Duration
2-3 hours (longer if adding horseback riding or picnicking)
Price
$15-20 per person, with feed packages around $65 for family of four
Best For
Families with kids ages 3-12 • Animal lovers wanting hands-on experiences • Couples looking for unique photo opportunities
Pro Tip
Buy the large cup of feed and save the apples for the deer - they go crazy for them and make for the best photos.
About Smoky Mountain Deer Farm and Exotic Petting Zoo
Families have been discovering Smoky Mountain Deer Farm & Exotic Petting Zoo as a beloved destination in Sevierville for years, drawn to its unique hands-on animal experiences. Visitors can walk directly into pens with deer, goats, and other friendly animals - an opportunity rarely found at traditional attractions.
Located about 15 minutes off the main Parkway, the farm maintains lighter crowds than downtown attractions while offering memorable encounters with camels, zebras, and kangaroos. Large cups of animal feed available at the entrance make feeding time interactive and exciting for all ages.
The animals show genuine enthusiasm when they spot approaching visitors with food, which can initially surprise younger children. Staff members are experienced in helping families start with gentler animals like goats before progressing to more energetic species.
Horseback riding on the same property extends the experience for those wanting a full-day adventure. Families can also bring picnic lunches to enjoy in the property's shaded grove area.
The farm embraces a rustic, unpretentious atmosphere that adds to its authentic charm. Children leave with dirt on their clothes, families capture memorable photos, and everyone departs with smiles - exactly what makes this attraction special.
Amenities & Features
Don't Miss
Walk-Through Deer Enclosure
You actually walk right into the pen with the deer - no fences between you and them. They're super gentle and love apples, making for incredible up-close photos that'll wow your friends back home.
Exotic Animal Feeding
Where else can you hand-feed a camel or zebra? The exotic animals here are used to people and genuinely seem to enjoy the interaction. The kangaroos are surprisingly gentle.
Goat Playground
The goat enclosure is pure chaos in the best way. These guys will climb all over you for food and attention. It's our kids' favorite spot every single visit.
Horseback Trail Rides
The riding stables on the same property take you through beautiful wooded trails. Even beginners feel comfortable with their gentle horses and patient guides.
Shaded Picnic Grove
After getting hot and dusty with the animals, the tree-covered picnic area is a lifesaver. Plenty of tables and a great spot to recharge with your own snacks.
Zonkey and Rare Breeds
They have some animals you won't see anywhere else, like their zonkey (zebra-donkey hybrid). The reindeer are also a huge hit, especially with younger kids who've only seen them in Christmas movies.
Know Before You Go
- Arrive early morning for smaller crowds and hungrier animals
- Wear closed-toe shoes and clothes you don't mind getting dirty
- Bring cash for extra feed cups and hand wipes for cleanup
- Pack a picnic since they don't sell food but have great picnic areas
- Paths are gravel and dirt - not fully wheelchair accessible
Visitor Sentiment
Based on reviewsSmoky Mountain Deer Farm and Exotic Petting Zoo receives consistently positive feedback from visitors. Located in Sevierville, it's a solid choice for the area.
Smoky Mountain Deer Farm and Exotic Petting Zoo Opening Hours
Best Times to Visit Smoky Mountain Deer Farm and Exotic Petting Zoo
Visit during weekday mornings for the calmest experience.
Tags
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for Smoky Mountain Deer Farm?
They're typically open daily from 9 AM to late afternoon, but hours change seasonally. We always call ahead or check their website before heading out since weather can affect their schedule.
How much does Smoky Mountain Deer Farm cost?
Admission runs about $15-20 per person, with combo packages including feed cups and apples for around $65 for a family of four. Extra feed cups are about $3-5 each, and apples are 50 cents.
Do I need reservations for Smoky Mountain Deer Farm?
No reservations needed for the petting zoo - just show up. However, if you want to do horseback riding, we'd recommend calling ahead to check availability, especially on busy weekends.
How long should I spend at Smoky Mountain Deer Farm?
Most families spend 2-3 hours here between feeding animals, taking photos, and maybe doing a pony ride. If you bring a picnic and do horseback riding, plan for half a day.
Is Smoky Mountain Deer Farm good for kids?
It's fantastic for kids 3 and up who aren't scared of animals. Toddlers might get overwhelmed when the animals crowd around for food, but the staff is great at helping nervous kids start with gentler animals.
Is there parking at Smoky Mountain Deer Farm?
Yes, they have a free gravel parking lot right at the entrance. Even when it's busy, we've never had trouble finding a spot.
Can you actually touch and feed the animals?
Absolutely - that's what makes this place special. You can walk right into most pens and hand-feed deer, goats, and other animals. It's way more interactive than typical petting zoos.
What animals can you see at Smoky Mountain Deer Farm?
They have deer, goats, camels, zebras, kangaroos, reindeer, and even a zonkey (zebra-donkey mix). Most can be fed and petted, though some of the larger exotics are viewed from outside their enclosures.
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More great places in Sevierville
We use a weighted 10-point scoring system to evaluate the best places to visit and things to do in the Smokies.
Scoring is carefully evaluated based on reviews, social signals and expert assessments.
Smoky Mountain Deer Farm and Exotic Petting Zoo receives consistently positive feedback from visitors. Located in Sevierville, it's a solid choice for the area.
Last Updated Dec 27, 2025
478 Happy Hollow Ln Sevierville TN 37876
478 Happy Hollow Ln Sevierville TN 37876
Sevierville
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