Townsend / Great Smokies KOA Holiday Blog
Enjoy the peaceful side of the Smokies! RV sites start at just $50.
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.
From Maryville, US 321 N toward the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, 1 mile straight through stoplight on Hwy 73.
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Looking for a holiday getaway filled with mountain scenery, small-town charm, festive celebrations, and time to slow down? Celebrate the season in Townsend, Tennessee, known as the Peaceful Side of the Smokies. Nestled along the edge of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Townsend offers a refreshing alternative to the busy holiday crowds while keeping you close to the region's most popular seasonal attractions.
Whether you're planning a family holiday vacation, a cozy cabin escape, or a winter RV adventure, Townsend is a wonderful place to make new holiday memories.
Winter brings a different kind of beauty to the Smokies. Enjoy crisp mountain air, scenic drives, peaceful surroundings, and beautiful mountain views throughout the season. The quieter atmosphere makes it a great time to explore Townsend and appreciate the natural beauty that makes this area so special.
Take a scenic drive through the mountains, explore local shops, or simply enjoy a relaxing day surrounded by the peaceful beauty of the Smokies.
The Smoky Mountains are full of ways to celebrate the holidays. Take a short drive to nearby Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg to experience festive lights, holiday shopping, seasonal entertainment, and Christmas celebrations.
Visit Dollywood during its famous Smoky Mountain Christmas celebration, explore the holiday displays throughout Gatlinburg, or enjoy the festive atmosphere along the Pigeon Forge Parkway.
Don't miss local holiday traditions in Townsend, including Christmas in the Village at the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center and the annual Townsend Christmas Parade. These community celebrations offer a wonderful way to experience the small-town charm of the Peaceful Side.
After a day of holiday fun, return to Townsend and enjoy a quieter mountain retreat.
The holiday season is the perfect time to find unique gifts, handmade decorations, and special treasures from local artisans. The communities surrounding Townsend offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy holiday shopping and discover the creativity of East Tennessee.
Maryville Holiday Craft Shows
Make time for a visit to Maryville and browse the 21st Annual Santa Mouse Christmas House Arts & Crafts Show and Sale, November 19–21, 2026. Featuring more than 50 local artisans, shoppers can discover handmade jewelry, pottery, paintings, woodworking, holiday ornaments, and more. It's a great place to find one-of-a-kind gifts while supporting local artists.
Knoxville Christmas Shopping
Head to Knoxville for the 2026 Knoxville Christmas Fair, November 6–8, at the Knoxville Expo Center. Browse holiday gifts, seasonal decorations, and unique finds to help make your holiday shopping extra special. Knoxville also hosts Artsclamation!, December 3–5, showcasing fine arts and handcrafted creations.
Pigeon Forge Holiday Markets
Pigeon Forge brings plenty of holiday shopping opportunities with its Winterfest celebrations. Visit the Wonders of Light Christmas Market at Patriot Park on November 13–15 and November 20–28 to browse vendor booths featuring handcrafted gifts, seasonal items, and holiday treats.
The Mountain Mile Christmas Market also offers seasonal shopping on select weekends. Enjoy local vendors, Christmas lights, gourmet hot chocolate, s'mores, and festive photo opportunities.
From handmade treasures to festive markets, there's no shortage of ways to enjoy the holiday season throughout the Smoky Mountains.
The holidays are also a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the outdoors. Townsend provides easy access to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where you can discover scenic overlooks, peaceful trails, historic sites, and beautiful winter landscapes.
Visit Cades Cove for a scenic drive, explore the Little River area, or take in the mountain views along the surrounding roads. Even a little time outdoors can make your holiday getaway feel extra special.
Make your holiday getaway even more memorable with a stay at Townsend / Great Smokies KOA Holiday. Choose an RV site or a comfortable cabin and enjoy a relaxing home base close to the area's best attractions.
Spend your days exploring the Smokies, browsing holiday craft shows, and enjoying nearby Christmas celebrations. Then return to the campground to unwind and enjoy the slower pace of mountain life.
This holiday season, trade the hustle and bustle for fresh mountain air, beautiful scenery, and time together.
Your holiday adventure is waiting on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies!
Book your stay at Townsend / Great Smokies KOA Holiday and make new holiday memories in Townsend, Tennessee.
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