[SCBillandJane]

The higher elevations of the Smokies will probably reach their color peak around the second week of Oct. Lower elevations last through the end of Oct. depending on many factors. These dates are the most popular for campers with the pleasant temps and colors. Be prepared for full campgrounds. Look at Mount Rodgers area in SW Virginia. Off the beaten track and beautiful. Consider biking the Cades Cove area in the Smokies, going over the mountains into NC and traveling the Blue Ridge Parkway. Also you are going to be very close to the Trailmanor factory if that is of interest to you. The Florida panhandle has several excellent state parks. Our favorites are in Panama City and Pensacola.