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4 Local Stores Where You Can Gear Up for Camping in the Smoky Mountains

hiking equipment
May 27, 2025

If you are planning a camping adventure in the Smokies, you will want to make sure you have all the equipment and gear you need for your vacation! We know there is a lot to remember when packing for a camping trip, and it’s not unusual to forget a thing or two. The great news is there are several local stores near our campground where you can pick up all the gear and equipment you need. Here are 4 local stores where you can gear up for camping in the Smoky Mountains:

1. REI Pigeon Forge

the tower shops

REI Pigeon Forge is one of the newest outfitters in the Smoky Mountains and features top brand gear and clothing for all of your camping needs! If you are looking to try out some new camping gear before you make a purchase, there is even a wide selection of outdoor rental equipment available. Some of the camping items you can expect while shopping at REI include tents, shelters, chairs, hammocks, sleeping bags, air mattresses, and pillows. REI Pigeon Forge is located in the Mountain Mile complex at 2655 Teaster Lane.

2. Nantahala Outdoor Center

Another one of the local stores where you can gear up for camping in the Smoky Mountains is the Nantahala Outdoor Center! This outdoor superstore in downtown Gatlinburg carries virtually everything necessary for your outdoor adventures in the Smokies, including a complete lineup of camping equipment. You can also find vacation essentials such as sunglasses, sandals, and swimsuits, which come in handy for those who want to enjoy our refreshing Flint Rock swimming hole during the summer months. Even if you don’t buy a thing, you will love the fun in-store experience that features a swinging rope bridge, a kid-friendly bear cave, and a huge fireplace! The Nantahala Outdoor Center is located at 1138 Parkway in Gatlinburg TN.

3. Smoky Mountain Outdoor Center

clothes

Located in at 7138 E Lamar Alexander Parkway in Townsend, Smoky Mountain Outdoor Center is another one of the best places to visit if you plan on camping in the Smoky Mountains. This one-stop shop for all your needs includes brands like Patagonia, The North Face, Kavu, Hydro Flask, Costa, Chaco, Howler Brothers, and more. You can grab all the outdoor gear you may need, plus items for river tubing and bike rentals. You can even sign up for classes, guided tours, and more while you're here. One of the best parts about this store is all the unique and creative t-shirts and other apparel you can explore.

4. GSM Outfitters

GSM Outfitters offers the top brands in camping essentials at their location at 3275 Wears Valley Road in Sevierville. You can find everything you need for camping in the Smoky Mountains or any other outdoor excursion. GSM Outfitters has everything from clothing to gear, accessories, tools, boots, and much more. Even better is the staff here are knowledgable experts who love hiking and are more than happy to answer any questions and provide their recommendations for places to explore. Some of the brands you'll find here include Gregory, Darn Tough, Chaco, Mountainsmith, Nalgene, Lifestraw, Kavu, Sling, and many more. This store even has its own coffee shop, perfect for sipping on as you explore everything they have in store.

Now that you know where to gear up for camping in the Smoky Mountains, check out all of the information about our Smoky Mountain campground today to plan your trip! We look forward to seeing you this season!