Anonymous
Post 01/14/2025 14:00     Subject: Re:First-Time RV Camping Trip to Smoky Mountains in July – Advice Needed
The camp grounds inside the park do not have showers. They do have flush toilets and running water at the sinks inside the bathroom and at a slop sink to wash dishes. We have tent camped there but never an RV so I don't know if there are water hook ups. Just plan accordingly.

Anonymous
Post 01/14/2025 13:54     Subject: First-Time RV Camping Trip to Smoky Mountains in July – Advice Needed
Anonymous wrote:I see a lot of people using mesh/bug screen tent-gazebos so they can spend time outside.

Also, a fan might be useful, if you have electrical connection


Great suggestions, thanks so much,
Anonymous
Post 01/14/2025 13:54     Subject: First-Time RV Camping Trip to Smoky Mountains in July – Advice Needed
Anonymous wrote:Will there be an electrical hook up?


No electric hook at GSM, the TV we are renting has backup and battery.
Anonymous
Post 01/14/2025 13:53     Subject: First-Time RV Camping Trip to Smoky Mountains in July – Advice Needed
Anonymous wrote:BEAR SPRAY. Not joking. You need to secure food WITH A LOCK at all times and make sure your toddler is NEVER alone.


OP here- yes that's why we are renting a RV
Anonymous
Post 01/14/2025 13:53     Subject: First-Time RV Camping Trip to Smoky Mountains in July – Advice Needed
Anonymous wrote:I'm just curious, is there a reason why you're renting an RV to go there? It's an area that's full of rental cabins and condos, stretching in all directions. Are you specifically wanting to try RVing? With a toddler especially an air-conditioned cabin might be easier. We stayed in Gatlinburg a few years ago over spring break in a cabin with two elementary-school age kids, it was great.


OP here - we take a flight to Knoxville, TN, and drive to the RV campsite from there, the RV has electricity and will bring an extra fan!
Anonymous
Post 01/14/2025 12:58     Subject: First-Time RV Camping Trip to Smoky Mountains in July – Advice Needed
I'm just curious, is there a reason why you're renting an RV to go there? It's an area that's full of rental cabins and condos, stretching in all directions. Are you specifically wanting to try RVing? With a toddler especially an air-conditioned cabin might be easier. We stayed in Gatlinburg a few years ago over spring break in a cabin with two elementary-school age kids, it was great.
Anonymous
Post 01/14/2025 12:55     Subject: First-Time RV Camping Trip to Smoky Mountains in July – Advice Needed
BEAR SPRAY. Not joking. You need to secure food WITH A LOCK at all times and make sure your toddler is NEVER alone.
Anonymous
Post 01/14/2025 12:52     Subject: First-Time RV Camping Trip to Smoky Mountains in July – Advice Needed
Bears are plentiful, and they know the campgrounds are an easy place to find food. You MUST secure your food at all times.
Anonymous
Post 01/14/2025 11:57     Subject: First-Time RV Camping Trip to Smoky Mountains in July – Advice Needed
Will there be an electrical hook up?
Anonymous
Post 01/14/2025 11:48     Subject: First-Time RV Camping Trip to Smoky Mountains in July – Advice Needed
I see a lot of people using mesh/bug screen tent-gazebos so they can spend time outside.

Also, a fan might be useful, if you have electrical connection
Anonymous
Post 01/14/2025 11:46     Subject: First-Time RV Camping Trip to Smoky Mountains in July – Advice Needed
Can you go to Dollywood?
Anonymous
Post 01/14/2025 11:46     Subject: First-Time RV Camping Trip to Smoky Mountains in July – Advice Needed
Can the RV get up the mountains?
Anonymous
Post 01/14/2025 10:54     Subject: First-Time RV Camping Trip to Smoky Mountains in July – Advice Needed
It's so beautiful there. Bring bug spray though.
Anonymous
Post 01/14/2025 10:53     Subject: First-Time RV Camping Trip to Smoky Mountains in July – Advice Needed
The average high in July is 85. Which means it could easily be 95 and humid.

Which is why people go north in the summer.
Anonymous
Post 01/14/2025 10:02     Subject: First-Time RV Camping Trip to Smoky Mountains in July – Advice Needed
I’m planning my first RV camping trip to the Smoky Mountains this July, traveling from Washington, D.C. Once we reach Tennessee, we'll rent an RV and stay four nights in the national park (Cosby site). We’re traveling with our 2-year-old, so I want to ensure we’re fully prepared for the experience!

I’d love your advice on the following:

What to pack: Essentials for camping with a toddler in the Smokies.
RV tips: Things to know about renting and staying in an RV for the first time.
Camping tips: Any recommendations for specific campgrounds, must-visit spots, or activities that are toddler-friendly.
Weather and wildlife: What kind of weather to expect in July and any precautions to take regarding wildlife.
Any other tips, tricks, or things to consider for first-time RV campers are welcome. Thank you so much for your help!

Thanks much