It does depend on if you want to be close to town and on the trolley route or if you want some tranquility during your stay. Lots of options on campgrounds that are dependent on where you want to be. Exit 407 (rt.66) is the main exit for the area and has some nice CG's right off it if you don't mind being north of Pigeon forge. Traffic is still an issue. I have seen it backed up on I-40 and bumper to bumper all the way into Pigeon Forge....10 miles worth and more.
There is no real good way to avoid towing in the traffic, lots of RV's do it so don't be intimidated by it, just bring your patience along with you. Explore the area using Google maps to see the locations of the CG's and relation to the attractions.
As for using exit 415 I'm not so sure you want to do that as the "back way" will have you saying "where the heck am I?" Its not difficult but being unfamiliar may cause you some unneeded strife. And yes, I live here too. Any more questions please don't hesitate to ask.