As summer dwindled to an end, we decided last August to squeeze in one last camping trip. It wasn’t hard to choose an area to explore. Adventure was calling us to one of our favorite destinations (and the most visited National Park in the country), the Great Smoky Mountains. With all the visitors that make their way in and around the Smokies, there are plenty of camping options to choose from. For this trip we opted to explore a new campground, Duvall in the Smokies. This RV campground is minutes away from Dollywood and at the end of the week, our only regret was that we couldn’t stay longer.
Campsites
Functionally, Duvall in the Smokies is a great campground. The sites and adjacent patios are all paved, spacious, and level. They offer 30/50 amp full hookup, cable ,and the best Wi-fi we have ever experienced at a campground. I worked remotely the whole week with no issues. I didn’t just have to send a few emails, but was transferring files, running data, and actively participating in online WebEx meetings. With the connection at Duvall, I was consistently able to complete my work. As a side note, we also had great cell phone coverage (T-Mobile).
The owners didn’t stop there though. They went above and beyond to make Duvall in the Smokies feel more like a resort, but with economy pricing. We frequently saw staff caring for the grounds and their efforts kept the property looking immaculate. The grills at each site aren’t the basic metal boxes seen at public parks and rest areas. Instead they are covered with an adjustable grate height. The fire rings feature a stamped campground logo. And the picnic tables weren’t made of 2×4 slats, but were solidly built and featured small lights on the side. The campground is gated and motion lights illuminated the paths for safety. Many of the sites even backed up to the Little Pigeon River. It was all the little touches that set this campground experience above others.
Amenities
We also loved some of the more unique amenities offered. For younger kids there is a sandbox and barrel ride. Inner Tubes and Kayaks are available to rent for those who would like to explore the Little Pigeon River. There are corn hole boards for guests by the office and an Eagle’s Nest at one of the sites. It even includes a telescope available for viewing. Next to our campsite we found a cart of stones pulled from the Little Pigeon River. Visitors select one of the stones to take home as a souvenir. And the front desk offers paints for those who would like to decorate their rock.
As beautiful as the campground already is, they are continuing to make improvements. When we visited they were implementing a splash pad for families. The owners (who previously worked in site grading and landscape design) have worked hard to the create a refreshing spot to cool off in the summer heat. Emilie loved splashing around on the variety of floats available. My favorite was to relax on the glider and let my feel soak in the cool water.
Customer Service
One other quality we found at Duvall in the Smokies that set them apart is their kindness. Alais Duvall completely focused on her guests in every interaction we witnessed, including our own. She wanted to make sure we really enjoyed our time in the area and provided a number of family adventures to check. At the time of our visit, they even offered backing in and setting up the camper free of charge if needed.
Our camping experience at Duvall in the Smokies was beyond our expectations and we can’t wait to go back. If you’re looking for a camping location near the Smokies we can’t recommend this one enough.
Location
Duvall in the Smokies
1518 Dolly Parton Pkwy
Sevierville, TN 37862
You must be logged in to post a comment.