Rent Camping & Backpacking Gear in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Renting camping and backpacking gear for Great Smoky Mountains National Park allows travelers to prepare for Appalachian terrain without purchasing equipment they may only use occasionally. Whether arriving through Tennessee or North Carolina, renting simplifies logistics for campground stays, multi-day hikes, and variable mountain weather. LowerGear supports nationwide visitors with professionally maintained outdoor rental equipment.

See All Rental Gear
for Great Smoky Mountains

Our rental inventory includes tents, backpacks, sleeping systems, cooking equipment, hydration gear, trekking poles, and navigation tools. Brands commonly included across our rental fleet include Deuter, Marmot, Thermarest, and Leki. All equipment is professionally cleaned, inspected, and prepared prior to shipment.

Campgrounds in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Developed campgrounds include Elkmont, Smokemont, and Cades Cove. Reservations are commonly required during peak visitation periods. Backcountry campsites and shelters require permits and are distributed along established trail corridors.

Hiking Trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Popular routes include Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte, Clingmans Dome paths, and sections of the Appalachian Trail. Trails may involve sustained elevation gain, uneven footing, and changing weather conditions.

Elevation and Seasonal Planning Considerations

Weather conditions vary significantly by elevation. Summer humidity, afternoon storms, and cool shoulder-season temperatures are common. Layered clothing and moisture management are important for comfort.

Gear Commonly Rented for Great Smoky Mountains

• Backpacking Tent – 2 Person – suited for established campground sites and backcountry camps.
• Backpack – Medium Capacity – adaptable for multi-day Appalachian routes.
• Sleeping Bags – Cool Weather – appropriate for variable mountain evenings.
• Trekking Poles – useful on uneven and elevated terrain.

How Rentals Work

Select your rental gear online and schedule delivery to your home, hotel, or preferred location. Rental days are not charged while gear is in transit. See the video below for additional shipping details.

Planning Resources for Your Great Smoky Mountains Trip

Reviewing gear setup and regional planning guidance can assist with Appalachian conditions. Below is a general list of items people often consider bringing (not all apply to every trip):

Tent • Backpack • Rain shell • Sleeping bag • Trekking poles • Headlamp • Food storage • Stove • Fuel • Cook pot • Map • GPS device • Water storage • First-aid kit • Extra batteries • Camp shoes • Toiletries • Trash bags

• How to Setup a Tent and Select a Camp Site
• Treating Water While Backpacking and Camping
• Which Gear to Rent for Your Backpacking Trip

Explore Rental Categories

• Tent & Shelter Rentals – backpacking and campground options.
• Backpack Rentals – fitted packs for Appalachian terrain.
• Sleeping Gear Rentals – rated systems for mountain climates.
• Camp Tool Rentals – practical accessories for setup and maintenance.
• See 20+ Rental Categories – find all gear for any camping or backpacking trip!