North River Campground
4.758 reviewsnull
North River Campground
$3.00 - $9.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Recreation Use Fee varies by location and activity. Additional Reservation Service fees may apply depending on the reservation method: $8 if made online or through the mobile app, $9 if made through the contact center, and $3 if made in person.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Cherokee National Forest, North River Campground offers a genuine escape into wilderness simplicity. This primitive camping haven sits peacefully along the babbling North River, where the only sounds you'll hear are rustling leaves and flowing water. With basic vault toilets and no running water, it's a place where modern distractions fade away, leaving you with pure mountain tranquility. The nearby Cherohala Skyway winds through spectacular mountain vistas, making this remote spot a perfect basecamp for scenic adventures. As one satisfied camper, Dan Crumpton, puts it: "Beautiful primitive camping area on the North River. If you can get a spot, it's nearly perfect."
North River Campground provides a primitive camping experience, catering to visitors looking for a peaceful and remote setting.
Historical Significancenull
Weather and SeasonsNorth River Campground experiences crisp mountain weather that adds to its rugged charm. Clear, starlit skies grace the area more than half the time, creating perfect conditions for nighttime stargazing around the campfire. Days bring refreshing temperatures averaging 46°F, while evenings cool down to a brisk 32°F—ideal for cozying up in your sleeping bag. The dry air keeps you comfortable during outdoor activities, though occasional rainfall (averaging about 1.44 inches weekly) nurtures the lush forest surroundings. Moderate breezes whisper through the trees, carrying the fresh scent of pine and mountain air throughout your stay.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryThe North River serves as the campground's centerpiece, meandering through the forest as a gentle stream about 15 feet wide. Its crystal-clear waters, reaching depths of 18 inches at the deepest pools, create natural playgrounds for families and anglers alike. Verdant forest canopy provides dappled shade over campsites, while the riverbanks invite barefoot exploration and peaceful contemplation. Tommy Acuff, a recent visitor, captured the essence perfectly: "North River runs right by the campsite... great for wading and playing." Whether you're casting a fishing line into promising pools or simply dangling your feet in the cool water, the river offers endless opportunities for simple pleasures and natural connection.
Geological Regionnull
Campsite details
Sites SizeUser reviews suggest sizable spaces with good distance between sites. One review noted 'nice space in between the sites,' indicating a spacious layout.
Sites PrivacyCampsites offer a relatively private experience. A review described the campground as 'relaxing,' and another mentioned 'nice space in between the sites.'
Total Campsites9 campsites
Recommended CampsitesIt is advised to select sites far from the vault toilets due to odor concerns. "We will return to this campground, but will stay far from the bathrooms." (User Review by Susan Brown).
Best CampsitesThe second campsite on the left is highly recommended for its proximity to the river and scenic views. "My favorite campsite is the second on the left." (User Review by Tommy Acuff).
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
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Guests Allowed Per Site
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Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground is laid out along the North River, with spacious sites and ample distance between them. "Relaxing campground and nice space in between the sites." (User Review by Susan Brown).
Open and Closed Seasonnull
Reservation PlatformsReservations and payments can be made via the Recreation.gov mobile app using the Scan and Pay feature. This option requires downloading the app beforehand due to limited cellular service.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. "This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site." (Official Description).
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled at any time before the scheduled arrival date. A $10 cancellation fee applies, along with forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee for late cancellations. No-show customers are charged a $20 fee and forfeit the first night's fees.
Amenities available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground is highly regarded for its peaceful and scenic environment. The North River, flowing nearby, is a central feature offering recreational opportunities, including wading and playing.
Fishing
The North River provides fishing opportunities, although one reviewer mentioned, 'some people will fish here, but I have better luck up and downriver,' indicating mixed success.Swimming
Wading and playing in the North River are popular activities. The river is described as 'about 15 feet across and maybe 18 inches at its deepest,' which limits swimming but allows for enjoyable water activities.Water Sports
The river's shallow waters allow for activities like wading but are not suitable for more advanced water sports.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
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- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife and the lack of running water, which requires campers to plan accordingly. "Vault toilet and no running water so plan accordingly." (User Review by Wade Duvall).
Active alertsnull
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 58%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 2 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
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Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned in the source materials, suggesting campers may need to pack out their trash.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located directly by the North River, allowing easy access for wading, fishing, and enjoying the scenery.
Common complaintsComplaints include the smell from vault toilets. "Although I enjoyed the remoteness of the location, the vault toilet had such a smell that we couldn’t get away from." (User Review by Susan Brown).
Hostnull
Campground Map
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Driving directionsnull
Access is via a gravel road, but most cars will not have any issue. "Vault toilet and no running water so plan accordingly" (User Review by Wade Duvall).Nearby places
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Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
4.8
8 reviews
North River Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User feedback highlights the campground's tranquility, natural beauty, and the appeal of the nearby North River. While the vault toilets received criticism for odor, the overall sentiment is very positive.
Review Summaries
Based on 8 reviews
What Campers Love
Many reviews praise the campground's serene environment and its spacious campsites. The North River is frequently mentioned as a highlight for activities like wading, playing, and fishing. Quotes...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The most frequent complaint was the odor from the vault toilets. One user commented, 'the vault toilet had such a smell that we couldn’t get away from it.' Another noted the lack of running water,...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips from users emphasize choosing campsites away from the vault toilets due to odor issues. Additionally, visitors are advised to plan for the lack of running water.
Based on 8 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Campground use is described as 'less visited,' and one reviewer noted that 'usually there are spots during the week,' suggesting higher availability outside peak times. Seasonal weather trends are...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'Quiet camping spot. A favorite.' - 'North River runs right by the campsite...great for wading and playing.' - 'The vault toilet had such a smell that we couldn’t get away from it.' - 'Beautiful...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
One user highlighted the second site on the left as a favorite. This site offers proximity to the river, which is a significant draw for visitors.
Based on 8 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility feedback is limited in user reviews, but the remote and primitive nature of the campground may pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues.
Based on 8 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, as confirmed by a review stating, 'Pet friendly.' No additional details about pet amenities or restrictions are provided.
Based on 8 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025