Gatlinburg East / Smoky Mountain KOA Holiday

4874 Hooper Highway Cosby, TN

Open Year Round
Reserve: 1-423-532-7183
Info: 1-423-532-7183

Looking for peaceful camping near Gatlinburg without the crowds and traffic? Gatlinburg East KOA Holiday offers the perfect Smoky Mountain getaway just 17 miles from downtown Gatlinburg and top attractions like Dollywood, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.Nestled in a quiet, wooded setting in the foothills of the Smokies, our campground gives you the chance to relax, unwind, and enjoy the beauty of nature while still being close to the area's best dining, shopping, hiking, and entertainment. Whether you're planning a family vacation, couples getaway, or RV adventure, you'll enjoy peaceful mountain camping with convenient access to everything Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge have to offer. Bring the whole family — including your pets! Our pet-friendly campground features RV sites, cabins, and tent camping designed for comfort, relaxation, and unforgettable Smoky Mountain memories.

A Way to Stay for Everyone
Make the most of your vacation with our Gatlinburg East KOA Campground as your home base. You will have your choice of spacious RV Sites, Tent Sites and Deluxe Cabins. Our ways to stay provide an experience for every kind of camper, from those who prefer more comfort and glamping to guests who like traditional tent camping. Choose from campsites like:

RV Sites: Enjoy our Back-In or Pull-Thru RV Sites with all their RV-friendly amenities that make camping easier. Our RV Sites have full hookups, picnic tables and fire pits. Some even have a KOA Patio®, giving you more room to spread out and relax.
Deluxe Cabins: Enhance your camping experience in the smoky mountains with a kitchenette or full kitchen and a full bathroom in one of the Deluxe Cabins. These cabins let you and your family enjoy luxury and comfort during your camping excursion.
Tent Sites: Want a more rustic camping experience? Our Tent Sites allow up to eight people per site. They have a fire pit, picnic table, sand tent pad and bear boxes to keep your belongings safe.

Experience Exceptional Amenities
Gatlinburg East / Smoky Mountain KOA Holiday is one of the top Gatlinburg campgrounds, known for impeccably clean facilities and warm, helpful staff. Situated on 16 landscaped acres, we offer several amenities to ensure adult and children campers have a variety of things to do and enjoy during their time at the campground. When you stay with us, check out:

Playground
Swimming pool
KampK9® dog park
Hiking trailheads
Gemstone Mining

Our KOA Campground in Gatlinburg also provides several special events during the season because we know that relaxing and having fun are essential while vacationing.

Explore Gatlinburg
Our campground is the ideal place to stay while exploring all that Gatlinburg offers. With the campground's proximity to local attractions and activities, you have plenty to do. Check out locations like:

Great Smoky Mountains National Park: We are less than 10 minutes away from Great Smoky Mountains National Park, making us the perfect location for all your outdoor adventures. At the park, you can hike, observe wildlife, whitewater raft, horseback ride, bike and picnic.
Adventure parks: Stay active with family-friendly adventure parks like Anakeesta and Ober Mountain. The two parks provide exciting activities. Anakeesta is your all-inclusive park with multiple dining, shopping and entertainment options like play areas, rollercoasters and gardens. Ober Mountain is perfect for winter activities like ice skating, skiing and snowboarding.
Downtown Gatlinburg: If you want a little bit of everything, visit downtown Gatlinburg for various shops, entertainment and restaurants. You and your family will enjoy sightseeing and the refreshing mountain air. You can also indulge in the local cuisine.
Gatlinburg Space Needle: While downtown, stop at the Gatlinburg Space Needle for a bird's-eye view of the city. The Space Needle has a 407-foot observation deck that provides a 360-degree perspective.
Ripley's attractions: Believe it or not, Ripley's has multiple attractions in Gatlinburg that provide fun for the whole family. Go down below to Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies to see aquatic animals and have unique animal encounters. Believe It or Not Gatlinburg is another great attraction for you and the kids to marvel at different exhibits and artifacts.

Book Your Stay at Gatlinburg East / Smoky Mountain KOA Holiday Today
Whether you are traveling with kids and your four-legged friend, bonding with a group of your coworkers or looking for a couples camping getaway, Gatlinburg East / Smoky Mountain KOA Holiday is here to be your base camp during your visit to Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Bring your RV or tent, or stay in one of our Deluxe Cabins for an unforgettable time. Prepare for your vacation by reserving your stay today!

Events

Anakeesta's Bear-Varian Fall Festival

Starts: 08/28/2026 - Ends: 11/01/2026

Experience the magic of autumn in the Smoky Mountains during Anakeesta's Bear-Varian Fall Festival. Enjoy Halloween-themed décor, seasonal food and drink specials, and local craft beer tastings with a scenic mountaintop view. Wander through nature-inspired pumpkin carvings in Vista Gardens and experience Anakeesta at Night, when the village glows in enchanting shades of orange, purple, and green. This family-friendly fall event blends natural beauty with festive fun in the heart of Gatlinburg.
Book Your Stay!
America Turns 250!

Starts: 01/01/2026 - Ends: 12/31/2026

We can't think of a better way to celebrate America turning 250 than enjoying one of America's favorite pastimes - Camping! America will be celebrating 250 years in 2026 with events, media features and lots of memory sharing. Be part of the fun and create lasting memories during this milestone year in America's history!
Book your stay now!
Summer Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair

Starts: 07/10/2026 - Ends: 07/19/2026

This fair features over 180 booths showcasing handmade, one-of-a-kind items created by juried artisans from across the country. Visitors can watch live craft demonstrations, chat with craftsmen, and shop everything from pottery and jewelry to wood carvings and leather goods. Each day includes live music—think country, bluegrass, and gospel—on the fair's stage, included with admission. Families are welcome, with free children's admission (ages 17 and under with a paid adult) and a designated Kid's Corner offering hands-on craft activities for younger guests. Whether you're hunting for unique gifts, appreciating artisans at work, or enjoying a fun family outing, the Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair offers a rich mix of craftsmanship, culture, and live entertainment in a beautiful mountain setting.
Smoky Mountain Body Art Expo

Starts: 06/19/2026 - Ends: 06/21/2026

The Smoky Mountain Body Art Expo is a three-day celebration of tattoo artistry and body modification held at the Gatlinburg Convention Center in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Featuring over 100 tattoo artists and body piercers from around the world, the event offers attendees a chance to watch live tattooing, explore unique vendors, and immerse themselves in the creative world of body art. Guests can browse booths featuring tattoo-inspired clothing, jewelry, and art, as well as compete or spectate in a variety of tattoo contests held throughout the weekend. The expo is open to all ages, with free admission for children under 12 when accompanied by a paying adult. With a relaxed, festival-style atmosphere in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, the Smoky Mountain Body Art Expo offers an unforgettable weekend of creativity, community, and self-expression.
Family Fest in the Smokies

Starts: 05/22/2026 - Ends: 05/24/2026

Celebrating its 35th year, this beloved Gaither event brings together fans from across the country for a weekend filled with uplifting music, fellowship, and spiritual renewal in the heart of the Smoky Mountains. The festival features a Friday evening concert, followed by Saturday and Sunday morning speaker sessions and evening performances each day. Attendees will enjoy appearances by the Gaither Vocal Band, Wes Hampton, Adam Crabb, Todd Suttles, and many more talented artists. A full-event pass provides access to all five sessions across the weekend. Blending powerful worship with the beauty of the mountains, Family Fest offers an unforgettable experience of faith, music, and community.
The Mountain Music Festival

Starts: 08/21/2026 - Ends: 08/23/2026

The Mountain Music Festival in Gatlinburg, Tennessee is a high-energy three-day rock-and-roll celebration held at the Gatlinburg Convention Center and throughout the scenic Smoky Mountains region. Previously known as Monsters on the Mountain, the event features multiple stages, rock bands from across the spectrum of hard rock and metal, and a lively festival atmosphere. Attendees can expect large-scale concerts, a vendor marketplace themed around rock culture, VIP access options, and immersive experiences tailored to music fans who want more than just a show — it's a full weekend getaway in the mountains.
Annual Smoky Mountain Bigfoot Conference

Starts: 07/25/2026 - Ends: 07/25/2026

This event brings together top researchers, authors, and investigators of the legendary creature known as Bigfoot (or Sasquatch) to share their findings, stories, and fieldwork in a formal presentation setting. In addition to speaker sessions, the conference features a large vendor hall where attendees can browse and purchase a wide range of cryptid-themed merchandise—from books and gadgets to apparel and novelty items. Whether you're a lifelong believer in the unknown or just curious about the legend, this conference offers an engaging blend of education, folklore, and fun all set in the scenic backdrop of the Smokies.
Happy Father's Day

Starts: 06/19/2026 - Ends: 06/21/2026

Let's honor Dad by taking him camping! Enjoy relaxing by the fire, hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains, and even creating a special craft for him.Join us on Saturday for a delightful hot dog social... Hot dog, chips, and soda $5. Dads eat for free! Don't forget to inquire about our special dinner options for Dad and check out our Mountain Grub menu for additional tasty treats.On Sunday, order a Pancake breakfast, with the option to have your meals delivered right to your campsite so Dad can enjoy a leisurely morning in bed.
Memorial Day Weekend

Starts: 05/22/2026 - Ends: 05/25/2026

This Memorial Day weekend, come together with us to honor and remember. Our pool will be open, and we have a variety of special events lined up, including a watermelon-eating contest, games, crafts and more... Stop by the Mountain Grub for breakfast on Saturday, Sunday and Monday. Cruise the menu for lunch items as well, we deliver to your site or come dine in with us and enjoy the pavilion. Bring your decorations and decorate your site for our site decorating contest. Join us as we reflect and celebrate together!
Gatlinburg Farmers Market

Starts: 05/16/2026 - Ends: 10/17/2026

Offering a taste of healthy mountain living, the Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., May through October, at 1222 East Parkway across from Food City.Featuring a variety of local producers, the market focuses on fresh, seasonal produce and handcrafted goods, all set in a welcoming, community-centered atmosphere.
Music on the Mountain at Gatlinburg SkyPark

Starts: 03/02/2026 - Ends: 05/30/2026

Hear live music in Gatlinburg with unbeatable views at Music on the Mountain at Gatlinburg SkyPark. This mountaintop concert series features a rotating lineup of talented local and regional musicians, delivering an unforgettable night of entertainment high above downtown Gatlinburg with sweeping panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains. Expect a mix of genres—from Nashville country and indie rock to bluegrass—all paired with the one-of-a-kind scenery SkyPark is known for.
Dates: March 2, 2026 – May 30, 2026
Time: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Recurs: Weekly on Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday
Book Your Stay!
July 4th in Gatlinburg

Starts: 07/04/2026 - Ends: 07/04/2026

Celebrate Independence Day in Gatlinburg, TN at one of the region's can't-miss summer events—designated a Top 20 Event by the Southeast Tourism Society. Head to downtown Gatlinburg as the city lights up the Smoky Mountain skyline with an unforgettable 200-drone patriotic show launching from the Gatlinburg Convention Center, followed by a spectacular fireworks finale from the Gatlinburg Space Needle. After the show, don't miss the chance to get a behind-the-scenes look at the drones.
This free Independence Day event in Gatlinburg is open to the public. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to secure parking and avoid road closures.The night ends with a dual finale: a patriotic drone show at 10:50 p.m., followed by Gatlinburg's signature Space Needle fireworks display. For the best views, plan to watch from the Shade Tree Lot on Airport Road.
Book Your Stay!
Black Bear & Berry Jam Festival

Starts: 07/17/2026 - Ends: 07/19/2026

Discover one of the sweetest new summer festivals in the Great Smoky Mountains at the first annual Black Bear & Berry Jam Festival. This three-day family-friendly event celebrates the flavors of the season with berry-inspired food, live music, and mountain-town fun—all in one unforgettable Smokies weekend.Enjoy live “Berry Jam” music throughout the festival while sampling a variety of berry-flavored treats and drinks, including jellies, desserts, and refreshing beverages—perfect for warm summer days in the mountains.Beyond the food and entertainment, guests can visit Ober's Wildlife Habitat for a chance to see live black bears and learn more through engaging wildlife programming. Ober's wildlife team will host educational bear talks, interactive presentations, and share local initiatives that support wildlife conservation.
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Gears & Beers 2026

Starts: 06/13/2026 - Ends: 06/14/2026

Celebrate the summer riding season at Ober Gatlinburg with Gears & Beers, a weekend event built to connect the Gatlinburg mountain biking community. Riders of all skill levels can experience Tennessee's only lift-served downhill mountain bike trails while taking in incredible Great Smoky Mountains views.
Plus, don't miss the community Gear Swap, where you can shop great deals on bikes, components, and outdoor gear, meet local bike shops and event sponsors, and enter to win fun giveaways. The Gear Swap is free to participate, but pre-registration is required.
Book Your Stay!
Oktoberfest at Ober

Starts: 10/01/2026 - Ends: 11/01/2026

Experience the ultimate Oktoberfest in Gatlinburg at Ober Gatlinburg—home of the Original Oktoberfest celebration in the Great Smoky Mountains. This must-visit fall festival returns October 1 through November 1, 2026, bringing authentic Bavarian tradition to one of Tennessee's top mountain destinations.Celebrate Oktoberfest in Gatlinburg with festive blue-and-white décor, vibrant fall foliage, and picture-perfect photo ops throughout the resort. Guests can enjoy live Oktoberfest bands on the outdoor stage, along with crowd-favorite stein-holding competitions that capture the spirit of a true Bavarian celebration.Take in breathtaking Smoky Mountain views from the mountaintop biergarten while sampling a curated selection of German beers from Yee-Haw Brewing Company. Pair your drinks with classic Oktoberfest food favorites like chicken schnitzel, bratwurst, turkey legs, and oversized pretzels. Don't miss seasonal desserts, including apple strudel, pumpkin fudge, and other sweet fall treats.Plan your fall getaway around Oktoberfest in Gatlinburg and discover why Ober Gatlinburg remains one of the top Oktoberfest festivals in Tennessee.
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Gatlinburg SkyPark Festival of Flags

Starts: 05/15/2026 - Ends: 07/05/2026

Celebrate America's 250th anniversary at the Festival of Flags at Gatlinburg SkyPark, home to the iconic Gatlinburg SkyBridge. This limited-time event runs from May 15 through July 5, offering one of the most patriotic experiences in Gatlinburg.
During the Festival of Flags, guests will witness a breathtaking display of the American flag, U.S. military flags, and all 50 state flags suspended high above the city from the SkyBridge. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains, this one-of-a-kind installation creates a powerful tribute to the nation, perfectly timed to honor both Memorial Day and Flag Day.
Book Your Stay!
Gatlinburg SkyPark Mountain Laurel Days

Starts: 05/01/2026 - Ends: 06/01/2026

Experience the beauty of spring in the Great Smoky Mountains during Mountain Laurel Days at Gatlinburg SkyPark. Throughout the month of May, this scenic mountaintop destination bursts into color as thousands of blooming mountain laurel flowers create a stunning pink-and-white landscape along the park's hiking trails.Ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and families, Mountain Laurel Days offers one of the best spring experiences in Gatlinburg. Take in panoramic mountain views, explore peaceful trails, and capture unforgettable photos during peak bloom season.Regular admission applies. Plan your visit and don't miss one of the Smokies' most beautiful spring events.
Book Your Stay!
Smoky Mountain Sunrise

Starts: 10/03/2026 - Ends: 10/31/2026

Experience the best sunrise in Gatlinburg with a Sunrise Event at Gatlinburg SkyPark. Ticketed guests enjoy early access to the Gatlinburg SkyLift before dawn, ascending to breathtaking panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains and the city below.This exclusive Gatlinburg sunrise experience includes live music and a light breakfast featuring breakfast burritos, danishes, hashbrowns, coffee, tea, apple juice, and orange juice—plus a souvenir mug to take home. Your ticket also provides full-day access to top SkyPark attractions, including the Gatlinburg SkyBridge, SkyDeck, SkyTrail, SkyCenter, and Tulip Tower.Perfect for photography, special occasions, and proposals, this is widely considered one of the top things to do in Gatlinburg at sunrise. Tickets are limited and must be purchased online in advance. Enjoy the flexibility of all-day admission with the ability to leave and re-enter the park throughout operating hours.
United Tastes of America

Starts: 05/22/2026 - Ends: 08/09/2026

Experience a coast-to-coast culinary journey at Anakeesta's all-new food and drink festival. Sample flavors from across the United States while enjoying live entertainment and family-friendly activities for all ages—making it one of the most unique dining experiences in Gatlinburg.
Dollywood Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration

Starts: 06/15/2026 - Ends: 08/02/2026

Turn sunny days into unforgettable nights at Dollywood Parks and Resorts during the Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration presented by Food City. Experience longer days filled with vibrant color displays, soaring kites, and immersive summer sights throughout the park.Cool off with interactive fountains, sprinklers, and foam play zones, or catch the fan-favorite Gazillion Bubble Show – Evolution for high-energy family fun. Thrill-seekers can take on the award-winning Big Bear Mountain coaster, while families can enjoy music, dancing, and a lively nighttime party in Wildwood Grove.End your day with a spectacular fireworks and drone show lighting up the sky over the Great Smoky Mountains—the perfect finale to a full day of summer adventure.
We sell discounted Dollywood tickets on site. Ask at the Front Desk!
Dollywood Flower & Food Festival

Starts: 04/18/2026 - Ends: 06/07/2026

Spring has arrived in full color, transforming the park into a breathtaking display of seasonal beauty. Wander through more than 500,000 vibrant blooms in shades of purple, pink, and yellow, stretching as far as the eye can see. Look up to discover stunning Mosaicultures—larger-than-life sculptures crafted from living plants—featuring Smoky Mountain favorites like playful bears, a graceful peacock, and a tribute to Dolly Parton's mother, stitching the iconic Coat of Many Colors.
We sell discounted Dollywood tickets on site. Ask at the Front Desk!

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Gatlinburg East / Smoky Mountain KOA Holiday

Gatlinburg East / Smoky Mountain KOA Holiday

4874 Hooper Highway Cosby, TN

Amenities

Explore Gatlinburg East / Smoky Mountain KOA Holiday!

Activities

Events

Anakeesta's Bear-Varian Fall Festival

America Turns 250!

Summer Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair

Smoky Mountain Body Art Expo

Family Fest in the Smokies

The Mountain Music Festival

Annual Smoky Mountain Bigfoot Conference

Happy Father's Day

Memorial Day Weekend

Gatlinburg Farmers Market

Music on the Mountain at Gatlinburg SkyPark

July 4th in Gatlinburg

Black Bear & Berry Jam Festival

Gears & Beers 2026

Oktoberfest at Ober

Gatlinburg SkyPark Festival of Flags

Gatlinburg SkyPark Mountain Laurel Days

Smoky Mountain Sunrise

United Tastes of America

Dollywood Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration

Dollywood Flower & Food Festival

Gatlinburg East / Smoky Mountain KOA Holiday

4874 Hooper Highway Cosby, TN

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