Chelly and Kevin Clayton have entered into a long-term investment partnership with Streamside RV Resorts & Campgrounds that includes the acquisition of Little Arrow Outdoor Resort, Little Arrow Base Camp RV Park, River Rat Tubing & Rafting and Burger Master in Townsend, Tennessee. The agreement expands Streamside’s portfolio to 39 properties, with Little Arrow Outdoor Resort and Little Arrow Base Camp RV Park becoming the company’s 38th and 39th locations.
Under the agreement, the Clayton family will remain significant investors in the businesses, while longtime local operators Carmen Simpher and Jay Moore will continue overseeing day-to-day operations. The companies said the partnership is designed to combine Streamside’s national operational resources with the existing local leadership while maintaining the character of the Townsend community and the Great Smoky Mountains.
Kevin Clayton said the family sought a long-term partner that aligned with its goals for the businesses’ future.
“We’ve been fortunate to build these businesses into destinations that families return to year after year,” Kevin Clayton said. “As we looked to the future, we wanted a long-term partner who could help take them to the next level while sharing our commitment to our guests, our team members, and the Townsend community. Streamside brings the experience, resources, and visionary perspective to help continue building on what we’ve created together.”
Streamside Founder and CEO John Cascarano said the company plans to build on the existing operations while preserving the businesses’ identity.
“We’re honored to welcome the Claytons’ premier properties into the Streamside portfolio,” Cascarano said. “They have built something truly special in Townsend while investing in their people and the community. Our role is to build on that strong foundation and support their outstanding teams with additional resources, expertise, and sustained investment.”
The Clayton family said the partnership also will allow it to continue investing in other regional businesses and community projects. Chelly Clayton said the agreement creates opportunities to further support ventures including Company Distilling, Vee Hollow Mountain Bike Park and Salubrious Farms, in addition to the Townsend businesses included in the transaction.
The companies said Kevin and Chelly Clayton will remain active in the community while maintaining their home in Walland, Tennessee. Guests will continue to be served by the existing leadership teams and staff, with a future announcement regarding a special event planned for guests and the community in the coming months.
Founded in 2023, Streamside RV Resorts & Campgrounds operates properties across 17 states. With the Townsend additions, the Nashville-based company said it now owns and operates 39 properties comprising more than 4,400 RV and lodging sites.
Featured image by Streamside RV Resorts & Campgrounds