Looking to have a picnic but want to make it a little more magical, memorable, and fun? The Smoky Mountains offer the perfect backdrop for a fun outdoor day with your favorite people. Whether you’re heading out with family, friends, or going solo, here’s the ultimate picnic guide — complete with my favorite picnic foods, activities, supplies, and a few crafty ideas to make it extra special for the kids

Food: Easy & Tasty Picnic Favorites

 

 

 

Food is the heart of any picnic! We like to keep it simple and delicious. Sandwiches are our go-to because they hold up well, but don’t be afraid to pack leftovers or even swing by your favorite takeout spot before heading out.

Here’s what we love to pack:

• Sandwiches (PB&J, turkey & cheese, wraps — all great choices!)

• Snacks (chips, trail mix, fruit, granola bars)

• Drinks (water bottles, juice boxes, lemonade in a thermos)

• Desserts (cookies, brownies, mini pies)

• Popsicles (keep them cold in a cooler with ice packs — they’re a fun surprise!)

 

 

Activities: Keep Everyone Entertained

 

 

 

A picnic is more than just eating — it’s all about making memories! Bring along a few fun games and activities to keep everyone smiling.

Fun things to bring or do:

• Scavenger Hunt (make a simple list of things to find: pinecones, a butterfly, a red leaf, etc.)

  Something soft and green
  pinecone
  feather
  wildflower
  smooth rock
  ️ bug (don’t pick it up!)
  leaf bigger than your hand
  stick shaped like a letter
  A picnic blanket (that’s yours!)
  Animal tracks or footprints
  Something that makes noise (stream, bird, etc.)
  Something you want to take a picture of

• ✅ Bonus: Find something that smells good, feels cool, or makes you laugh!

 

 

 

• Bubbles (never not fun!)

• Shovels and Buckets (especially if you’re near a creek or sand)

• Water Clothes (kids love splashing around in streams)

• Board Games (card games or travel-sized versions work great)

• Ball and Glove (classic catch or even a frisbee)

• Empty Box for “Picnic Treasures” (leaves, rocks, flowers — let kids explore!)

• Prizes (stickers, small toys, or even a special treat for scavenger hunt winners)

 

Supplies: What to Bring

 

 

 

Make sure you have the basics covered so you can relax and enjoy the moment.

• Picnic Basket or Cooler

• Blanket or Foldable Chairs

• Utensils (don’t forget a knife for slicing fruit or cheese)

• Wet Wipes & Napkins

• Hand Sanitizer

• Bug Spray

• Sunscreen

 

 

Crafts: Get Creative with Nature

 

 

 

Let your creativity bloom with these fun and easy outdoor crafts:

• Cereal Necklaces – String cereal onto yarn or string for a cute (and edible) necklace!

• Nature Walk Craft – Bring some cardboard, poke holes in it, and collect flowers to stick through. Draw a vase at the bottom for an adorable wildflower “bouquet”!

• Ice Cube Painting – Freeze colored water in an ice tray and let little hands paint on paper as it melts.

• Bubble Art – Add food coloring to bubble solution and blow bubbles onto paper for a dreamy effect.

• Squirt Gun Art – Fill squirt guns with watercolor and spray paint a canvas or large paper.

• Rock Painting – Bring some paint and brushes and find smooth rocks to decorate and leave behind as kindness rocks.

 

Best Picnic Spots in the Smoky Mountains

 

 

 

There are so many beautiful places to throw down your blanket in the Smokies. Here are some of our favorites:

 

 

• Cades Cove – A peaceful meadow with incredible views and maybe even a black bear sighting!

• Greenbriar Picnic Area – Right by the Little Pigeon River, perfect for wading and rock skipping.

• Mynatt Park (Gatlinburg) – Family-friendly with a creek, playground, and plenty of shade.

• Patriot Park (Pigeon Forge) – Easy to get to with paved paths and space to spread out.

• Chimney Tops Picnic Area- Located in such greenery and next to the river. 

• Metcalf Bottoms Right next to the Little Pigeon River

• Twin Creek Pavilion- Under a large Pavilion not far from downtown Gatlinburg

Whether you’re a local or just visiting, a picnic in the Smokies is a perfect way to slow down and soak in the beauty of nature. Pack some treats, bring your favorite people, and make it a day to remember!

XOXO