The Smoky Mountains are one of the most iconic RV travel destinations in the United States. With rolling blue ridgelines, scenic mountain drives, historic cabins, waterfalls, wildlife viewing, and family attractions, this region blends natural beauty with entertainment in a way few destinations can match.

Centered around Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the gateway towns of Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville, the area offers everything from full-service RV resorts to peaceful riverfront campsites tucked into wooded valleys.

If you are planning an RV trip to the Smokies, this complete campground guide breaks down the most popular and accessible options near the region’s top attractions. Whether you prefer resort style amenities or rustic mountain immersion, this guide will help you choose the right campground for your travel style.

Why the Smoky Mountains Are Perfect for RV Travelers

The Smokies are uniquely suited for RV camping for several reasons.

First, the national park itself does not charge an entrance fee, which makes extended stays more affordable compared to many other major parks. Second, the surrounding towns are built around tourism and provide easy access to groceries, fuel stations, dump stations, dining, and entertainment. Third, the mountain scenery is visible almost everywhere you park.

RV travelers appreciate the flexibility here. You can spend one day driving the scenic Cades Cove Loop, another hiking to waterfalls, and the next exploring Dollywood or shopping along the Parkway. You can return to your campsite each evening to cook dinner, relax outside, and enjoy cool mountain air.

Another reason RV camping thrives here is the wide variety of campground types. You can choose:

• Rustic national park campgrounds with no hookups
• Riverfront private parks with full hookups
• Large family resorts with pools and activities
• Smaller quiet campgrounds outside the main tourist corridor

Let’s break down each area and the campgrounds that consistently rank among the best.

Camping Inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park

For many travelers, staying inside the park itself is the ultimate Smoky Mountains experience. You are surrounded by forest, wildlife, and historic landscapes.

Keep in mind that most national park campgrounds do not offer electric, water, or sewer hookups. These are best suited for self-contained RVs or shorter stays.

Elkmont Campground

Elkmont is the largest and one of the most popular campgrounds in the Smokies. Located just minutes from downtown Gatlinburg near the Sugarlands Visitor Center, it offers an unbeatable combination of convenience and nature.

What makes Elkmont special:

• Large shaded campsites
• Access to the Little River
• Close proximity to Laurel Falls Trail
• Historic Elkmont cabins nearby
• Central location within the park

RVs are welcome, but there are no hookups. A dump station is available. Site lengths vary, so larger motorhomes should check restrictions carefully before booking.

Elkmont is especially popular during summer and fall foliage season. Reservations open six months in advance and typically fill quickly.

Cades Cove Campground

Cades Cove is one of the most photographed and visited areas in the Smokies. Staying here places you inside the famous 11 mile scenic loop known for wildlife viewing and historic buildings.

This campground offers:

• Spacious sites
• Access to bike rentals
• Incredible sunrise and sunset views
• Wildlife sightings including deer, turkey, and sometimes black bears

Like Elkmont, hookups are not available. However, for travelers seeking immersion in Smoky Mountain history and scenery, it is hard to beat.

RV Campgrounds in Pigeon Forge

If you want proximity to restaurants, entertainment, and attractions, Pigeon Forge is the most convenient location to stay.

The Parkway runs through the center of town and connects to attractions like The Island, dinner shows, outlet shopping, and Dollywood. Campgrounds here range from quiet riverfront parks to full resort destinations.

Pigeon Forge / Gatlinburg KOA Holiday

Pigeon Forge / Gatlinburg KOA Holiday remains one of the most consistently booked RV parks in the area.

Why travelers choose this KOA:

• Full hookup sites including 50 amp
• Deluxe patio sites available
• Pool and splash features
• Playground and fishing pond
• WiFi and cable
• Trolley stop access

The location allows easy access to both Pigeon Forge attractions and the national park entrance in Gatlinburg.

This campground is particularly appealing to families who want organized activities and a lively environment while still being able to retreat to their RV at night.

Riveredge RV Park and Log Cabin Rentals

Riveredge RV Park and Log Cabin Rentals offers one of the best combinations of walkability and river access.

Highlights include:

• Sites along the Little Pigeon River
• Walking distance to restaurants and attractions
• Heated pool and hot tub
• Splash pad and arcade
• Clean bathhouses

Riveredge is ideal for RVers who want to park and explore without driving everywhere. During peak seasons, the ability to walk to attractions is a major advantage.

Camp Margaritaville RV Resort & Lodge

Camp Margaritaville RV Resort & Lodge – Pigeon Forge delivers a completely different experience compared to traditional campgrounds.

This is a true resort with:

• Resort style pool and water slide
• Lazy river
• Restaurant and bar
• Dog park
• Pickleball courts
• Entertainment center

It is especially popular with families and long weekend travelers looking for a high energy vacation experience.

If you prefer quiet and minimal activity, this may not be your ideal setting. If you enjoy a social atmosphere and amenities, it is one of the top choices in the Smokies.

Creekside RV Park

Creekside RV Park provides a more relaxed atmosphere while remaining close to the Parkway.

Features include:

• Full hookup sites
• Saltwater pool
• Laundry facilities
• Covered pavilion
• Clean and well maintained grounds

This park appeals to couples and small families who want convenience without a full resort environment.

RV Campgrounds Near Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg has a slightly different feel than Pigeon Forge. It is more compact and sits directly against the national park boundary. The mountain backdrop feels closer and more dramatic here.

Many RV parks in this area are located along rivers and wooded corridors.

Greenbrier Campground

Greenbrier Campground is located about six miles from downtown Gatlinburg and consistently receives strong reviews.

What makes Greenbrier stand out:

• Over 120 full hookup sites
• Many sites directly on the river
• Natural swimming areas nearby
• Quiet wooded setting
• Easy access to both Gatlinburg and the park

Travelers who prioritize scenery often prefer this campground. The riverfront sites are especially desirable during summer months.

Wears Valley and Quieter Surrounding Areas

If Parkway traffic is not appealing to you, consider staying in Wears Valley or slightly outside the main tourist corridor.

This region offers scenic drives, open farmland views, and a more peaceful environment while still being within 20 to 30 minutes of major attractions.

Honeysuckle Meadows RV Park

Honeysuckle Meadows RV Park sits in Wears Valley between Pigeon Forge and Townsend.

Why travelers choose this location:

• Peaceful valley setting
• Creek access
• Pool and clubhouse
• Full hookups
• Less traffic congestion

It is an excellent option for travelers who want to explore the Smokies during the day and return to a quieter setting at night.

Seasonal Considerations for Smoky Mountains RV Camping

Spring

Spring brings blooming wildflowers and flowing waterfalls. Rain is common, so be prepared for wet conditions. Campgrounds are less crowded compared to summer.

Summer

Summer is the peak season. Expect full campgrounds, busy traffic, and warm temperatures. Booking several months in advance is highly recommended.

Fall

Fall foliage season, especially October, is one of the most competitive booking periods. The mountain colors attract visitors from across the country. Reserve early and expect higher demand.

Winter

Winter camping is quieter and peaceful. Some campgrounds close seasonally, so confirm availability before planning a trip. Snow is possible but typically not extreme at lower elevations.

Driving and RV Accessibility Tips

The Smoky Mountains region is generally RV friendly, but there are important considerations.

• Check RV length restrictions at national park campgrounds
• Avoid steep backroads unless comfortable with mountain driving
• Plan fuel stops before entering the park
• Be cautious during heavy rain or fog

Most major routes between Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg are suitable for large motorhomes and travel trailers.

Choosing the Right Campground for Your Travel Style

If you want entertainment and amenities, stay in Pigeon Forge.
If you want river views and quick park access, choose Gatlinburg.
If you want immersion in nature, book inside the national park.
If you want fewer crowds, consider Wears Valley.

There is no single best campground for everyone. The best campground is the one that matches your expectations for comfort, activity level, and scenery.

Final Thoughts on Smoky Mountains RV Camping

RV camping in the Smoky Mountains offers one of the most balanced travel experiences in the country. Few places allow you to hike waterfalls in the morning, explore theme parks in the afternoon, and relax by a mountain river in the evening.

With options ranging from rustic national park campgrounds to full service luxury RV resorts, the Smokies truly have something for every kind of traveler.

Whether you are planning your first RV trip or returning for another mountain getaway, choosing the right campground will shape your experience. Consider your priorities, book early during peak seasons, and prepare for mountain weather changes.

No matter where you park your RV, waking up to cool mountain air and mist drifting through the ridges is something that never gets old.

Planning Your Smoky Mountains Trip? Start with the Right RV

Exploring the Smoky Mountains is incredible. Doing it in the right RV makes it unforgettable.

Before you book your campground in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge, it is worth making sure your RV fits your travel goals. Are you planning to stay inside the national park without hookups? A well-equipped travel trailer with strong battery capacity may be ideal. Want to stay at a resort-style campground with full hookups and amenities? A spacious fifth wheel or luxury motorhome might be the perfect fit.

This is where Great American RV comes in.

With decades of experience helping families hit the road, Great American RV specializes in matching customers with RVs that fit their lifestyle, not just their budget. Whether you are:

• Buying your first camper
• Upgrading for more space
• Looking for a lightweight towable
• Searching for a motorhome built for mountain travel

Our team understands how and where RV owners actually travel, including destinations like the Smoky Mountains.

Why the Right RV Matters in the Smokies

The Smoky Mountains region includes:

• Mountain roads with elevation changes
• Campgrounds with varying site lengths
• National park sites without hookups
• Busy tourist areas where maneuverability matters

Choosing the right size, weight, and layout can make a major difference in your experience.

A smaller, easier to tow travel trailer might be perfect for navigating tighter roads and national park sites. On the other hand, if you prefer full hookup resorts in Pigeon Forge, a larger fifth wheel with outdoor kitchen and upgraded storage could elevate your stay.

The team at Great American RV can walk you through these considerations before you ever leave the lot.

Service and Support Before You Travel

One of the biggest advantages of working with a reputable dealership is ongoing support.

Before heading to the Smokies, you can:

• Schedule a full system check
• Ensure your brakes and towing setup are correct
• Verify your batteries and tanks are road ready
• Get advice on campground compatibility

That peace of mind matters when you are planning a mountain getaway.

Making the Smokies a Tradition

Many families visit the Smoky Mountains once and then return year after year. Having the right RV turns that first trip into a tradition.

From weekend escapes to extended fall foliage stays, the flexibility of RV ownership opens up more than just one destination. It opens up a lifestyle.

If the Smoky Mountains are calling your name, visiting Great American RV before your trip could be the first step toward many mountain mornings ahead.