In addition to the lodges at Big Meadows and Skyland, there are daytime restaurants and snack bars at Big Meadows (Mile 51), Elkwallow Wayside (Mile 24.1), Panorama-Thornton Gap (Mile 31.5), and Loft Mountain (Mile 79.5).
Picnic areas with tables, fireplaces, water fountains, and restrooms are at Dickey Ridge (Mile 4.6) and Elkwallow (Mile 24.1) in the Northern District; Pinnacles (Mile 36.7), Big Meadows (Mile 51), and Lewis Mountain (Mile 57.5) in the Central District; and South River (Mile 62.8) and Loft Mountain (Mile 79.5) in the Southern District. Since the areas are far apart, pick the one nearest to you. Big Meadows is most convenient to park activities.
