About Wilderness at the Smokies
Some families come to the Smokies for the mountains. Others come with children who need somewhere to burn off energy when it is raining, cold or just 4 p.m. Wilderness at the Smokies is built for the second group. It is a resort at 1424 Old Knoxville Highway in Sevierville with waterparks, a dry play center and an arcade, so you can fill an entire day without leaving the property.
The waterparks
The resort's website lists several water areas:
- Wild WaterDome, described as Tennessee's largest indoor waterpark, with a see-through roof.
- Lookout Lagoon, a rooftop pool.
- Salamander Springs, the outdoor waterpark, which runs on a seasonal schedule.
Waterpark access is included with a stay, and the resort sells day passes and a Night Owl Pass that extends your waterpark time by an hour past closing. Check the resort's waterpark hours page before you go. In October 2026 the resort's site listed its Soaky Mountain waterpark as closed for the season, so do not count on outdoor slides in fall and winter.
The dry side
Adventure Forest is a 25,000-square-foot indoor family center with a three-story ropes course, multi-level laser tag, blacklight mini golf and a large arcade. The resort also lists Beyond the Door Room Escapes in Stone Hill Lodge, with three escape games, a candy shop called The Candy Cabin, and ice skating included with resort waterpark access. There is also a WildKids Club and a party cabana for groups.
Staying vs. visiting
If you are staying, the waterparks come with your room. The resort advertises packages, such as the Have a Blast Package (two Fun Passes, a $50 arcade card, drinks and a pizza) and a weekender special at Stone Hill Lodge, and its package rates include a $35 daily resort fee. Prices and offers change, so confirm them before booking.
If you are not staying, ask about day passes and the Fun Pass for dry attractions. Plan ahead, because capacity limits apply on holidays and peak weekends.
Tips
- Book early for summer, spring break and holiday weeks.
- Bring water shoes and a dry bag for your phone.
- Arrive early in the day to get a head start before the crowds build.
- Phone: (877) 325-9453.
Wilderness at the Smokies works best as a rest-day anchor between heavier outings in Great Smoky Mountains National Park or as the base for a trip that is mostly about the kids. If you are here mainly for waterfalls and trails, a cabin may suit you better.