We have synthesized $Eu^{3+}$-doped $YVO_4$ phosphors by using a hydrothermal method and investigated their luminescent properties. Aqueous solutions of $Y_2O_3,;V_2O_5,;Eu_2O_3$, and nitric acid with various pH values were used as the precursors. The crystallinity, surface condition, and emission characteristics were examined using XRD, FT-IR, and photo-excited spectrometer. $Eu^{3+}$ incorporation followed by the efficient red emission strongly depends on the acidity of solution media. The emission intensity becomes stronger as the pH values increase to 7 and then gradually decreases. This phenomenon might be related to the hydroxyl quenching effect, which is induced by surface bound OH- groups.