Under Canvas Great Smoky Mountains

Under Canvas Great Smoky Mountains, a Michelin Key Selected property, offers a unique and highly-regarded "glamping" experience, combining the immersion of nature with the comforts of a luxury hotel. Located just outside Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, this safari-inspired camp provides an upscale basecamp for exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and surrounding attractions.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for Under Canvas Great Smoky Mountains is overwhelmingly positive, with an overall "Very Good" rating of 8.2 based on numerous guest reviews. Guests frequently express their love for the entire experience, appreciating the ability to "fully emerge in nature while staying very comfortable." The selection as a Michelin Key property further underscores its high standards and quality.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently praise several aspects of Under Canvas Great Smoky Mountains:

• Service: The staff receives exceptional feedback, described as "incredible," "so friendly," and willing to "go above and beyond." Guest experience coordinators are readily available to assist with planning local adventures and activities.
• Location: The camp's setting on 182 acres of wooded terrain is highlighted as a significant draw. It offers a secluded feel while remaining conveniently located just minutes from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park entrance. Nearby attractions like Dolly Parton's Stampede (4.3 miles) and Dollywood (5.6 miles) are also easily accessible.
• Design: The safari-inspired luxury tents, combined with a West Elm-curated lobby, create an appealing aesthetic that blends rustic charm with upscale comfort. This unique design successfully marries luxury-boutique hospitality with an adventurous tent-camping feel.
• Amenities: Popular amenities include nightly campfires with complimentary s'mores, free yoga classes, live music, and various outdoor games. The property also features a garden, outdoor fireplace, lounge, and outdoor seating areas. It's a pet-friendly establishment, welcoming dogs for a nightly fee.

3. Room Quality

The accommodations at Under Canvas Great Smoky Mountains are luxury tents designed to provide "hotel-quality beds" with memory foam and premium bedding for a comfortable night's sleep. Each tent is accessible via exterior corridors and comes with complimentary toiletries and daily housekeeping.

Available tent types include:

• Safari Tent: Some feature shared bathrooms, while others have private facilities.
• Deluxe Tent: Equipped with a private bathroom and typically a king bed.
• Suite Tent: Larger options with private bathrooms, sometimes including a sofa bed or an adjacent kids' tent.
• Stargazer Tent: A highlight for many, these tents include a private bathroom and a skylight positioned above the bed for viewing constellations.

Standard features across many tents include wood-burning stoves with complimentary firewood, seating areas, and private decks or patios. USB battery packs and battery-powered fans are also provided for convenience.

4. Dining Experience

The on-site family-friendly restaurant, Embers, serves American cuisine for both breakfast and dinner, with a focus on seasonal and locally sourced produce. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available to cater to various dietary needs.

• Breakfast: Offered for an additional charge ($10-$20), with options such as French toast, breakfast burritos, yogurt parfaits, and blueberry muffins. Complimentary coffee is also available in the lobby.
• Dinner: The diverse menu includes dishes like the Under Canvas Burger, Pan-Roasted Trout, and Superfood & Quinoa Salad.
• Other options: Grab-and-go selections are available for guests heading out for the day. The lobby tent also features a bar offering craft cocktails, local beers, and wine.

Guests generally find the food quality to be "good" and a significant step up from typical camping fare.

5. Service & Staff

The staff at Under Canvas Great Smoky Mountains is consistently lauded as a major highlight, scoring a high 9.7 for staff on Booking.com. Reviewers frequently mention the "friendliness of reception staff" and praise the team for being "attentive" and "friendly." The readily available Guest Experience Coordinators are particularly valued for their expertise in helping guests plan activities and make the most of their visit.

6. Location & Accessibility

Under Canvas Great Smoky Mountains is strategically located on 182 acres of lush, wooded terrain, providing a serene escape. It is situated minutes from the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, approximately 10 miles from Gatlinburg and near Pigeon Forge. This location offers easy access to popular attractions such as Dolly Parton's Stampede and Dollywood.

For travelers, the camp is about an hour's drive from McGhee Tyson Airport in Knoxville. Free self-parking is available on-site. One notable aspect of the location is the intentional absence of Wi-Fi and often unreliable cell service, designed to encourage guests to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature.

7. Value & Pricing

As a luxury glamping destination, Under Canvas Great Smoky Mountains offers a premium outdoor experience. Rates can vary, starting from around $209, with typical prices ranging from $303 to $516 for different tent types. While the value for money is rated at 7.4 on Booking.com, many guests consider the unique experience, comfortable accommodations, and comprehensive amenities to be well worth the cost. The property operates seasonally, generally from April to November.

8. Common Complaints

While largely positive, some recurring points of feedback include:

• Connectivity: The lack of Wi-Fi and unreliable cell service, although intentional for a "digital detox," can be a minor inconvenience for some guests.
• Climate Control: Tents do not have air conditioning, which, combined with minimal airflow, can lead to humid and damp conditions, particularly in the Smoky Mountain climate.
• Food Restrictions: For health and safety, food is not permitted inside the tents due to wildlife concerns.
• Bathroom Facilities: Some tent categories utilize shared communal bathhouses, and even private tent showers often feature a pull-chain mechanism, which some find slightly inconvenient.
• Tent Features: Starting the wood-burning stoves can be a bit tricky for some guests, and there are limited electrical outlets in the tents.
• Crowding: Communal fire pits can sometimes get crowded.
• Accessibility: Given the outdoor and largely undisturbed nature of the camp, some areas may pose challenges for guests with limited mobility.

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