Sevierville Hotels

The cities of Sevierville, Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg host about 11 million visitors each year. Much of that activity is the result of locations near the most popular national park in the U.S. But these cities have become secondary destinations, with their own attractions that interest travelers.

Sevierville is the northernmost of the three, and the Sevier County seat. It offers a nice selection of hotels that are budget-friendly.

Oak Tree Lodge is located on U.S. 441 Parkway, across from the Tanger Outlet Stores. The location is central for attractions in Sevierville and Pigeon Forge; Oak Tree Lodge is about eight miles from the entrance to the national park.

About half of the 99 rooms are standard hotel fare, with two queen beds. There are 12 jacuzzi suites with gas fireplaces and four large family suites. Nightly rates range from $75-$100 before taxes. Included with each stay: in-room refrigerators and coffee makers, private balconies, high-speed Internet and continental breakfast.

It's common in this area for hotels to partner with area attractions on discounted entry fees. For example, Oak Tree Lodge has relationships with the riding stables next door, and several adventure-oriented businesses. It always pays to ask about these discounts at a prospective hotel.

Gatlinburg Hotels

Gatlinburg hotels tend to be a bit more expensive than what is found in Sevierville, because the park entrance is closer.

Pictured here is the Gillette Motel in downtown Gatlinburg, not far from the town's convention center. Despite its strategic location, room rates range from $50-$120/night for clean if not fancy accommodations. It offers two elevators and an outdoor heated pool.

The Summit of Gatlinburg is a resort requiring a two-night minimum stay (three nights during fall color season) at prices ranging from $74-$134/night.

They offer studio apartments and multi-bedroom suites.

There are a number of privately-owned campgrounds in the Sevierville area, but many budget travelers prefer U.S. national park campgrounds. Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers visitors a choice of 10 campgrounds, with traditional services and drive-in access.

Some parks take reservations, while others are first-come, first-served. It always pays to set up camp during daylight hours, arriving as early as possible for the best selection of sites.

Nightly fees vary by campground, in the $14-$23/night range.

It pays to research sites in advance of your trip. Some campgrounds are closed during the winter season.

The park also allows back-country camping. These are primitive sites to which you hike with all supplies. You'll need a reservation and a permit for back-country camping. Reservation fees are $4/person, up to a maximum of $20/person.

While it pays to select a trail and campsite, you might find your first choice is closed due to bear activity or inclement weather. It pays to choose several options.

Although many people might associate the Great Smoky Mountains with rustic accommodations, it is possible to find more upscale lodging options. The trick is to snag a good deal. As with many places, your chances increase if you're willing to visit in the off-season (roughly late November-early March).

The Inn at Christmas Place in Pigeon Forge is a four-star resort where rooms can run more than $300/night in the high season.

But off-season rates and special packages are available that can bring costs down to the $150/night range, which is sometimes what you'd pay for a simple room elsewhere.

Another attractive option in this region is cabin rentals. Majestic Mountain Vacations rents cabins in the Pigeon Forge area starting under $200/night for one-bedroom, but the better buys are two-bedroom cabins for just a few dollars more. Majestic Mountain also offers a schedule of discounts based on season and length of stay.

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