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Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge RV Trip Tips & Tricks

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Our family loves traveling to Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg every year. There are so many family-friendly activities, and great campground options. This post includes the best places to stay, things to do, and places to eat on your next visit. 

Places to Stay

Below are some of our favorite RV friendly campgrounds to stay at. 

  • Anchor Down RV Resort (featured image) - located on Douglas Lake which is a 30-45 minute drive from Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg but it is worth the drive. This campground is a hidden gem with a ton of activities for the family. 
  • Pigeon Forge KOA - offers a great location because it isn’t on the main strip, but it’s still in the heart of Pigeon Forge. It has plenty of activities to offer such as a pool, playground, gaga ball, and more!
  • Clabough's Campground - this is a smaller campground but still has plenty to offer. The sites are a little more spaced out than many that you will find in the area. 
  • Camp Riverslanding - located right on the strip if you are interested in walking to places. It is very well taken care of and offers spots on the river.

Things to Do

The options are endless when it comes to activities and events. Here are a few of our tried and true favorites when traveling with little ones:

  • Great Smoky Mountains - visiting this national park is a must with great scenery, hiking, and beautiful mountain views.
  • Anakeesta - located in Gatlinburg and is definitely worth visiting!
  • Dollywood - located in Pigeon Forge and is a very nice theme-park. It can get crowded so come prepared.
  • Cades Cove - this is a scenic drive to site wildlife!
  • Misc Activities - no trip to Gatlinburg is complete without go karting, put-putting, and riding a mountain coaster!
  • Shopping - outlets, shops in Gatlinburg, or tourist locations on the Pigeon Forge strip.

Places to Eat

For the foodies out there, we wanted to include our favorite restaurants in the area. Below are our family’s top choices that we visit each time we travel here.

  • Peddler Steakhouse - known for it's salad bar and fairly priced steaks.
  • Pancake Pantry - the best crapes in town.
  • Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud Supper Show - great entertainment and food!
  • The Old Mill - great country cooking option.
  • The Apple Barn and Cider Mill - so many great food options and the best wine in town.

I hope this included some helpful information as you plan your next trip to Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge!

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