Smoky Mountains Picnic Spots, Food, and Fun
Picnicking is a cherished tradition and National Picnic Month is yet another reason to have one… or many! Just moving a meal outdoors transforms an otherwise ordinary day into a bona-fide occasion, so just imagine how special a picnic in the Smoky Mountains will be! There might be nothing better than an outdoor meal leisurely shared with good friends and family in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge.
Are you a picnicking pro? Whether you are or aren’t, gather all the essentials ahead of time so that even spontaneous picnics are prepared in no time! Fill a basket or backpack with the basic necessities and stash it in the trunk of your car and you’ll be ready to picnic at a moment’s notice:
Kids Picnic Food Ideas
- Blanket or Tablecloth
- Hand Sanitizer
- Forks, Spoons, Knives, Cups, Plates, Napkins
- Serving Utensils, Corkscrew
Paper Towels and Trash Bags - First Aid Kit
Bug Spray - Sunscreen
- Cooler
- Frisbee, Baseball, Bubbles, Beachball, Etc.
- Gel Packs and Bottles of Water (in the Freezer)
Outdoor meals in the lazy days of summer conjure treasured dishes of potato salad, coleslaw, buttermilk biscuits, deviled eggs and fried chicken. And what says summer more than a traditional, homemade Apple Pie? While that menu sounds delish, even the most ordinary foods can make for a memorable picnic. Since you’re traveling, make it easy on yourself and picnic with tried and true simple food for ‘family style’ or brown bag meals:
Printable Picnic Scavenger Hunt
- Fresh Fruit & Vegetables – Easily portable, finger foods
- PB&J or Lunchmeat Sandwiches – Make ahead, no utensils needed
- Frozen Go-Gurts – Stays good and cold, thaws quickly for eating
- Frozen Water Bottles – Use in place freezer packs and drink later!
- Chips or Crackers with Cheese Bites
- Cookies, Brownies – Easily portable desserts
The picnic spots you choose will likely determine the day’s activities. Some of our picnic locations are streamside, which will allow for wading and fishing, while others offer lots of open grounds for frisbee, playing catch, or just plain running around.
Beachball Games | Frisbee Fun | Scavenger Hunt
In addition to the National Park, all three cities – Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and Sevierville – have nice parks with their own great features.
Gatlinburg City Parks | Patriot Park | Wear Farm Park | Sevierville City Parks
Smoky Mountains National Park Picnic Spots
Wherever your picnic location and whichever menu you choose, you and your family will enjoy it. Spending the day with you, having carefree fun, and making new discoveries will likely be the highlight of your Smoky Mountains vacation.
