Plan Your Next Outdoor Adventure With These 7 Smoky Mountain Camping Tips
The first thing you need to do when planning a camping trip is to find the perfect destination. We highly recommend the Great Smoky Mountains. Next, you’ll need to decide where in that destination to set up camp. We can help you out there, too.
We’re happy to welcome you to Pigeon River Campground, and whether it’s your first campout or your tenth, we’ve got a few Smoky Mountain camping tips that are sure to make your stay memorable and fun.
1. Make a Check List
Have you ever gotten to your vacation destination and realized you forgot to pack something? Making a checklist ahead of time will help you make sure you didn’t forget to pack any of the essentials, like the ingredients for s’mores. But don’t worry too much. If you do forget something, you can always stop by the General Store for some additional supplies.
2. Pack the Right Clothes
Remember, the temperature in the mountains can vary from those in the valley, so make sure you check the weather forecast ahead of time so you can pack properly. You don’t want to be wearing a long-sleeved hoodie in 85 degree weather or shorts when it’s in the mid-50s. Make sure you wear comfortable clothing, good shoes and socks, and are prepared for all the elements. Packing a poncho never hurts!
3. Pick a Trail
There are more than 800 miles of trails in the Smokies and over 500,000 acres of land to explore in the Pisgah National Forest. If you’re thinking of taking a hike during your visit to the mountains, there are lots of options. If planning a hike seems overwhelming to you, don’t worry.
4. Don’t Get Sunburned or Deal with Bug Bites
You don’t want to get sunburned or bitten by insects while you’re camping out, so we highly suggest you bring your sunscreen and insect repellent with you.
5. Plan Easy Meals
If you’re planning to take part in a lot of outdoor activities, you’ll need energy! So plan on bringing some carb-filled snacks or protein bars to
help maintain your energy level all day. When it’s time to make your meal at the campsite, you’ll want to keep it as simple as possible. You can pack some supplies for simple sandwiches, or bring recipes for easy one-pot meals over the camping stove, grill or campfire. Roasting hot dogs over the campfire is a camping tradition, and they make for a quick and easy meal.
6. Stay Hydrated
You don’t want to ruin your vacation by becoming dehydrated, so be sure to drink plenty of water while you’re exploring the great outdoors!
7. Pick the Perfect Sleeping Spot
We have 17 scenic camping spots where you can pitch your tent and sleep out under the stars. If that’s a little too rustic for you, we also have 6 riverside cabins that each sleep up to 5 guests. If you prefer to bring your home with you, check out our 12 RV sites that accommodate 50 to 60 foot RVs.
If you’re planning a trip to the Smokies to soak up some sun, enjoy the great outdoors, and take in all the sights and sounds of the mountains, we hope this list of Smoky Mountain camping tips will help. Load up the car, give us a call and come visit us soon. What are you waiting for? Let’s go camping!
