Cherokee / Great Smokies KOA Holiday

For North Carolina families, finding the ideal getaway that combines outdoor adventure with abundant amenities can sometimes feel like a treasure hunt. Luckily, the treasure is closer than you think! Nestled in the picturesque mountains of Cherokee, NC, the Cherokee / Great Smokies KOA Holiday campground offers an unparalleled camping experience that caters to every member of the family, especially the little ones. This isn't just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it’s a vibrant hub of activity, relaxation, and memory-making, designed to ensure your Smoky Mountain vacation is truly unforgettable.

Our fellow North Carolinians know the beauty of our state, and this KOA Holiday takes full advantage of its stunning surroundings while providing a wealth of conveniences and entertainment. From sparkling swimming pools and exciting planned activities to comfortable lodging options, this campground consistently receives rave reviews from families who return year after year. Imagine your children's delight as they race bikes on flat paved roads, bounce to their heart's content on the jumping pillow, or splash in a heated pool, even if the weather outside isn't perfect.

The Cherokee / Great Smokies KOA Holiday understands what makes a family vacation truly special: a friendly atmosphere, plenty of engaging activities, and the option to unwind amidst nature. This article will guide you through everything this top-rated campground has to offer, from its prime location and diverse accommodations to its extensive list of services and highlights, all designed to make your next North Carolina mountain escape seamless and joyful. Get ready to discover why so many local families consider this their favorite campground!

The Cherokee / Great Smokies KOA Holiday is ideally situated at 92 KOA Campground Rd, Cherokee, NC 28719, USA. This location is a strategic advantage for North Carolina residents, placing it in the heart of Western North Carolina’s most popular tourist destinations and natural wonders. Cherokee is not just a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park; it's also a vibrant cultural center, home to the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

The campground’s address indicates direct access via KOA Campground Road, which branches off a main thoroughfare in Cherokee. This ensures easy accessibility for all types of vehicles, from compact cars to big-rig RVs, making your journey stress-free. Unlike some more secluded mountain campgrounds, the KOA is designed with convenience in mind, offering paved roads within the campground itself, which are perfect for kids on bikes, skates, or scooters, as highlighted by delighted parents.

Beyond the immediate campground, its proximity to Cherokee means quick access to a wide array of attractions. You're just a short drive from the Oconaluftee Indian Village, the Museum of the Cherokee Indian, and the Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort. For outdoor enthusiasts, the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is mere minutes away, providing endless opportunities for hiking, scenic drives, and wildlife viewing, including the famous elk herds in the Oconaluftee Valley. The campground is also bordered by the serene Raven Fork River and three tribal trout ponds, offering excellent fishing opportunities without even leaving the property.

Furthermore, its central Western North Carolina location makes it a convenient hub for exploring other popular destinations. Quoted reviews mention being an hour from Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, TN, home to Dollywood, and an hour east of Asheville, NC, with its iconic Biltmore House. This makes the Cherokee / Great Smokies KOA Holiday a perfect base camp for a diverse and exciting regional adventure for any North Carolinian looking to maximize their vacation experience.

The Cherokee / Great Smokies KOA Holiday is designed to provide a comprehensive and comfortable camping experience with a wide array of services and amenities. They go beyond basic campsites to offer a resort-like atmosphere for families. Here's a look at what's available:

• Diverse Camping Options: The campground offers various ways to stay, including big-rig friendly RV sites (pull-thru and back-in, with full hookups and 30/50 amp service), standard and deluxe tent sites (some with water and electric hookups and KOA Patios™), and a range of cabins (rustic log cabins without bathrooms, and furnished Deluxe Cabins with full baths and kitchens, including pet-friendly options).
• Indoor and Outdoor Pools: A major highlight is the fantastic pool complex, featuring an outdoor heated pool (incredible!) and an indoor pool and hot tubs, which are invaluable for less-than-ideal weather conditions or year-round enjoyment.
• Family-Friendly Activities: The campground boasts an impressive schedule of activities, including themed weekends, an outdoor movie theater, a fun playground, and a jumping pillow – all designed to keep children of all ages entertained. Customer reviews confirm these are a huge hit with kids.
• Kamp K9® Dog Park: For furry family members, there's a dedicated off-leash dog park, ensuring pets also have a space to play.
• On-Site Dining: The Campfire Grill provides convenient food options, and food trucks are often parked on-site during holiday weekends (and possibly others), offering easy meal solutions.
• Game Room: An indoor game room provides additional entertainment, particularly useful during inclement weather.
• Fishing Access: The campground is bordered by the Raven Fork River and three tribal trout ponds, offering excellent on-site fishing opportunities. Fishing permits are available locally.
• Restrooms and Showers: Clean and well-maintained restroom and shower facilities are available for all guests.
• Laundry Facilities: Large, clean, and inexpensive laundry rooms are available 24/7.
• Wi-Fi Access: Wi-Fi is available throughout the campground, allowing guests to stay connected.
• Propane and Firewood Sales: Propane fills and firewood bundles are available for purchase on-site.
• Rental Options: Bicycle rentals and golf cart rentals are available for exploring the campground and surrounding areas.
• Pavilion: A covered pavilion, often with a stone fireplace, provides a communal gathering space.
• Tour Shuttle: A tour shuttle service can assist guests in exploring nearby attractions.

These extensive services ensure that guests have everything they need for a comfortable, entertaining, and hassle-free camping vacation.

• Exceptional Pool Facilities: A standout feature is the dual pool system, boasting an "incredible" outdoor heated pool perfect for sunny days, complemented by an indoor pool and hot tubs that are "so helpful if you have less than ideal weather." This ensures swimming fun regardless of the forecast, a major plus for families.
• Abundant Kid-Centric Activities: This campground is a paradise for children. It offers "plenty of flat paved roads for bikes/skates/scooters," a beloved "jumping pillow," a "fun playground," and even a "train" ride. The planned "activities these guys plan are so fun," including outdoor movie features and themed weekends, consistently entertain young ones.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Customer reviews highlight the campground as "perfect for little ones" and a "great place to make memories to last a lifetime." The environment is welcoming and conducive to family bonding, with "plenty of amenities to keep my 6-year-old entertained."
• Diverse Accommodations: Catering to all camping styles, from big-rig friendly RV sites with full hookups and KOA Patios™ to rustic log cabins and furnished Deluxe Cabins with full baths and kitchens, some nestled along the Raven Fork River, providing options for every comfort level.
• On-Site Fishing: With the Raven Fork River bordering one side and three tribal trout ponds on the other, the campground offers fantastic and convenient fishing opportunities, perfect for introducing kids to the pastime.
• Convenient Food Options: The Campfire Grill and presence of "food trucks parked there on holiday weekends (and maybe others)" provide easy and varied dining choices without leaving the campground, adding to the convenience.
• Friendly and Helpful Staff: Reviews commend the staff for being "friendly and helpful," contributing significantly to a positive and stress-free vacation experience.
• Pet-Friendly: The inclusion of a Kamp K9® off-leash dog park demonstrates their commitment to welcoming the entire family, including furry friends.
• Security and Cleanliness: While not explicitly mentioned in the provided reviews, KOA Holiday campgrounds are generally known for their well-maintained facilities and focus on guest safety, providing a secure and clean environment.

As a KOA Holiday campground, Cherokee / Great Smokies KOA Holiday frequently offers a variety of promotions and special deals designed to enhance your stay and provide value, especially for repeat visitors or those planning longer trips. These offers are often available directly through the KOA website or by contacting the campground.

• Stay Longer and Save Discounts: A popular promotion is the "Stay 5 Nights & Save 30%," valid for camping between March and December. Similar discounts like "Stay 4 Nights & Save 25%" and "Stay 3 Nights & Save 20%" are also frequently available, encouraging extended stays and providing significant savings. These discounts are typically valid on consecutive nights and cannot be combined with other offers, including KOA Rewards.
• KOA Rewards Program: Becoming a KOA Rewards holder is one of the best ways to access ongoing benefits. This membership offers a 10% discount on daily registration rates at any KOA campground. Additionally, KOA Rewards holders can take advantage of special events like "KOA Rewards Appreciation Weekend," where members can get a free second night's stay on a designated weekend in September.
• Hero Discount: Cherokee / Great Smokies KOA Holiday proudly offers a 10% discount to military veterans, service men and women, police, firefighters, and first responders as a token of appreciation. A valid military, state, or federal service ID is required at check-in. This discount cannot be combined with other offers.
• Care Camps Big Weekend: The campground participates in the annual "Care Camps Big Weekend" (typically in May), where a portion of the second night's site cost is donated to Care Camps, supporting children with cancer. This allows campers to contribute to a great cause while enjoying their stay.
• Seasonal and Holiday Events: Beyond specific discounts, the campground hosts numerous themed weekends and special events throughout the year, especially around holidays like Father's Day, Independence Day, and Halloween. These events often include unique activities, food trucks, and entertainment, adding value to your stay.

It's always recommended to visit the official KOA website for Cherokee / Great Smokies KOA Holiday (koa.com/campgrounds/cherokee) or call them directly at (828) 497-9711 to inquire about the most current promotions and to book your stay. Early booking, especially for popular weekends, is highly advisable.

Campground Name: Cherokee / Great Smokies KOA Holiday

Address: 92 KOA Campground Rd, Cherokee, NC 28719, USA

Phone: (828) 497-9711

Mobile Phone: +1 828-497-9711

For reservations, inquiries about specific site availability, cabin rentals, current promotions, or any other questions regarding your stay, the friendly and helpful staff at Cherokee / Great Smokies KOA Holiday are available by phone. You can also visit their official website for detailed information and online booking.

For North Carolina residents, the Cherokee / Great Smokies KOA Holiday stands out as an exceptional choice for a family-friendly getaway, offering a perfect blend of convenience, comfort, and entertainment right in the heart of our beautiful mountains. It caters specifically to the needs and desires of local families looking for a memorable and stress-free vacation experience close to home.

One of the most compelling reasons for North Carolinians to choose this KOA is its unparalleled array of activities for children. The dedicated "jumping pillow," "train" rides, "flat paved roads for bikes/skates/scooters," and engaging "activities these guys plan" ensure that kids are constantly entertained and active. For parents, this translates into more relaxation and the joy of seeing their little ones truly happy. The heated outdoor pool and the indoor pool are game-changers, guaranteeing swimming fun regardless of the weather, a crucial feature for planning a reliable family vacation in the often unpredictable mountain climate.

The variety of accommodations means that whether your family prefers the traditional tent camping experience, the comfort of an RV with full hookups, or the convenience of a cabin (from rustic to deluxe with full kitchens), there’s an option to suit every preference and budget. This flexibility makes it accessible to a wider range of local families, allowing them to choose the style of camping that best fits their needs and comfort level.

Furthermore, the friendly and helpful staff contribute significantly to the inviting atmosphere. As one reviewer noted, it's a "great place to make memories to last a lifetime," and much of that comes from the welcoming environment. For North Carolina residents who appreciate genuine hospitality, this campground truly delivers.

Beyond the campground itself, its prime location in Cherokee offers easy access to the rich cultural heritage of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This means endless opportunities for exploring, hiking, fishing, and creating an educational experience alongside the fun. It’s the perfect blend of on-site entertainment and nearby adventure, all within a comfortable driving distance for most of our state's population.

In short, the Cherokee / Great Smokies KOA Holiday is more than just a campground; it’s a full-fledged family vacation destination designed to make outdoor adventures enjoyable and accessible for North Carolina locals. It’s a place where childhood memories are made, and families can reconnect amidst the stunning scenery of our state.