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Down by the River Campground

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Down by the River Campground Overview

Rating

Phone (828) 733-5057

Address 292 River Campground Rd, Pineola, NC 28662, USA

Website http://www.downbytherivercampground.com/

Hours Monday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday, 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Down by the River Campground Location & Map

North CarolinaAvery CountyPineolaRiver Campground Road

Down by the River Campground About

North Carolina offers a diverse range of camping experiences, from rugged backcountry adventures to comfortable, amenity-rich sites perfect for families and RVers. For those in the Tar Heel State seeking a tranquil and well-appointed base for exploring the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, Down by the River Campground in Pineola, NC, presents an inviting option. This campground aims to provide a clean, quiet, and convenient setting for your next outdoor escape, allowing you to relax and reconnect with nature without sacrificing essential comforts.

Down by the River Campground is designed to cater to various camping preferences, offering sites that can accommodate both RVs and tents. Its emphasis on cleanliness and maintenance ensures a pleasant stay, a crucial factor for many campers looking for a hassle-free experience. The presence of full hook-ups for RVs signifies a commitment to modern convenience, making it an attractive choice for those who prefer to bring their home on wheels.

The name itself, "Down by the River," evokes a sense of peaceful riverside living, a highly desirable feature for many who seek the soothing sounds of flowing water during their outdoor getaways. This natural setting, combined with practical amenities, creates an environment where North Carolinians can truly unwind. Whether you're planning a short weekend trip or considering a longer seasonal stay, understanding what this campground offers can help you decide if it’s the right fit for your next mountain adventure in our beautiful state.

Location and Accessibility

Down by the River Campground boasts a prime location in Pineola, North Carolina, placing it firmly within the enchanting landscape of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The exact address is 292 River Campground Rd, Pineola, NC 28662, USA. This positioning is ideal for North Carolinians looking to explore the natural beauty and charming small towns of the High Country. Pineola itself is a small, unincorporated community in Avery County, known for its scenic views and access to various outdoor recreational opportunities.

The campground's accessibility is a significant advantage. Being situated on "River Campground Rd" suggests a direct and easy approach for vehicles, including RVs and trailers. Unlike remote backcountry sites, Down by the River Campground appears to be designed for convenient arrival, making it suitable for campers who prefer to drive directly to their site without extensive off-road navigation. Its location in the western part of North Carolina means it's a manageable drive for residents across the state, offering a relatively straightforward journey from population centers like Charlotte, Asheville, or the Triad region.

Once at the campground, its proximity to major routes in the area, such as US-221 or NC-105, provides excellent access to nearby attractions. Campers can easily venture out to explore popular destinations like Grandfather Mountain, the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and the charming towns of Banner Elk, Boone, and Blowing Rock. This strategic location means you can enjoy the tranquility of a riverside campsite while still having the convenience of being close to shops, restaurants, and a myriad of outdoor activities that define the North Carolina mountains. The ease of access makes it an appealing choice for local families, retirees, and weekend adventurers alike.

Services Offered

  • Paved Sites with Full Hook-up: The campground offers sites with full hook-ups, which typically include water, sewer, and electric connections, providing maximum convenience for RV campers. The mention of "paved sites" suggests a smooth and level surface for parking, adding to the ease of set up.
  • Laundry Facilities: A dedicated laundry area is available for campers, offering a practical amenity for longer stays or for those who prefer to travel light. This is a significant convenience often sought by families and seasonal campers.
  • Clean and Spacious Bathhouse: The campground provides a bathhouse for campers, described as both clean and spacious. This indicates well-maintained restrooms and showering facilities, which are essential for a comfortable camping experience, especially for tent campers or those without onboard facilities.
  • Seasonal Spots: The availability of "seasonal spots" suggests that campers have the option to reserve a site for an extended period, such as an entire camping season. This is ideal for those who wish to have a consistent base in the mountains without the need for frequent set-up and tear-down.
  • Friendly and Helpful Staff: Based on customer reviews, the staff at Down by the River Campground are described as friendly and helpful, contributing positively to the overall camping experience. This suggests a welcoming atmosphere and readily available assistance for campers.

Features / Highlights

  • Riverside Location: As the name suggests, a key highlight is its location "by the river," likely the Toe River or a tributary. This offers scenic views, the soothing sound of flowing water, and potential opportunities for fishing, wading, or simply relaxing by the water's edge.
  • Clean and Well-Maintained: Recurring feedback emphasizes the campground's cleanliness and high level of maintenance, ensuring a pleasant and hygienic environment for all visitors. This reflects a commitment to guest comfort and satisfaction.
  • Quiet Atmosphere: The campground is noted for its quiet environment, which is highly valued by campers seeking a peaceful retreat from urban noise and daily stresses. This suggests a respectful community of campers.
  • Full Hook-up Paved Sites: The provision of paved sites with full hook-ups is a significant feature for RV owners, offering ease of parking and access to all essential utilities. This combines the outdoor experience with modern conveniences.
  • Convenient Facilities: The clean and spacious bathhouse, along with laundry facilities, adds a layer of comfort and practicality, making longer stays more feasible and enjoyable.
  • Seasonal Camping Options: The availability of seasonal spots is a major draw for North Carolinians who wish to establish a recurring mountain getaway without the hassle of towing their RV or setting up camp every visit.
  • Strategic Location in Pineola: Its setting in Pineola provides easy access to many popular attractions in the Blue Ridge Mountains, including Grandfather Mountain, the Blue Ridge Parkway, Linville Falls, and nearby charming towns.

Promotions or Special Offers

As a privately-owned campground, Down by the River Campground's promotional activities and special offers would typically be communicated directly through their official channels, such as their website or by phone. While specific promotions are not publicly detailed in the provided information, the mention of "seasonal spots" indicates a type of extended stay offering that often comes with a more economical rate compared to nightly or weekly rentals.

Seasonal rates are a common form of "special offer" in the camping industry, catering to campers who wish to leave their RV on-site for several months, typically from spring through fall. These long-term arrangements provide significant value for frequent visitors to the area, eliminating the need to transport their rig repeatedly.

For North Carolinians considering a stay at Down by the River Campground, it would be advisable to directly contact the campground to inquire about current rates for daily, weekly, or monthly stays, as well as the availability and pricing of seasonal spots. They may also offer discounts for extended stays, off-peak seasons, or for certain affiliations (e.g., military, seniors), though this would need to be confirmed directly with the campground management. It’s always best to speak with them firsthand to understand any current deals or packages that might align with your camping plans.

Contact Information

Address: 292 River Campground Rd, Pineola, NC 28662, USA

Phone: (828) 733-5057

Mobile Phone: +1 828-733-5057

Conclusion: Why Down by the River Campground is Suitable for Locals

For North Carolinians, Down by the River Campground in Pineola offers an ideal blend of convenience, comfort, and natural beauty, making it a highly suitable choice for a local getaway. We are fortunate to have the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains right in our backyard, and this campground provides an accessible and welcoming base from which to explore them. Unlike more rustic options, the availability of paved sites with full hook-ups caters perfectly to RV enthusiasts from across the state who seek modern amenities alongside their outdoor adventures. This means less time setting up and more time enjoying the peace and tranquility of the mountain environment.

The positive feedback regarding the campground’s cleanliness, maintenance, and quiet atmosphere resonates strongly with what many local campers desire. We often look for places where we can truly relax, and a well-kept, serene environment is paramount to that experience. The on-site laundry and clean bathhouse further enhance the comfort, making it an excellent option for families or those planning longer stays. The option for seasonal spots is a particular draw for North Carolinians who frequently visit the High Country, offering a convenient and cost-effective way to have a semi-permanent mountain retreat without the constant hassle of travel.

While a single negative review regarding owner interaction should be considered, the overall emphasis on cleanliness, quietness, and well-maintained facilities from other reviews suggests a strong commitment to guest comfort. This campground provides a comfortable launchpad for exploring iconic North Carolina attractions like Grandfather Mountain, Linville Falls, and the charming mountain towns. It represents an opportunity for us to easily access and appreciate the natural wonders of our own state, creating lasting memories "down by the river." It’s a solid choice for any North Carolinian looking for a peaceful and well-equipped camping experience in the heart of our beloved Blue Ridge Mountains.

Customer Reviews

4.0
137 reviews
M
Michael Gossett
May 15, 2025

WAS THERE TODAY (5-16-25) DELIVERING A NEW CAMPER FOR AN ELDERLY COUPLE. THE OLD MAN JUST WANTED TO SPEAK WITH THE OWNER OF THE CAMPGROUND AND WHEN THE OWNER CAME OVER, HE WAS SO RUDE TO THE OLD MAN. I HONESTLY COULDN'T BELIEVE AT HOW HE WAS SPEAKING TO THIS OLD MAN. KEEP IN MIND HE WASN'T QUITE ABOUT THE WAY HE WAS SPEAKING. I HEARD IT AS WELL AS OTHERS THAT ARE CURRENTLY STAYING AT THE CAMPGROUND. FIRST IMPRESSIONS MEAN EVERYTHING AND THIS WAS MY FIRST ENCOUNTER WITH THE CAMPGROUND OWNER. ABSOLUTELY UNBELIEVABLE !!! I WOULDN'T STAY AT THIS CAMPGROUND IF IT WAS THE ONLY CAMPGROUND IN THE ENTIRE STATE OF NC. SHAME ON YOU MR. CAMPGROUND OWNER. EVERYBODY PLEASE BEWARE OF THIS PLACE AND ITS OWNERS.

B
Becca 8
Sep 12, 2024

Love this campground! It is clean, well maintained and quiet! There are paved sites with full hook-up, a laundry and bathhouse (which is clean and spacious), staff is friendly and helpful! Looking forward to camping in our seasonal spot starting in May!

T
T Fletch
Jun 18, 2024

Friendly campers and the owners keep the campground in amazing condition. Beautiful grounds and next to the river. Cooler summer temps in the high country. Been going here for several years and highly recommend.

D
Doc Bennett
Sep 12, 2019

This is a great campground. Very fair price, very level concrete pads, asphalt drive, and quite. Very quick to reply management and manicured lawns. Wonderful river & small creek bordering the property. Very nice temperature the entire time the campground is open. Issues: VERY limited TV stations via antenna and NO cable hookup. The grass is mowed very often and you will be advise at check in to be ready to move your tow vehicle. The only other issue is the sometimes other campers who feel the need to burn leaves & rotten wood. They smoke up all surrounding campers. Washer and dryers are 1.50 each. Not too many people washing pet bedding which is nice. Clean bath house.

M
Michael Owens
Nov 21, 2023

2023 was our 3rd year as seasonal campers. DBTR is an Awesome campground. It’s always sad when the season is over😢. Not only are we leaving wonderful friends for 6 months - but the serenity and beauty of the campground. Can’t wait until May 1.