Our History

While no one is certain whether the Great Smoky Mountain National Park or the Rocky Waters Motor Inn came first, what we do know is that in 1934, when Calvin Coolidge signed the park into existence, he laid the foundation for protecting one of the most awe-inspiring, majestic, and biologically diverse natural settings in the country. All the while, the original owners, The Lawsons, illuminated the original vacancy sign at the Rocky Waters Motor Inn, pioneering hospitality in Gatlinburg, TN.

Paying homage to the trailblazers before us, we're introducing an unparalleled way of hosting our guests to curate your best experience in this mountain town.

The hotel has only been owned by two families: The Lawsons and The Patels.

Both families have lived on the property during the formative years of their children's lives. Mrs. Lawson even gave birth to her son, Bud Lawson, who Bobby Patel would eventually buy the property from. His two boys, Mahavir and Dev, spent many summer days dreaming of the future and planning what the Rocky Waters Motor Inn would one day become.

As one father had originally passed it on to the next generation, history repeats itself. Now, after years in the dreaming and planning phase, the new Rocky Waters Motor Inn is ready to welcome back long-time friends and a new generation of modern travelers with discerning taste, a love for discovery, and a heart for the community.