Planning to camp in Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
Here are some things you should know to help you prepare.
Our campgrounds have drinking water stations, and restrooms.
And each campsite has a picnic table and a fire grate.
So pack your marshmellows, but leave your firewood at home.
Transporting firewood can introduce pests that destroy the forests you came to enjoy.
You can gather dead and down wood that's already inside
the park for your campfire.
Or you can buy certified, heat treated wood locally and at campground stores.
Learn more about protecting forests and using local firewood resources
at firewoodscout.org and dontmovefirewood.org
Bears have an excellent sense of smell
They're attracted to food, scraps, scented items, and garbage.
So to protect yourself and wildlife, be sure to clean up everything after cooking and eating.
You'll find bearproof dumpsters and trash cans available nearby.
As for your food, coolers, water, and toiletries
They should be stored in a locked vehicle.
Pets are allowed on a leash no longer than 6 feet in front country campgrounds,
along roads, and two trails. The Gatlinburg Trail, and the Oconaluftee River Trail.
For the safety of your pet, and the plants and animals that call the Smokies home
pets are not allowed on any other hiking trails.
Check the weather forecast before your trip
So you can be prepared for an enjoyable and safe vacation in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
We're looking forward to seeing you on your next camping trip to the Smokies