Crockett’s Breakfast Camp is one of the most popular breakfast restaurants in Gatlinburg, known for its cozy mountain feel and big, filling portions. Inspired by the legacy of David “Crockett” Maples, the restaurant blends history with Southern hospitality. Its log-cabin style and hearty meals make it a favorite stop for both locals and tourists.
Located on Parkway in downtown Gatlinburg, Crockett’s Breakfast Camp draws big crowds every morning — and for good reason. Guests love the thick griddle cakes, crispy bacon, oversized cinnamon rolls, and cast iron skillet meals. Whether you’re visiting after a hike or starting a full day of exploring, it’s the kind of breakfast that keeps you full for hours.
Crockett’s Breakfast Camp reviews often mention friendly service, generous servings, and great value. If you’re searching for a place to eat on your way down Crockett’s Breakfast Camp Parkway Gatlinburg TN, this spot consistently shows up at the top of every must-visit list.
Know Before You Go: Hours, Location, and Parking
Address: 1103 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Hours of Operation:
Open daily: 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Holiday Hours:
- Thanksgiving: 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Christmas Eve: 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Christmas Day: 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- New Year’s Eve: 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Reservations:
While Crockett’s Breakfast Camp is primarily a walk-in restaurant, they now offer a limited waitlist system through Google. You can reserve a spot in line ahead of time and reduce your wait during busy hours.
Parking Information:
Crockett’s Breakfast Camp has its own small parking lot, but it fills up quickly, especially on weekends or during high tourist seasons. If the lot is full, here are some nearby options:
McMahan Parking Garage
- Address: 520 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 3773
- Cost: $10 per day
- Details: This garage offers 366 spaces for passenger vehicles and provides a flat daily rate, making it a convenient choice for all-day parking.
Aquarium Parking Garage
- Address: 161 Greystone Heights Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
- Cost: $10 per day
- Details: Located near Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, this garage offers 364 spaces and is a short walk from various downtown attractions.
Bear Skin Parking Lot
- Address: 955 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
- Cost: Typically around $8 to $10 for all-day parking
Reagan Drive Parking Lot
- Address: 220 Reagan Drive, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
- Cost: Rates may vary; typically around $8 to $10 for all-day parking
Shade Tree Parking Lot
- Address: 120 Historic Nature Trail, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
- Cost: Rates may vary; typically around $8 to $10 for all-day parking
Free Park & Ride Lots
- Locations:
- City Hall Complex on Highway 321
- Gatlinburg Welcome Center on the Spur Road
- Distance: These lots are located outside downtown Gatlinburg.
- Cost: Parking is free; Gatlinburg Trolley rides are $0.50 per person per ride or $2 for an all-day pass.
- Details: These lots offer free parking with affordable trolley service into downtown Gatlinburg, making them a budget-friendly option if your plans align with the trolley schedule.
Tips:
- Arrive Early: Parking spaces can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons and weekends. Arriving early increases your chances of securing a convenient spot.
- Check for Event Schedules: Special events may affect parking availability and rates. It’s advisable to check local event calendars when planning your visit.
- Consider Walking or Trolley Services: Downtown Gatlinburg is pedestrian-friendly, and the Gatlinburg Trolley offers an alternative to driving and parking downtown.
Prices are subject to change. Please check the official website for the most current information.
Trolley Access:
You can take the Gatlinburg Trolley and get off at stops close to Parkway. It’s an easy and scenic way to get around town without worrying about parking.
Wait Times:
This spot is famous, and it’s not unusual to wait 30 minutes to over an hour for a table during peak times (especially between 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM). Arriving right at opening or closer to closing time (noon) can help reduce your wait. There’s also a waiting area outside, so you can relax until your name is called.
Crockett’s Breakfast Camp Store
Want to take a piece of your visit home? The Crockett’s Breakfast Camp General Store offers a variety of Southern-inspired goodies, branded merchandise, and signature pantry items. From cozy flannels and collectible mugs to mixes and sauces, it’s the perfect place to grab a Smoky Mountain souvenir. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or picking up a gift, this store captures the warm and rustic charm of Crockett’s.
Click here to shop the Crockett’s Breakfast Camp store online.
Click here to view the full Crockett’s Breakfast Camp menu
Catering Services via Holston’s Catering
Planning a private event, reunion, or group gathering in Gatlinburg? Crockett’s Breakfast Camp is part of the same restaurant family as Holston’s Catering—a full-service catering company offering Southern favorites, hearty breakfasts, and crowd-pleasing comfort food for all kinds of occasions.
Whether you’re hosting a wedding weekend brunch or a cozy mountain breakfast for a large group, Holston’s Catering can deliver the same quality and hospitality you expect from Crockett’s. Their team handles everything from food prep to setup, offering a stress-free way to serve Southern fare at your event.
Click here to explore Holston’s Catering options.
Click here to view the full Crockett’s Breakfast Camp menu
Gift Cards – The Copper Card
If you’re looking for the perfect gift for a food lover visiting Gatlinburg, the Copper Card is a great option. This multi-use gift card is accepted not only at Crockett’s Breakfast Camp but also at other local sister restaurants, making it a flexible and thoughtful present.
History
Crockett’s Breakfast Camp is named after David C. “Crockett” Maples, a local hero from East Tennessee who served in the Spanish-American War. After the war, he returned home with lasting injuries but kept working and living in the Smoky Mountains with his wife, Polly. The restaurant honors his legacy and the spirit of mountain life.
Inside, the space feels like an old-style mountain camp—wood beams, lanterns, and vintage gear give it a cozy, laid-back vibe. Staff wear flannel, and the whole setting feels true to the theme: welcoming, casual, and family-friendly.
Click here to learn more and take a virtual tour of Crockett’s Breakfast Camp.
What’s on the Menu
If you’re looking for hearty portions, Southern favorites, and something sweet to start your day, the Crockett’s Breakfast Camp menu has you covered. This Gatlinburg breakfast spot is famous for its oversized servings, cozy vibes, and backcountry flavor—all served with a side of nostalgia.
Pancakes & Waffles
The griddle cakes here are massive—like plate-sized fluffy pancakes that come in options like pecan, blueberry, and chocolate chip. Their Thick Aretha Frankenstein’s Pancakes are a crowd favorite and a must-try for new guests. On the waffle side, expect unique creations like the Waffle of Insane Greatness, often topped with fresh fruit or cinnamon apples.
Omelets & Egg Platters
From build-your-own omelets to Jimmy Jose’s Scrambler, egg lovers will find plenty of protein-packed choices. Options include hickory smoked bacon, sausage, turkey, and more—served with corn pone, grits, or camp potatoes.
Southern Classics
The Cathead Stacker, Pan-Fried Pork Chops, and Elk Mountain Grande Burrito offer a taste of the Smokies with bold seasoning and old-school cooking methods. You’ll also find country ham, sugar-cured bacon, and chicken fried steak throughout the menu. Sides like cheese grits, buttermilk biscuits, and sausage gravy make every meal feel homemade.
Sweet Breakfast Options
Sweet tooth? You’ll want to try the Old Fashioned Cinnamon Pancake, the Big Tennessee French Toast, or their Giant Fried Cinnamon Roll—a gooey indulgence that’s become something of a local legend.
Kid-Friendly Meals
Kids can enjoy scrambled eggs, grits, and silver dollar pancakes—served in portions that make little ones happy without overwhelming them.
Coffee & Drinks
Crockett’s serves Community Coffee, known for its bold Southern flavor. You can also choose from hot chocolate, milk, soda, orange juice, apple juice, cranberry juice, and tomato juice.
Price Range
Expect to spend around $10–$20 per person, depending on your order. Most full platters are in the $12–$15 range, and drinks or sides can be added for a few extra dollars. While it’s not the cheapest breakfast in town, portions are huge, and many guests say the quality and experience are well worth it.
Why It’s a Local Favorite
Crockett’s Breakfast Camp has earned its place as one of the top-rated breakfast spots in Gatlinburg—and for good reason. Locals and visitors alike praise it for generous portions, a unique mountain lodge setting, and consistently satisfying food. A quick scroll through Crockett’s Breakfast Camp reviews shows repeat guests calling it their go-to breakfast stop every time they visit the Smokies.
Guests especially rave about the Thick Aretha Frankenstein’s Pancakes, cathead biscuits, giant cinnamon rolls, and hearty meat platters like the Elk Mountain Burrito or country ham with eggs. Portions are large enough to share, and many say they leave full for the rest of the day. Reviews also highlight how fast and friendly the service is—even when the waitlist is long.
While prices are a bit higher than average (most meals fall in the $12–$18 range), the value comes through in quality, portion size, and overall experience. It’s not a quick diner stop—it’s a memorable Southern breakfast worth savoring.
Whether you’re planning your first visit to Gatlinburg or coming back with family, Crockett’s Breakfast Camp is a must-try. The atmosphere feels like a cozy step into the past, and the food keeps people coming back year after year. If you’re hungry and looking to start your day right, this is one spot that rarely disappoints.
What People Love (Based on Crockett’s Breakfast Camp Reviews)
According to hundreds of Crockett’s Breakfast Camp reviews, top picks include the Aretha Frankenstein pancakes, Elk Mountain Burrito, Fried Cinnamon Roll, and Cathead Stacker. Guests rave about the warm, rustic ambiance, fast service (even during peak hours), and how filling the meals are. Many call it a must-visit breakfast spot in Gatlinburg.
Cabins Near Crockett’s Breakfast Camp
If you’re planning an early breakfast at Crockett’s Breakfast Camp, staying nearby makes it even easier to beat the crowds and enjoy your morning without the rush. Luckily, there are several cabin options just minutes from the restaurant—perfect for families, couples, or groups visiting Gatlinburg.
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