Dog-friendly camping in Tennessee

Tennessee's best-known college—the University of Tennessee at Knoxville—has a hound dog as its mascot (that's the blue-tick coonhound Smokey). So, it's no surprise that the Volunteer State's rich, diverse outdoors are oftentimes pet-friendly. From the Great Smoky Mountains in the east to the mighty Mississippi River in the west, you'll find a lakeside camping pad, a shady oasis, or an open meadow where you can pitch your tent with your pup. Most Tennessee state parks have trails that welcome exploration with your dog, too. It's worth noting that the Great Smokies do have some restrictions on trails where you can bring dogs, even when they are permitted in national park campgrounds. Don't forget to bring a leash and extra grub for your favorite dog.