Tips for Planning a Large Tennessee Family Vacation

The Smoky Mountains don’t just feel like a magical place, they really are a mystical destination. The phrase “old as the hills” rings true when you really dive into the old lore of the mountains. When you come to visit, take this otherworldly tour and investigate for yourself. Here are six of the Smokies’ best kept secrets.

1. Elkmont Trollbridge

Escape to a place that really feels like a glimpse into a mythical land. The Elkmont Trollbridge is a true hidden gem that only locals know about. Hike along the Little River Trail until you reach this spot. Covered in moss and mushrooms, the Trollbridge is perfect for capturing pictures or looking for hidden fantastical creatures.

2. House Of The Fairies

This whimsical spot is only a mile from downtown Gatlinburg yet it feels like you’ve been transported into another realm. Map to this magical place, then go out and explore. Here, you’ll find towering trees and moss covered logs and boulders. Then at the end of the trail you’ll see it...an arched doorway, that looks like it’s almost cut into the side of the hill, sits with a wooden ladder leaning against the frame. Step inside and find a cool spring, filled with water that tinkles like bells. 

3. Synchronous Fireflies

The synchronized fireflies that come out every year like clockwork might be more science than magic but when you’re sitting among the trees and they begin to spark in unison, flickering in and out of sight, it feels like something otherworldly. This rare phenomenon is only seen in a few places in the world and The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of them.

4. Elkmont Ghost Town

Once a thriving vacation spot for the Knoxville elite, the Elkmont Ghost Town looks like a legend brought back to life. Recently restored, explore inside the homes and hike trails where you will find the remains of homes once occupied by Appalachian locals who would serve, supply and work in the town. This piece of history is frozen in time and feels like stepping back into the past.

There are many magical places in the Smokies and these are only four of them. Don’t stop here, continue to search for more mystical creatures and sprites living in the trees and hollows. To discover more, stay overnight in the mountains in a log cabin. This cabin is even called Magical Moments, which is exactly what you’ll find when you visit the Smoky Mountains.

One of the best ways to create lifelong memories with loved ones is on a vacation. If it’s been a while since you’ve gotten the whole family together, now’s the perfect time to plan a family vacation to Tennessee, specifically the Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge region. Not only is this area filled with adventures suited for all ages, but there are also several incredible large cabin rentals to choose from, courtesy of Bear Camp Cabin Rentals. 

Planning a vacation for a large group can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Keep reading to learn more tips and things to remember to help you have the best family vacation possible.

Tip 1: Find a Large Cabin Rental That’s the Right Fit

The last thing you want is to arrive at your rental and realize it’s not quite the right size. The perfect Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge cabin will have enough space for everyone to sleep and hang out comfortably. Our inventory of large group cabins consists of rentals ranging from five and up. Offering these types of properties means when we say we can host groups of all sizes, we truly mean it. The right cabin for you will be large enough to give everyone plenty of breathing room but not so large that it feels like a game of hide and seek trying to find someone.

Tip 2: Pre-book Your Adventures When Possible

When vacationing with a large group, pre-booking or pre-purchasing as many activities as possible is always a good idea. Certain attractions or things to do may offer discounted rates for groups over a certain number. If there are more than 15 of you and you plan on visiting Dollywood, we recommend looking into their general group booking information. Groups of 20 or more can enjoy a special discount at Gatlinburg SkyPark. At Smoky Mountain Jeep Tours, the outings for family reunions can accommodate up to 50 people. Don’t forget to check out our Xplore ticket offers! Groups can get multiple tickets depending on how large of a cabin they reserve and may also be eligible for discounted tickets.

Tip 3: Look for Ways to Have Fun at Your Rental

There are plenty of fun things to do at your Smoky Mountains cabin. Break up into teams and compete in a series of games like corn hole and water balloon toss; the losing team has to do dishes that night. Bring a portable projector or reserve a rental with a media room, and gather everyone for a movie night. Relax around the fire as you make s’mores and swap your favorite memories.

Turn to Bear Camp Cabin Rentals for Your Next Family Vacation

At Bear Camp Cabin Rentals, we work to provide incredible vacation and cabin rentals for groups of all sizes. This includes large family vacations to the Smoky Mountains region of Tennessee. If your next family reunion is taking place in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, or the surrounding area, we have the ideal large cabin rental in the Smokies for you. To learn more about a specific vacation rental, call 1-800-705-6346.