Hey there campers and welcome to my post where we will take a look at my 10 best campsites in Alabama. Now, we all know the joys that camping can bring, from experiencing the great outdoors, to time with family and of course, just doing nothing around the campfire. But where should you go?
There are of course so many different options out there so if you looking for a good campsite in Alabama, or have one in mind but are not sure what it has to offer, here are 10 good options below.
Let’s check them out…
10 Best Campsites in Alabama
With its diverse landscapes including rolling hills, lush forests, and pristine rivers, Alabama has a lot to offer when it comes to camping in both summer and winter. So as above, if you are looking for a good campsite in the state of Alabama, here are some good suggestions for you.
1. Oak Mountain State Park
Located just 20 miles south of Birmingham, Oak Mountain State Park is Alabama’s largest state park, encompassing nearly 10,000 acres of diverse landscapes. From dense forests and rolling hills to serene lakes and streams, the park offers an array of outdoor recreational opportunities for visitors to enjoy.
The park provides a variety of camping options to suit different preferences with 150 modern campsites equipped with water and electrical hookups as well as bathhouses and laundry facilities. For those seeking a more rustic and immersive experience, the park also offers backcountry camping sites that can be accessed via hiking or biking trails.
It also boasts an extensive network of over 50 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, catering to different skill levels. Some popular trails include:
- Peavine Falls Trail: A moderately challenging 1.6-mile round trip hike that leads to the picturesque 65-foot Peavine Falls.
- Red Trail: A 20-mile loop that is popular among mountain bikers for its challenging terrain and scenic views.
- Treetop Nature Trail: A wheelchair-accessible elevated boardwalk that winds through the woods, offering close-up views of native birds and other wildlife.
Additionally, there is also options for fishing, boating, swimming, golf as well as a playground, basketball courts and a beach volleyball court as well.
Book your campsite here.
2. Gulf State Park
Situated along the stunning Gulf Coast of Alabama, Gulf State Park offers a unique blend of pristine white-sand beaches, freshwater lakes and diverse ecosystems. The park spans over 6,000 acres and provides visitors with a range of recreational activities and camping options, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers alike.
When it comes to camping, there is access to 496 campsites including beachfront sites with full hookups (water, electricity, and sewer) or more secluded wooded sites for a quieter retreat. The campground also offers bathhouses, laundry facilities and a camp store for added convenience. And for those who prefer a more luxurious experience, the park has cottages and cabins available for rent as well.
The park boasts a multitude of recreational opportunities, including:
- Beach Access: With 3.5 miles of sugar-white beaches along the Gulf of Mexico, visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. The park also features designated areas for beach volleyball and beach wheelchairs for visitors with mobility limitations.
- Hiking and Biking: Gulf State Park offers over 25 miles of paved and unpaved trails for hiking, biking, and birdwatching. The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail is a popular choice, taking visitors through diverse ecosystems, including marshes, dunes and coastal hardwood forests.
- Freshwater Lakes: The park is home to two freshwater lakes, Lake Shelby and Middle Lake, which are perfect for fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The park also provides canoe, kayak, and paddleboard rentals for those who need equipment.
- Fishing and Crabbing: Both the Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier and the freshwater lakes offer ample opportunities for anglers. The pier is the largest on the Gulf of Mexico, with 2,448 feet of fishing space and amenities such as concessions, restrooms and a retail shop. Lake Shelby is a popular spot for crabbing with a pier and shoreline access.
- Golf: The park’s 18-hole, par-71 Refuge Golf Course provides a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers, with beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes.
- Nature Center: The Gulf State Park Nature Center offers educational programs, guided nature walks, and exhibits highlighting the area’s flora and fauna, as well as a butterfly garden.
Other facilities include a swimming pool, splash pad, tennis courts and a dog park for four-legged friends.
Book your campsite here.
3. Wind Creek State Park
Situated on the picturesque shores of Lake Martin in central Alabama, Wind Creek State Park offers a beautiful and serene setting for outdoor enthusiasts. The park spans 1,445 acres and features over 600 campsites making it one of the largest state-operated campgrounds in the United States.
For campers, Wind Creek State Park provides a wide array of camping options within 586 modern campsites equipped with water and electrical hookups, while 30 primitive campsites offer a more rustic experience. Campground amenities include bathhouses, laundry facilities, a camp store and a playground.
The park offers numerous recreational opportunities centered around Lake Martin, a 44,000-acre reservoir known for its clear waters and beautiful shoreline including:
- Boating: The park features seven boat ramps and a marina making it an ideal spot for boating enthusiasts. Non-motorized watercraft such as canoes, kayaks and paddleboards can also be launched and enjoyed on the lake.
- Fishing: Lake Martin is a popular destination for anglers, with its abundant populations of Bass, Crappie, Bluegill, and Catfish. The park provides fishing piers and a fish cleaning station for added convenience.
- Swimming: The park offers a designated swimming area for visitors to enjoy the refreshing waters of Lake Martin.
- Hiking: Wind Creek State Park features several miles of hiking trails that meander through the park’s diverse landscape, offering opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife viewing.
In addition to the picnic areas, the park provides a variety of recreational facilities including a playground, volleyball court, and horseshoe pit as well.
Book your campsite here.
4. Cheaha State Park
Nestled within the Talladega National Forest in northeastern Alabama, Cheaha State Park is home to the highest point in the state, Cheaha Mountain, which stands at 2,407 feet above sea level. The park spans 2,799 acres and offers breathtaking mountain views, numerous hiking trails, and a variety of camping options. With its unique landscape and abundant recreational opportunities, Cheaha State Park is a top destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
The park provides several camping options to accommodate different preferences including:
- Improved Campground: This modern campground features 73 campsites equipped with water and electrical hookups, as well as bathhouses and laundry facilities. Some sites also offer sewer hookups.
- Semi-Primitive Campground: Located on the highest point in Alabama, this campground offers 11 campsites with water and electrical hookups, providing a more secluded camping experience.
- Primitive Campground: For those seeking a rustic and immersive experience, the park offers 28 primitive campsites at the Cheaha Trailhead.
And whilst you are there, there is also a large variety of recreational activities on offer as well, including:
- Hiking Trails: The park is part of the Pinhoti Trail System which connects to the Appalachian Trail. Popular trails within the park include the Pulpit Rock Trail, Bald Rock Boardwalk, and the Lake Trail.
- Scenic Overlooks: The park features several stunning scenic overlooks such as Bunker Tower and Pulpit Rock, which offer panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
- Rock Climbing and Bouldering: Cheaha State Park is a popular destination for rock climbers and boulderers, with several climbing routes available within the park.
- Swimming: There is also access to a seasonal swimming pool and a lake with a beach area for visitors to enjoy during the warmer months.
- Fishing: Anglers can fish for Bass, Bream, and Batfish in Cheaha Lake, which also features a fishing pier and paddleboat rentals as well.
Additional park facilities include a playground, a gem mining station, a country store and a restaurant with stunning views of the surrounding area.
Book your campsite here.
5. Lake Guntersville State Park
Located along the banks of the Tennessee River in northeastern Alabama, Lake Guntersville State Park offers an idyllic setting for outdoor enthusiasts. The park covers 6,000 acres of diverse landscapes including woodlands, marshes and the beautiful Lake Guntersville, which is Alabama’s largest lake. With a variety of recreational activities, stunning scenery, and numerous camping options, Lake Guntersville State Park is a popular destination for families and adventurers alike.
When it comes to camping, options include:
- Main Campground: This modern campground offers 321 campsites equipped with water and electrical hookups, as well as bathhouses, laundry facilities, and a playground. Many campsites feature scenic lake views, and some also offer sewer hookups.
- Primitive Campground: For those seeking a more rustic experience, the park provides 65 primitive campsites located along the shorelines of Lake Guntersville.
- Glamping: In addition to the above, there are also lakeside cabins, chalets and a lodge with hotel-style rooms for those seeking more luxurious accommodations.
The park offers a variety of recreational opportunities centered around Lake Guntersville such as:
- Fishing: Lake Guntersville is renowned for its Bass fishing, as well as other species such as Crappie, Bream, and Catfish. The park provides fishing piers and a boat ramp for anglers’ convenience.
- Boating: The park’s marina offers boat rentals and launching facilities, making it an ideal spot for boating enthusiasts. Non-motorized watercraft, such as kayaks and canoes can also be enjoyed on the lake.
- Swimming: The park features a beach area for swimming and sunbathing as well as a seasonal outdoor swimming pool.
- Hiking and Biking: Lake Guntersville State Park boasts over 36 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking and birdwatching. The park is home to a variety of bird species, including Bald Eagles, Ospreys, and various waterfowl.
- Golf: The park’s 18-hole, par-72 Eagle’s Nest Golf Course provides a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers, with beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes.
Additional park facilities include a playground, tennis courts and a nature center that offers educational programs and exhibits.
Book your campsite here.
6. Monte Sano State Park
Perched atop Monte Sano Mountain and located just minutes from downtown Huntsville, Monte Sano State Park offers a scenic and tranquil retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The park covers 2,140 acres and features stunning vistas, an extensive network of hiking and biking trails and a variety of camping options. With its unique combination of natural beauty and proximity to the city, Monte Sano State Park is an ideal destination for those seeking an outdoor escape in northern Alabama.
Monte Sano State Park provides a range of camping options to suit different preferences:
- Improved Campground: This modern campground features 89 campsites equipped with water and electrical hookups, as well as bathhouses and laundry facilities. Many campsites offer picturesque views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
- Primitive Campground: For those seeking a more rustic experience, the park provides 15 primitive campsites that can be accessed via hiking trails.
In addition to these camping options, Monte Sano State Park also offers rustic cabins and a lodge for those seeking more luxurious accommodations.
Additionally, there is also access to a number of recreational activities, including:
- Hiking and Biking: Monte Sano State Park is home to over 22 miles of hiking and biking trails that cater to various skill levels. The park’s trails wind through diverse landscapes, including hardwood forests, rock formations and scenic overlooks. Some popular trails include the South Plateau Loop, the North Plateau Loop and the Mountain Mist Trail.
- Scenic Overlooks: The park features several stunning scenic overlooks such as the Stone Cuts Trail Overlook and the North Plateau Loop Overlook, which offer panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
- Picnicking: Numerous picnic areas with tables and grills are available throughout the park, as well as pavilions that can be reserved for group gatherings.
- Playground: The park provides a playground for children to enjoy, as well as a large open field for recreational activities like frisbee or kite flying.
Additional services include a camp store, a country store and an outdoor amphitheater that hosts various events and performances throughout the year.
Book your campsite here.
7. DeSoto State Park
Nestled atop Lookout Mountain in northeastern Alabama, DeSoto State Park is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The park covers 3,502 acres and boasts beautiful waterfalls, lush forests, and a variety of recreational activities. With its stunning landscapes, extensive trail network, and numerous camping options, DeSoto State Park is a popular destination for families and adventurers alike.
For campers, there is a large range of camping options to suit different preferences including:
- Improved Campground: This modern campground features 94 campsites equipped with water, electrical and sewer hookups as well as bathhouses and laundry facilities. Many campsites are situated near the scenic West Fork of Little River.
- Primitive Campground: For those seeking a more rustic experience, the park offers 16 primitive campsites that can be accessed via hiking trails.
- Backcountry Campsites: The park also provides 2 backcountry campsites for those looking for a remote and immersive camping experience.
In addition to these camping options, DeSoto State Park also offers cabins, chalets, and a motel for those seeking more luxurious accommodations.
The park also boasts a variety of recreational activities including:
- Hiking and Biking: DeSoto State Park is home to over 30 miles of hiking and biking trails that cater to various skill levels. The park’s trails wind through diverse landscapes, including hardwood forests, mountain streams and waterfalls. Some popular trails include the Indian Falls Trail, the Azalea Cascade Boardwalk Trail and the Talmadge Butler Boardwalk Trail.
- Waterfalls: The park features several beautiful waterfalls such as DeSoto Falls, Indian Falls and Laurel Falls which are easily accessible via the park’s trail network.
- Fishing: Anglers can enjoy fishing for Bass, Bream and Trout in the West Fork of Little River, which runs through the park.
- Picnicking: Numerous picnic areas with tables and grills are available throughout the park, as well as pavilions that can be reserved for group gatherings.
- Swimming: During the summer months, the park provides a seasonal Olympic-sized swimming pool for visitors to enjoy.
Additional facilities include a camp store, a country store and a nature center that hosts educational programs and exhibits as well as a playground, tennis courts and a game room for added recreation.
Book your campsite here.
8. Cathedral Caverns State Park
Located in northeastern Alabama, Cathedral Caverns State Park offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore an extensive cave system that features majestic natural formations and an intriguing history. The park covers 493 acres and showcases the main attraction, Cathedral Caverns, which boasts one of the largest cave entrances in the world.
Cathedral Caverns State Park provides a modern campground with 13 campsites equipped with water and electrical hookups. Each campsite also includes a picnic table and a fire ring and the campground features bathhouses, laundry facilities and a playground offering a comfortable camping experience.
The highlight of the park is the guided cave tour, which takes visitors through the breathtaking Cathedral Caverns. The tour showcases remarkable natural formations, such as Goliath, a massive stalagmite that measures 45 feet tall and 243 feet in circumference, as well as the Frozen Waterfall, a unique flowstone formation.
In addition to the cave tour there are a variety of other recreational activities including:
- Hiking: The park features two hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the park’s diverse landscape. The Bat Cave Trail takes hikers to a nearby cave that serves as a habitat for several bat species, while the Cave Cove Trail offers a scenic stroll around a natural sinkhole.
- Gem Mining: The park provides a gem mining station where visitors can sift through mining rough to discover a variety of colorful gemstones.
- Picnicking: Several picnic areas with tables and grills are available throughout the park for visitors to enjoy a meal in the serene natural setting.
Additional facilities include a welcome center, a gift shop and a country store that sells refreshments and souvenirs.
Book your campsite here.
9. Blue Springs State Park
Located in southeastern Alabama near the town of Clio, Blue Springs State Park offers visitors a peaceful retreat centered around its main attraction, a crystal-clear, spring-fed pool. The park covers 103 acres and provides a serene natural setting for relaxation and recreation. With its refreshing swimming spot, comfortable camping options, and various outdoor activities, Blue Springs State Park is a popular destination for families and nature lovers.
The park provides a modern campground featuring 50 campsites equipped with water and electrical hookups, a picnic table and a fire ring. The campground offers bathhouses, laundry facilities and a playground as well. The highlight is the beautiful Blue Springs, a natural underground spring that feeds a large swimming pool. The spring maintains a constant temperature of 68 degrees Fahrenheit, providing a refreshing swimming spot during the warmer months too.
Additional activity options include:
- Hiking: The park features a 1-mile hiking trail that winds through the surrounding woodlands, offering an opportunity to explore the area’s diverse flora and fauna.
- Fishing: Anglers can enjoy fishing for Bass, Bream and Catfish in the two on-site fishing ponds. A fishing license is required for those aged 16 and older.
- Picnicking: Several picnic areas with tables and grills are available throughout the park, as well as pavilions that can be reserved for group gatherings.
- Playground: The park provides a playground for children to enjoy, ensuring a fun-filled experience for the whole family.
Other facilities include a camp store, a country store and a boat launch for non-motorized watercraft too.
Book your campsite here.
10. Frank Jackson State Park
Located in southern Alabama near the city of Opp, Frank Jackson State Park is a scenic destination centered around the 1,000-acre Lake Frank Jackson. The park covers 2,050 acres and offers a peaceful, natural setting for relaxation and recreation. With its beautiful lake, comfortable camping options, and a variety of outdoor activities, Frank Jackson State Park is a popular destination for families, nature lovers, and fishing enthusiasts.
Frank Jackson State Park provides a modern campground with 32 campsites equipped with water, electrical and sewer hookups. Each campsite also includes a picnic table, a grill, and a fire ring and the campground offers bathhouses, laundry facilities and a playground as well.
There is also a variety of recreational activities centered around Lake Frank Jackson including:
- Fishing: Lake Frank Jackson is known for its excellent fishing opportunities with a variety of fish species such as Bass, Bream, Crappie, and Catfish. There is also access to a fishing pier, boat ramp and several fishing platforms as well making it an ideal spot for anglers.
- Boating: The park’s boat ramp and ample shoreline provide excellent access for boating enthusiasts. Non-motorized watercraft, such as kayaks and canoes can also be enjoyed on the lake.
- Swimming: Frank Jackson State Park features a designated swimming area along the lake’s shoreline, providing a refreshing spot to swim and relax during the warmer months.
- Hiking: The park is home to a 1.4-mile boardwalk and trail that wraps around the lake offering an opportunity to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the area. The trail provides several scenic overlooks and picnic spots along the way.
- Picnicking: Numerous picnic areas with tables and grills are available throughout the park, as well as pavilions that can be reserved for group gatherings.
There are also a variety of facilities and amenities on offer to enhance the visitor experience including a camp store, a country store and a playground for added recreation.
Book your campsite here.
Conclusion
There you have it, my best campsites in Alabama. I would be pleased to know how this article helped you, and as usual, let me know of your experiences with them.
Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.
Until next time.
Have fun
Paul
