Where to Stay

Best Hotels Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park

We've researched 4 of the best places to stay near Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee/North Carolina. Whether you're looking for in-park lodges, gateway town hotels, or budget-friendly options, our curated list has you covered. The nearest airport is McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS), 45 minutes from the park.

Price Range Summary

Price ranges: $, $$
Total properties: 4
Inside Park: 0
Location: Tennessee/North Carolina, US

The Park Vista, a DoubleTree by Hilton

$$

A hilltop hotel overlooking the Smoky Mountains with panoramic views, indoor pool, and easy access to downtown Gatlinburg and park entrances.

5 min drive$160-280/night
PoolRestaurantMountain ViewsWiFiFitness Center
Check on Hotels.com

Bearskin Lodge on the River

$$

A riverside lodge on the Little Pigeon River at the edge of Gatlinburg, offering rooms with private balconies, river views, and the sound of the rushing mountain stream. Walking distance to the park's Sugarlands entrance.

0.5 miles from Gatlinburg entrance$180-300/night
PoolHot TubRiver AccessFree ParkingBalconies
Check on Hotels.com

Balsam Mountain Inn

$$

A beautifully restored 1908 inn perched at 3,500 feet in the village of Balsam, North Carolina. This National Register property offers 50 rooms furnished with antiques and a wraparound porch with mountain views.

15 miles from Blue Ridge Parkway entrance$160-260/night
RestaurantLibraryGardensFree ParkingHiking Trails
Check on Hotels.com

Wild Bear Inn

$

A family-friendly resort in Pigeon Forge offering affordable suites with kitchenettes, an indoor pool and waterslide, and a game room. Convenient to both the national park and local attractions.

3 miles from Gatlinburg entrance$90-160/night
PoolWaterslideGame RoomFree ParkingKitchenettes
Check on Hotels.com

Tips for Booking Hotels Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Book early for in-park lodges. Popular lodges inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park sell out 6-12 months in advance, especially during peak season (April, May, June, September, October). Reserve as early as possible to secure in-park accommodations.
Gateway town alternatives. Hotels in nearby gateway towns are usually cheaper with more availability. They also offer dining and shopping options that in-park lodges may lack.
Consider camping. Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers campground facilities for a budget-friendly option that puts you closer to nature. Campsite reservations can also fill up quickly during peak months.
Check shuttle services. Many national parks, including Great Smoky Mountains National Park, have free shuttle systems that can reduce the need for a car and make staying outside the park more convenient.