Tennessee

8 Incredible Glamping Spots Near Gatlinburg, Tennessee

by Holly Riddle
Updated March 20, 2023

best glamping near gatlinburg tennessee
Photo: Under Canvas

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Gatlinburg is a family-favorite getaway in the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee.

The town makes an excellent vacation choice for those who want to blend the amenities and attractions of a tourist destination (think mini golf, go karts, museums, an aquarium, etcetera) with all the beauty of one of America’s most beloved national parks.

Given that Gatlinburg is such a popular tourist destination for travelers all over the East Coast and beyond, you can expect to find a wide array of hotel chains here. Cabin rentals are also a favorite option. But what if you want to go glamping? If you’re dreaming of a lush, luxury getaway that puts you in touch with nature without giving up all of your creature comforts, you’ll want to check out these picks for best glamping spots near Gatlinburg.

Related Read: 9 Unique Places to Stay in Gatlinburg, Tennessee

1. Under Canvas

glamping near gatlinburg under canvas
Photo: Under Canvas

Why you should stay here: Nationally recognized digs in an Instagram-worthy atmosphere.

  • Sleeps: Up to 4
  • Minimum Stay: 1 night
  • Rates from: $199/night

Under Canvas Great Smoky Mountains is an outpost of the nationally recognized Under Canvas brand, which offers safari tent-style camping in an array of destinations. This particular location has been named not just one of the best spots to glamp in the region, but one of the best resorts in the region overall.

Just a short drive from Great Smoky Mountains National Park, as well as Gatlinburg, the resort sits on more than 180 wooded acres dotted with safari tents. Depending on the type of tent you book, you’ll enjoy amenities such as a private bathroom, organic bath products and even housekeeping service on request. Explore the camp a little further and you’ll find complimentary camp activities and an adventures concierge, as well as a fire pit and s’mores.

Whether you’re traveling alone or as a couple, with kids or friends, you can find a tent option that will work for your needs, while also letting you get to know the other campers nearby. If you’re looking for a more social camping experience, you’ve found it — though if you want to hole away in your private glamping tent, you can do that, too!

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Related Read: 6 Cool Campervan Rentals in Nashville, Tennessee

2. GlampKnox Canvas Campground Grande

tent glamping near gatlinburg
Photo: Hipcamp

Why you should stay here: A location away from it all.

  • Sleeps: 6
  • Minimum Stay: 1 night
  • Rates from: $59/night

GlampKnox Canvas Campground Grande is a little bit of a trek from Gatlinburg, but that makes it appealing for those who only want to go into town for the day and then retreat totally back into nature at night, away from the tourist crowds — and, believe me, those crowds can get pretty big during peak summer months. This glamping tent sits near Seven Islands State Birding Park and Big Ridge State Park, so you can explore other nature sites beyond the Smokies, too.

The amenities and furnishings are basic, but definitely a cut above camping in a traditional tent and sleeping on the ground in your sleeping bag! Expect real beds, charging stations, outdoor hot and cold showers and private bathrooms.

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Related Read: 8 Impressive Glamping Spots Near Nashville, Tennessee

3. Wild Hare Luxury Glamping Tent

gatlinburg glamping tent
Photo: Airbnb

Why you should stay here: Views upon views.

  • Sleeps: 2
  • Minimum Stay: 1 night
  • Rates from: $243/night

Who said that glamping meant you had to be stuffed back in the forest, where all you can see are trees? This glamping tent for two provides stellar views of the mountains. Ideal for couples, the tent makes a romantic hideaway. If you can tear yourself away from the spacious deck, with its Adirondack chairs, grill, fire pit and those spectacular views, you’ll find a luxurious interior, where a cozy bed, full bathroom and kitchenette await.

All of the little details are thought of, to keep you comfortable. There’s a fridge, rugs on the floors, tile work in the bathroom, working lights overhead — and the best part? You can actually still see those mountain views from bed, no need to even get up.

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Related Read: 10 Incredible Glamping Spots Near Asheville, North Carolina

4. The Domes at Smoky Mountains Glamping

dome glamping near gatlinburg
Photo: Hipcamp

Why you should stay here: Cozy forest views and stargazing for two.

  • Sleeps: 2
  • Minimum Stay: 1 night
  • Rates from: $105/night

If your idea of glamping includes staying in an adorable dome rather than beneath a canvas safari tent, then The Domes at Smoky Mountains Glamping is worthy of your consideration. These domes sit within the Great Smoky Mountains, while being just a short drive from the national park entrance. The dome, with its plush bed and swing-style seating, offers views via both an overhead window (great for stargazing as you drift off to sleep) and the big back bay window that takes up nearly one side of the entire dome.

Outside, you’ll enjoy sitting at either your private picnic table or on your deck, as you take in the sounds of the gurgling stream nearby. When you want to explore the area attractions, you’re just a half-hour drive from Gatlinburg, as well as the Dollywood theme park.

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Related Read: 10 Can’t-Miss Glamping Sites Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park

5. Dolly’s Fantasy Camper

dolly parton glamping trailer gatlinburg
Photo: Airbnb

Why you should stay here: A perfect getaway for hardcore Dolly fans.

  • Sleeps: 2
  • Minimum Stay: 1 night
  • Rates from: $90/night

This camping option is totally kitschy and totally fun because of it. The vibrantly-colored, retro camper has been totally remodeled inside, to give you a luxurious stay surrounded by all things honoring Dolly Parton. The kitchen features tile work and shiplap. The bed is plush and big enough for two — and the bedroom even includes storage space. The small bathroom likewise features new tile work and a modern aesthetic, with a stand-up shower and butcher block vanity.

If you find yourself needing some extra space, though, you’ll enjoy the expansive covered patio just steps away from the camper, with its lighting and ample seating. A garden, fish pond and fire pit are also on the six-acre property. When you’re ready to explore further afield, you’ll find the Smoky Mountains and Dollywood, as well as Gatlinburg, just a short drive away.

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Related Read: 11 Exciting & Unique Places to Stay in Tennessee

6. GlampVentures Royal Rest Tent

glamping near gatlinburg tn
Photo: Hipcamp

Why you should stay here: A forest setting for that real camping feel

  • Sleeps: 2
  • Minimum Stay: 2 nights
  • Rates from: $77/night

For a glamping getaway that puts you out in the woods, go for this canvas tent surrounded by dense forest and near the water. The 200-square-foot interior is furnished with a comfy bed for two and a small seating area, so you can fully relax both at night or if the weather isn’t quite cooperating with your travel plans.

Outside, you’ll enjoy the Adirondack chairs on the large deck space that keeps the tent elevated, off the cold, hard ground — which might just be enough to tempt even the most camping-averse to try these accommodations!

The tent comes with access to a bath house and solar shower, and even comes with all the gear you might need to cook over a campfire. All you’ll need to bring is your food. Gatlinburg is less than an hour away, but closer attractions include vineyards and whitewater rafting.

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Related Read: 8 Dreamlike Treehouses in Tennessee

7. Cox Homestead’s Retro Camper

glamping trailer near gatlinburg
Photo: Airbnb

Why you should stay here: Vintage 50s-inspired fun with lots of space.

  • Sleeps: 5
  • Minimum Stay: 1 night
  • Rates from: $121/night

A lot of glamping options are built with only a few travelers in mind, but if you’re traveling with a larger family or group of friends, you’ll need some extra bed space. Cox Homestead’s Retro Camper will give you just that — plus a whole lotta vintage fun.

The living and dining space gives heavy 1950s diner-style vibes, with the checkerboard flooring and turquoise upholstery. That vibe continues through the main bedroom, with its polka dot furnishings. Tucked away behind the kitchen are two bunk beds in a separate bunk room, as well as a bathroom with a standing shower. The kitchen offers a stove and oven, plus a small fridge.

You’ve got everything you need for a glamping getaway with no comfort sacrifices whatsoever. The camper sits on a working farm and is even outfitted with a flat-screen television and air conditioning. Gatlinburg is less than 30 miles away.

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Related Read: 8 Best Pet-Friendly Hotels in Knoxville, Tennessee

8. Romantic Riverfront Yurt

gatlinburg yurt glamping
Photo: Airbnb

Why you should stay here: High style living on a peony farm.

  • Sleeps: 4
  • Minimum Stay: 2 nights
  • Rates from: $260/night

This yurt feels more like a tiny home than your normal camping digs. Set within a lush, landscaped garden near the trees, the yurt offers a full living space, with a couch and entertainment area and even a fireplace; a separated bedroom for extra privacy; a kitchen with a full stove, oven and fridge; and a large bathroom. The backyard overlooks Pigeon River Spring. If you walk down to its banks, you’ll be able to glimpse the mountains from the valley.

All the while, you’re just a short drive from Asheville, the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains. However, why would you ever want to leave, when this yurt sits on a peony farm, where you can also arrange for privately catered, chef-led, three-course dinners during your stay?

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Related Read: 8 Memorable Tennessee Romantic Getaways For Lovebirds

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