Best Places to Stay in the Smoky Mountains | 13 Great Spots

A stoic structure nestles within the Tennessee-North Carolina border; the Great Smoky Mountains is a hilled haven waiting to be discovered and explored. With a bountiful bundle of animal sightings and Great Smoky Mountain trails in its repertoire, you’ll find something for every type of nature lover at this location.

As a mystical fog that envelopes this structure (from where its nickname, the ‘Smokies’ comes), this misty marvel is a sight to behold. While many choose to reside in the national park itself to enjoy its idyllic intricacies from within, there is a variety of best places to stay near the Smoky Mountains.

Unsure of the Best Places to Stay in the Smoky Mountains that will tickle your fancy on your nature-filled getaway? We’ll break down the popular destinations in and around one of the contenders for the most visited national park in the USA that is sure to make your journey a treasure to experience.

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Where to Stay in Smoky Mountains According to Location

The Great Smoky Mountains and its surrounds have a fantastic array of accommodation types to choose from, depending on what sort of vacation you’re looking for. 

1. Within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

As one of the best national parks near the East Coast, this stunning forested and mountainous area is the perfect place to set up camp and enjoy its natural splendors. 

Beyond this, guests staying there have ten campgrounds in this beautiful park to choose from, with a variety of different amenities and campground types in this national park. This includes options such as backcountry, horse camps, and frontcountry camping locations.

The latter is the most convenient and easily accessible, as well as working bathrooms to provide a sense of modernity and comfort to your wilderness experience. 

Take a look at the best places to stay in the Great Smoky Mountains regarding frontcountry campground options:

Cosby Campground

This captivating campground is a popular destination in the Great Smoky Mountains to set up your temporary accommodation and set off on a beautiful forested adventure. As the local settlement of Cosby is located nearby, you’ll also have the opportunity to gather any essentials or nibbles if the local fishing spots are unfruitful for a catch of the day.

It’s important to note that there are no open campfires allowed on the premises, which makes this an excellent option for RV travelers with kitchen amenities. Other incredible natural features in the area include a swimming hole, beach, and waterfall in the vicinity. >>>Check Availability

Cades Cove Campground

The Cades Cove camping ground is the best place in the Smoky Mountains to stay if you’re looking to be near the action. With a variety of popular hiking trails and driving routes right outside your zippable door, you’ll be able to muster the courage for an early adventure without any hassle.

If you’re planning for a visit to a national park in the fall, the Cades Cove Campground in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a wonderful choice to sleep along the fall foliage. >>>Check Availability 

2. Waynesville 

Distance: 33 minutes from Great Smoky Mountains National Park

With its location set on the North Carolina side of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Waynesville is a great location for travelers looking to stay in a town near the park. This down-to-earth town offers the perfect opportunity to soak up the slow-living local atmosphere and southern charm of this vibrant settlement.

Mid-Range | Love Lane Bed & Breakfast

The Love Lane Bed & Breakfast is the ultimate getaway for couples looking to reignite their spark with nature (and each other). With a private room and a continental breakfast included, this lovely location is the best place to stay in the Smoky Mountains for individuals wanting to shy away from the hustle and bustle of the city. >>>Check Availability

Budget | Best Western Smoky Mountain Inn

This relaxing spot with a spectacular of the surrounding mountains is a great way to start your vacation the right way. With its proximity to the town center, you’ll be close to the wide variety of activities this little town treasure has to offer. >>>Check Availability 

3. Bryson City 

Distance: 25 minutes from Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Bryson City is a small town bespeckled with wildflowers and streams within its bounds. This beautiful place is an ideal escape where you can find solace and enjoyment in the little things in life. 

Bryson is also known as the ‘gateway’ to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which makes this urban area the perfect day trip along your journey to this space. There are plenty of fun attractions peppered around the city to keep you entertained, from adrenaline-infused outdoor adventures to popular tourist activities. 

Luxury | Peace of Heaven

A charming yet chic cabin made for lazing your day away in luxury, Peace of Heaven stands true to its name by providing the perfect place to wind down. With an outdoor fireplace and hot tub overlooking the mountains, this is also a great option if you’re looking to visit the area in winter. >>>Check Availability

Mid-Range | Nantahala Village

If you’re looking for a resort living experience encapsulated by the forest, Nantahala Village might be the best option for you. From the fitness center to the table tennis facilities, this is the ultimate place to embrace the carefree spirit of a stress-free vacation in full throttle. >>>Check Availability

Budget | Two Rivers Lodge

The rustic charm of the Two Rivers Lodge is a wonderful way to enjoy the amenities of indoor living without feeling out of touch with nature. With mountain views and activities available (such as learning about the local Cherokee culture), you’ll never have to travel far to indulge in a unique experience. >>>Check Availability

4. Sevierville 

Distance: 31 minutes from Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Known for its family-friendly atmosphere as well as being the birthplace of Dolly Parton, Sevierville is a picturesque pit stop to add to your Great Smoky Mountains itinerary. Here, you’ll find a wide selection of restaurants and popular attractions to keep you busy.

If you’re looking for an informative activity with a touch of danger, you’ll enjoy the Forbidden Caverns below the extensive network of the Great Smoky Mountains. It’s important to note that these activities do require a general level of fitness and appropriate footwear.

Luxury | Gnome Alone

A cozy cabin-like structure that seemed to have jumped straight from a fairytale, Gnome Alone is a charming chalet within a wooded area. Guest staying at this accommodation also has the opportunity to be close to tourist attractions, such as the Grand Majestic Theater. Did we mention it has a hot tub? >>>Check Availability

Budget | Clarion Inn Willow River

This penny-saving place is an exceptional choice if you’re looking to be in close range of a variety of attractions (such as the National Park and Dollywood). From the hot tub to family rooms, this hotel is sure to be a wonderful addition to any busy Great Smoky Mountains itinerary. >>>Check Availability 

5. Pigeon Forge 

Distance: 18 minutes from Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

An urban settlement close to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the merriment of Pigeon Forge is palpable as soon as you step foot on its premises.

This major tourist town is a wonderful way to obtain the best of both worlds regarding the quiet solitude of nature spots to the roaring rollercoasters of amusement parks. You’ll also be able to sample the sweet notes of Tennessee wines at the Mountain Valley Vineyards nearby, located between Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.

Luxury | Twin Mountain Inn & Suites

A wonderful tranquil space overlooking the serene Little Pigeon River, this Inn is the perfect place if you’re looking for the ultimate spot to enjoy sundowners with a spectacular view. A mere 300 meters to Dolly Parton’s Stampede, you’ll have the chance to swing and sway your way to your accommodation with ease. >>>Check Availability 

Budget | Mountain Breeze Motel

The Mountain Breeze Motel is the ultimate choice if you’re planning to travel with your clamoring clan. This budget-friendly stay is situated across an amusement park and is a great central choice for first-time visitors to situate themselves to the wonders of Pigeon Forge. >>>Check Availability 

6. Gatlinburg

Distance: 17 minutes from Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

From an array of shopping locations to the undeniable charm of a site filled with a small-town feel, Gatlinburg is the place to be. This marvelous mountain town is a wonderful mix of urban and rustic, which provides a luxurious location to experience a ‘home away from home’ trip.

Beyond the standard views of the iconic national park that splashes the skyline, many will note the Gatlinburg Space Needle filling the space as well. This location is the perfect place to gather an all-encompassing view of the surroundings, as the Gatlinburg Space Needle has an observation deck made for enjoying panoramic views.

Mid-Range | Peak Paradise Gatlinburg Mountain View

An interior that seamlessly blends modern chic with a rustic edge, Peak Paradise is sure to provide a slice of luxury to your trip (without the hefty price tag). Booking this spot includes the entire home, so you’ll also have the pleasure of relaxing in solitude after a day filled with fun nearby activities. >>>Check Availability

Budget | Marshall’s Creek Rest Motel

A darling den to rest your feet after a long day spent in town, Marshall’s Creek Rest Motel is an excellent option if you want to save a penny or two. This location provides easy access to a number of tourist attractions in the area, such as the famous Dolly Parton’s Stampede. >>>Check Availability

Tips on Finding the Best Place to Stay in the Smoky Mountains

While it can be an exciting experience to simply pack a bag and head to the Great Smoky Mountains region, you’ll need to plan ahead to ensure you’re ready for your trip. Take a look at a few essential things to consider before heading off to this iconic mountain range:

• Plan your accommodation type – There are several ways to enjoy the majesty of the Great Smoky Mountains, which could also be dependent on the type of accommodation you choose to book. Whether it’s camping grounds or hotel rooms, you’ll need to decide what sort of vacation you’re looking to experience on your trip.
• Decide on a duration – From day trips to week-long stays, it’s essential to decide on the number of days to plan your itinerary to the Great Smoky Mountains accordingly.
• Book ahead – As the Great Smoky Mountains and its surroundings a popular destinations, you’ll need to book your trip details (camping permits, accommodation, etc.) in advance. This will ensure that you’ll avoid any disappointment from not obtaining any bookings on the specific date you’re planning on traveling.

FAQs on Where to Stay in the Smoky Mountains

As the Great Smoky Mountains is a grand amount of space to cover, there are bound to be inquiries that could make or break your trip, depending on the answer. Take a look at a few common questions to provide a more precise look at what to expect on your Smoky Mountains region trip:

What Is the Best Town to Stay in the Smoky Mountains?

Pigeon Forge will provide an extra oomph to any perfect getaway. From the close proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park itself to the seemingly endless supply of exciting activities, Pigeon Forge has it all. 

Which Side of the Great Smoky Mountains Should I Choose?

If you want a more authentic outdoor experience with a lesser intensity of visitors, the North Carolina region could be the perfect option for you. If you’re looking for a more touristy spot with many family entertainment activities, the Tennessee side is a wonderful way to fulfill those needs.

Are There Bears in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

Yes, there are. In fact, there are roughly 1,900 black bears that call this magical region home. As such, it’s essential you take all the wildlife safety tips into consideration to keep yourself and the bears safe.

Final Thoughts on the Top Places to Stay in Smoky Mountains

From the deafening beat of the mountain waterfalls to the soft bird calls in the trees, the Great Smoky Mountains provide a peaceful atmosphere you’ll never forget. Whether you choose to situate yourself in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park or opt to stay nearby, you’ll have a splendid time exploring the local attractions.

This mountainous trip is an unforgettable journey into the untouched beauty of the Smoky Mountain National Park and will be sure to create many fond nature-filled memories to look back on.

Are you looking for a way to plan a road trip to a national park with ease? Take a look at this how-to guide to navigate the wily ways of the roads to the USA national parks like a pro.

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