteria? Please share in the comment section below. We'd LOVE to hear from you!
All of the campgrounds we've recommended meet the following criteria:
- We would personally stay there
- Max 50 amp service
- Full hookups
- Wi-Fi
- Big RV accessible
- Pet-friendly
- Kid-friendly
- Close proximity to Smoky Mountain National Park and the Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge area.
Our Personal Criteria:
We have a 2017 40' diesel pusher motorhome pulling a pickup truck, as well as 3 teens and 2 dogs. Our RV is newer so we're hoping to keep it looking newer.
While we aren't necessarily looking for the luxury experience, we want to make sure to find a campground with an easily accessible road, and a site that is wide enough (so trees can't scratch the outside finish), and we hope it isn't too dusty or muddy, OR on top of our neighbors.
Gravel and/or concrete pads are important. If possible, we also like a little shade (cause it's hot in the South).
We also need full hookups, a dog area (or at least a grassy patch for them to do their business), Wi-Fi (for work and our teens), and cable is an added bonus. I think cable is optional - but my husband says it's mandatory!
While my husband and I prefer a quiet serene environment, our kids like action and things to do. We try and locate places that work for all of us, which is hard 'cause we seem to have opposite interests, right? We aren't asking too much, are we? 🙂 Does anyone with teens know what I am talking about? LOL
Helpful Tips
- Call and make a reservation. This way you can get a knowledgeable person who can help you select the perfect site. While making a reservation online is convenient, a computer does not always know best.
- Ask the campground for the best driving route. Most will list this information on their site, but if not ask them when you have them on the phone when making your reservations. Most of you know this already if you own a large RV - never rely on your GPS directions without confirming the route first. While most of the RV campgrounds listed below are easily accessible, double-check. We come from the Charlotte area and our RV GPS is always trying to take us on some hairy roads through the mountains. I'd rather it take a little longer than have a stressful drive.
RV Campground Recommendations
These are our top recommendations for RV Campgrounds in the Smoky Mountains. If you know of any more that deserve to be listed, be sure to let us know!
Up The Creek RV Campground
Up The Creek RV Campground is located between 2 picturesque creeks, it feels like you are in the wilderness but you are actually quite near the action in Pigeon Forge. Creek sites are available as back-ins. While there is no pool or showers, they do have a dog park.
The sites are large and all have clean, level gravel pads with a concrete patio. Full hookups, 30/50 amp. wi-fit and cable. The campground is well priced, and a trolley service is available for visiting the pigeon forge sites - very convenient.
About 35 minutes from the Sugarlands Visitor Center in Smoky Mountain National Park.
Location:
1919 Little Valley Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37862
Contact/Reservations:
- Phone: 865-453-8474
- Email: reservations@upthecreekrvcamp.com
- Online: online reservations here
- Website: Up The Creek RV Campground website
Smoky Bear Campground and RV Park
Smoky Bear Campground and RV Park is located outside of Pigeon Forge by about 15 minutes and is in a much quieter area. Their amenities include fire pits, a pool, hot tub, and playground. They offer 30/50 amp, Wi-Fi, and cable at all sites.
They also have level pull-through and back-in sites. The pull-throughs are concrete padded. The campground is clean and well maintained. While they are pet-friendly, there is no specific dog park.
The RV park is approximately 35 minutes from the Sugarlands park entrance. This is a Good Sam Park.
Location:
4857 East Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Contact/Reservations:
- Phone: 865-436-8372
- Email: smokybearcampground@gmail.com
- Online: N/A
- Website: Smoky Bear Campground website
Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA
Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA is located within Pigeon Forge, with all the action close by. This a great place if you have kids because of the location and the activities that they offer. They are on the shuttle bus line for easy transportation around the area.
There are so many activities at this KOA - a jumping pillow, frisbee golf course, basketball, pool, hot tub, zero entry kids pool, outdoor movies, a gem mine, and even bicycle rentals. Other amenities include a concierge, a cafe offering breakfast, lunch, dinner, and ice cream (bonus!). They are also pet-friendly with a dog park.
The RV park offers Wi-Fi, cable, 30/50, full hookups, concrete and gravel pads. Premium sites are available with grills and patio furniture.
20 minutes from the Sugarlands visitor center. KOA member discount 10%
Location:
3122 Veterans Blvd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Contact/Reservations:
- Phone: 800-562-7703
- Email: pigeonforge@koa.com
- Online: online reservations here
- Website: Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA website
Smoky Mountain Premier RV Resort (Gatlinburg East/Smoky Mountain KOA)
Gatlinburg East/Smoky Mountain KOA (also called Smoky Mountain Premier RV Resort) is located outside of Gatlinburg by about 20 minutes in a much quieter and more peaceful area. It is a newer campground and is very pretty. They have lots of activities to keep the whole family busy including a pool, basketball court, kid-friendly organized activities, disc golf, a recreational area, and playground. They even offer live music at various times (check their schedule). This campground is also pet-friendly and has a dog park.
Gatlinburg East KOA offers Wi-Fi, cable, 30/50, full hookups, concrete and gravel pads. Premium sites are available with grills and patio furniture.
35 minutes from Sugarland Visitor Center. KOA member discount 10%.
Location:
4874 Hooper Highway, Cosby, TN 37722
Contact/Reservations:
- Phone: 844-557-6778
- Email: gatlinburg@koa.com
- Online: online reservations here
- Website: Gatlinburg East/Smoky Mountain KOA
Riveredge RV Park
Riveredge RV Park is a nice campground with well-maintained sites and grounds. It is situated on the Little Pigeon River, in Pigeon Forge along the main drag - but at the southern end closest to Gatlinburg. It is on the trolly stop which is super convenient. Some creek sites are available too, but they are closest to the road. Sites are not as big as some of the other RV campgrounds we've listed.
The campground has gravel pads with concrete patios. Amenities include Wi-Fi, cable, 30/50, and full hookups. Activities include a pool with a splash pad, playground, fishing, and a big game room/arcade - I know the teens love this!
17 minutes to Sugarlands visitor center. This park is a Good Sam Club member.
Location:
4220 Huskey St, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Contact/Reservations:
**Call to make a reservation and get assistance in selecting the right size campsite to fit your RV, make sure that it is easily accessible.
- Phone: (877) 881-7222
- Email: info@stayriveredge.com
- Online: online reservations here
- Website: Riveredge RV Park
Pine Mountain RV Park
Pine Mountain RV Park is off the main road in Pigeon Forge, so it's quieter than other parks. It is located at the Southern end of Pigeon Forge so you can bypass all the traffic as well. It's also slightly smaller than some of the other RV campgrounds we've mentioned.
Amenities include creekside sites, concrete pads, Wi-Fi, cable, concrete pads. 30/50 full hookups, a splash pad, access to a pool and lazy river at the MainStay Suites, a snack bar, and it's on the trolly stop so getting around town is easy.
22 minutes to Sugarlands Visitor Center.
Location:
411 Pine Mountain Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Contact/Reservations:
**If you have a longer RV or are pulling a vehicle, call to make a reservation to make sure you get the right spot to fit your rig.
- Phone: (865) 453-9994
- Email: stay@pinemountainrvpark.com
- Online: online reservations here
- Website: Pine Mountain RV Park
Townsend RV Park (Townsend/Great Smokies KOA)
Townsend RV Park is located on the Little River in the much quieter town of Townsend, TN but is still close to Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. This KOA offers a variety of campsites from more natural gravel sites to concrete pads. This campground feels more like a traditional camping experience but with all the amenities an RV'er needs. There are some riverside sites as well.
Amenities include full hookups, 30/50 amp, cable, and Wi-Fi. Activities include fishing, a playground, basketball court, dog park, a pool, bike rentals for bicycling the 5 mile Townsend bike trail (11-mile loop), and swimming or tubing on the river. Fun!
Located just outside the park on a less traveled entrance to Great Smoky National Park. Enter via the Townsend Entrance Rd.
Location:
8533 TN-73, Townsend, TN 37882
Contact/Reservations:
- Phone: (865) 448-2241
- Email: townsend@koa.net
- Online: online reservations here
- Website: Townsend/Great Smokies KOA
River Plantation RV Resort
River Plantation RV Resort is located in Sevierville which is North of Pigeon Forge. It is the furthest away from the Smoky Mountain National Park entrances, but still within a day trip drive.
It is a very pretty campground that is well maintained, and it has some riverfront sites available. Amenities include Wi-Fi, cable, 30/50, and full hookups. This is a Good Sam Park.
This resort has some nice activities that are offered. It has a great pool with a lazy river and splash pad, a playground, a basketball court, a fitness center, and a dog park. They also have lots of planned activities to keep your family happy.
Location:
1004 Parkway, Sevierville, TN 37862
Contact/Reservations:
- Phone: (865) 429-5267
- Email: info@riverplantationrv.com
- Online: online reservations here
- Website: River Plantation RV Resort
The 'Best Of' List
We created this "Best Of" list to help you decide where to stay. What is most important to you? Do you want to be near the action or nearest the national park entrance? Do you want a full-on resort or a quiet campground with more nature? What parks are best for kids? For teens?
Information for the campgrounds mentioned below are listed in the post above ⇑
Best Smoky Mountain RV Parks for Pets
All of the RV Campgrounds allowed pets, but the following had specific dog parks for the little furry ones to run off-leash.
- Up The Creek RV Campground
- Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA
- Gatlinburg East/Smoky Mountain KOA
- Townsend/Great Smokies KOA
- River Plantation RV Resort
Best Smoky Mountain RV Parks for Small Kids
- Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA
- Riveredge RV Park
- Townsend/Great Smokies KOA
Best Smoky Mountain RV Parks for Teens
- Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA
- Riveredge RV Park
Most Peaceful RV Parks in The Smokey Mountains
- Townsend/Great Smokies KOA
- Smoky Mountain Premier RV Resort (Gatlinburg East/Smoky Mountain KOA)
- Smokey Bear Campground
- Pine Mountain RV
Nearest the Smoky Mountain National Park Entrances
- Townsend/Great Smokies KOA (Townsend Entrance, Cades Cove)
- Riveredge RV Park (Sugarlands Entrance 17 minutes)
Smoky Mountain RV Parks In Pigeon Forge - Nearest The Action
- Riveredge RV Park
- Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA
Smoky Mountain RV Parks With Creekside Sites
- Up The Creek RV Campground
- Townsend/Great Smokies KOA
- Riveredge RV Park
Related Content
Here are some great RV park recommendations if you are planning on visiting any of the following areas:
- Our 8 Favorite RV Parks in the Carolinas and Virginia
- Best Door County Campgrounds
- 8 Best Myrtle Beach Campgrounds (SC RV Campgrounds)
- Best RV Parks in Black Hills SD
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Here are the best RV campgrounds in the Smoky Mountains. RV camping in the Smoky Mountains Tennessee is so much fun. There is so much to do and see not only within the National Park but in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge as well. Travel planning made easy - here are our best tips for finding the best RV parks. #rvcamping #smokymountains #travel #rvpark #camping #rv #smokymountaintennessee #gatlinburg #pigeonforge
Kim says
Thank you so much. We are planning to trip in April to this area and some of the parks I’ve looked at are on your list. Very helpful
thervlife says
You are so welcome and thanks for stopping by our site! 🙂 As a fellow RV'er I've found it quite a challenge to get good information on places to stay sometimes. Especially if you have a larger RV like we do! It is new but we are working to add more content all the time! -Kori
Debbie says
What a great information packed list and your categories are so helpful. We’re retired so like to find the more peaceful campgrounds.
thervlife says
Thank you! I hope you find it helpful. Now that are boys are mostly out of the house we travel on our own a lot. We've found we enjoy the quiet peaceful campgrounds when we travel without the kids. 🙂 We are within 2 hours of the Smoky Mountains and are goal is to get out and see more this year!
Dianne Little says
We always stay at Big Meadows Family Campground in Townsend Tenn, it is Close to park entrance and Cades Cove, has great grocery store, fuel stations, easy access to Foothills parkway, 15 minutes away from 4 lanes of traffic!
thervlife says
Great campground idea! Sounds like a perfect location. We will have to check it out 🙂 thank you!
Cheryl Paxton says
We stayed at Greenbrier campground last October and loved it! It was next to a creek, had a dog park, decorated for the fall. Wish I could attach pictures. Very friendly!
thervlife says
Great! Thank you so much! I will check out that campground for sure! 🙂
Donna F Hutchinson says
There is a new park now in Sevierville, which is now on our go-to. The Ridge Resort. Large concrete pads, some with gas fire pits, some tiny homes to rent, some glamping tents, pool, teen room with games, etc. It is about 3 minutes from the main drag in Pigeon Forge, but is not IN all the action.
thervlife says
Oooohhh! Thank you so much! I will check it out and add it to the list. We haven't been there recently so that is good information!
Alicia Hursley says
Thank you so much for sharing. We just barely finished our rv renovations with a cabinet refinishing. All we have to do now is choose some places we want to go and get after it.
thervlife says
Sounds good! 🙂 Enjoy all the trips!
Ruth says
Getting ready for trip to this area this summer (2023). Thanks so much for all the input. Now have a place to start in determining where we would like to stay.
thervlife says
That's wonderful! Enjoy you trip! Let us know if you have any tips or favorite places after your stay.:)