Lake James Forest RV Park Introduce
For many North Carolinians, the allure of Lake James, with its pristine waters and surrounding natural beauty, is undeniable. If you're an RV enthusiast looking for a long-term, peaceful, and community-focused place to park your camper and truly settle in, Lake James Forest RV Park in Marion, NC, might be exactly what you're seeking. This park offers a unique opportunity for those who desire a more permanent or seasonal presence near one of North Carolina's most beloved lakes, emphasizing a quiet atmosphere and a strong sense of camaraderie among its residents.
Lake James Forest RV Park distinguishes itself by being a "buy and stay campground," catering to individuals looking to own their lot and establish a more stable presence rather than short-term rentals. This fosters a truly friendly, family-like environment where neighbors know each other and share a common love for the area. While it operates with specific rules to maintain its serene character, it’s highly recommended by those who fit its unique model – especially the 55+ community seeking a clean, quiet summer vacation home or year-round retreat. This article will explore what makes Lake James Forest RV Park a suitable and appealing choice for local users in North Carolina, focusing on its distinct features, location, and community spirit.
Lake James Forest RV Park is situated at 1559 Old Hwy 10 E, Marion, NC 28752. Unlike many typical transient RV parks, Lake James Forest RV Park operates primarily as a "buy and stay campground." This means it's designed for individuals who purchase an RV lot to use as a permanent or seasonal vacation home, rather than offering short-term rental sites for travelers passing through. This model cultivates a stable and cohesive community, where residents are truly invested in their surroundings and their neighbors.
The park is known for its "quiet" atmosphere and "very strict rules," which are in place to maintain the peaceful and orderly environment valued by its residents. It is specifically geared towards the 55+ demographic, ensuring a mature and calm community. While it doesn't offer amenities like trash pickup or included internet/cable (these are at the resident's expense), the emphasis is on providing a clean, well-maintained lot and a friendly, family-like environment. Reviews highlight the strong sense of community, where "everyone is like family," making it a great place to get away and enjoy the tranquility of Lake James for extended periods.
Lake James Forest RV Park enjoys a prime location at 1559 Old Hwy 10 E, Marion, NC 28752, USA. This puts it squarely in Marion, NC, a charming town known as the "Gateway to the Blue Ridge Mountains," and most importantly, it's very close to the magnificent Lake James. Lake James is a massive, pristine lake spanning Burke and McDowell counties, renowned for its clear waters, recreational opportunities, and stunning mountain backdrop.
The park's accessibility to Lake James is a major draw. Residents can enjoy a "short golf cart ride or Walking distance to Lake James," making it incredibly convenient for boating, fishing, swimming, or simply enjoying the lakeside scenery. Beyond the immediate vicinity of the lake, the park offers easy access to the town of Marion. Here, residents can find essential services, grocery stores, local dining options, and attractions like the Marion Moose Lodge, where "they have great food, beverages and activities!" The short drive to Marion allows for convenience without sacrificing the peaceful retreat that the RV park offers. Furthermore, Marion's location provides good access to Interstate 40, enabling straightforward travel to larger cities like Asheville (approximately 45 minutes to the west) or Hickory (approximately 45 minutes to the east), opening up a wider range of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. This combination of lakeside serenity and town accessibility makes Lake James Forest RV Park an ideal spot for those looking to immerse themselves in the Western North Carolina lifestyle.
Lake James Forest RV Park operates with a distinct focus on providing a stable and well-maintained environment for its residents, who are typically lot owners rather than short-term renters. The services offered reflect this long-term commitment to community living:
- RV Lot Ownership: The primary service is the sale of RV lots, rather than daily or weekly rentals. This allows residents to own their space, providing a permanent base for their camper or summer vacation home.
- Access to Utility Hookups: Lots come equipped with essential utility hookups, including electric, water, and sewer connections. However, residents are responsible for paying for these utilities themselves.
- Cable Hookup Availability: While not included in the rent/fees, cable hookup is available, allowing residents to set up their own cable service if desired.
- Quiet and Clean Environment: The park prides itself on being a "quiet park" with "clean" grounds. This is a direct result of the strict rules and community commitment to maintaining a serene and tidy atmosphere.
- Community Atmosphere: While not a tangible "service," the park fosters a very friendly environment where "everyone is like family." This sense of community is a significant benefit for residents seeking a supportive and social living space.
It's important for prospective residents to note that, as highlighted in reviews, services such as trash pickup and internet are not provided by the park and are the responsibility of the individual lot owner. This model emphasizes independent living within a shared, well-managed space.
Lake James Forest RV Park boasts several unique features that make it particularly appealing to its target demographic of long-term residents and those seeking a seasonal retreat:
- "Buy and Stay" Model: This is the defining feature, creating a stable, resident-owned community rather than a transient campground. This fosters strong neighborly bonds and a high level of investment in the park's quality.
- Proximity to Lake James: The park's location offers "short golf cart ride or Walking distance to Lake James." This direct and easy access to the lake is a major highlight for water enthusiasts, allowing for spontaneous trips for boating, fishing, or simply enjoying the lakeside.
- 55+ Community: Catering to individuals aged 55 and over ensures a peaceful and mature living environment. This demographic preference contributes to the quiet ambiance and shared interests among residents.
- Friendly, Family-Like Atmosphere: Residents consistently describe the campground as "very Friendly" where "everyone is like family." This strong sense of community and camaraderie is a significant draw for those seeking social connections and a supportive neighborhood.
- Clean and Quiet Environment: Despite lacking some amenities found in short-term resorts, the park excels in maintaining a "clean, quiet" atmosphere. The strict rules contribute to this orderly and peaceful setting, which is highly valued by long-term residents.
- Ideal for Summer Vacation Homes: For those looking for a seasonal escape, the park is described as a "great place for a summer vacation home," offering a reliable and welcoming spot to return to year after year near a popular destination.
- Access to Local Establishments: The "short drive to the Marion Moose Lodge where they have great food, beverages and activities" highlights the park's convenient access to local social hubs and community events outside of the park itself.
Given that Lake James Forest RV Park operates on a "buy and stay" model, where individuals purchase their lots rather than simply renting them nightly or weekly, traditional short-term promotions for stays are not typically offered. The primary "offer" is the opportunity to own a piece of property in a desirable location near Lake James, within a friendly and well-maintained 55+ community. The value is in the long-term investment and the lifestyle it provides.
Prospective buyers interested in purchasing a lot should directly contact the park management or a local real estate agent specializing in RV lot sales in the Lake James area. They would be able to provide information on any available lots, pricing, financing options, and the specific terms of ownership within the park. While there aren't "rent discounts," the long-term benefits of owning a vacation home or permanent residence in such a highly sought-after natural setting near Lake James are the main attraction.
For those interested in learning more about purchasing a lot at Lake James Forest RV Park, understanding the community rules, or inquiring about current availability, direct contact is the best approach. As the park operates on a unique "buy and stay" model, a phone conversation can provide detailed insights into the ownership process and community specifics.
Address: 1559 Old Hwy 10 E, Marion, NC 28752, USA
While a specific phone number for Lake James Forest RV Park was not provided in the prompt, for general inquiries regarding RV parks in the Lake James area, potential residents may contact Lake James State Park at (828) 544-6800 for general area information, or search for real estate listings specifically for RV lots in Marion, NC, near Lake James. Given the nature of a "buy and stay" community, real estate agents familiar with the local market might also be a valuable resource.
For North Carolina locals, particularly those aged 55 and over who cherish the tranquility of lakeside living and aspire to own a permanent or seasonal RV retreat, Lake James Forest RV Park offers a uniquely suitable opportunity. Its "buy and stay" model stands in stark contrast to transient campgrounds, fostering a stable and deeply connected community where "everyone is like family." This creates a supportive and friendly environment, making it an ideal place to spend extended periods, whether for summer vacations or year-round residence, without the constant flux of short-term visitors.
The park's location is a significant draw, providing "walking distance" or a "short golf cart ride" to the beautiful Lake James, offering unparalleled access to water activities and scenic views right from your doorstep. While the park maintains "very strict rules" and requires residents to manage their own internet, cable, and trash, these measures contribute to the quiet, clean, and orderly environment that long-term residents explicitly appreciate. This focus on maintaining high standards ensures a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle. For those seeking a long-term investment in a vacation property or a permanent, affordable home base near one of North Carolina's most stunning lakes, surrounded by a tight-knit and welcoming 55+ community, Lake James Forest RV Park stands out as an excellent and highly recommended choice for a lasting and enjoyable lifestyle.
Lake James Forest RV Park Photos








Lake James Forest RV Park Location
Lake James Forest RV Park
1559 Old Hwy 10 E, Marion, NC 28752, USA
Lake James Forest RV Park Reviews
Quit park with very strict rules. Its not for those who travel. You must be 55 to live there no trash pick up, no internet unless you pay for it yourself they do have cable hook up but at your own expense. Rent is high considering they don't offer anything just a lot to park a camper. Very strick rules. I do not recommend this place
Apr 27, 2025 · Scott E. Sowersgreat place to get away!Short golf cart ride or Walking distance to lake JamesJust a short drive to the Marion Moose Lodge where they have great food, beverages and activities!This is a very Friendly campground where everyone is like family!This is not a rent campground it is a buy and stay campground.Clean, quiet and a great place for a summer vacation home!!
Dec 28, 2020 · Mechelle ReelI've lived in the RV park for three years and this is the happiest I've been in years! No drama, sweet neighbors, and the woods are awesome to walk thru to the lake. Owners that take no garbage. I love it!
Nov 02, 2022 · Cynthia HughesNice quite RV park for people over 55 to have an RV. Has a swimming pool and you can walk down a trail to Lake James. The people there are friendly. You can only own an RV if you are over 55 and only people over 55 can live there.
Sep 13, 2022 · Debi RossI rented a space there, Ann decided she liked my ex boyfriend more than me. I was there less than 5 months, she actively tried to have me arrested for a made up charge that the sheriff's department told me about, I left after she moved my ex into park and helped him harrass me until I was forced to go to a domestic violence shelter for my safety. She entered my trailer without my permission repeatedly. She is not the park manager, but tells everybody she is, the lady that was there before me left due to the same treatment. My trailer was broken into more than 4x, my vital records were stolen and there are numerous police reports where the sheriffs office was called by me for her harrassment. One instance a large gutted frog was left in my steps and another time when my trailer was broken into, a large black crowbar was left in my bed. I would come home and my outside power switch would be off and all my foods in freezer and refrigerator was spoiled, etc. People in the trailer park were constantly having to deal with similar situations with her. Mc Dowell county building inspectors came out numerous times due the construction that was being done in park by Ann and her brother without any authorized building permits. This lady?? was extremely nice to other men in park, but did not make friends with the women or have any friends.This is alldocumented by sheriff's reports.
Jun 08, 2018 · Rebecca Jackson
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