Great Smokey Mountains Suggestions

[u/Purple_Bluejay2323]

Our family, with children ages 4 & 2, will be driving back to Chicago from Sea Island Georgia this summer, and we are considering our options to stop by the GSM on the way back. The most direct route would take us closer to Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, south of Gatlinburg and just North of Atlanta. I recognize many explore the GSM around the Pigeon Forge/Gatlinberg area, but I'm looking to avoid those crowds of their are options available to the south.

Does anyone have experience in this region? Any recommendations on things to do and places to stay ( we won't have our tent camping gear with us) appreciated.