Tennessee is no stranger to national recognition for its natural beauty and family-friendly travel spots, but this year, one destination in our great state has risen to the top in a particularly exciting way. Under Canvas Great Smoky Mountains, a luxury glamping resort located just outside Pigeon Forge, was recently named the No. 8 Best U.S. Resort for Families in “Travel + Leisure’s” 2023 list of the 15 Best U.S. Resorts for Families.
The annual list, based on votes from “T+L” readers, showcases destinations that deliver not only comfort and style, but also unforgettable experiences tailored to the evolving needs of family travelers. For Tennessee families seeking adventure without sacrificing convenience, Under Canvas Great Smoky Mountains hits a sweet spot—blending immersive nature with just the right amount of luxury.
A New Take on the Family Vacation
Who doesn’t love a good camping trip? I sure do! I love the togetherness, exploring, relaxation and great outdoors. Unfortunately, to get to all those magical memories, we have to pack up everything we own, haul it to the middle of the woods, figure out how the heck to set up a tent (why is there not just a button?), blow up mattresses (that will be deflated by 3 a.m. and we will spend the rest of the night on the ground), roll out sleeping bags, sweep out the dirt and listen while the kids say, “Is it almost ready?” one million times. Oh, the joys of camping.
In “Travel + Leisure’s” write-up, Under Canvas is celebrated for its signature approach to travel: luxury safari-style tents set on 182 acres of pristine wilderness, just minutes from the entrance of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The magazine calls it an “ideal home base for park explorers,” pointing out the resort’s mix of outdoor programming and family-centered activities, from guided hikes and yoga sessions to trivia and movie nights under the stars.
The setting is intentionally designed to encourage flexibility—a key value the article emphasizes for family travelers. Spacious tents allow kids and parents room to spread out, while communal areas bring guests together over campfires, live music and nightly s’mores. There’s a sense of camp-style camaraderie here, with the perks of high-end travel woven in.
What Glamping Really Looks Like
While the phrase “glamping” often gets tossed around, Under Canvas has refined it into something truly special. Each of the canvas tents is equipped with West Elm furnishings, plush king or queen beds, wood-burning stoves, and, depending on the layout, private or shared bathrooms. Some tents include adjacent kid-friendly add-ons—smaller tents just for children—making it easy for parents to enjoy privacy while staying close.
The resort operates seasonally from April through late November, and each visit offers something a little different. In spring, wildflowers line the trails just outside the campgrounds. By summer, tubing, rafting and fly-fishing excursions are in full swing. Autumn brings crisp mountain air and dazzling foliage, perfect for end-of-season getaways and cozy nights around the fire pit.
Even mealtimes are made easy for busy families. The on-site restaurant offers locally sourced, seasonal meals, and there are grab-and-go breakfast options for those looking to hit the trails early. Plus, guests can count on modern amenities like USB charging stations, on-site staff and daily housekeeping to make the experience both comfortable and hassle-free.
Close to Home, Yet Far From Ordinary
One of the biggest perks for Tennessee families is location. Under Canvas is tucked away just 10 miles from Gatlinburg and a short drive from Dollywood, making it both an escape into nature and a convenient base for exploring one of the state’s most popular family regions. With the Smokies at your doorstep and the excitement of Pigeon Forge nearby, it’s the kind of getaway that doesn’t require flights or complicated itineraries.
There’s something deeply satisfying about sleeping in a tent while still enjoying a hot shower, a full bed and gourmet coffee in the morning. For parents like us, who want to introduce their children to the outdoors but prefer not to haul gear or sleep on the ground, Under Canvas provides an ideal solution. It’s not just a vacation spot; it’s an experience that brings families closer to nature and to each other.
Why It Resonates With Families
Part of the charm of Under Canvas is its balance. It allows for adventure and exploration, but with comfort and structure built in. There’s no need to choose between wilderness and rest, between spontaneity and service. Families can spend the morning zip-lining or hiking, then return to a warm, comfortable tent and a delicious dinner.
The property’s emphasis on connection, both to nature and to one another, is exactly what many families are craving after years of fast-paced living. And for Tennessee parents looking for a nearby retreat that’s just as exciting for toddlers as it is for teens—and relaxing for adults—Under Canvas is proving to be one of the best destinations in the country.
With this recent national spotlight from “Travel + Leisure,” Under Canvas Great Smoky Mountains has officially staked its place as one of the country’s top-tier family destinations, and it’s right here in our Tennessee backyard.
