Down by the River Campground - 55+

With a river flowing behind the sites and full hookups available, Down by the River Campground caters to RV enthusiasts aged 55 and older seeking a community atmosphere. The campground operates from May through October and requires reservations for its premium sites. Access involves navigating rough roads, so larger rigs should plan accordingly.

The facility features two bathhouses, an activity center, and a dedicated dog park spread across forested and open terrain. Most guests arrive with high-end RVs, creating what one reviewer described as feeling "like a community" rather than a traditional campground. WiFi reaches throughout the property, and the river provides a constant water feature for morning coffee or evening relaxation. Dawn V. notes the campground is "very clean and quiet."

The age restriction eliminates the typical sounds of children and bicycles, contributing to the subdued atmosphere many guests appreciate. Electric, water, and sewer hookups come standard, along with dump station access. Cell service reaches the property consistently. The $70 nightly rate reflects the full-service amenities and adult-only environment.

Campers wanting a different experience can explore Tranquil Highlands Campground, located just southwest of the area.

RV Road Trip Guides

Location

RV Park

Down by the River Campground - 55+ is located in North Carolina

Detail location of campground

Directions

From Greensboro/Winston Salem/Hickory, NC: From I-40W take exit 188 to merge on US-421N. Turn left onto NC-105S. Turn right onto NC-181N/US-221S. Turn left onto NC-181S/US-221S. Turn left onto NC-181S. Turn right at River Campground Rd. From Elizabethton, TN: Continue to follow US-19E. Entering North Carolina 24.5 mi. Continue on Elk Park Hwy/NC-194. Continue to follow NC-194 through Newland to the 221 intersection. Turn left at NC-221. Turn right at Jonas Ridge Hwy/NC-181. Go 1/4 mile turn right at River Campground Rd. From Blue Ridge Parkway: Off MP 312. Right on Hwy 181 North. 1 mile down on left.

Address

292 River Campground Road
Newland, NC 28662

Coordinates

36.0271518 N
81.89533667 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 4/25/26
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 4/25/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Good Coverage

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 4/25/26
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 4/25/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Good Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group
  • Cabins

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Reservable
  • WiFi
  • Showers
  • Drinking Water
  • Electric Hookups
  • Toilets
  • Pets

For Vehicles

  • Sanitary Dump
  • Sewer Hookups
  • Water Hookups
  • Pull-Through Sites
  • 30 Amp Hookups
  • 50 Amp Hookups
  • Big Rig Friendly

Drive Time


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Reviews

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5.0

out of 5

4 Reviews

Many campers appreciated this 55+ campground for its pristine cleanliness, comprehensive amenities, and exceptionally quiet atmosphere. Numerous guests pointed out the beautiful riverside setting and community feel with high-end RVs.

Reviewed Aug. 1, 2021

55 and over campground

This is a awesome chilling place if you are Looking for a wonderful peaceful place this is for you no bicycle van and no kids yelling a beautiful goes stream you can see it have your coffee in the morning or Glass some wine late in the afternoon

Month of VisitAugust
Reviewed Sep. 2, 2019

Serenity

Most beautiful campground ever.So peaceful, cool and clean. Friendly People!!!

  • Review photo of Down by the River Campground - 55+ by Dawn V., September 2, 2019
  • Review photo of Down by the River Campground - 55+ by Dawn V., September 2, 2019
  • Review photo of Down by the River Campground - 55+ by Dawn V., September 2, 2019
  • (6) View All
Reviewed May. 29, 2019

Everything you need in a campground

I’m not even sure you can call this a campground! A majority of those staying here were in top of the line campers. It truly felt like a community. There are two bath houses, a dog park, an activity center, and a river flowing behind the sites. It was beautiful and had a cheery atmosphere. They even had WiFi! I was definitely spoiled here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Down by the River Campground - 55+ have RV hookups?

According to TheDyrt.com, Down by the River Campground - 55+ has 30 amp and 50 amp electric hookups, water hookups and sewer hookups.

Does Down by the River Campground - 55+ have wifi?

Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Down by the River Campground - 55+ does have wifi.

Is there cell phone reception at Down by the River Campground - 55+?

According to campers on TheDyrt.com, there is good coverage for AT&T, good coverage for T-Mobile, and some coverage for Verizon.