Murphy / Peace Valley KOA Holiday Blog
Stay 4 Nights, Get the 5th FREE + Fly Fishing Lessons Aug. 15 & 29
Whether you’re exploring the local area or hanging out at the campground, KOA Holidays are an ideal place to relax and play. There’s plenty to do, with amenities and services to make your stay memorable. Plus, you’ll enjoy the outdoor experience with upgraded RV Sites with KOA Patio® and Deluxe Cabins with full baths for camping in comfort. Bring your family, bring your friends, or bring the whole group – there’s plenty of ways to stay and explore.
Whether you’re exploring the local area or hanging out at the campground, KOA Holidays are an ideal place to relax and play. There’s plenty to do, with amenities and services to make your stay memorable. Plus, you’ll enjoy the outdoor experience with upgraded RV Sites with KOA Patio® and Deluxe Cabins with full baths for camping in comfort. Bring your family, bring your friends, or bring the whole group – there’s plenty of ways to stay and explore.
Be looking for the Yellow banner.
From Murphy, NC and points West: Drive east on US Hwy. 74, watch for mile marker 24. 3/10 mile past mile marker 24 turn RIGHT onto Happy Valley Road.
From Asheville/Bryson City/Andrews, NC and points East: Drive west on US Hwys. 19/74, watch for mile marker 25. 7/10 miles past mile marker 25 turn LEFT onto Happy Valley Rd.
I-75 Southbound from Points North of Cleveland, TN: Exit #25 (Route 60 East): Exit Rte. 60 at Hwy. 64/74 East. Continue into NC and follow directions above continuing on Hwy. 74 just past mile marker 24.
Your Perfect 3–5 Day Mountain Getaway
Nestled in the quiet folds of the Smoky Mountain foothills, Murphy / Peace Valley KOA Holiday is one of those places where you arrive planning a quick weekend and suddenly you’re wishing you booked a whole week. Between riverfront relaxation, mountain adventures, small-town charm, and endless scenic drives, Murphy is the kind of destination that keeps surprising you.
Below is a flexible 3–5 day itinerary you can use for a blog or travel guide, with built-in “stay longer” moments that make the trip feel expansive and full of discovery.
Day 1: Arrival, Riverfront Relaxation & Downtown Murphy
Morning / Afternoon
Roll into the campground, check in, and settle into your campsite or cabin. This campground is known for its peaceful riverfront sites, clean amenities, and that “you can finally breathe again” feeling.
Evening: Explore Downtown Murphy
Head into Murphy’s historic downtown, just minutes away.
Wrap up the night back at KOA with a campfire, s’mores, and mountain air.
Day 2: Outdoor Adventure Day: Hiking, Waterfalls & Scenic Drives
Murphy is surrounded by trails, overlooks, and hidden gems. This is your “get outside” day.
Option A: Hike & Waterfalls
Option B: Scenic Drives
Take a slow, winding drive through the mountains:
Evening
Return to KOA for a relaxing night. If you’re staying longer, this is a great evening to grill, play cornhole, or enjoy the riverside swings.
Day 3: Ocoee River Adventure + Local Eats
Just 25–35 minutes from our KOA is the legendary Ocoee River, home of the 1996 Olympic whitewater events.
Morning / Afternoon: Ocoee River Rafting
Book a rafting trip for thrilling rapids, mountain scenery, and unforgettable memories. If rafting isn’t your thing, choose:
Evening: Relax & Recharge
Head back to Murphy for dinner or cook at camp. This is a great night to:
If you’re doing a 3-day trip, this is your departure night or next-morning checkout. If you’re staying longer, keep reading.
Extend Your Stay: Because Murphy Has More Than You Think
Day 4: Local Landmarks, History & Hidden Gems
Murphy has quirky, meaningful, and scenic attractions that most visitors miss.
Morning: Fields of the Wood
A massive outdoor biblical park featuring:
It’s unique, photogenic, and surprisingly serene.
Afternoon: Museums & Local Culture
Check out:
Evening: Campground Fun
Spend the evening enjoying KOA amenities:
Day 5: Lake Day, Wine Tasting & One Last Mountain Sunset
If you’re staying five days, this is your “slow and scenic” finale.
Morning: Lake Hiwassee
Rent a pontoon or kayak and explore one of the most beautiful lakes in Western NC. The mountains wrap around the water like a bowl. It’s peaceful, quiet, and perfect for photos.
Afternoon: Wine or Brewery Stop
Visit:
Sip something local, enjoy the mountain views, and savor your last full day.
Evening: Final Campfire
Head back to KOA for one last campfire under the stars. This is the moment where you realize:
You could easily stay another two days.
Ready to Plan Your Mountain Getaway?
Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, peaceful riverfront relaxation, or a home base for exploring Western North Carolina, Murphy / Peace Valley KOA Holiday makes it easy to slow down and stay awhile.
Book your RV site or Deluxe Cabin today and start planning your next Murphy mountain escape. From campfires under the stars to unforgettable days exploring the Smokies, your perfect getaway is waiting!
That doesn't mean this area has to always be empty. When you start reviewing camping options, your history will display here to help compare sites and find the best stay. You will be able to share your stay information with friends or family and save it for a later time if you have a KOA Account.
Make checkout easy by booking all your reservations at once. Add your sites from different campgrounds into your shopping cart* and then choose checkout.
