Actual camping can be pretty rough. When you literally just have a sleeping bag, no running water, some crappy tent that just won't stay up right, and really nothing to do but enjoy the sights and sounds of nature and enjoy some s'mores. That works for some people, but I'm way more into "glamping." You know, where you're technically staying in a canvas tent under the stars but there's a flushing toilet (priorities), shower and a bed that isn't the rough ground. You can get all of these lovely amenities with the Under Canvas Great Smoky Mountains experience in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. That's only 15 minutes outside of Pigeon Forge.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YOcxMQpyBj4
You get to stay in a luxury safari tent (i.e. authentic safari inspired canvas tents) in close proximity to the Appalachian Trail. What more could you ask for? The types of deluxe tents vary depending on what you're looking for. You can get a suite with adjacent hive that sleeps up to seven people and includes a private bathroom, king bed, queen size sofa bed, adjacent hive with two twin beds, and private deck for optimal stargazing and pristine mountain views. There are some other options that have a shared bathroom space, but still the same lovely interior and a wood burning stove.
The untouched beauty of the great Smoky Mountains is an incredible sight, and you'll get to experience it through a ton of fun activities: whitewater rafting, fly fishing, horseback riding, Smoky Mountain ziplines, mountain biking, guided hiking and more awaits you on this Under Canvas adventure. There's a fire pit, deck for yoga and onsite restaurant. After check-in, you pretty much have everything you could possibly need. A three-day package for two adults costs $2,700.
This experience is booking through December 1 and one of the coolest parts about it is that they have an Acoustic Campfire Music Series. What's better than enjoying your s'mores under the stars while listening to some incredible up and coming artists?
Check out the 2019 lineup:
October 4-5: Smithfield
October 18-19: Natalie Stovall
October 24-25: American Young
November 1-2: Johnny McGuire
November 7-8: Spencer Crandall
November 15-16: John King
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