Who doesn’t love Dolly Parton?! If you’re headed to Dollywood, check out this list of the best campgrounds in Pigeon Forge…
Are you thinking about visiting Pigeon Forge soon? Don’t go until you read this post!
Our member Sharon Anderson asked in our Facebook group, and many of our other followers listened! Ms. Anderson wanted to know the best places to stay near Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, TN, and she received many helpful responses.
Why Visit Pigeon Forge?
Pigeon Forge is a mountain town located in the hills of eastern Tennessee. The area itself is beautiful and there are many things to see and do in the area. The most prominent tourist attraction being Dollywood.
Dollywood
Dollywood is an Appalachian-themed park from none other than Dolly Parton. It features rides, a museum featuring some Parton’wardrobe pieces and memorabilia, and an adjoining water park.
One top-rated attraction is Dolly Parton’s Stampede, a dinner show featuring an excellent meal and highly entertaining show.
One of our members named Amanda, said, “bring your appetite to the dinner theater, (they offer) large servings.” She went on to describe Dollywood as a family-friendly place. Her family likes it so much that they are getting season passes this year!
Other Attractions in Pigeon Forge
While Dollywood draws large crowds, there are other great attractions to visit while in town. They include:
- Country Music Revues like the Smoky Mountain Opry
- Redneck Comedy Bus Tour
- Titanic Pigeon Forge
- Hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains
Trolley System
There is an excellent trolley system for those that don’t want to drive their rig or toad around. It is operated by the City of Pigeon Forge and travels throughout the city. Check out their routes and schedules page for more information.
Another pro tip for those that do choose to drive? Take backroads and crossroads to beat the traffic that can build up on the Parkway!
9 Best Campgrounds in Pigeon Forge
The following nine campgrounds were the most recommended by fellow RV Lifestyle members.
1. KOA Pigeon Forge
This place has it all! Fishing, hiking, and biking, to name a few. And it’s close to the many attractions at Dollywood!
This is a really excellent place for families, especially those with younger children. Not only is there a new playground, but you can also rent bikes and splash around in a zero-entry pool that features a raintree!
2. Pigeon Forge Jellystone Park
This campground claims to be the closest one to Dollywood. Enjoy flat RV sites complete with the shade of the many property trees.
Kids will love the jumping pillow and playground, while the entire family will enjoy the swimming pools and fishing pond.
Other amenities include a snack bar, free cable, laundry facilities, a fenced dog walk area, and free Wifi.
3. Pigeon Forge RV Resort
Sit by a poolside fire pit at this Pigeon Forge RV resort. Not only can you enjoy Dollywood, but you are only 22 minutes from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park!
Other good news? It is only a $3 shuttle fee to Dollywood!
Who needs a hat? You do! Dad hats aren’t just for dads. This one’s got a low profile with an adjustable strap and curved visor. Just the thing to wear on your next RV Lifestyle adventure.
4. Clabough’s Campground
This campground has some excellent amenities!
It features 300 beautifully shaded spots with full hookups. There are both back-in and pull-thru spots available. Of course, each site has picnic tables.
Enjoy the lazy river, swimming pools, and bathhouses. They also have laundry facilities conveniently located on-site.
There is also a close trolley stop right out in front where you can ride for $3 all day. Talk about easy access to Dollywood!
Dennis, one of our RV Lifestyle followers, said that he booked for an excellent rate through Good Sam. It was $45 for a charming facility.
5. Twin Creek RV
This family-owned and operated campground will not disappoint. It is located on a creek that will make you feel close and connected to nature throughout your stay.
Enjoy all of the typical campground amenities, plus a boutique!
John said of Twin Creek RV that it was a “very clean place (with) nice blacktop spaces.” He also said there is a trolley stop at the park entrance and a conveniently located grocery store nearby.
6. Kings Holly Haven
Another RV lifestyles member, Ellie, suggested this place. She and her husband stayed there for seven summers while working at Dollywood.
It’s quiet and comfortable and includes amenities like a pool, cable tv, playground, air-conditioned bathhouses, and laundry on-site.
7. Honeysuckle Meadows
Enjoy a comfortable stay at Honeysuckle Meadows by swimming in the pool or grabbing a bite at the deli and grill. They even have a private pond!
Donna suggested this location in Wears Valley. It is a little further out but an excellent place for only $39 per night.
8. The Ridge
This RV and glamping resort has premiere RV sites and glamping tents, and tiny home cabins. They have all the usual amenities, rent out golf carts, and host RV rallies.
In the summer, they are home to a kid’s morning camp.
9. Douglas Dam Camground
Although not within walking distance of Dollywood, this campground is still an excellent option. It won a Tripadvisor Traveler’s Choice Award in 2021 and featured great amenities.
You can enjoy a beach, kayaking, bike riding, boating, swimming, camp store, grills, wildlife observing, and showers.
Member Gordon stayed at this location, calling it “very nice and spacious.” He did warn that it fills up quickly, so be sure to book it as soon as possible!
Best Places to Eat in Pigeon Forge
Dollywood is not the only attraction in Pigeon Forge. The food is too!
The following are local favorites and RV Lifestyle member suggestions on places to eat when visiting the area.
1. Grist Mill
Customers rave about their delicious cinnamon bread!
2. Crockett’s Breakfast Camp
This local favorite cooks up a delicious breakfast that will not disappoint! The restaurant features an Appalachian-inspired menu, including savory scrambles and cinnamon rolls.
3. Huck Finn’s Restaurant
Do you enjoy catfish or other southern cuisine favorites? You won’t want to skip on setting at Huck Finn’s Catfish.
Of course, if catfish is not your thing, you can eat deep-fried pickles, shrimp, chicken, okra, or gator tail.
What are your favorite campgrounds in Pigeon Forge?
Did we post your favorite campground near Dollywood? If not, let us know in the comments. How about the best places to eat? We’d like to know more about that, too.
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