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4 Best Ways to Cool Off During Your Summer Vacation in the Smoky Mountains

splash country
May 29, 2025

One of the best things about a summer camping trip to the Smokies is the delightful weather! The long days of sunshine offer plenty of time to enjoy the great outdoors, including the playground, recreational equipment, and other fun features at our campground! If you happen to experience a heatwave during your vacation, no need to worry! Use this opportunity to take advantage of these top 4 ways to cool off during your summer vacation in the Smoky Mountains:

1. Dollywood’s Splash Country

Dollywood’s Splash Country is a huge waterpark close to our Smoky Mountain campground and features a wave pool, toddler water play areas, thrilling waterslides, and more! Grab a tube for the Downbound Float Trip, a lazy river attraction where you’ll float among the scenic beauty of the Smokies! If you’re looking for a bit more excitement, take advantage of breathtaking waterslides like the Big Bear Plunge, Fire Tower Falls, Raging River Rapids, and the Slick Rock Racer! You’ll also find lots of tempting food options when hunger strikes during your visit!

2. Waterfall Hikes

spruce flats falls in the smoky mountains

If you have your mind set on hiking regardless of the temperature, consider one of the Smoky Mountain hiking trails with a waterfall! Pack plenty of water to keep hydrated on your trek through the forest, then reward yourself with the cool spray of a beautiful waterfall! One of the best options is Spruce Flat Falls, a less crowded trail with stunning views and a gorgeous 30-foot waterfall in 4 separate tiers!

3. Indoor Attractions in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge

Another one of the top ways to cool off during your summer vacation in the Smoky Mountains is with one of the indoor attractions in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge! You’ll find dozens of fun options, including indoor mini golf courses, escape rooms, arcades, interactive museums, haunted houses, and more! One of the most popular destinations is Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, a fascinating aquarium in downtown Gatlinburg with over 10,000 exotic sea creatures! If you ever wanted to get up close and personal with sharks and penguins, this is your chance!

4. Flint Rock Swimming Hole at Our Campground

Flint Rock Swimming Hole

When you stay at our Smoky Mountain campground, you’ll have access to the best swimming hole in the Smokies - the famous Flint Rock! The Little Pigeon River surrounds our campground, making it easy for our guests to enjoy this refreshing swimming hole and the private beach around it! Splash around on a warm summer afternoon with your family and friends, or relax on the beach with your feet dipped into the water! When you’re ready to dry off and shower, take advantage of our luxury bathhouse and dry your bathing suit in our convenient laundry facility! Find out more ways to stay cool this summer at our campground in the Smokies!

Learn more about the best places to go swimming in the Smoky Mountains and begin planning your perfect summer vacation in the Smoky Mountains at our campground! We can’t wait to have you come and stay with us!