What makes Klaire Todd and Patrick O'Leary with Smoky Bear Campground a good neighbor?

Nestled just outside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Smoky Bear Campground offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern comforts. This family-owned and operated campground has been creating memorable experiences for nature enthusiasts and families seeking a peaceful mountain getaway for decades.

Owners Klaire Todd and Patrick O'Leary bring a wealth of hospitality experience to their campground. Patrick's family has been in the hospitality industry since the 1970s, with the campground initially starting as his parents' retirement plan. Klaire, originally from Murrells Inlet, South Carolina (known as the seafood capital of South Carolina), joined the team about a decade ago, drawn by her love of the mountains and outdoor lifestyle. What began as a vacation destination for Klaire has now become her home, allowing her to share her passion for the area with guests.

One of the most significant misconceptions about camping that Klaire and Patrick address is the idea that "camping means roughing it." At Smoky Bear Campground, guests can enjoy nature without sacrificing comfort. The property features full hookup RV sites with water, sewer, electric, cable, and Wi-Fi, as well as comfortable cabins for those who prefer solid walls. Amenities include a swimming pool, hot tub, and exceptionally clean bathhouse facilities – something the owners take particular pride in maintaining. Unlike some more commercialized campgrounds that clear-cut their properties, Smoky Bear maintains numerous mature trees throughout the grounds, creating a genuine camping atmosphere while still offering modern conveniences.

The campground particularly appeals to families and pet owners seeking a peaceful setting for their vacation. As Patrick notes, many of their guests choose RV camping specifically because they can bring their dogs along, avoiding the challenges of finding pet-friendly hotel accommodations. On busy days, the campground transforms into what Klaire describes as "a dog parade," with guests walking their pets and socializing with fellow campers – creating a friendly, community atmosphere that keeps people coming back year after year.

Like many businesses in the tourism industry, Smoky Bear Campground faced significant challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. The owners had to adapt their operations to new safety protocols while simultaneously managing an unexpected surge in business as outdoor vacations became more popular. More recently, they've weathered the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which caused devastating damage to nearby areas like Newport. Though Gatlinburg and the campground were largely spared, widespread misconceptions about road closures and accessibility have impacted visitor numbers – something the owners are actively working to address by spreading the word that they remain open for business.

What truly sets Smoky Bear Campground apart is the owners' commitment to creating meaningful experiences for their guests. "We're very blessed that they choose us for their yearly vacation and we take it very seriously," Klaire explains. The owners maintain a constant presence on the property, ensuring guest satisfaction personally rather than delegating to staff. This hands-on approach has fostered remarkable loyalty, with many guests returning multiple times per year. "We've seen children grow up," Patrick notes, highlighting the multi-generational relationships they've built with families who make Smoky Bear a regular tradition.

Located just 13 miles outside downtown Gatlinburg at 4857 Parkway East, Smoky Bear Campground offers the perfect balance of accessibility to attractions while maintaining a serene, natural environment. Whether you're an experienced camper or someone looking to experience the great outdoors with a few essential comforts, this hidden gem provides an authentic mountain experience with the hospitality that only a family-owned business can deliver.

To learn more about Smoky Bear Campground go to:

https://www.smokybearcampground.com/

Smoky Bear Campground

865-436-8372