Adult Summer Camp in the Smoky Mountains
Explore the Smokies by day and watch the forest come alive with thousands of glowing fireflies each night.
A grown-up version of summer camp set in the heart of the Smoky Mountains.
This four-day adventure brings together the simple joys of summer camp with the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. Based out of our private Smoky Mountains Wilderness Basecamp, the trip blends guided day hikes with classic camp activities — swimming in mountain streams, playing games, sharing meals, and relaxing around the campfire.
Each day we explore a different corner of the Smokies before returning to basecamp for evenings filled with laughter, stories, and the kind of fun that makes summer camp unforgettable.
A Playground in the Smokies
The Great Smoky Mountains offer one of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes in the eastern United States.
With more than 520,000 acres of protected wilderness, the park is known for its misty ridgelines, ancient forests, cool mountain streams, and extraordinary biodiversity.
During the trip we explore this landscape through a mix of scenic hikes and relaxed outdoor activities. Some days may take us to forest trails and mountain overlooks, while others might lead to quiet swimming holes or shaded creek valleys perfect for cooling off on a summer afternoon.
The Basecamp Experience
Unlike traditional backpacking trips, Adult Summer Camp is built around a central wilderness basecamp.
Each day we venture into the Smoky Mountains with light daypacks, returning to camp each evening for shared meals and relaxed time together.
The experience includes:
- guided hikes through Smoky Mountain forests and ridgelines
- swimming in mountain streams and hidden swimming holes
- classic camp games and relaxed outdoor fun
- evenings around the campfire
- time to unwind and connect with fellow adventurers
It’s an opportunity to reconnect with nature while rediscovering the spirit of summer camp.
Quick Facts
Location: Great Smoky Mountains
Duration: 4 Days
Group Size: 4-12 Participants
Total Mileage: 25-30 Miles
Elevation Gain: Moderate
Terrain: Deep Forest, Forested Ridgeline, Creek Systems
Fitness Level: Active / Intermediate
Cost: From $1,599
Adult Summer Camp Expedition Overview
Welcome to Summer Camp — Smoky Mountains Style
Meet your guides and fellow campers this morning in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. After introductions and a quick orientation, we hop aboard our shuttle and head for our first Smoky Mountain adventure.
Our opening hike follows the Cucumber Gap Loop, an easygoing trail rich with Smoky Mountain history. The path traces an old logging railroad corridor through lush forest, passing historic homesteads, mossy stone walls, small waterfalls, and lively mountain streams. Keep an eye out for wildlife and wildflowers along the way — this is one of the most biologically diverse places in North America.
By late afternoon we arrive at Smoky Mountains Wilderness Basecamp, our home for the next few days. After settling in, the camp games begin — think lawn games, friendly competitions, and plenty of laughter.
Dinner tonight is a relaxed Smoky Mountain barbecue, followed by campfire stories, stargazing, and maybe a few s’mores before turning in for the night.
All meals included.
Hiking: 5.4 miles
Elevation gain/loss: +800′ / -800′
Transfers: 1.5 hours
Mountain Views & Appalachian Trail Miles
After a hearty camp breakfast, we shuttle to the Low Gap Trailhead for one of the most scenic hikes of the week.
Our route climbs steadily through towering hardwood forest before reaching the legendary Appalachian Trail. From there, we follow the famous white blazes toward the summit of Mount Cammerer, one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the Smokies.
At the top, sweeping 360-degree views of the Smoky Mountains stretch across ridges and valleys in every direction. It’s the perfect place for lunch, photos, and soaking in the mountain air.
Back at basecamp the afternoon slows down a bit. Maybe a creek foot soak, maybe a lazy hammock session, or perhaps another round of camp games.
Dinner tonight is shared around the fire where the stories tend to get a little bigger and the laughter a little louder.
All meals included.
Hiking: 11 miles
Elevation gain/loss: 3,000′
Transfers: 1 hour
Swimming Holes, Hidden History & Campfire Night
Today we explore a fascinating section of the park known for its historic artifacts and beautiful forest trails.
Our hike winds along a cool mountain stream through old-growth forest and past remnants of early mountain communities — stone walls, homestead sites, and other traces of life in the Smokies long before the park existed.
Along the way we’ll likely stop at a perfect Smoky Mountain swimming hole, where brave souls can take a refreshing dip while others relax on sun-warmed rocks.
Later we climb to one of the area’s most scenic overlooks for expansive views of rugged ridges and dramatic rock formations.
Back at basecamp the evening turns into a full summer camp celebration — camp games, good food, music, and one last roaring campfire under the mountain stars.
All meals included.
Hiking: 4.5–6 miles
Elevation gain/loss: 1,000–1,500′
Transfers: 2 hours
One Last Hike & A Day on the Water
Our final morning begins the same way great camp mornings always do — coffee in hand, a relaxed breakfast, and the quiet sounds of the Smoky Mountain forest waking up around us.
Before saying goodbye to camp, we head out for one last short morning hike. This easygoing trail winds through cool forest and along lively mountain streams, giving us a chance to stretch our legs and soak in a few final Smoky Mountain views.
In the afternoon, we shift gears from trail to water for a classic summer camp lake day. We head to a nearby mountain lake where the afternoon is all about relaxing and enjoying the water.
It’s the perfect laid-back finale to a few days of Smoky Mountain adventure.
By late afternoon we make our way back to Gatlinburg, arriving in the early evening with plenty of camp stories to take home.
Breakfast and lunch included.
Hiking: 3–4 miles
Lake Time: 3-4 hours
Transfers: 2 hours
Why Adult Summer Camp
Many people remember the freedom and joy of summer camp — spending time outdoors, making new friends, and enjoying simple adventures.
Adult Summer Camp brings that spirit back in one of the most beautiful mountain landscapes in the country.
It’s a chance to unplug, explore the Smokies, and enjoy a few days of outdoor fun with like-minded people.
Participant Experience
Your Expedition Leadership
Every expedition is led by professionals with decades of combined field experience across the Southern Appalachians and beyond. Our leaders know these landscapes intimately—from seasonal weather patterns and trail conditions to water sources and emergency exit routes—and plan each trip accordingly. All guides are trained in wilderness risk management, decision-making under changing conditions, and group safety protocols, ensuring trips that are thoughtful, well-paced, and grounded in professional judgment rather than improvisation.
Inclusions
- Professional Guide Leadership
- Permits & Logistics
- Pre-Trip Planning Support
- Expedition Briefing Materials
- Gear Rental as Needed
- Breakfasts, Lunches, Dinners, Snacks
- Transportation Throughout Trip
- Small Group Format
Exclusions
- Personal Items (toiletries, clothing)
- Prefered Comfort Food / Snacks
- Gratuity for Your Guide
- Airport Transfer
- Lodging before/after Trip
Frequently Asked Questions
Trip members should be capable of hiking 5-8 hours each day (up to 11 miles) with as much as 2,700′ elevation gain and loss. Zip-lining is suitable for beginners. Weight ranges for zip-lining are 60 pounds minimum and 250 pounds maximum. Rafting is suitable for beginners although comfort in/around water is recommended. Rafting is on rapids classified II-III whitewater.
Weather is an inherent part of wilderness travel, and itineraries are designed with flexibility in mind. Trip leaders monitor forecasts closely and make real-time adjustments to routes, pacing, or daily objectives as needed. In the event of severe conditions, alternative plans or modified activities may be implemented to maintain safety without compromising the overall experience.
$100 per person of trip total amount is a non-refundable deposit. Due to the planning involved in backpacking trips, we require a 45 day cancellation. A refund will be provided for cancellations up to 45 days prior to arrival, less the $100 deposit. Cancellations between 44 and 30 days of your trip will be refunded half of the full trip charge. No refunds for cancellations with less than a 30 day notice, however, we will extend a 25% discount on a future trip to be taken within a one year period. If the guide cancels your trip due to hazardous weather conditions prior to starting the trip, you will be refunded the full trip price excluding the deposit. If the guide or a member of another group on the trip ends the trip early, you will be refunded a prorated portion of the cost. If we begin the trip and you or anyone in your group decides to end the trip early for any reason, there will be no refund. There are NO EXCEPTIONS to our cancellation policy. We are not responsible for medical or family emergencies. If you need to be evacuated for any reason, you will be responsible for the cost. Transportation costs can range from $75 to $300 depending on where you are at the time of the evacuation. If staff needs to hike in to hike you out or assist in an evacuation, you will be responsible for the cost.
We encourage you to research travel insurance services to best meet your needs if you must cancel or interrupt your trip due to unforeseen circumstances. Trip Assure offers insurance for our overnight trips. Trip Assure provides plans with benefits to protect the cost of your travel arrangements; your belongings; and most importantly, you, in case your trip gets disrupted. Please see the following link for more information: Trip Insurance with Trip Assure **Note: This cancellation policy excludes Cascades and Canopies | Smoky Mountain Experience, Peaks to Pools | Backpacking and Paddling Multisport and Smokies Lake Paddle and Basecamp
Hikes range between 4–11 miles, depending on the route and conditions. Trails may include moderate elevation gain, rocky sections, and uneven terrain typical of the Smoky Mountains. Guides set a supportive pace and adjust routes to match the group’s abilities.
No. This trip is designed as a basecamp experience, meaning we return to the same campsite each night. All hiking is done with light daypacks, making it accessible to guests who may be new to multi-day outdoor adventures.
Our basecamp is located on a private 90-acre mountain property, offering a quiet setting surrounded by forest. Evenings are spent relaxing around the fire, sharing meals, and enjoying time together after a day of exploring the mountains.
Participants typically carry a small daypack with water, snacks, rain gear, extra layers, and personal items. A detailed packing list will be provided before the trip.
These activities are included in the itinerary and are highlights of the final day. However, if a participant prefers not to participate, alternative options may be available depending on group logistics.
No prior experience is necessary. Professional guides provide safety briefings and instruction before both activities.
Yes. The Smoky Mountains are active bear habitat. Guides will instruct participants on proper food storage and backcountry practices to ensure safety for both guests and wildlife.
Unlike backpacking trips where you carry all your gear between campsites, this adventure allows you to sleep at the same basecamp each night while exploring different areas of the Smokies during the day.
Join the Camp
Smoky Mountains Wilderness Basecamp: Adult Summer Camp
Hike the mountains.
Swim the streams.
Gather around the fire.
Summer camp — Smoky Mountains style.