Laurel Springs Resort

Visited Laurel Springs Resort in April 2013 so this is an up to date review.It was a last minute offer thru RCI . The units are newly furnished and very very nice.The back porch or deck overlooks a wonderful bubbling creek.Big comfortable rocking chairs are located around the resort.We asked to see other units and were amazed at how beautiful they were.Our unit had a comfortable king size bed and a full kitchen.Very impressive for a studio. We are hikers so our primary visit was Spring F and F (flowers and Falls (waterfalls). This is a smaller family resort so do not expect a Marriott.If you are looking for a quiet friendly and relaxing place,this is it.Close to the Smokie Mountain NP and not far from the hubbub of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge . There is large bridge across the creek and a quiet walkway for nice stroll. As we were leaving,the pool was accepting a new coat of paint and filling for the season.New mattress were being placed in several units. This was our first vist to Laurel Springs and will definelty return.

As someone said, this is a converted 50s motel. It's built in a "U' shape, with the pool visible from the road. (You can almost hear the kids saying, "Daddy, Daddy, can we stay HERE? They have a POOL!" as tha family car drives by.)

BUT unlike many motels, there is are back porches to watch the creek, or the wilderness behind the buildings. QUIET back porches. (After all, you're in the Smoky Mountains for nature, right?)

There are pluses. No problem parking (unlike being in town). No noise (ditto). No hills to climb (unlike some resorts in the area).

This isn't the place to stay if you want a resort with a lot of activities. But if that's what you want, don't come to the mountains! Great Smoky Mountain National Park is the most often-visited of all the national parks (probably because of repeat visits). Laurel Springs is conveniently located to the park's entrance, and to both Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. There's a lot to do in the area (even including "zorbing" -- rolling down the hill in a huge clear ball with water inside, as they did in the Amazing Race in New Zealand one season).

If you came to be in the area, this place is fine. If you wanted stay at a resort, and not leave much, this is not the place for you.