Wake up to misty mountain views, spend your days exploring rugged trails, and unwind by a crackling campfire under a star-filled sky—this is camping in Pigeon Forge. With its breathtaking scenery, easy access to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and a wealth of attractions just minutes away, it’s no wonder campers return year after year.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know—from the top-notch amenities available at campgrounds in Pigeon Forge to exciting outdoor activities and must-try local eats. Whether you’re seeking peaceful riverside relaxation or action-packed days of hiking and entertainment, Pigeon Forge has a memorable camping experience waiting for you. Get ready to plan your next adventure!
Why Choose Pigeon Forge for Camping?
Camping in Pigeon Forge means experiencing the best of both worlds—the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains and the energy of a town filled with attractions, dining, and entertainment. Whether you’re seeking peaceful moments in nature or thrilling adventures with the family, camping in Pigeon Forge offers the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement—tailored just for you!
No matter your camping style, Pigeon Forge has a spot for you. RV travelers will find full-service resorts with hookups and luxury amenities, while tent campers can enjoy sites tucked off the Parkway. If you prefer a little extra comfort, cozy cabins provide rustic charm with modern conveniences, letting you enjoy the mountain experience without giving up the comforts of home. Wake up to the scent of pine, sip coffee on the porch, and settle in for a night by the fire.
Pigeon Forge offers the convenience of being fully immersed in nature while still having access to incredible entertainment and dining. One moment, you’re surrounded by the quiet beauty of the mountains; the next, you’re enjoying a delicious meal paired with live entertainment at a dinner show, just minutes from your campsite. It’s the perfect camping destination for families who want a little bit of everything all in one place!
Amenities You’ll Love
From practical necessities to fun extras, Pigeon Forge campgrounds are designed with comfort and ease in mind. Whether you’re rolling in with an RV, pitching a tent, or cozying up in a camping cabin, Pigeon Forge campgrounds offer all the comforts of home—plus endless fun for all ages.
Many campgrounds offer full-service RV hookups, providing access to electricity, water, and sewer connections so you can enjoy the comforts of home while on the road. Wi-Fi is also available, making it easy to stay connected during your trip. Need to freshen up after a long day of exploring? Bathhouses, laundry facilities, and camp stores ensure you have everything you need, from showers and clean clothes to firewood and last-minute essentials.
Beyond the basics, some campgrounds offer additional perks to make your stay even more enjoyable. Swimming pools, playgrounds, hiking trails, and fishing spots provide entertainment for all ages without ever having to leave the campground. And for those bringing furry friends along, pet-friendly amenities like dog parks and walking areas make sure your pup gets to enjoy the adventure, too.
Outdoor Activities to Enjoy
During your camping trip in Pigeon Forge, outdoor adventure is always just around the corner. Whether you want to explore the Great Smoky Mountains, enjoy action-packed attractions, or take in the scenery at a relaxed pace, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the best ways to experience the great outdoors:
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Just minutes from Pigeon Forge, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. With hundreds of miles of hiking trails, you can explore everything from peaceful strolls to challenging hikes with breathtaking views. The park is also home to abundant wildlife, so keep an eye out for deer, black bears, and wild turkeys. Fishing is another popular pastime, with plenty of streams and rivers stocked with trout.
Scenic Drives
If you prefer to take in the mountain views without the hike, scenic drives offer a relaxing way to explore the Smokies. Routes like Cades Cove Loop Road and Newfound Gap Road wind through stunning landscapes, offering overlooks, historic sites, and plenty of photo opportunities along the way.
Dollywood & Dollywood’s Splash Country
For a fun-filled day trip, Dollywood and Dollywood’s Splash Country bring excitement for all ages. Dollywood features thrill rides like the Lightning Rod, a record-breaking wooden coaster, and Mystery Mine, a steel coaster with sudden drops and dark tunnels. But no visit to Dollywood is complete without a stop at the Grist Mill for its famous cinnamon bread, a warm, gooey treat that’s as much a part of the experience as the rides. If you’re visiting in warmer months, Dollywood’s Splash Country is the place to cool off with wave pools, lazy rivers, and exciting water slides.
Mountain Coasters
It wouldn’t be a trip to Pigeon Forge without experiencing one of the famous mountain coasters. These gravity-powered rides let you race down the mountainside on a twisting, turning track—while you control the speed. Using hand brakes, you can cruise at a relaxed pace or go full throttle for a thrilling descent. Some coasters even feature LED lights for a glowing nighttime ride, making the experience even more exciting after dark.
No matter how you like to experience the outdoors, Pigeon Forge offers everything to ensure there’s never a dull moment during your camping trip.
Food Options for Campers
Whether you’re craving delicious Southern cooking, smoky barbecue, or a quick meal by the campfire, Pigeon Forge has plenty of options to keep you well-fed during your camping trip. From local restaurants to easy camping meals, here’s how to enjoy great food while staying in the Smokies.
Local Dining Highlights
If you’re looking to take a break from camp cooking, Pigeon Forge has no shortage of fantastic restaurants. Here are just a few must-visit spots:
- The Old Mill Restaurant – Known for its classic Southern comfort food, this historic spot serves up favorites like fried chicken, country ham, and corn chowder, all made from scratch. Plus, the freshly baked breads and homemade desserts are worth saving room for.
- Junction 35 – Located in the Mountain Mile, this casual, high-energy eatery is known for craft cocktails and flavorful dishes like brisket nachos and smoked wings—perfect for a fun night out after a day of exploring.
- Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que – A local favorite, Bennett’s serves slow-smoked, hickory-infused barbecue with all the fixings. From pulled pork and ribs to baked beans and coleslaw, this is true Tennessee barbecue at its best.
These are just a few of the great places to eat in Pigeon Forge, but there are countless other dining options, including exciting dinner shows for those who want a meal with a little extra entertainment. Watch pirates battle on a full-sized ship at Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show, or enjoy a tasty feast while taking in a thrilling horseback stunt show at Dolly Parton’s Stampede.
Easy Camping Meals
For those who crave the experience of cooking at camp, mealtime becomes part of the fun, with plenty of delicious ways to enjoy a great meal under the open sky. Foil-packet dinners make for an easy go-to—just wrap up meats, veggies, and seasonings, toss them over the fire, and let the flames do the work. S’mores are, of course, a must, but breakfast can be just as exciting with one-pot campfire skillet eggs and sausage to start the day right. If your campground has charcoal or gas grills, you can keep things simple with a BBQ or picnic-style meal featuring burgers, hot dogs, and grilled vegetables.
Nearby Grocery Stores & Markets
If you need to stock up on essentials, Pigeon Forge has plenty of grocery stores and markets nearby. Many stores carry fresh local produce, meats, and snacks, making it easy to grab ingredients for campfire cooking or quick meals on the go. Whether you’re planning a full campfire feast or just need a few basics, you’ll have no trouble finding what you need.
With so many great dining options and easy ways to cook at camp, eating well is just another part of the adventure in Pigeon Forge.
Tips for a Successful Camping Trip
A little preparation goes a long way in making your Pigeon Forge camping trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible. From timing your visit to packing smart, here are a few key tips to help you make the most of your stay.
- Plan Around the Best Times to Visit: Spring and fall are prime camping seasons in Pigeon Forge, offering mild temperatures, beautiful scenery, and fewer crowds than the peak summer months. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and fresh mountain air, while fall offers stunning foliage that makes every hike even more breathtaking. Summer is great for family vacations, with long sunny days perfect for hiking, swimming, and enjoying the many attractions around town. However, campgrounds fill up fast, so booking early is a must if you plan to visit during this popular season.
- Pack for the Mountain Weather: Weather in the Smokies can be unpredictable, so it’s best to come prepared for anything. Bring rain gear in case of sudden showers, layers to adjust to temperature changes, and sturdy hiking boots for exploring the trails. Even in warmer months, evenings can be cool, so a light jacket is always a good idea.
- Book Your Campsite in Advance: Pigeon Forge is a popular camping destination, and spots can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons and holiday weekends. Reserving your campsite early ensures you get your preferred location, whether it’s a riverside tent site, an RV hookup, or a cabin.
- Stay Safe & Respect Nature: Being in the great outdoors means sharing space with wildlife. Keep food properly stored to avoid attracting animals, and never feed wildlife—it’s unsafe for both you and them. Campfire safety is also essential: only build fires in designated fire rings, keep a water source nearby, and always fully extinguish the fire before leaving or going to sleep.
With the right planning and a little preparation, your Pigeon Forge camping trip will be one to remember—filled with adventure, relaxation, and plenty of unforgettable moments. Find the perfect place to camp by exploring the options below—then book your stay and start getting excited for an amazing trip!
Explore Campgrounds in Pigeon Forge
