This budget motel-style property caters to families and couples who tend to spend most of their time at attractions in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, or visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The modest reception area is strictly a check-in-and-leave place, with a few chairs and racks of tourist brochures. Guests are most often seen at the pool in the front of the property, or out back on the grass that fronts the Little Pigeon River. It’s a peaceful spot where families like to walk their dogs, have picnics, or feed the ducks and geese that call the riverfront area home.

The Inn is located just off the main thoroughfare that passes through Pigeon Forge, set on the banks of Little Pigeon River, which runs behind the property. The road out front is busy, but there are sidewalks for accessing multiple nearby restaurants, including a pancake house and a pizzeria next door. Bars, shops, and attractions are within walking distance or a short drive, including a mini-golf complex and a gaming arcade (both are five minutes on foot). The famed Dollywood theme park is about 10 minutes by car, and Gatlinburg is a 19-minute drive. The entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park is about a 20-minute car ride away. 

Guest rooms at River Place look dingy and have dated decor -- expect stuffy floral bedspreads, industrial-grade carpeting, and worn, mismatched wood furniture. There's a comfortable amount of space, but reviews on cleanliness and upkeep are decidedly mixed. That said, rooms are equipped with a surprising crop of amenities considering what's found at the rest of the hotel. All units contain mini-fridges, microwaves, coffeemakers, free Wi-Fi, and a few have flat-screen TVs, although most have old-style tube models. Some units feature patios that face the river and balconies. Bathrooms are small and drab, with acrylic shower/tub combo inserts. Formica vanities are relegated to sleeping areas. 

A variety of units are offered, ranging from Standard to multi-bedroom cabins and condos with whirlpool tubs, full kitchens, and fireplaces. Be aware that some guests have noted hearing noise from neighboring rooms due to thin walls. 

Amenities are limited at this no-frills, budget hotel. However, it does offer a heated outdoor pool with loungers in front of the property. There's no restaurant, and ice comes at an extra fee, but picnic tables and grills are set up on the grass out back along Little Pigeon River, and vending machines are stocked with snacks and beverages. 

Plenty of free parking is available, and Wi-Fi is free throughout. Pets are welcome in select rooms, and a coin machine provides pellets to feed the resident ducks and geese on the property.