As one of the most popular tourist attractions in Tennessee, Dollywood might be on any traveler’s list of places to visit if they find themselves in the Knoxville-Smoky Mountains metroplex. Nestled away in Pigeon Forge, Dollywood is a 150-acre Appalachian-themed amusement park jointly owned by Dolly Parton and Herschend Family Entertainment.
Road trippers who descend upon Pigeon Forge between March and January will be astounded by what’s available. With dozens of rides and attractions, including roller coasters and water rides split into two park environments, there’s no shortage of things to keep both young and old entertained.
Dollywood welcomes millions of visitors every year and knows how to make sure everyone has a great time. There are festivals and annual events, not to mention a handful of themed areas set within the park’s limits.
RV-goers will not only be impressed by the offerings of Dollywood, but by the mountain resort city of Pigeon Forge, too. This Sevier County City is all about memorable moments. Road-trippers can pay a visit to the Pigeon Forge Mill, the Titanic Museum, and the Alcatraz East Crime Museum.
There is certainly no shortage of things to do for people who take an RV road trip to Tennessee. It might be time to load up the family and get ready for a vacation of new memories.
Visitors are treated to all manner of ticketing options at Dollywood to ensure they are well catered for on their trip to Pigeon Forge. One, two, and three-day passes start from $80, while water park tickets are available from $50. Season passes and dining add-ons are also available for those who like to spend a lot of time exploring this standout theme park.
An RV road trip anywhere in the US can be quite exciting. Still, the scenery and surroundings on the way to Pigeon Forge make this trip to Dollywood even more so. From the narrow valley from which the Sevierville and Gatlinburg rivers flow, to the beautiful mountains that border the city from every direction, there’s plenty to occupy your attention as you navigate the mountainous roads to get to the city.
Those who are new to Tennessee or Sevier County may like to tune into a traffic aid like TDOT. By doing so, everyone can be aware of any congestion or delays along the way. Upon arriving in the city, visitors will spot Dollywood at 2700 Dollywood Parks Boulevard. Follow the signage to get to the main entrance.
Parking options are plentiful for vehicles of all sizes. Standard length parking passes have been $15 in the past, but RVs and trailers cost a little bit extra at around $18. Those who purchase Dollywood Gold Season Passes may find that their parking costs are inclusive.
RV-goers who purchase parking at the tollbooth can park in the Permit Parking lot during the day, with tram service to the front gate.
Given Pigeon Forge’s isolated location between Gatlinburg and Sevierville, visitors may find that the best way to get around the city and surrounding towns and cities is with their motorhome. Public transportation options are limited. Fortunately, the abundance of parking spaces in and around Dollywood means that using an RV for getting around is as convenient as a tow vehicle.
While Dollywood offers cabin rentals near the theme park, it does not offer RV campsites. Fortunately, some excellent RV campgrounds in Tennessee will tick all the boxes for avid road-trippers. Consider booking these in advance, especially during the warmer weather, to ensure you get your first pick.
Pigeon Forge is a traveler’s paradise, with plenty of RV parks and resorts within a short driving distance of Dollywood. Pigeon Forge / Gatlinburg KOA is within a three-mile drive of Dollywood, while Pigeon Forge Jellystone Park is within a similar range.
Weather dependent, some national forests and state parks in Tennessee may also prove convenient for camping, such as Pisgah National Forest within 90 miles, and the Great Smoky National Park within 10 miles.
Dollywood officials do their best to make sure both the water park and theme park components of Dollywood are effortless to navigate. There is a tram service in operation from the parking lot to the main entrance, as well as Electric Convenience Vehicles for hire. These are suitable for people over 16 years old and under 400 pounds. Otherwise, the best way to get around Dollywood is on foot.
What you wear to Dollywood can depend on whether you fancy going for a dip at the water park, or staying on dry land at the theme park. Appropriate swimwear and footwear are required at the water park, while standard casual attire that’s fit for the weather conditions is suitable for the theme park. Refrain from wearing clothing with loose accessories, and ensure all glasses have straps for safety.
The less a visitor brings into Dollywood, the less they have to carry around with them! There are lockers for rent on a first-in, first-served basis, and even a dog daycare service for those who bring their furry friend along for the journey. Anyone doing a spot of shopping at Dollywood can also make use of the package pickup service.
Dollywood is all about ensuring their visitors’ safety. Many of the onsite vendors sell sunscreen, bandages, over-the-counter medication, and other helpful essentials. Visitors may also bring in one sealed water bottle and fill it at the water fountains around most restrooms.
Remember to drink plenty of water throughout the day, and bring both extra fluids and bug spray to natural attractions like Nantahala National Forest.
The natural atmosphere of Pigeon Forge means that campers can have a great time preparing meals for their loved ones while on the road. Some RV campgrounds near Pigeon Forge allow the use of campfires and fire pits, but others also permit the use of onboard RV kitchen appliances. Whatever your cooking preference, travelers can pick up all the supplies they require within a few short miles of Dollywood.
Pigeon Forge may be a small city off the beaten track, but it knows how to cater to its visitors. This mountain resort city offers an abundance of delicious food options at a range of restaurants. Indulge in seafood, chicken and biscuits, or waffles if you so desire. No visitors to Dollywood will go hungry while on an RV road trip to Pigeon Forge.
While travelers can’t bring their coolers with food and beverages into Dollywood, they can enjoy a range of food options at some of the many onsite cafes and restaurants. Both cash and payment cards are accepted, and ATMs are dotted around Dollywood for convenience. Both young and old can enjoy deep-fried food, healthy options, and refreshing beverages.
Security officials will check any bags being brought into Dollywood at the main entrances to the theme park. To speed up the security screening process, RV-goers may like to leave as many possessions as possible in their motorhome. Officials are more than happy to answer any questions you may have.
Outside of Dollywood, travelers who explore the wider area, such as NASCAR SpeedPark Smoky Mountains and RainForest Adventures Discovery Zoo, should remember to lock their motorhome when leaving it unattended. The nearest police station to Dollywood is under seven miles away in Sevierville.
Weather in the Smoky Mountains can be quite unpredictable, which is why it’s a good idea to check a weather app before paying a visit to Dollywood. If rain shortens any traveler’s park visit, they can request a ‘rain check’ to visit on another day.
Before exploring natural attractions like Cherokee National Forest in Elizabethton, check the day’s weather to make sure it’s safe to do so.
First-aid offices and trained staff are located throughout Dollywood for visitors’ peace of mind. Medical personnel is on duty at all times, and any staff member can lead the way to find someone to help. Always dial 911 in an emergency. The nearest medical center to Dollywood is under five miles away, while a pharmacy for medical supplies is within the same distance.
