Whether you’re exploring the local area or hanging out at the campground, KOA Holidays are an ideal place to relax and play. There’s plenty to do, with amenities and services to make your stay memorable. Plus, you’ll enjoy the outdoor experience with upgraded RV Sites with KOA Patio® and Deluxe Cabins with full baths for camping in comfort. Bring your family, bring your friends, or bring the whole group – there’s plenty of ways to stay and explore.
Whether you’re exploring the local area or hanging out at the campground, KOA Holidays are an ideal place to relax and play. There’s plenty to do, with amenities and services to make your stay memorable. Plus, you’ll enjoy the outdoor experience with upgraded RV Sites with KOA Patio® and Deluxe Cabins with full baths for camping in comfort. Bring your family, bring your friends, or bring the whole group – there’s plenty of ways to stay and explore.
Please take note of these revised directions to avoid a closed section of I-40.
FROM FLORIDA: Take I-75 North to I-40 East. Then take exit 435 to Newport. Turn Right on US-321 towards Gatlinburg on 321 to our campground.
FROM THE NORTHEAST: Take I-81 South to I-40 East to exit 435 to Newport. Turn Right on US-321 towards Gatlinburg on 321 to our campground..
The holidays in Gatlinburg, Tennessee are pure magic! From sparkling mountain lights to festive parades, there’s no better place to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year. Make Gatlinburg East / Smoky Mountain KOA Holiday your cozy home base while you explore it all — just a short, scenic drive from downtown.
Lights Over Gatlinburg
When: November 6, 2025 – January 31, 2026
See the Smokies shine from above at Gatlinburg SkyPark. Walk the glowing SkyBridge, enjoy live holiday music, and capture magical mountain views lit up for Christmas.
KOA tip: Visit after sunset for fewer crowds and picture-perfect views.
Enchanted Christmas at Anakeesta
When: November 14, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Anakeesta transforms into a winter wonderland with over a million lights, festive treats, live music, and Breakfast with Santa events.
KOA tip: Catch the mountaintop sunset before the lights come on!
Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade
When: Early December
Downtown Gatlinburg’s biggest holiday tradition features colorful floats, marching bands, and Santa’s grand arrival.
KOA tip: Arrive early, bundle up, and bring a thermos of cocoa.
Winter Magic Lights
When: Mid-November – February
Stroll through downtown Gatlinburg or ride the Winter Magic Trolley to see millions of LED lights twinkling across town.
KOA tip: Pair your tour with dinner at The Peddler or Cherokee Grill.
Winter Fun at Ober Mountain
Hit the slopes for skiing, snow tubing, and ice skating—or simply enjoy the tram ride up the mountain for a snowy Smoky Mountain view.
Plan Your Gatlinburg Holiday Getaway
From festive lights to mountaintop adventures, Gatlinburg shines bright all season long.
Book your stay at Gatlinburg East / Smoky Mountain KOA Holiday and make this Christmas in the Smokies one to remember!
That doesn't mean this area has to always be empty. When you start reviewing camping options, your history will display here to help compare sites and find the best stay. You will be able to share your stay information with friends or family and save it for a later time if you have a KOA Account.
Make checkout easy by booking all your reservations at once. Add your sites from different campgrounds into your shopping cart* and then choose checkout.
