Gatlinburg City Parks

Gatlinburg’s city parks offer access to outdoor space without leaving town. You can find them in quiet neighborhoods, by rivers, or near popular roads, making them easy to get to during the day. Use them for quick outdoor breaks or some light recreation between attractions.

When visiting Gatlinburg, these green spaces are good for a walk, fishing, playtime, or a short break during the day.

Getting Outside in Gatlinburg’s Parks

When you’re out exploring but don’t feel like going back to your hotel room, consider stopping at one of Gatlinburg's public parks. Whether it's for a short stop, time for kids to play, or a quiet moment outdoors, these spaces offer a simple break from busier parts of town.

Parks to Know Around Gatlinburg

Mynatt Park sits just minutes from downtown along LeConte Creek. It includes ADA-accessible paths, playgrounds, picnic areas, and creekside fishing access. It also features the Don Watson Tennis Center and sports courts, with pickleball courts opening soon. Mynatt Park combines creek access, casual sports, and easy paths in one place.

Mills Park, the most sports-focused park in the system, sits in eastern Gatlinburg near US Highway 321. It includes an 18-hole disc golf course, multiple sports fields, outdoor exercise equipment, walking paths, and outdoor fitness areas. It is also the home of Mills Dog Park, where you can unleash your canine friend—note that there are separate fenced areas for large and small dogs.

Herbert Holt Park, near the city’s north entrance, focuses on fishing and water access. It includes a children’s fishing stream, a handicap-accessible fishing pier, and a trout rearing facility. Herbert Holt Park is a good option if you want a quiet fishing spot close to town.

When to Visit and What to Expect

These parks fit easily into a day in Gatlinburg: they work well before or after visiting attractions or other outdoor activities. Mornings and late afternoons offer the most comfortable conditions, especially during warmer months.

You'll find useful amenities across the system: picnic tables, restrooms in some locations, paths, playgrounds, fishing access points, sports facilities, and open green space. Many are casual family parks and are best suited for short, informal visits rather than long planned outings.

Mynatt Park, Mills Park, and Herbert Holt Park each offer something different—creekside access, active recreation, and fishing-focused space—so you can pick based on what your day looks like.

For more to do, browse outdoor activities or explore free things in Gatlinburg.

Walk or jog on some of the best trails in Gatlinburg. Let the kids loose on a playground, or rent a picnic pavilion for a family get-together in a Gatlinburg city park. Our three city parks provide easy access to recreational fun at Gatlinburg hotels, condos and campgrounds. It’s an easy way to enjoy fishing, sports and trails in Gatlinburg without having to drive to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Learn more about our city parks below!

All of Gatlinburg’s city parks have covered pavilions, which can be reserved for groups and families planning get-togethers and outings. The City of Gatlinburg provides free pavilion usage to Gatlinburg residents. For visitors to Gatlinburg, the fee structure is as follows: Mynatt and Mills Park: 0-4 hours $25.00, 4 + hours $35.00. Herbert Holt Park: 0-4 hours $35.00, 4 + hours $45.00. For reservations, call the Gatlinburg Recreation Department at (865) 436-4990. Reservation fees must be paid prior to the scheduled usage.