RV campgrounds near Cherokee, North Carolina offer convenient access to the Great Smoky Mountains with elevations ranging from 1,900 to 3,000 feet in the surrounding valleys. The region experiences four distinct seasons, with summer daytime temperatures typically reaching the low 80s and winter nights often dropping below freezing. Most campgrounds in the area remain open from March through November, with a few providing year-round accommodations.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Multiple creeks run through campgrounds in the area, providing accessible fishing spots. At Creekwood Farm RV Park in Waynesville, "Many creek side spots. All are back in. 30,50 amp power, sewer and cable TV hookups" notes Harold W., highlighting the access to water recreation directly from your campsite.
Explore nearby waterfalls: The region features numerous waterfalls within short driving distance. From Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Camp-Resort Yogi Bear in the Smokies, "we were right on the river and hiked to Mingo falls," shares Jessica L., describing an accessible waterfall hike just minutes from the campground.
Visit historic downtown areas: Small mountain towns near Cherokee offer shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. According to Asher K. who stayed at Riverbend RV Park-Campground, "You can easily go out for the night in Franklin and explore the rest of the beautiful area," suggesting the convenience of local town exploration from base camp.
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Many campers specifically request sites along water features. Joe B. from Creekwood Farm RV Park shares, "There is also a creek running through the back of the property and there are many sites along the creek... When we returned for our next visit in November, we stayed on the creek."
Winter and off-season stays: Several RV parks in the area remain open during cooler months, offering a different experience. "We camped around halloween and the entire campground has trick or treating for the kids on Saturdays. Clean, friendly and really great for kids," reports John A. about Jellystone Park, highlighting special seasonal activities.
Clean, modern bathroom facilities: Reviewers consistently mention bathroom quality as a deciding factor. At The Great Outdoors RV Resort, Swain K. reports "a dog bath and clean bathrooms and showers," while Creekwood Farm earns praise for "spotless bath house with private shower, toilet, sink."
What you should know
Site size limitations: Some campgrounds have space constraints that may not match their advertising. Meredith B. cautions about Jellystone Park: "Our site said it would fit a 32 ft camper and it really doesn't; we had a super hard time getting in and thought we might have to leave. So just beware that your site might not be as big as stated."
Crowding during peak seasons: Many campgrounds fill completely during summer and fall. "It gets packed and crowded. Had a good experience, just felt very commercial and not natural," notes Ben F. about their experience at Jellystone, highlighting the trade-off between amenities and space.
Road noise varies by location: Some campgrounds experience significant highway noise. At Up the Creek RV Camp, visitors appreciate that it's "a small, quiet campground just outside the craziness of Pigeon Forge," according to Anne M., providing contrast to busier, noisier options closer to main roads.
Tips for camping with families
Halloween camping: Several campgrounds offer special October activities. Shannon B. reports about Jellystone Park: "This was a fall destination for my family. There were several October themed activities and contests which were great fun!"
Splash pads and water features: Water recreation options beyond swimming pools are available at some parks. Riveredge RV Park features "a pool and splash pad provided a lot of entertainment," according to Cari T., offering additional options for keeping children entertained.
Limited amenities at some parks: Not all campgrounds cater to families with children. Michael W. notes about Up the Creek RV Camp: "We were the only family there with kids, and there is no playground. If you are looking for a super quiet place for a couple to go camping... this is the place."
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: Concrete pads at some parks make setup easier. At Pride RV Resort, "spacious pull-through sites with full hookups and concrete pads" help with leveling, particularly important for larger rigs.
Wi-Fi policies: Internet access can be restricted at some campgrounds. One visitor to Up the Creek RV Camp notes: "Only draw back is their no streaming WiFi policy. I'm fine with giving up technology for a week but camping with a 5 and 6yo is challenging without streaming capabilities."
Seasonal event planning: Local events affect campground availability and rates. Visitors to Creekwood Farm RV Park discovered "a vintage camper show that weekend. Then on Saturday night, there was a live band!" according to Joe B., demonstrating how timing your visit can provide unexpected entertainment.
