Our Story
Home of Happy Campers
Riverview Campground began in 1970 when Mattie Ruth Gilbreath Blackburn and Doug Blackburn opened up a little piece of lakeside property and invited families to come enjoy it. Their dream was simple: a peaceful place where kids could ride bikes, grandparents could relax in lawn chairs around bonfires, and families could make memories together by the water. Through the years, Riverview has always been about more than just campsites. It’s about fish stories at sunset, cookouts that last past dark, potlucks and band parties in The Shed, and friendships that turn into traditions.
After Doug passed away in 2010, the campground stayed in the family. His daughter, Denise Blackburn Cornwell, stepped in to continue what her parents started. For the past 15 years, she has worked to keep Riverview welcoming, well-kept, and family-focused — making improvements where needed while holding tight to the down-to-earth spirit it was built on.
As times changed and more families wanted the outdoor experience without owning a camper, Craig Cornwell, Denise's husband, created Nivendale Cabin Rentals. The cabins offer a comfortable way to enjoy the lake and campground life — the same sunsets, the same friendly atmosphere — just with a few more conveniences. And the campers offer a turnkey opportunity to spend the night in a fully set-up RV — no hauling, no setup, just arrive and enjoy the lake.
With the 2026 season, Rebecca Cornwell steps into the role of campground manager. As the daughter of Denise and Craig and granddaughter of founders Doug and Mattie Ruth Blackburn, she represents the third generation of family leadership and a continued tradition of women guiding the business. Having grown up around the campground and worked behind the scenes for several seasons, she brings both hands-on experience and deep roots on the property to this next chapter. And we’re still here for the same reason we started: giving families a place to slow down, reconnect, and make memories that last.
RV Reservations: Text 256-486-4487
Vacation Rentals: visit our listings here: www.campingguntersville.net/cabins