What appalacian angler said.
Except. Avoid Pigeon Forge at all costs, especially on the weekend! The main drag has umpteen stoplights and the traffic will be heavy!
There are also a few access points on the Little River just outside the park entrance. While in Townsend have dinner at Miss Lillys at least once.
The gas prices at the PB/IGA were the lowest in the State.