Oconaluftee Islands Park
Go ahead, take your shoes off.
An outdoor oasis for kids and adults alike.
On a warm, summer day in Cherokee, there is nothing so relaxing as some down time at Oconaluftee Islands Park. With easy access to downtown, the park offers shady picnic spots, swimming, tubing, trout fishing, or the pleasant option of simply basking and splashing around with friends and family. When the water levels are normal, the river is divided by a grassy island complete with bridges, picnic tables, piers to feed ducks and fish from, and plenty of room for unbridled play.
Stay and play
Each place you visit in Cherokee pulses with the stories and significance of a people whose roots run deep and whose ancient wisdom is fascinating to uncover. Nestled in the lush landscapes of Western North Carolina, Cherokee invites you to smell the wood smoke and open your ears. If you listen closely, maybe you can hear the chanting of the little Nunnehi people of the mountain peaks. No need to resist Cherokee’s invitations to dive right in. Fire off a blowgun if you dare, but make sure your spouse is in the clear. As you cast your line into the trout-filled rivers or wash your face in the sweet spray of a waterfall, let the powerful feelings of Cherokee carry you. Even if it’s just for a day or two.
