The Great Smoky Mountains need practically no introduction. But, for the sake of including those who might desire a little more information, especially about picnicking within these stunning southeastern mountainscapes, you’ve come to the right place.
If there is one great thing about the Smoky Mountains, it’s that picnicking and camping in the Great Smoky Mountains is undeniably popular. Thankfully, this vast Tennessee-North Carolina mountain range is so large, crowded picnicking is highly unlikely. Whether or not the great outdoors is your thing, it’s a promise that once the mountain’s greatest picnicking spots lure you in, there’s no turning back.
While there are many fabulous picnicking locations to explore, such as Big Creek, Cades Cove and Deep Creek, here are other equally great places to have fun investigating with the whole family:
Metcalf Bottoms
Let Old State Highway 73 Scenic or Wear Cove Gap Road be the yellow brick road to your fun picnicking adventures. Open year round with one of the largest number of picnicking sites available, Metcalf Bottoms delivers handy conveniences for even the pickiest traveler. Clean bathrooms, fountains, covered seating, tables, charcoal grills and benches are strategically nestled within lush greenery offering nature’s best experiences. Don’t be surprised at the stunning views of the nearby Little River where fly fishing and tubing simply can’t be ignored. There is even a 70 seat pavilion available with reservations for those special outdoorsy gatherings.
In between the hot dogs and hamburgers check out Metcalf Bottom’s historical points. Along the short hike on Metcalf Bottoms Trail, one fascinating stop is at The Little Greenbrier School. This 132-year-old school is known as the first proper school to be built in the area. Kids won’t believe they even had schools that long ago!
Collins Creek
Lush blankets of spring wildflowers, colorful fall foliage, babbling brooks and tree-lined skies are only some of the fabulous picnicking perks to be found at The Smoky Mountains’ Collins Creek picnicking area.
Take advantage of the 70-seat pavilion stocked with 4 grills, 15 picnic tables, plenty of food preparation space and the breathtaking backdrop of Mother Nature’s best. Day-trip visitors will bask in the collage of incredible scenery, peaceful serenity and a longing to stay.
If drinking water, flush toilets, fishing and hiking aren’t enough for a perfect day, enjoy gobs of historic sites, log cabins, wildlife viewing, trails, access to nearby rivers and streams, and good, old-fashioned peace and quiet.
The Smoky Mountains’ majesties invite you to enjoy and appreciate its widespread beauty in any one or more of the eleven picnicking sites. Some are open to the public year-round; others offer seasonal visitations.
With certainty, picnicking anywhere in the tranquil reaches of the Smoky Mountains means good food and good times – even to hungry bears. Trip the life fantastic and make unforgettable Smoky Mountain picnicking memories by putting safety first. Review all park safety rules, keep all food-related items properly stored and head for the hills where picnicking never felt so good.