Is North River Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

North River Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Are there showers at North River Campground?

North River Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does North River Campground have?

North River Campground has 9 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at North River Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at North River Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at North River Campground?

North River Campground offers: Restrooms, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

North River Campground

4.48

31 reviews

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Peace & Quiet

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,978 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Reservable

Sites

9 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on null Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,978 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Reservable

Sites

9 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on null Official Website

Get Directions

North River Campground

No fees available

Campsite Fees

No paid fee categories listed.

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Campground Map

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North River Campground

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Weather at North River Campground

Best Time to Camp at North River Campground

Best season: summer. Summer offers the best combination of warm daytime temperatures (typically mid-60s to mid-80s°F at ~1,978 ft), long daylight hours, and water-friendly conditions—making fishing and swimming in North River's clear pools most enjoyable. The river's deeper pools (up to ~18 inches) warm enough for wading and short swims, while low-elevation mountain nights usually drop into the 50s–60s°F for comfortable sleeping. Expect moderate weekend crowds along the Cherohala Skyway corridor but generally quiet, Peak months: July, June, September, May

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer temps mid-60s to mid-80s; river warms for wading, described as best season.

Planning Tips

About North River Campground

North River Campground sits along the North River in Cherokee National Forest's Tennessee foothills, offering primitive tent camping at a quiet, very small site. The river's clear pools draw campers for wading, fishing, and summer swimming. Vault toilets and pet-friendly sites provide basic amenities in a remote, forested setting.

North River Campground provides a primitive camping experience, catering to visitors looking for a peaceful and remote setting.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the best combination of warm daytime temperatures (typically mid-60s to mid-80s°F at ~1,978 ft), long daylight hours, and water-friendly conditions—making fishing and swimming in North River's clear pools most enjoyable. The river's deeper pools (up to ~18 inches) warm enough for wading and short swims, while low-elevation mountain nights usually drop into the 50s–60s°F for comfortable sleeping. Expect moderate weekend crowds along the Cherohala Skyway corridor but generally quiet, Peak months: July, June, September, May

Elevation1978 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe North River runs about 15 feet wide through the campground, with pools reaching up to 18 inches deep. Clear water invites wading and fishing. Forest canopy shades the sites, and the riverbanks stay open enough for easy access. The setting is simple: a narrow mountain stream, moderate shade, and the quiet of Cherokee National Forest.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

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 camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

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.

Site SizeUser reviews suggest sizable spaces with good distance between sites. One review noted 'nice space in between the sites,' indicating a spacious layout.

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 SitesIt 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 site on the left gets mentioned for its river proximity and views. Site spacing throughout the campground is good, so choosing a spot away from the vault toilets matters more than picking a specific number.

Need help booking North River Campground?

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Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Amenities available

North River Campground offers basic amenities typical for a primitive camping setup. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, and payments can be made via the Recreation.gov mobile app using the Scan and Pay feature. Note that the area has limited or no cellular service, necessitating app downloads prior to arrival.

Vault toilets

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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.

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Trip Planning Tools

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Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.5

31 reviews

Recommended

North River Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% 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 31 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 31 reviews

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 31 reviews

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 31 reviews

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 31 reviews

Seasonal 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 31 reviews

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 31 reviews

Accessibility 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 31 reviews

Pet-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 31 reviews

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Go if

You want a quiet, small campground with direct river access for fishing and summer water play.

Skip if

You need flush toilets, hookups, or a larger campground with more amenities and neighbors.

Nearby Campgrounds

250 Ranger Station Rd, Tellico Plains, TN, 37385, USA

McNabb Creek Group is a secluded primitive campground in Cherokee National Forest near Tellico Plains, operated by the U.S. Forest Service in Tennessee's Appalachian foothills. This group-only site offers access to North River fishing and hiking trails, with fire rings and picnic tables in a quiet natural setting. The campground enforces an overnight gate closure and prohibits alcohol.