Smoky Mountain Wildlife – What You Might See (and How to Be a Good Nature Neighbor)
Get to Know the Wildlife Around Great Smoky Mountain Vista Campground
One of the best parts of camping in the Smokies? The wildlife!
Whether you’re an early-morning hiker or a laid-back sunset watcher, you’re likely to see (or hear!) some amazing animals during your stay at Great Smoky Mountain Vista Campground. Here’s a look at what kind of creatures you might encounter — and how to enjoy them safely and respectfully.
1. Black Bears
Yes — the Smoky Mountains are home to black bears. While they’re rarely aggressive, they’re incredibly smart and curious. The best way to keep bears wild (and your campsite safe) is to never leave food, trash, or scented items outside.
Bear-smart camping tips:
- Use bear-proof trash bins (we’ll provide them)
- Keep coolers and food inside your RV
- Never feed or approach a bear — for your safety and theirs!
Learn more about black bear safety from the NPS
Seeing one from a distance? Count yourself lucky — and enjoy the moment from afar.
2. White-Tailed Deer
Graceful, quiet, and common in the area, deer are often spotted in the early morning or around dusk. They’re usually in small groups, especially near wooded edges.
Pro tip: Bring a camera with a zoom lens — they’re photogenic but shy.
3. Birds & Owls
Bring your binoculars! From colorful songbirds to majestic hawks and nighttime owls, the skies around the Smokies are full of surprises. Keep your eyes (and ears) open for:
- Cardinals, finches, and warblers
- Red-tailed hawks soaring above
- Barred owls calling “who cooks for you?” after dark
Check out Tennessee’s birdwatching guide
4. Squirrels, Chipmunks & Rabbits
These little guys are everywhere and are a hit with younger campers. You’ll often see them darting through the brush or sneaking around looking for dropped snacks — another reason to keep your site tidy!
5. Fireflies in June
One of the most magical parts of summer in the Smokies? Fireflies! On warm June nights, you may see the trees and fields come alive with tiny lights. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the synchronous fireflies, a rare species that flashes in unison.
Read about synchronous fireflies here
Just turn off your flashlight, settle into a chair, and enjoy the show.
The best wildlife encounters are the respectful ones. Here’s how to keep the experience positive for you and the animals:
- Observe from a distance — don’t chase or approach
- Keep pets on a leash (and pick up after them)
- Store food securely and dispose of trash properly
- Stick to marked trails when hiking nearby
Camp Close to Nature
One of the things we love most about Great Smoky Mountain Vista Campground is how close to nature you’ll feel here. It’s peaceful, it’s wild, and it’s a reminder that we’re just guests in this beautiful landscape.
If you’re visiting us this summer, let us know what you see! We’d love to hear about your wildlife sightings and help you make the most of your stay.
Happy trails, and happy animal spotting — see you at the campground!
