Jonesborough / Cherokee NF KOA Journey Blog
Riverfront Camping Sites Available! Campground Cabins Available!
KOA Journey campgrounds are the perfect oases after a day on the road. Whether it’s along the way or a quick getaway, they’ve got you covered. Located near the highways and byways of North America with long Pull-thru RV Sites, they deliver convenience to the traveling camper. Pull in, ease back and take a load off.
KOA Journey campgrounds are the perfect oases after a day on the road. Whether it’s along the way or a quick getaway, they’ve got you covered. Located near the highways and byways of North America with long Pull-thru RV Sites, they deliver convenience to the traveling camper. Pull in, ease back and take a load off.
From I-26 East take Exit 37 Erwin/Jonesborough; Go right off the interstate, Proceed for 5 miles, Camp on right hand side.
From I-26 West Take exit 37 Erwin/Jonesborough and go Left, Proceed 5 miles to camp on right hand side.
From I-81 Take Exit 23 Greenville/Bulls Gap/ 11E Mosheim Go towards Greenville, Turn Right onto US 107 Tusculum Bypass after the Walmart ( Walmart left hand side) Go to the stop sign, turn Right onto US 107, 1.5 miles on the left hand side (40 Min from I 81)
A mountain town full of history, charm and plenty of spots to explore, Jonesborough, Tennessee, is the perfect location to plan your next trip. We've compiled this complete guide to share everything the town has to offer, including its unique backstory, reasons to visit and popular Jonesborough events and attractions. With so much to do and see here, chances are you'll end up staying longer than anticipated!
Jonesborough has a reputation for its diverse history, culture, heritage, preserved architecture and prominent figures who have made Tennessee's oldest town a crown jewel. This 18th-century town nestled in the Appalachian Mountains will take you on a journey through the past as you stroll along its well-preserved Main Street.
You'll step where individuals like John Sevier, Davy Crockett, Daniel Boone and multiple presidents have stood. Below are a few of the many historical figures and events that have helped shape present-day Jonesborough.
The Chester Inn is the oldest remaining building in Jonesborough's commercial district. Medical doctor William Chester constructed the inn in 1797 to accommodate those traveling through the town.
Many well-known guests stayed at the Chester Inn during its days of operation, including Presidents James K. Polk, Andrew Johnson and Andrew Jackson. Today, the state of Tennessee owns the fully restored building, which serves as a public museum.
Another historic milestone in Jonesborough was the beginning of the end of slavery. Quaker Elihu Embree published and funded the Emancipator, the first newspaper in the U.S. devoted exclusively to abolishing slavery. The paper began circulating in Jonesborough in April 1820 from Jacob Howard's print shop.
If you're wondering what to do in Jonesborough during your stay, you've come to the right place! Borrow some ideas from our list of popular events and attractions below.
The annual two-day Unicoi Apple Festival in nearby Erwin, Tennessee, is a beloved event with an average attendance of over 100,000 people. For more than 40 years, the festival has featured exciting activities tailored to all ages, including live music, contests and pageants, craft vendors, delicious foods and beverages and more. You and your group surely won't want to miss this one-of-a-kind event.
Every year in October, Jonesborough hosts the National Storytelling Festival. For nearly 50 years, storytellers and listeners nationwide have gathered to share captivating tales big and small. The event dates back to 1973 in Courthouse Square, when a small group gathered to share some Appalachian tales around an old farm wagon.
Since then, this quaint audience has grown to thousands of listeners around America. Additionally, massive circus-style tents have replaced the original hay wagon, and world-renowned raconteurs share their tales throughout the streets of Jonesborough. There's a reason this storybook setting is the storytelling capital of the world!
The Cherokee National Forest is Tennessee's largest tract of public land, adjoining other national forests in North Carolina, Georgia and Virginia. This 650,000-acre forest boasts over 700 miles of trails, numerous camping and picnic areas and seven whitewater rivers.
If you need to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, this is the ideal place to enjoy a beautiful, relaxing hike, drive or picnic with friends or family. Spend a weekend exploring the great outdoors and reconnecting with nature at Cherokee National Forest!
The Black Olive is the prime spot in Jonesborough for authentic Italian dishes served in a warm, casual atmosphere. With classic brick walls, wood furniture and flooring, TVs and twinkling lights, this space is the perfect blend of modern and rustic elements. Savor house-made dishes prepared with organically sourced and locally grown ingredients.
Start your meal with a steaming bowl of soup or crisp chicken Caesar salad before moving on to a delicious customized pasta or hand-tossed pizza, accompanied by scrumptious slices of garlic bread. Wash down your meal with a refreshing soda, iced tea or coffee, then conclude your dining experience with a sweet treat from the dessert menu.
If you're looking for great restaurants in Jonesborough, Tennessee, be sure to add The Black Olive to your list!
Many qualities make Jonesborough well worth the trip, such as the three listed below.
In 1843, two merchants named Herman Cone and Jacob Adler came to Jonesborough with a small covered wagon. As German-Jewish immigrants, they tried to set up shop in Virginia but encountered difficulties.
After moving their families to Jonesborough to start a new chapter, they were warmly welcomed and established a highly successful business on Main Street. The town's friendly, welcoming nature is just as present in modern-day Jonesborough as it was then.
Today, small-town charm is abundant in Jonesborough. Its charming Main Street features tiny boutiques, cozy restaurants, antique shops and friendly residents at every turn.
History enthusiasts will find no shortage of museums and historic sites in Jonesborough. In addition to the Chester Inn, we encourage you to check out the 1788 Christopher Taylor House, a two-story log home where Andrew Jackson and his family lived while he was serving as an attorney in Jonesborough.
You can also visit the Chuckey Depot Railroad Museum, a former Southern railway depot that houses various railroad-related artifacts people have donated over the past 30 years.
Like history buffs, those who enjoy exploring the outdoors will find plenty of opportunities to connect with nature. From the beautiful Cherokee National Forest to Persimmon Ridge Park to Jimmy Neil Smith Park, the area has a lovely variety of spots for walking, biking and picnicking.
After learning about everything this delightful town offers, you may want to plan a trip to Jonesborough soon. At Jonesborough KOA, our family-friendly campground provides limitless ways to enjoy a fun, relaxing outdoor vacation along the Nolichucky River.
We have a convenient location near many of the area's popular destinations, like the International Storytelling Center, Erwin, Tennessee and Cherokee National Forest. With multiple accommodations, including RV sites with full hookups, spacious tent sites and Deluxe Cabins, we provide a comfortable place to stay as you explore Jonesborough.
Whether you desire a relaxing weekend getaway or an action-packed family vacation, we have plenty of lodging options and amenities for every type of camper. Reserve your Jonesborough campsite on our website today!
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