Stay a Night or Stay All Season in Fun-Filled Franklin, North Carolina
Enjoy hiking, fishing, tubing, and gem mining in the Ruby Capital of the World
Bring your family, bring your pets! Family-owned and operated Hickory Knob Riverbend RV Park and Campground offers rustic charm and modern amenities with 16 pet-friendly campsites, a 12-person lodge, and tent camping along the banks of the Cullasaja River. Located directly off Highlands Road, a popular tourist destination, the campground provides easy access to local attractions. Onsite management ensures 24-hour security.
You’ll go fishing and tubing on the river, visit waterfalls, play golf, and enjoy museums, shopping, and dining. Try mining for rubies…you could go home with a precious gem. All this and affordable rates too!
Campsites and Amenities
Open April thru November
Everything campers need and good WiFi too!
We fill up quickly! With only 16 riverfront, full-hookup RV spaces available, you’ll have the chance to meet your neighbors and make new friends in this cozy community. Plenty of tall shady trees, mountain views, and relaxation on the river front turn your camping vacation into an outdoor adventure. There’s a picnic table and fire pit at every campsite.
Gravel RV pads with concrete patios provide ample space for slide-outs and a comfortable outdoor living area, with enough room to park your car.
Hickory Knob Riverbend RV Park & Campground is nestled in a natural setting. Here’s what else is included…
- Full Hook-ups
- Gravel RV Pads
- 30/50 Amp electric
- Water
- Sewer
- Dumpster
- Pet Friendly (2 approved pets per site)
- Bark Park
- WiFi, Free
- Hot Showers
- Immaculate Restrooms
- Firepit & Picnic Table at Each Site
- Cornhole, Darts, and Horseshoes
- Pavilion with Fireplace, Big-Screen TV, Dining Tables, & Community Grill
- Planned Activities (afternoon happy hour, s’mores at the fire pit, holiday celebrations)
- Storage Facilities (Covered or Uncovered)
- Landscaped Grounds
- Shaded Sites
- Paved Patio Pads
- Smooth Gravel Roads
- Security Cameras
- Post Boxes
- On-site Management
- Overflow Parking
Three Ways to Stay and Rates
Our competitive pricing lets you stay even longer. Stays more than 30 days get 10% off.
Cabins
No RV? No problem!
We offer cozy cabins (2 coming soon!) for your stay. Whether you’re traveling with a large family, a club, or a church group, our cabins provide the perfect blend of comfort and nature.
Mountain Roots: Bring your big family, club, or church group. Our cabin is just 1 mile up the road on the Cullasaja River. It sleeps 12, has a full game room, fire pit, and 3 completely updated bathrooms. Price varies with season and day of the week.
Want to book via VRBO?
Or call us to directly book with no additional fees: (528)524-7846
Area Attractions
See the sights – every day is a new adventure
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Explore and hike in America’s most visited national park. Just 34 miles away
Waterfalls in Franklin
Marvel the natural beauty of rushing water as it gushes over ancient cliffs and rocks. Five different falls!
Fishing in the Cullasaja River
Cast your line for Brook, Brown, and Rainbow Trout. Those wily fish are in the river beside your campsite!
Jackson Hole Gem Mine
Discover the thrill of gem mining and go home with rubies, sapphires, and amethysts. See the gemstone gallery and free museum.
Franklin Golf Course
A tradition since 1923, The Franklin Golf Course is open to the public, offers 9 holes, driving range, pro shop, snack bar, and a swimming pool!
Ziplining at Highlands Aerial Park
Fly over the tree tops on a zipline! The Travelers Choice Award Winner of 2023 offers unequaled views and unbeatable fun for everyone.
Harrah’s Cherokee Casino and Resort
Table games, poker, sportsbook, and slot machines offer non-stop fun and the thrill of winning. Discover 24-hour gaming, restaurants, and all-star entertainment in nearby Cherokee.
Gatlinburg
You’re just 60 miles from the premier destination in the Great Smoky Mountains. Go to Gatlinburg for the Aerial Tramway to Ober Mountain, Ripley’s Aquarium, and the Rail Runner Mountain Coaster. Lots more too!
Lazy Hiker Brewing
A favorite local craft beer company, Lazy Hiker is just off the Appalachian Trail in the mountains of NC. Try Slack Pack IPA, Trail Mate Golden Ale, or Wesser Evil Porter. Visit the taproom. Play disc golf too!
Currahee Brewery
A favorite local spot, Currahee Brewery crafts bold brews in the mountains of NC. Try the crisp Wayah Lager, smooth Mountain Springs Kolsch, or hoppy Garand IPA. Relax in the taproom or sip outside with scenic views!
Smoky Mountain Tubing
Come to nearby Cherokee to float down the gently flowing Oconaluftee River. With over 200 tubes in stock, there’s no waiting for the relaxing tube and raft trip of your dreams.
Hungry?
Take the family out for breakfast, lunch, or dinner in Franklin. Choose local favorites, Italian, Mexican, or Asian foods. Dine on burgers, pizza, steaks, and seafood. Plenty more too!
Bryson City
Just 30 miles away, Bryson City offers unforgettable adventures. Hop aboard scenic train rides, raft the thrilling Nantahala River, or enjoy a peaceful day of kayaking. Perfect for outdoor fun!
Appalachian Trail Community
Just a short drive away, Franklin, NC, an official Appalachian Trail Community, invites you to explore its rich outdoor experiences. Hike scenic sections of the Appalachian Trail, discover breathtaking mountain views, or immerse yourself in the charming town’s welcoming atmosphere. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike!
Highlands, NC
Highlands, NC, offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and small-town charm. Explore stunning waterfalls, hike scenic trails, or enjoy boutique shopping and fine dining. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures or a relaxing getaway, Highlands has something for everyone!
Cherokee, NC
Cherokee, NC, is a cultural and outdoor paradise. Discover the rich heritage of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, enjoy world-class trout fishing, hike through lush mountain trails, or visit the renowned Oconaluftee Indian Village.
Dining Recommendations
- Cupboard Cafe: Dillard, GA (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
- Mrs. Lois: Highlands Rd, Franklin (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
- Cafe Rel: French Cuisine, Franklin
- Graffs Tavern: Franklin
- Haywood Smokehouse: Barbecue, Franklin
- Sakura: Japanese, Franklin
- Kountry Kitchen: Breakfast and Lunch, Franklin
- Jaxon’s Downtown: Wings, Franklin
- Mixers: Bar and Grill, Franklin
- Lil Sting Rays: Currahee Food Truck, Franklin
- Thai Paradise: Georgia Rd, Franklin
- Franklin Pizza and Tavern: Highlands Rd, Franklin
- El Charro: Mexican, Highlands Rd, Franklin
- Creekside Oyster Bar and Grill: Sylva, NC (20 min away)
- Casa Tequila Mexican Grill: Franklin, NC
Our Photo Gallery
Cabins
All about Hickory Knob Riverbend RV Park & Campground
Easy to get to, easy to love!
Beautiful, fun-filled Franklin is the perfect vacation destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Conveniently located right off Highlands Road in Franklin, NC, our family-owned and operated Hickory Knob Riverbend RV Park & Campground offers something for everyone.
A Rich Local Legacy
Nestled along the scenic Cullasaja River, Hickory Knob Farms has a long history as a beloved destination for travelers. Today, we continue that tradition by providing a welcoming place for families, friends, and pets to gather and enjoy nature together.
Endless Adventures Nearby
Our campground is perfectly situated to explore the wonders of the region. We’re just:
- 2 hours from Atlanta
- 1.5 hours from Gatlinburg
- 30 minutes to Cherokee and Bryson City
- 15 minutes to the Highlands
- 5 minutes to the town of Franklin
- 20 minutes from Sylva and Dillsboro
Discover breathtaking waterfalls, hike the Appalachian Trail, fish for trout, go white-water rafting, or try your luck gem mining. With so many incredible destinations nearby, there’s always something new to explore.
We’re so glad you chose Hickory Knob Riverbend RV Park & Campground. If you need anything during your stay, don’t hesitate to let us know. – Tim and Jodi
Happy Campers Tell Their Stories
Real words from real people
Rules And Regulations
Notice to Campers
Hickory Knob Riverbend RV Park and Campground is not responsible for any loss of valuables, damages, accidents, or injuries.
10 YEAR RULE: We do love a great restored vintage camper; however, we will need to pre-approve any RV more than 10-years old to ensure that it is maintained and in good condition. Please email images of your RV within 48 hours of booking your stay for approval. RVs over 10 years old that arrive without prior authorization may be denied entry.
Security cameras are in use on our property for the safety of our guest and campers .
Camping guests must be 21 years or older to rent an RV site.
Entrance onto campground property constitutes permission to photograph visitors for lawful purposes without payment.
- We do not allow the operation of ATVs or Four wheelers on the park property.
- Golf Carts must be registered at the office and must show proof of Liability insurance. At no time should any person without a license operate a golf cart while on park property.
Trash Disposal
Use the on-site dumpster for trash. Do not leave trash out overnight to avoid attracting wildlife.
Burning trash in fire pits is prohibited.
General Policies
- The park reserves the right to change rules, rates, and policies without notice.
By law, we maintain a service-oriented business relationship; no tenant/landlord relationship exists.
Guests assume all risks related to loss or damage to property, including RVs and vehicles. - All children (under age 16 years) are expected to be at their campsites under adult supervision during quiet hours. Children under age ten (10) years must be accompanied at all times by an adult. Parents are 100% responsible for the actions and safety of their children.
- A 25% deposit is required for all reservations to secure your booking.
- All RV site rates are subject to additional charges for metered electricity, which will be calculated based on daily, weekly, or monthly usage. This charge is not included in the listed rates for the selected site.
- The office reserves the right to reassign campsites prior to arrival to accommodate park needs.
- Campers are responsible for the conduct of their guests and any damages to park property. Guests must be signed in at the office. A maximum of 6 persons is allowed per site, including campers and their guests.
- Each site allows for 1 car only. Additional vehicles must be parked in the designated overflow parking area.
Check-In and Check-Out
- For late check-ins after 5 PM, pick up your welcome pack from the registration box.
- Check-out time is 11:00 AM, and check-in begins at 1:00 PM.
- No check-ins after dark; no exceptions.
- The office is closed on Sundays and Mondays. Check-ins and check-outs are by appointment.
Storage Fees
- Call the office for a quote on storage fees.
RV Sites
- All RV sites have a picnic table and fire ring. Sites 1-14 are on the Cullasaja River, and sites 15-16 are larger sites on Ellijay Creek.
- Please do not wash campers or vehicles without the expressed consent of the office.
Amenities
- Laundry: Available for a fee.
- Bath House: Equipped with warm showers.
- Bark Park
- Covered Pavilion: Features a large screen TV family dinner tables, rocking chairs and fireplace.
- Covered Gazebo available for smaller gatherings
- Large Gathering Fire Pit: S’mores for the family!
- Games: Cornhole boards, horseshoes, dart boards.
- Propane Grill: Available for general use.
- Activities: Tubing and fishing.
- Wi-Fi: Complimentary internet service for moderate use.
Campsite Regulations
- No tents allowed on RV sites with RV. Tents reserving RV sites will pay RV site rate and not tent camping rates .
- Be respectful of neighboring campsites; do not walk through others’ sites.
- No clotheslines or rugs on grass.
- Use of a screwed-type sewer connector is required.
- Heated hoses are required from November 1 to November 30.
- Do not discard feminine products baby wipes, plastic, vinyl, or food in our sinks, toilets, or sewer systems.
Campfires
- Fires are permitted only within designated fire rings.
- Only firewood is allowed; do not burn trash or household items.
- Firewood can be purchased at the office.
Smoking
- Prohibited in common areas. Dispose of cigarette butts properly.
Quiet Hours
- Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM daily.
Respect and Conduct
- Treat neighbors, park, and staff with respect. No loud music or tampering with facilities.
- Aggressive behavior or actions that disturb others will not be tolerated.
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellations made 14 days or less prior to arrival receive a full refund minus a $50 cancellation fee. No shows are charged full amount.
- There are no refunds for weather or early check out.
Safety
- Speed limit is 5 MPH.
- Campground loop is one way only.
- Alcoholic beverages must be consumed responsibly; illegal drugs are strictly prohibited.
- Children under 16 must be supervised at all times.
Pet Policy
- Pets must be on a 6-foot leash and cleaned up after.
- Aggressive pets are not allowed.
- Pets are not permitted in restrooms or laundry rooms.
- Vaccinations must be up to date. Rabies tags must be on hand.
- The Bark Park is open to all our 4 paw campers that play well with others.
- Please do not leave your fur babies unattended.
- No washing pet bedding in our Laundry facility.
- Pet washing facility at Tractor Supply in Franklin.
- Constant or excessive barking may lead to ejection from the park without refund.
Terms & Conditions
- Approved RV types include motorhomes, fifth wheels, travel trailers, and toy haulers. Tents and cargo trailers are prohibited.
- Rates are for 2 adults . A maximum of 6 people allowed per site, with additional guests charged $5 per day.
- Subleasing RV pads is prohibited.
Visitor Policies
- All visitors must register and obtain a car permit.
- Visitors must abide by all park rules and must be registered.
Liability
- The park is not liable for events of loss due to fire, theft, accidents, or acts of God.
- Guests agree to release the park from any claims arising from the use of its amenities.
By using the facilities at Hickory Knob Riverbend RV Park and Campground, you agree to abide by these policies for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Peaceful, Affordable
Riverbend RV Park & Campground
is Just Right for You
Call or fill out the form to reserve
Your reservation will be complete when a friendly associate contacts you to confirm it