River Valley Campground Introduce
River Valley Campground: A Riverside Escape in the Heart of Cherokee, NC
Nestled in the picturesque mountains of Western North Carolina, River Valley Campground in Cherokee offers a classic camping experience with the added bonus of a stunning riverside setting. This destination is a perfect basecamp for exploring all that the region has to offer, from the natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the rich cultural heritage of the Qualla Boundary. For North Carolina residents and visitors alike, a trip to this part of the state is a chance to disconnect from the daily grind and reconnect with nature. River Valley Campground provides a variety of options for all types of campers, whether you prefer the comfort of an RV or the simplicity of a tent. The sound of the flowing river, the fresh mountain air, and the beautiful scenery create an atmosphere of pure relaxation. It is a place where every night can feel like a dream, with the gentle roar of the river providing a soothing soundtrack to your escape. This article will explore what makes River Valley Campground a unique and compelling choice for your next outdoor adventure, providing a comprehensive look at its location, amenities, and why so many campers choose to return year after year. From the fantastic on-site features to the endless nearby activities, it is a destination that promises a memorable and rejuvenating trip for families and individuals alike.
The experience at a campground is often defined by the people you meet and the environment you find yourself in. At River Valley Campground, the setting itself is a major highlight. As one long-time visitor noted, "River Valley Campground is very beautiful and sits right next to a nice river." The opportunity to camp "on the river side" and fall asleep "listening to the river in the middle of the night is a dream," a sentiment that resonates deeply with those who seek a truly peaceful outdoor experience. This stunning natural backdrop is what draws many people to the area, but the campground's appeal is also a matter of personal experience. While there can be differing opinions on the atmosphere and service at any business, the fact that this campground has long-term guests and return visitors speaks to its ability to create a positive and lasting impression for many. The a quiet, beautiful setting, makes it a preferred destination for many campers in the region. It is a spot where you can set up camp, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and truly unwind, making it an excellent choice for a restful getaway.
Location and Accessibility
River Valley Campground is located at 2978 Big Cove Rd, Cherokee, NC 28719, USA. Its prime location places it in the heart of Cherokee, just a short drive from the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway. This makes it an ideal central point for exploring many of the region's famous attractions, including hiking trails, fishing spots, and cultural sites. The campground is also situated on a beautiful river, with many campsites offering direct river access and views. For visitors arriving in RVs, the campground provides on-site parking, including specific sites with full hookups. It's important to be aware that cell phone signal can be spotty in this mountainous area, so preparing for a break from constant connectivity is a good idea. The campground itself is committed to accessibility, offering a wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance. This ensures that guests with mobility challenges can navigate the facilities with greater ease. The combination of a convenient location and thoughtful accessibility features makes River Valley Campground a welcoming destination for all types of travelers looking to experience the beauty of Western North Carolina.
Services Offered
- RV Camping: The campground is a great destination for RVs, offering full hookups with RV electric hookup, RV sewer hookup, and RV water hookup. These services provide all the necessary comforts for a convenient and relaxing stay.
- Tent and Camper Sites: In addition to RV options, the campground also provides sites for tent camping, allowing for a more traditional and rustic experience right by the river.
- Pet-Friendly: For those who love to travel with their four-legged friends, dogs are allowed at the campground, so you can bring your companion along on your adventure.
- Payment Options: The campground accepts various payment methods, including debit cards and a standard camping fee.
- Children's Camp: As a children's camp, the campground is considered "Good for kids," with a family-friendly atmosphere that ensures a safe and fun environment for young campers.
Features and Highlights
- Riverside Sites: A significant highlight is the opportunity to camp "right next to a nice river." Many sites offer a prime location where you can enjoy the sights and sounds of the river, which many campers find incredibly peaceful and relaxing.
- Family and Pet-Friendly: The campground's welcoming attitude towards both children and dogs makes it an excellent choice for family vacations and for those who travel with their pets.
- Prime Location: The campground's location in Cherokee is a key feature. It is a fantastic starting point for exploring the Great Smoky Mountains, hiking trails, and the cultural sites of the Cherokee reservation.
- Full RV Hookups: The availability of RV electric, sewer, and water hookups is a major convenience for RV travelers, ensuring a comfortable stay.
- Welcoming Atmosphere: As one reviewer mentions, the campground has "very friendly staff and great locals." This sense of community and hospitality is a major factor in why so many people return year after year.
Contact Information
For more information or to book your stay, you can reach River Valley Campground at the following details:
Address: 2978 Big Cove Rd, Cherokee, NC 28719, USA
Phone: (828) 497-3540
Mobile Phone: +1 828-497-3540
What is worth choosing
Choosing River Valley Campground for your next trip to the mountains is a decision that puts you in a prime position to enjoy the best of Western North Carolina. The most compelling reason to choose this spot is its beautiful and serene riverside location. As highlighted by multiple visitors, the ability to camp right next to a flowing river is a major draw. The calming sounds of the water and the picturesque views create an ideal environment for relaxation and rest. This is a unique feature that not all campgrounds can offer and it makes a significant difference in the overall camping experience. Beyond the natural beauty, the campground's strong focus on being both kid-friendly and dog-friendly makes it an excellent choice for a wide variety of campers. Families can feel confident that they are bringing their children to a safe and enjoyable environment, and pet owners can travel with their beloved companions without hassle. This inclusivity is a testament to the campground's mission to be a welcoming place for everyone, making it a reliable and trustworthy option for your vacation. The on-site RV hookups for electricity, sewer, and water are also a major convenience, especially for long-term stays, as they provide all the comforts of home in a rustic setting.
Another significant factor that makes River Valley Campground a great choice is its strategic location. Situated on the Qualla Boundary in Cherokee, it offers easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and a host of local attractions. This means you can spend your days hiking through stunning forests, exploring the rich history and culture of the Cherokee people, or trying your luck at the nearby casino. The fact that the campground allows both RV and tent camping also provides flexibility for different travel styles. While there may be differing opinions on the overall atmosphere, the beautiful riverside location, combined with the practical amenities and proximity to countless activities, makes it a top contender for a North Carolina camping trip. The personal experiences of long-time campers who "absolutely love this campground" and "have been going here for family vacations for over 10 years" speak volumes about its ability to create lasting, positive memories. The combination of a stunning natural setting, a family-friendly atmosphere, and convenient amenities solidifies River Valley Campground as a strong choice for anyone seeking a true escape into the heart of the North Carolina mountains.
River Valley Campground Details
Accessibility
- Wheelchair-accessible car park
- Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Offerings
- RV camping
- RV electric hookup
- RV sewer hookup
- RV water hookup
Payments
- Camping fee
- Debit cards
Children
- Good for kids
Parking
- On-site parking
Pets
- Dogs allowed
River Valley Campground Photos










River Valley Campground Location
River Valley Campground
2978 Big Cove Rd, Cherokee, NC 28719, USA
River Valley Campground Reviews
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★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1Me and my husband and kids camped here several years ago. Sitting at the dinner table tonight, you know we still talk about how horrible this place was. The location is great- other than there’s not a lot of cell phone signal- definitely talking about what everybody else is talking about on here- Some of the rudest people I think I’ve ever been around! We have since camped at Cherokee camp ground, bradleys and another one down there with a little church on site. All great. Do yourself a favor and drive down the mountain— altitude is messing with these people clearly. I wouldn’t camp there again if it was zero dollars per night!
September 28 · Melissa McCubbinsI absolutely love this campground. Very friendly staff and great locals. I have been going here for family vacations for over 10 years and this campground never disappoints. River Valley Campground is very beautiful and sits right next to a nice river. Allows for tent camping, as well as, campers. If you have a choice try and get a campsite on the river side because listening to the river in the middle of the night is a dream. Highly recommend staying here!!!
October 27 · sethramey 14We’ve stayed at this campground for three years straight and have enjoyed it every time. Wonderful location and clean camp ground. This last visit was a little disappointing. A employee in a golf cart approached ya multiple times and was extremely rude. We do our best to be polite respectful campers as we have 3 young boys camping with us. But the way this employee handled situations was embarrassing and uncomfortable. I politely brought this to the attention of the lady at the front desk and she immediately defended him and threatened to charge me 5 dollars for staying 2 minutes after 12. Again we have 3 boys under the age of 7. Not always smooth packing up and leaving. I really hope the owner sees this and makes the Necessary changes to fix this. I hate to not want to stay at such a beautiful place in the future because of a couple rude employees.....
May 07 · Doug SpitzerClean, quiet spot.The staff were amazing and helpful.They ran us around in a golf cart to assist us in picking the perfect spot for our 31 foot RV, and treated us with respect our entire stay.We got a spot right next to the river with power and water/sewer, and had a fantastic time.The elk in the area were out by the dozens, so that was a plus.The showers were clean, although small, and the restrooms were clean and well-maintained.We will certainly return our next trip through the Smokies, and definitely recommend River Valley to friends & family.
June 04 · David EricksonI stoped to ask to drive through to evaluate campsites. They allowed it but their expressions were not friendly. Most campsites are owned by yakees. So you get the rude treatment. I always stayed at one up the river. But they are under new ownership. I rode by and noticed there were many vacant sites. Before you had to make reservations a year early. Sad to see such bad management. Regards and safe camping.
January 13 · Lee Kellett JR
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