Another update from the Smokies - my husband left the park this morning to shop our options at private parks (props to Smoky bear Campground on Hwy 321 for being very cool and accommodating with our group)and upon returning to the park was questioned by park services, rightly so, at the gate regarding getting back to camp. He only had his parking tag to prove he was camping, which sufficed, but he was advised he'd need more proof if he needed to exit and re-enter prior to the deadline to be out, which he is now being told is 6PM Thursday.
Lesson here, and it seems pretty evident, but in a rush you might not think about it - if you are in any of the Federal parks and are scrambling to make arrangements outside of the park, be sure you have proof of your accommodations on your person - you will be questioned at the gates.
Good luck campers!
