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Postcard-Perfect Glamping in Tennessee Near the Smokies

Updated: Dec 13, 2021


The front of an open tent at GlampKnox, a Tennessee glamping site, with rocking chairs on the front porch and changing leaves in the background

Miles before you actually arrive at GlampKnox, the ultimate glamping in Tennessee destination, your mind automatically shifts into vacation mode.


The glamping site is situated in an exceptionally scenic area of eastern Tennessee (and if you’ve been to the area, you know that’s saying a lot!) called Strawberry Plains. It’s just 20 minutes from downtown Knoxville and less than an hour from Great Smoky Mountains National Park, but you’ll feel as if you’re 100 miles from civilization.


Glamping in Tennessee at GlampKnox


A view from inside a tent looking out at Tennessee glamping destination GlampKnox

GlampKnox is the epitome of what glamping in Tennessee should be, and it’ll take you all of 30 seconds to realize it once you get there.


Looking around in any direction from one of the two glamping tents, you see nothing but rolling green hills and the Cumberland Mountains, a section of the Appalachians. Listening closely, all you hear are birds chirping and the occasional horse neighing. Inhale, and smell the various trees and wildflowers in bloom. Ahhh...this is exactly why you go glamping in Tennessee.


Whether you choose the two-person glamping tent or the larger tent that sleeps 4-6, you’ll be treated to insanely comfortable beds, a large covered front porch with rocking chairs, and a private fire pit. Roughing it? Hardly.


The bigger tent also has a dining table with seating for four. Each Tennessee glamping tent includes a rechargeable lantern, propane heater, solar device charger, and campfire cooking grate. You can also request firewood bundles, an ice chest, or a hammock. Insider tip: get the hammock!


The interior of a tent at GlampKnox glamping in Tennessee, with three beds and a storage unit divider wall

GlampKnox guests have an immaculate camping potty (outhouse) just steps outside their doors, or they can take a short walk down the hill to traditional bathrooms at the barn. There’s also a private outdoor shower down there, which has great pressure and gets nice and hot. Don’t be surprised if the shower is one of your favorite things about glamping in Tennessee — there’s just something magical about the water washing over you as you look out over the top of the door at the rolling green hills.


Wind down on your front porch or next to the campfire, watching the fireflies dance and glow in the dark. Be lulled to sleep by the sounds of the forest and settle in for what’s certain to be one of the best nights of sleep you’ve ever had.


Please note: there is no wi-fi at GlampKnox; however, there’s a cell tower nearby so phone service is excellent. If you truly need wi-fi, consider setting up a hotspot on your phone. Having said that, do your best to truly unplug and immerse yourself in the full Tennessee glamping experience. You’ll be amazed at what it can do for your soul!


What’s nearby


The Great Smokies are practically in GlampKnox’s backyard, but there’s a ton more to do in the area as well. Glamping in Tennessee is about putting Mother Nature front and center, but that’s certainly not all. Enjoy several other nearby activities, ranging from family-friendly attractions to heart-pounding outdoor adventures.


  • Seven Islands State Birding Park - Hike, enjoy Great Smoky Mountains views, see how many of the 200+ native bird species you can spot, or kayak/SUP on the French Broad River.

  • House Mountain State Natural Area - Hike to the summit of the highest peak in Knoxville, 2,100-foot House Mountain.

  • Catch a Tennessee Smokies baseball game - From early April to early September, cheer on the Smokies at home. They’re a minor league AA team of the Chicago Cubs, and have been playing since 1896!

  • Forge your own knife at Uncle Hank’s Knives - Head to nearby Sevierville for one of those truly memorable, once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

  • Explore Forbidden Caverns - Tennessee is home to literally thousands of caves, and Forbidden Caverns is an excellent one to explore. This family-friendly activity includes an underground stream, towering rock formations, and a fascinating history.


One final note: Glamping in Tennessee isn’t the only thing GlampKnox has to offer. The pristine 55-acre property it sits on also has a spectacular wedding venue and a possibly-even-more-spectacular 200-year-old log cabin. And coming soon, there will also be horse stables and an additional lodging option onsite.


The 200-year-old log cabin at GlampKnox

So what do you think? Ready to experience glamping in Tennessee for yourself? Connect with us on Instagram and be sure to use #glampmag when you stay at GlampKnox! Oh, and let them know Glamp Mag sent ya when you book! Happy glamping!


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GLAMP Magazine is a quarterly high end publication featuring glamping lifestyle, travel destinations and industry trends + ways to start a glamping business showcasing America’s beauty in extremely unique ways. Our contributors are sharing their glamping experiences from a consumer perspective to product manufacturing and glamp host operations. Our magazine is the premier opportunity to explore U.S. glamping destinations as well as understand and learn about the outdoor hospitality industry; directly from those living, indulging and managing in this space.

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