We've camped in and enjoyed most of the Park Service campgrounds in GSMNP. Smokemont and Cataloochee are our favorites, especially if we can score one of the creek side sites. Elk are almost guaranteed near either. The wildlife loop drive in Cade's Cove usually has deer and turkey with bear being a possibility. Lots of good short hikes, many to homesteads the NPS has preserved. Clingmans Dome is worth a visit. The North Carolina Arboretum (free) and Biltmore are a good way to spend a day in Asheville. Lake Powhatan is a good Forest Service campground in that area. Hope you enjoy your visit with us.