yellow tent

List of 9 Essential Items to Pack for Camping in the Smoky Mountains

We know how packing can be, especially if you have kids. We’ve all forgotten some of the major items at home and had to grab them at a store on the way to our destination. To help you out before you leave, we’ve created a list of 9 essential items to pack for camping in the Smoky Mountains:

1. Tent

If you’re not planning on bringing an RV or staying in one of our camping cabins, you definitely need to pack the tent! We have tent sites and group tent sites available for you.tent camping in the Smoky Mountains

2. Sleeping Bag

When you’re sleeping in a tent, you don’t want to forget the sleeping bags! Sleeping on the ground can be uncomfortable, and when you have a big day of plans, you don’t want to be tired and uncomfortable, so remember to pack that bag!

3. Flashlights

When you need to get up in the middle of the night or even go somewhere before you go to bed, you’ll want to have flashlights and backup batteries with you. You’ll want to be able to see where you’re going in the dark!

4. Sunscreen

If you plan on ziplining, white water rafting, tubing, hiking, or doing any kind of outdoor activity, you want to remember the sunscreen. Skin care is important, and you definitely don’t want to have a bad burn on your vacation!

5. Bug Spray

man spraying bug spray on childDon’t get bitten by bugs and be itchy! Remember to pack some bug spray to prevent bug bites while you’re camping in the Smoky Mountains.

6. Fire and Grill Necessities

If you plan on making a fire for s’mores or grilling for a meal, you’ll want to make sure you have the necessities. Grab a box of matches, a lighter, lighter fluid, charcoal, and a cleaning brush for the grill so you’re prepared! If you do end up forgetting something, head to our general store to grab those supplies!

7. Camp Kitchen Items

When you’re camping in a tent, you’ll want to bring camp kitchen items like plates, utensils, pots, pans, and cups with you. You’ll be able to fix meals over a fire easily and won’t have to go out to eat for every meal. Plus, it’s a ton of fun to cook over a fire with your family for some bonding time!

8. Weather-appropriate Clothing

What kind of clothing you bring will probably depend on what time of the year you plan on camping. Are you going to get in the river? You should probably bring your bathing suit. Think it might be chilly at night? Be sure to pack a light jacket for spring and fall nights. Don’t forget the shorts and tank tops during the hot summer days. If you’re going to go hiking, be sure to bring the proper shoes for safety.laundry-basket-filled-with-clothes

9. Toiletries

These items may be small, but they’re definitely important! Toothbrushes, hair brushes, deodorant, medications, and first aid kits are just a few of the items you should bring with you while you’re camping in the Smoky Mountains.

When you’re on vacation, you want to make sure you have everything you need. We want to help you while you’re with us camping in the Smoky Mountains by providing our list of 9 camping essential items. Find more information on our campground and what we offer on our camping page!