Smoky Mountain Search & Rescue
SMSAR is a nonprofit volunteer organization based in Jonesborough, Tennessee. We provide professional search and rescue services across Tennessee, Alabama, and South Dakota. Our teams specialize in ground search, rope rescue, wilderness medical, drone/UAS operations, K9 tracking, and tactical communications. Deployment occurs only through law enforcement or emergency management agencies — never by public request. Our mission is to deliver rapid, coordinated, and safe response to missing persons, wilderness emergencies, and disaster support.
Capabilities & Standards
Ground SAR
Field search operations with tactical teams.
Technical Rescue
Rope, confined space, and high‑angle rescue.
Medical Support
Wilderness EMT and field stabilization.
Drone/UAS
Aerial search and mapping support.
K9 Units
Canine search teams for scent tracking.
Communications
Field radios, repeaters, tactical comms.
Roster
Member Application
To request an official Smoky Mountain Search & Rescue application form, please email:
After you receive and submit the completed form, our team will review it within 8 business days. Qualified applicants who meet SMSAR training standards and deployment requirements will be contacted by phone to schedule an interview.
Donations
Our online donation portal is currently undergoing scheduled maintenance. To contribute, please contact us directly by phone or email to receive a secure donation link.
Non‑Emergency Dispatch: 423‑767‑2652
Email: info@smokymountainsar.org
Your support ensures SMSAR remains mission‑ready and able to provide professional search and rescue services.
Agency Contact
Non‑Emergency Dispatch: 423‑767‑2652
Email: info@smokymountainsar.org
For emergencies, call 911. SMSAR deploys only via authorized agencies.