Summer Camping Destination: Great Smoky Mountains National Park

If you’re looking for a beautiful and unforgettable summer camping destination to visit in your new or used RV this summer, look no further than Great Smoky Mountains National Park! This stunning National Park offers you countless things to do, see, and explore with your family. What are you waiting for? Learn more below, then pack your bags and hit the road!

Cades Cove

Cades Cove is a visitor favorite at the park, and it’s easy to see why! Enjoy driving the Cades Cove tour – a gorgeous 11-mile scenic stretch. It’s also well known for spotting wildlife, including the many black bears that live within the park, so keep your eyes peeled, your cameras out, and plan to drive at a leisurely, unrushed pace. Find out more information here.

Mountain Hiking

If you’ve never hiked a mountain path with a crystal clear stream of water or a sparkling waterfall nearby, you’re in for a treat! The Smoky Mountains is full of opportunities like these, ready for beginner hikers, families with small children, or experienced, advanced adventurers. Learn more about different nature hikes and trails in the park here.

Wildlife Spotting

Cades Cove isn’t the only place you might spy a black bear! They’re among the most common – and popular! – wildlife to get a peek at. And it’s impossible to go through any souvenir shop and not spy black bear themed trinkets to take back home as mementos. Enjoy your wildlife encounters from a safe distance. Absolutely do not antagonize, confront, or even try to feed wildlife. Approaching bears within 50 yards is illegal at the park, so make sure your vacation is fun, memorable, and safe. Get more bear safety regulations and tips here.

Camping at the Park

There are several campground options at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and you can choose which one best reflects your camping style. Learn more about those campgrounds here.

This gorgeous National Park is one that will quickly jump to the top of your family’s favorites, and you’ll want to return again and again! It’s beautiful in the summer as well as in the fall, so why not plan a preliminary summer vacation now with plans to return this fall?