Smoky Bear Campground and RV Park

For us Tennesseans, a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains is an annual pilgrimage, and finding the perfect home base is key to a truly memorable experience. Smoky Bear Campground and RV Park in Gatlinburg, TN, stands out as a genuine gem that consistently delivers on comfort, cleanliness, and an incredibly welcoming atmosphere. From the moment you pull in, you'll feel like part of the family, thanks to owners and staff who treat every guest with the warmth and hospitality our state is known for. This isn't just a place to stay; it's a place where you're treated like an old friend, making it a truly exceptional choice for your next Smoky Mountain adventure.

What truly sets Smoky Bear Campground and RV Park apart, as highlighted by countless glowing reviews, is their unwavering commitment to cleanliness and top-notch maintenance. Guests consistently rave about the "cleanest shower house I've ever seen," praising the immaculate conditions of their facilities. This dedication extends throughout the entire park, ensuring that every corner is "top notch." Whether you're utilizing their full hookup RV sites, enjoying a primitive tent site, or relaxing in one of their cozy cabins, you can expect a pristine and comfortable environment, allowing you to fully unwind after a day of exploring the magnificent Smokies.

Beyond the impeccable upkeep and the outstanding hospitality, Smoky Bear Campground offers a thoughtfully curated selection of amenities that cater to a wide range of campers. From a refreshing swimming pool and a relaxing hot tub (seasonal) to a convenient camp store stocked with essentials and a welcoming clubhouse perfect for gatherings, they've considered every detail. While the tent sites might be "a little close together," the overall friendly atmosphere and the knowledge that you're staying in a well-loved and meticulously cared-for park make it an easy choice. It’s a place where families, friends, and solo travelers alike feel valued and eager to return, providing a peaceful retreat with easy access to all the excitement of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.

Smoky Bear Campground and RV Park is conveniently located at 4857 East Pkwy, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA. This strategic address places it along East Parkway (US-321), a primary route that offers excellent accessibility to the heart of Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and various entry points to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Being on East Parkway means that the campground is easily reachable for RVs and trailers of all sizes, minimizing the challenges of navigating narrow or excessively winding mountain roads. While it provides a quieter ambiance than staying directly on the bustling main streets of Gatlinburg, it remains just a short, scenic drive from the town's myriad attractions, including Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, the Gatlinburg Space Needle, and countless shops and restaurants. Reviewers confirm that it is "easy to get to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge," indicating its convenience for exploring the broader region.

Furthermore, its location offers straightforward access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. While specific park entrances directly adjacent to the campground are not mentioned, guests can quickly drive to various park access points, including those leading to popular hiking trails and scenic overlooks. For those seeking a balance between natural serenity and tourist amenities, Smoky Bear Campground's location is ideal. It provides a peaceful retreat to return to after a day of adventure, without feeling isolated from the vibrant energy of the Smoky Mountain tourist areas. While public transportation is limited in this area, the excellent road network ensures smooth travel for personal vehicles to and from this well-situated campground.

• Full Hookup RV Sites: The campground offers 46 full-hookup sites, including water, sewer, and electric (30 & 50 amp service). They feature both concrete-padded pull-throughs and gravel back-ins, ensuring level and comfortable parking for RVs of various sizes.
• Primitive Tent Sites: For traditional campers, there are 3 primitive tent sites available, each with a picnic table and fire ring. While primitive (no electric or water on-site), water is nearby, and tent campers have full access to all campground amenities.
• Cabin Rentals: Six cozy cabins are available for non-RVers, offering a range of sizes and amenities. They include air conditioning, heat, outdoor charcoal grills, fire rings, and picnic tables. Some cabins may allow small, non-shedding pets for an additional fee.
• Immaculate Bathhouse: Reviews consistently praise the "cleanest shower house," noting its immaculate condition, privacy with individual locked doors, and abundant hot water. It is also wheelchair accessible.
• Large Laundry Room: A well-maintained and spacious laundry facility is available for guest convenience.
• Camp Store: A clean and well-stocked office/store offers check-in services, area information, snacks, gifts, souvenirs, and essential RV and camping necessities like firewood and propane.
• Wi-Fi & Basic Cable: Free Wi-Fi is available at all sites (supporting two devices per site), along with basic cable TV, allowing guests to stay connected and entertained.
• Site Amenities: Every RV and cabin site includes a picnic table and a fire ring, perfect for outdoor dining and campfires.
• Daily Trash Pickup: A convenient service where trash is picked up daily from sites, contributing to the park's cleanliness.
• Escort to Site: Staff offer personalized assistance by escorting campers to their site and helping with parking, particularly beneficial for larger RVs.

• Exceptional Staff and Hospitality: The most frequently praised highlight is the "great and friendly" staff and owners (Claire and Patrick), who "treat you like family" and make everyone feel "very welcoming." This personalized service and genuine care create a standout guest experience.
• Impeccably Clean Facilities: The "cleanest shower house I've ever seen" and overall "top-notch" park maintenance are recurring themes in reviews, ensuring a comfortable and hygienic stay for all guests.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: The campground boasts a seasonal swimming pool and hot tub, a playground for kids, a community area with benches and a fire pit, and a free book and DVD lending library, providing diverse entertainment options for all ages.
• Versatile Accommodation Options: With full hookup RV sites (including concrete pull-throughs), primitive tent sites, and comfortable cabins, Smoky Bear caters to a wide variety of camping preferences and group sizes.
• Clubhouse for Gatherings: A spacious clubhouse with a full kitchen, seating for 70, heating, and air conditioning is available free of charge for guests, making it ideal for RV rallies, family reunions, or other group events.
• Quiet and Convenient Location: While close enough for "easy to get to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge" (about 15-20 minutes away), the campground's position on East Parkway offers a quieter atmosphere away from the busiest parts of town, providing a peaceful retreat after sightseeing.
• Pet-Friendly Environment: Pets are welcome on a leash (with some restrictions for cabins and primitive tent sites), making it a great option for those traveling with furry companions.
• Shaded and Tidy Sites: Many sites are described as "shady and tidy," offering a pleasant outdoor living space.

While specific, publicly advertised "promotions" or "special offers" from Smoky Bear Campground and RV Park beyond their generally "very reasonable" rates (especially for mid-June, as noted in a review) are not extensively detailed in the provided information, many well-regarded campgrounds in popular tourist destinations offer seasonal discounts or benefits. Given their commitment to hospitality and positive customer feedback, it is highly probable that Smoky Bear Campground participates in or offers certain common discounts. For instance, many RV parks offer reduced rates for extended stays (e.g., weekly or monthly rates). They also often provide discounts for members of recognized camping clubs such as Good Sam Club, or for military veterans and first responders. Some campgrounds may also offer off-season rates or special packages during quieter periods. To get the most accurate and up-to-date information on any available promotions, special rates, or loyalty programs, it is always best to directly contact Smoky Bear Campground and RV Park using the provided phone number. Speaking with Claire, Patrick, or their friendly staff will ensure you receive the best possible rate and any applicable discounts for your specific travel dates.

For inquiries, reservations, or more detailed information about Smoky Bear Campground and RV Park, please use the following contact details:

Address: 4857 East Pkwy, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

Phone: (865) 436-8372

Mobile Phone: +1 865-436-8372

Their friendly and helpful staff, including owners Claire and Patrick, are readily available by phone to assist with bookings, answer questions about amenities, and provide recommendations for exploring the Gatlinburg and Smoky Mountains area. Calling ahead is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred site or cabin.

For us Tennesseans, Smoky Bear Campground and RV Park represents an ideal camping destination, perfectly blending convenience with the warmth of true Southern hospitality right here in our beloved Smoky Mountains. Its suitability for locals is multifaceted. Firstly, while it offers easy access to the vibrant attractions of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge (a mere 15-20 minute drive), its location on East Parkway provides a welcomed respite from the continuous hustle and bustle. This means we can enjoy the excitement of the tourist hubs during the day and retreat to a quiet, peaceful, and clean campground at night – a balance that many locals truly appreciate for a relaxing getaway.

Secondly, the consistent praise for the "great and friendly" staff and owners who "treat you like family" resonates deeply with the values of community and kindness that define our state. This personalized attention, from escorting you to your site to ensuring the "cleanest shower house I've ever seen," makes every stay feel comfortable and valued. For Tennessee families, couples, or solo adventurers, knowing you'll be welcomed with open arms and stay in a meticulously maintained environment is a huge draw, encouraging repeat visits.

Finally, the diverse range of accommodation options – from full hookup RV sites to primitive tent sites and cozy cabins – ensures that whether you're a seasoned RVer, a traditional tent camper, or just looking for a cabin getaway, Smoky Bear has a perfect spot for you. Combined with their thoughtful amenities like the pool, hot tub, and community clubhouse, it provides a comprehensive and enjoyable experience for all ages, making it a top-tier choice for us Tennesseans seeking to create lasting memories in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains.