Nestled snugly between Tennessee and North Carolina, lies the Great Smoky Mountains. Spanning over 850 square miles of pristine mountain majesty, this place is home to endless hiking trails, breathtaking views and wildlife that looks straight out of a David Attenborough doco.
The Smoky Mountains are a place where the air is fresh and the folklore is rich. Whether you’re up for a trek or to just relax in some of nature’s best, the Smokies have you covered. It’s no wonder this place tops the charts as the USA’s most popular national park – and between you and me, it may just be my personal favorite. too.
But the area is HUGE and plotting your stay can be a puzzle. Rather than crashing in the usual run-of-the-mill motels, why not opt for something a bit different? There are loads of cool Airbnbs that you can stay in that will get you up, close and person with the Smoky Mountains and local life in the surrounding towns.
Lucky for you, I’ve put in the hard yards to scout out the best Airbnbs in the Smoky Mountains. From cosy mountain cabins to quirky tiny homes, there’s a slice of heaven for every taste.
So, let’s dive into the best Airbnbs that the Smoky Mountains have to offer.
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- Quick Answer: These are The Top 5 Airbnbs in the Smoky Mountains
- What to Expect from Airbnbs in the Smoky Mountains
- The 12 Best Airbnbs in the Smoky Mountains
- More Epic Airbnbs in the Smoky Mountains
- Airbnb Experiences
- FAQs About Smoky Mountain Airbnbs
- What To Pack For Smoky Mountain
- Final Thoughts on the Best Smoky Mountains Airbnbs
- Buy Us a Coffee!
Quick Answer: These are The Top 5 Airbnbs in the Smoky Mountains
Lux Cabin With an Epic Back Deck
- > $$$
- > 8 guests
- > Outdoor hot tub
- > Game room
Birds Nest Tiny Home
- > $
- > 3 guests
- > Tiny house
- > Loft bedroom
Rabbit Run Luxury Home
- > $$$$
- > 8 Guests
- > Game room
- > Sunset views from the balcony
RV in Smoky Mountain RV Resort
- > $
- > 4 Guests
- > Access to RV resort facilities
- > Recently renovated interior
Honky Tonk Hideaway
- > $$
- > 2 Guests
- > Private stage with instruments and microphones
- > Country music themed
What to Expect from Airbnbs in the Smoky Mountains
The two most common listings you’ll find in the Smoky Mountains are entire homes or private rooms. There are also a lot of unique spaces like RVs, tiny houses, and campsites.
You’ll most often be dealing with a private owner, but the larger and more expensive properties are likely to be run by a business.
Photo: Roaming Ralph
Either way, the Airbnb booking process is the same.
Many places outside of towns are only accessible by car, so if you’re visiting in the winter when it’s likely to be wet and snowy, you might need a 4WD.
The 12 Best Airbnbs in the Smoky Mountains
Now that you know what to expect from an Airbnb near the Smoky Mountain National Park, let’s dive deep into the very best vacation rentals.
No USA trip is complete without some time in the Smokies!
Lux Cabin With an Epic Back Deck | Best Overall Airbnb in the Smoky Mountains
If you’re looking for the Great Smoky Moutains Airbnb that truly has it all, look no further. This incredible listing cannot be beaten! This massive secluded cabin is one of the best places to stay in Sevierville and features virtually every amenity you can think of.
Relax in the private hot tub that happens to be right next to a 70-inch TV, or get into a group game of mini golf at the property’s very own 9-hole course. A dedicated game room features both arcade classics and a pool table, whereas the living room has an incredible indoor stone fireplace.
The hot tub location provides some epic mountain views, and staying here will also get you access to a top-ranked community pool. This luxury cabin doesn’t have any neighbors within view, and is also equipped with a jacuzzi bathtub, an outdoor grill, and fire pits!
With all this to offer, it’s undoubtedly my top pick out of all the Great Smoky Mountains Airbnbs for a family getaway, a couples’ weekend, or anything in between!
Birds Nest Tiny Home | Best Budget Airbnb in the Smoky Mountains
This secluded tiny home is one of the coolest accommodations in Tennessee. It features 240 sq feet of modernized living space, including a comfy queen-sized bed set in a loft.
The cabin is quite literally in the woods and is located on a private and serene piece of land near Sevierville. You won’t have to deal with any irritating neighbors here!
Fire up the grill on the outdoor patio, play with some of the games in the shed, or get into a movie night on the flatscreen TV. The centralized location means you’ll only be about 30 minutes away from both Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, though you’ll feel like you’re in a faraway forest oasis as you marvel at stars in the night sky.
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REIRabbit Run Luxury Home | Over-The-Top Luxury Airbnb in the Smoky Mountains
This incredible luxury cabin can be more accurately described as a mansion. This is undoubtedly the bougiest Smoky Mountains Airbnb! With 6 bedrooms- which will certainly satisfy your master bedroom fix – two wrap-around decks, and more luxury amenities than you could ever imagine, this not-so-humble abode is the ultimate Gatlinburg cabin.
Enjoy your sitting evenings around the multiple fire pits, take a dip in the pool, or spend a late night relaxing in the outdoor hot tub. The home also features a game room with a pool table, and multiple flat-screen TVs.
With enough space to fit a large group, this cabin is ideal for families, groups of friends, retreats, or couples who want to experience the Smokies in a whole lot of luxury.
Psst…
RV in Smoky Mountain RV Resort | Best Airbnb in the Smokies for Solo Travelers
This Smoky Mountains Airbnb gives guests some serious RV luxury. It’s located in a gated RV resort close to Gatlinburg which has two community pools, a fishing pond, a mini-golf course, a ping pong table, and a laundromat.
You’ll have access to all of this plus close proximity to nature. You can hear the peaceful sounds of the nearby creek while you’re lying in bed.
Inside there is a recently renovated kitchen, Wi-Fi, TV with cable, aircon, and an indoor fireplace. What did I tell you about RV luxury?
Honky Tonk Hideaway | Perfect Short Term Airbnb in Smoky Mountains for Digital Nomads
This Smoky Mountains Airbnb is as iconic as the folks it pays tribute to. The decor here is in tribute to the musical greats of Nashville and Old Country with nods to Dolly Parton, Kenny Rogers, Minnie Pearl, and more. While there’s a lot to do in the wonderful town of Pigeon Forge and the surrounding area, you don’t even need to leave the house to have a super fun time.
In the living room, there’s a replica of the Grand Ole Opry Stage with functional instruments and microphones for you to play around with. There’s even a dressing room/vanity area complete with costumes to dress up as your favorite star! The apartment is perfect for a couple or two people with a big comfy king bed in the bedroom named the “Slumbertime Saloon”.
Because of its close proximity to many of the city’s top attractions, this is one of the best vacation rentals in Pigeon Forge.
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Airbnbs in the Smoky Mountains
Here are a few more of my favorite Airbnbs in the Smoky Mountains!
Cozy Mountain Cabin
What could be more romantic for a couples’ trip than a romantic cabin in the woods?
This gorgeous Great Smoky Mountains Airbnb is the perfect spot to escape for a relaxing getaway. The cabin is surrounded by trees and the back patio is completely secluded for you to make the most of the outdoor hot tub and BBQ area with your significant other.
The living space is all open plan and modern with an indoor fireplace, a comfy couch downstairs, and a king-sized bed in the loft bedroom above. If you want to spoil the romance, you can invite your friends or family, as there’s a sofa bed downstairs in front of the fireplace.
While this home sets the scene for some serious romance in seclusion, you’re only 25 mins from Downtown Gatlinburg.
Gatlinburg Log Cabin with Mountain Ridge Views
This Gatlinburg log cabin has absolutely magnificent views out over the mountain ridge. It’s got a big open plan and features that the whole family will love.
The loft area has been made into a games room, complete with a pool table, giant connect four, board games and bunk beds. There’s a beautiful indoor fireplace, a TV in each room and multiple outdoor balcony areas on both levels. Enjoy a BBQ and the spectacular sunset over the Smoky Mountains from either the hammock or the rocking chairs.
While very spacious and modern, this stunning cabin retains the rustic charm of a cozy mountain abode. It’s located in Gatlinburg and is close to all its best attractions, like the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Close to Downtown Gatlinburg
This big but cozy home is an ideal choice for groups or families. The living areas are spacious with bright lighting and modern features. There’s even a stone fireplace where you can snuggle up in winter and a large wraparound balcony to enjoy the fresh air and green surroundings.
This Smoky Mountains Airbnb feels very private and secluded, but it’s just around the corner from downtown Gatlinburg, so you truly get the best of both worlds.
Ski-In-Ski-Out Home
This stunning Smoky Mountains Airbnb is perfect for snow lovers. A setup like this is pretty hard to come by. You can literally ski in and ski out right off the back decks and glide down to the village.
The home has been recently renovated but maintains its rustic charm with comfy living areas and a woodfire heater. There are three bedrooms including one with bunk beds. It’s the perfect Airbnb in the Smoky Mountains for a family or group of mates who want a winter getaway.
Located on Beech Mountain, it is not just great for skiing but also for other winter activities like tobogganing and snowshoeing. You won’t be disappointed in the summer months either with hiking trails and fresh mountain air.
Dolly’s Country Condo
The hosts of this condo have curated the perfect Dolly Parton-themed space for you to tumble out of bed, stumble to the kitchen, pour yourself a cup of ambition, and get out exploring the best of Downtown Gatlinburg. This home is the ideal Airbnb in the Smoky Mountains for anyone who is a fan of the area’s most famous person.
It’s bound to get you excited for your visit to Dollywood and any activity in the Smokies. As well as an impressive collection of Dolly paraphernalia, the condo also has a king-sized bed, a copper bathtub, a rain shower, and a board game collection. Not included in the images of the space is a beautiful view out over the Smoky Mountains.
Striking Cabin With Hot Tub
This iconic Airbnb cabin is located in Sevierville and boasts an incredible view of the Smokies. Rustic vibes and loads of open space are the hallmark features of this cozy cabin, as well as an unobstructed mountain vista.
When you’re not soaking in the hot tub, you can make use of the air hockey table or pop into a game of pool. With plenty of space and amenities for all ages, this cabin is ideal for a family getaway or friend’s trip.
Comfortable Gatlinburg Condo
This is an awesome private condo in the heart of Gatlinburg. It’s recently renovated and has great facilities, including a gas heater for the winter and access to the community pool in the summer months.
This is the best Airbnb in the Smoky Mountains for those traveling without a car thanks to its ideal downtown Gatlinburg location. You can easily access the best of the town, such as minigolf, restaurants, arcades, etc, on foot. Plenty of tours run from the town if you want to get deeper into nature too.
The master bedroom is the only room in this 1×1, but you can easily fit 4 guests as there’s a big sofa bed in the living room.
Airbnb Experiences
Do you fancy a day trip to go with that nice little apartment?!
Airbnb Experiences is a feature offered by Airbnb that allows hosts to offer unique, curated activities to guests – or to anyone who’s interested in, even if they’re not staying at an Airbnb property. These experiences can range from cooking classes and guided tours to art workshops, outdoor adventures, and more.
Airbnb Experiences was created to offer travellers a deeper connection with a destination by offering truly unique experiences, all led by locals who are both knowledgeable and passionate about their city.
Some personal highlights of my Airbnb Experiences include a tapas bar-crawl in Granada, a Samurai workshop in Kyoto, and a graffiti spotting bike ride around Bogota.
FAQs About Smoky Mountain Airbnbs
I’m always asked these questions about Airbnbs in the Smoky Mountains. Let’s get into them!
What To Pack For Smoky Mountain
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for an Airbnb stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Don’t Forget Your Smoky Mountain Travel Insurance
It’s always a good idea to have travel insurance when traveling anywhere in the USA!
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on the Best Smoky Mountains Airbnbs
Now that you’ve seen what Smoky Mountains Airbnbs have to offer, all that’s left to do is book!
Whether you’re looking for a private mountain retreat or a huge cabin for all your family and friends, I’m confident you’ve found at least one ideal listing for you.
So what are you waiting for? Lock in your dates and mark your calendar: it’s time to adventure in the Smokies!
Updated March 2024 by Samantha from Intentional Detours
- Check out our Backpacking USA guide for in-depth info for your trip.
- Use our Where to Stay in Smoky Mountains guide to plan your adventure.
- Backpackers and frugal travellers can use our budget travel guide.
- Make sure you visit the other best places in the USA too.
- That will of course include many of the stunning National Parks of the USA.
- A great way to see the country is by taking an epic road trip around the USA.
Buy Us a Coffee!
A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!
You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂
