Smoky Mountains National Park Summer Crowds

If you can plan mid to later August you'll avoid some of the crowds. However, you won't get much relief from the heat unless you get to higher elevations and even then not always that time of year. Cool mountain streams will be your best heat deterant. The further you get from away from Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg the less crowds. Try Townsend area if you want to stay in private campground, otherwise any of the NP campgrounds will be nice even when full. If you really want to get away from the traffic etc. look to the North Carolina side.

Even at the most crowded times of year, it can still be a pleasant experience. Look for areas of the park less traveled. I'm always amazed at how few people venture past 441 and Cades Cove.