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Down by the River Campground

Overview

Down by the River Campground offers a peaceful retreat nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This family-oriented destination provides a scenic backdrop for travelers seeking a slower pace of life. Located in Pineola, the park sits at a high elevation, ensuring refreshing mountain air and cooler temperatures during the summer months. It is known for its intimate atmosphere and direct access to the water, making it a favorite for those who enjoy falling asleep to the sound of a rushing river.

Location & Surroundings

The park is perfectly situated in Avery County, providing a gateway to some of North Carolina’s most iconic landscapes. Positioned directly alongside the Linville River, the campground is surrounded by dense forests and rolling hills. Its location near the Blue Ridge Parkway allows for easy access to scenic drives and dramatic overlooks. The surroundings feel secluded and private, yet the park remains conveniently close to the small-town charms and essential services found in nearby Newland and Linville.

Amenities & Park Features

Visitors can expect essential comforts designed to enhance their mountain stay. The park features full hookup RV sites with both 30 and 50-amp electrical service, catering to various rig sizes. Many sites are positioned directly on the riverfront, offering premium views and easy water access. On-site facilities include a clean bathhouse, laundry services, and designated fire rings for evening gatherings. For those who enjoy outdoor recreation, the river provides excellent opportunities for trout fishing right from the edge of the property.

Nearby Attractions & Things to Do

Adventure is never far away when staying in Pineola. The campground serves as an ideal base camp for exploring Grandfather Mountain and its famous Mile High Swinging Bridge. Nature enthusiasts are just a short drive from the breathtaking Linville Falls and the depths of Linville Caverns. During the winter or shoulder seasons, the nearby slopes of Sugar Mountain and Beech Mountain offer skiing and snowboarding. For a more relaxed afternoon, travelers can explore local wineries or hike portions of the Appalachian Trail.

Who This Park Is Best For

This campground is ideally suited for nature lovers and fly fishers who appreciate a quiet, rustic environment over a busy resort atmosphere. It is a fantastic choice for couples looking for a romantic mountain getaway or retirees traveling the Blue Ridge Parkway in their RV. Because of its riverfront location and proximity to hiking trails, it is also a great fit for active families who want to unplug and spend their days exploring the great outdoors in a serene setting.

Amenities

- Recreational Facilities

• River
• Fishing
• Body Of Water (Linville River)
• Horseshoes
• Rec Hall
• Kayaking/Canoeing

- Policies

• Pets Welcome
• Pet Restrictions
• Pet Restriction on Quantity
• Pet Restriction on Breed
• No Tents

- Other Amenities & Services

• Restroom and Showers
• Laundry
• Enclosed Dog Run

- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)

• Fishing
• Hiking
• Kayaking/Canoeing
• Mountain Biking
• Rock/Mountain Climbing
• Snow Sports
• Whitewater Rafting

- Facility

• Type (Campground)
• Partial Handicap Access

- Internet

• WiFi at Overnite Sites
• WiFi at Park
• WiFi at Park Supports Mobile Devices
• 2 Devices supported per Overnite Site
• 29 Sites with WiFi

- On-Site Rentals

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- Sites

• Total Spaces (115)
• Spaces Available (29)
• Width (50)
• Max Length (48)
• Paved Sites (29)
• 30 Amp
• 50 Amp
• Seasonal Sites
• Full Hookups (29)
• Max Amps (50)
• Pull-thrus (20)
• Pull-thru Size (50 x 45)
• Back-ins (50 x 48)
• Site Length (45)

User Reviews

Blaine Stevenson

October 18, 2025

Please take the time to read thier rules before booking. This place operates like a minimum security Prison run by an HOA. No starlink, age restrictions for parental age not childrens age. No electric Vehicles for over a week. There are better more camper friendly places elswhere.

Angie Wilson

September 17, 2025

The most well maintained campground I've ever seen. Especially considering what they had to go through to recover from hurricane Helene. Very friendly community of residents. (Except for the one elderly gentleman that wanted to rumble when he felt like I had taken "his usual spot"). Some people have rated the management as rigid but I didn't find that to be the case. They have rules that are clearly made known for anyone staying there and expect everyone to uphold those rules. I personally like that because it keeps the park at a consistent standard. WiFi seem to have complete coverage for the whole park. So much to do within a 30 to 45 minute drive.

Tim Dutton

July 19, 2025

Great place and fantastic people. If you are lucky enough to get a space here, you must be living right.

Debbie Costner

July 07, 2025

You won’t find a more pristine and well kept 55+ RV community in WNC. Beautifully maintained and manicured. Our decision to lease was based equally on the beauty and the friendly residents 😊

M J A

June 24, 2025

Very FLAT with full concrete slabs. Lots of grass around. Nicely manicured! They have a "thing" with putting pet fencing on grass, but don't enforce it on "others" while we were there!? But it's OK to park on grass? See pictures of ours on the concrete.

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Map for Down by the River Campground

Contact information