Porch Dreamin’ in the Smokies

05/20/2026

The synchronous firefly viewing event begins today at Elkmont and runs through May 27!

Please remember:
• After 12 PM, access to Elkmont is limited to vehicles with reservations and registered campers.
• No overnight parking is permitted at Little River Trailhead, Jakes Creek Trailhead, or the Appalachian Clubhouse during this period.

The Elkmont area in Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to a large population of synchronous fireflies. These temporary closures help protect the fireflies and firefly habitat during their mating season. The park uses soil temperature to predict peak viewing dates, which can shift each year. Since 1993, recorded peak activity has ranged from the third week of May to the third week of June.



Thank you for helping us protect these incredible insects!

Learn more about synchronous fireflies: https://www.nps.gov/grsm/learn/nature/fireflies.htm



Photo by P. Driessche

05/20/2026

I love to hear that our guests enjoy it as much as we do…it’s a special place. 🫶🏻

04/21/2026

Rangers in Great Smoky Mountains National Park responded to multiple bear‑related incidents at Ramsey Cascades Trail this past weekend, including cases where a bear approached visitors, took backpacks, and briefly chased a group. Ramsey Prong Road and Ramsey Cascades Trail are now closed as rangers monitor bear activity.

Last weekend, rangers also handled several incidents involving an aggressive bear at Abrams Falls Trail. That area has now reopened after several days with no observed bear activity.

Spring means increased black bear activity in the Smokies. Mother bears are emerging with cubs and food sources are limited. This is a sensitive time for bears, and getting too close can lead to dangerous encounters.

To keep people and bears safe, please remember:
• Stay 50 yards away from bears—approaching bears is illegal.
• Don’t stop in the road to view bears; it creates hazards and delays emergency response.
• Secure all food and trash in a locked vehicle and never leave it unattended.
• Never feed bears. Feeding wildlife is illegal and can cause bears to become aggressive and lose their natural fear of humans.
• Stay alert on trails and consider carrying bear spray. Hike in groups when possible.
• Report bear encounters or unsafe behavior to park authorities at 865‑436‑1230.

Thank you for helping keep the Smokies safe for everyone—people and bears alike.

Learn more: https://www.nps.gov/grsm/learn/news/bear-incidents-prompts-trail-closure-safety-reminder-in-great-smoky-mountains-national-park.htm

NPS Photo

03/27/2026

Sevier County is under a burn ban which means no fires due to high fire danger, dry conditions, and high winds. All open-air burning is prohibited, including debris piles, campfires, fire pits, fire tables etc. Even cigarette ash is a massive threat. Violations can lead to Class A misdemeanor charges.
Be smart and help keep the Smokies safe!

02/20/2026

Kitchen cabinet uplevel- your morning coffee quiet time just got an upgrade.
Ready to welcome guests 🫶🏻

01/31/2026

The snow is falling and Sevier County is a peaceful Winter Wonderland!

01/09/2026

01/08/2026

If you’ve ever wanted Pigeon Forge and the Smokies without the traffic, lines, or chaos… February is calling 📞
Porch Dreamin’ has availability, fewer crowds, and all the cozy cabin vibes waiting for you! Check out our calendar and pick what date works for you!

https://jecollective.myflodesk.com/porchdreamin?

11/12/2025

We love our guests and strive to give a 5 star experience!

11/12/2025

We have a very rare December 23-26 opening at Porch Dreamin’! There are guests before and after but Christmas itself is open! If you have been dreaming of a Smoky Mountain Christmas- this is your chance to make it happen! You don’t even have to decorate and there is plenty of room under the tree for your family gifts. It is going to be magical!