Best Camping in and near Joe Wheeler State Park

Discover the serene beauty of Joe Wheeler State Park.

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Top-rated campgrounds near Joe Wheeler State Park

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Bates Farm

37 sites · RVs, Tents45 acres · Decatur, AL

Where Nature Beckons & Adventure Awaits - Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Bates Farm, where fantasy and adventure come alive amidst the beauty of nature. Our fantasy-themed primitive campground offers a unique experience for those seeking a magical escape from everyday life. Nestled within our sprawling acres of wilderness, you'll find a 3D Archery range that will test your skills and immerse you in the thrill of the hunt. Whether you're a seasoned archer or a beginner, our range provides a challenging and exciting experience for all. Bates Farm is not just a campground; it's a venue for festivals and family get-togethers. Host your next gathering in our picturesque setting, surrounded by the wonders of nature and the magic of our fantasy-themed ambiance. Create unforgettable memories with your loved ones as you celebrate special occasions in a truly unique setting. In addition to our campground and event venue, Bates Farm offers a variety of educational classes focused on foraging, homesteading, and living off the land. Learn valuable skills that connect you with nature and empower you to embrace a more sustainable lifestyle. Our knowledgeable instructors will guide you through hands-on experiences that will deepen your appreciation for the natural world. Join us at Bates Farm for an unforgettable adventure where fantasy, nature, and education converge. Whether you're looking to test your archery skills, host a memorable event, or expand your knowledge of homesteading practices, our farm offers a one-of-a-kind experience that will leave you inspired and rejuvenated. Come discover the magic of Bates Farm and embark on a journey unlike any other. Some sites only open Monday-Thursday due to 3D archery range. Onsite Rules & Info Link https://www.canva.com/design/DAFqKEhOLDw/VDn5ZbiQrRcxx826DZ8UQQ/view?utm_content=DAFqKEhOLDw&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link&utm_source=editor Youtube Podcast of all Bates Farm sites https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLedWcgjSlLH69lmSEcxNtpZk34yqYBqWa&si=UoANQrkWNXftucPb Video of Glamping Amenities: https://youtu.be/vHXSFpVur18 Interactive google maps of Bates Farm: Campground & Amenities Map https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?hl=en&mid=1JKWe22dLvy3DNVHHMb0CoYGm2mJmxLI&ll=34.53123434955517%2C-87.10236376039353&z=19 Archery Ranges Map https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?hl=en&mid=1z2vdwxsD3FMH5THfonUv9AbPat3Wf0g&ll=34.53123434955517%2C-87.10236376039353&z=19 Interactive Bird Watching Hike Map https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?hl=en&mid=114CvJTEtf-nM15444GpITlUXVvaDzds&ll=34.53123434955517%2C-87.10236376039353&z=19 Sassy's Blooming Adventure Story Walk Map https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?hl=en&mid=12886mVOnR0b5V2gfcxokOkEDp6K5fXc&ll=34.53135696507919%2C-87.10108971111146&z=18 Bates Farm Flower Walk Map https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?hl=en&mid=1g6zEqywBieXGqbIcB4hOmTZIk0IIE_w&ll=34.53123434955517%2C-87.10236376039353&z=19 Glow Hike Map https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?hl=en&mid=1HFjg0OF7vUldC-yIN8t3cBo_svw4odQ&ll=34.53123434955517%2C-87.10236376039353&z=19 Muscadines & Blackberries Map https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?hl=en&mid=1VzD7-R7-CbPdwMTBG-Nt8veBgt3mJn0&ll=34.53123434955517%2C-87.10236376039353&z=19 Archery Range Rules: 1. Always shoot in a safe manner; reckless behavior will not be tolerated. 2. No alcohol on the range while the range is active. 3. Zero tolerance for aggressive behavior or fighting; offenders will be forced to leave. 4. Move in one direction only; if you skip a target do not return to the skipped target. 5. Larger groups should let smaller groups shoot through; be courteous and respect everyone's time. 6. If lookig for arrows, spend no more than 5 minutes searching if others are waiting. 7. If skipping targets 8, 9, 10, you can shoot targets 1,2,3 after completing the course to reach your 20 targets. Campground Rules: 1. Dispose of trash in provided bins. 2. Only have campfires in designated fire pits or rings; burn responsibly. 3. Keep dogs on a leash. 4. Do not cut live trees; dead ones are suitable for firewood. 5. Do not cross caution tape on weekends due to active 3D archery range. 6. Be mindful of wildlife and insects in the wilderness surroundings. 7. Do not touch tractors, farming implements, or archery range targets without permission or being a shooter on the range. 8. On Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, either 3D archery range A or B will be open and clearly marked; do not hike in the range area. 9. Access the bathhouse only from the gravel parking lot; do not cut across fields. Playground Rules: 1. Use playground at your own risk. Bates Farm is not responsible for injuries 2. All Children under the age of 18 must be supervised by accompanying adult 3. Weight limit of 250 LBS5. 4. No one over the age of 12 permitted to use the playground equipment 5. Improper us of equipment prohibited 6. No glass containers in play area 7. No Bare feet, wear proper footwear 8. No rough play: no pushing or shoving 9. Only one person per swing at a time

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Sipsey Creek Farm

6 sites · Lodging, RVs30 acres · Double Springs, AL

Only Miles from Bankhead National Forest, Sipsey Creek Farm is home to natural caves, bluffs, and waterfalls only accessible through private land. Toilet and kitchen are on site and accessible in the barn. Wake up to a sunrise overlooking a fiber farm, or sleep in a cave. the possibilities are endless.

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Fort Bluff Camp Site

1 site · Tent162 acres · Somerville, AL

This camp site has one of the most beautiful bluff views in all of northern Alabama. The mounds located on the bluff date back 10,000-12,000 years ago to the paleo Indian era. You can hike for days and climb up and down the bluff to experience the base of the rocks. Camp with the Indian spirits. This 10,000-12,000 year old Indian site with mounds created by the Indians is one of the most beautiful sites in Northern Alabama. Bring a tent or sleep under the stars on this memorable bluff. Hike over the 162 acres and scale the bluff for an exciting hike along the base of the rocks where Indians also camped long ago.

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Sunrise Campsite at Smith Lake

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Arley, AL

My property is an acre and a half on Smith Lake, AL. It resides in a gated community that is rural but also has access to a boat launch and showers. The property also has access to a pool that requires and additional daily cost of $10 for adults and $5 for kids 16 and younger. You can fish from the campsite and swim in the lake.

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Horse Heaven in Culleoka, TN

8 sites · Tents93 acres · Culleoka, TN

(PLEASE READ FULL DESCRIPTION AND LISTING BEFORE BOOKING) Located in the beautiful rolling hills of Culleoka, TN come and enjoy some peace and quiet on our 93-acre horse farm. Located only 15 minutes from the historic downtown Columbia, TN and one-hour from Nashville. You can have the best of both worlds! We offer a very large tent platform (can accommodate 4-5 tents) in a very private and secluded area of the property. Our herd of 11 friendly horses are free-roaming, and will likely come and visit you at your campsite. This is the only campsite on the property and you will have complete privacy. Book a trail ride to enjoy the scenery from the saddle (please check on availability and pricing for rides.) Come and help with the morning feeding routine at the barn! There's great cell service at the campsite. Firewood is $15/bundle (for wood stove and/or campfire) or you can forage your own! The barn has an outdoor propane hot water shower. The shower may not be available during the extreme cold. There is a pit toilet at the campsite but bring your own TP. There is a large charcoal grill/smoker at the site. Please clean grill after use. If you are bringing your fur babies please make sure to add on the pet fee when booking. The road to the campsite goes through a very small creek and up a little hill. Very low vehicles may bottom out. In the rainy months you need 4-wheel drive to get out to the site. We live on the property and will be available to make sure your stay is comfortable and enjoyable. We ask campers to please check in before 7pm and be courteous about communicating your ETA, as we will be planning our day around your arrival time. We are available via messaging up until 8pm.

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York Hollow

1 site · RV, Tent14 acres · Pulaski, TN

Campsite is located at the base of York Mountain. Learn more about this land: Pitch your tent, hang you hammock, or park your camper and enjoy the great outdoors. There are a couple of level spots for your tents, as well as a nice rock fire pit for you to use. There is usually plenty of firewood available and there is an outhouse on the site. The pond hasn't yet been stocked with fish, but hopefully soon it will have more than just frogs. But for now the frogs provide great music. This is a rustic campsite, with rocks, roots, and steep terrain. Please bring your own camping gear, including chairs, and please take your trash with you. There is plenty of privacy, even though you are right near a public road that has very little traffic. There are no other campsites nearby and the owner lives 1/2 mile away. Recreation nearby includes Canoeing/kayaking on both the Elk River and Richland creek (shuttles can usually be arranged), Stillhouse Hollow Falls (beautiful waterfall hiking), Trail of Tears Interpretive Center, and Big Creek Winery. Tents/Table/and cots are available to rent as well.

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Red Coach Resort & RV Park

33 sites · RVs81 acres · Toney, AL

The resort resides on 81 stunning acres full of inspiring wildlife, majestic trees, and serene creeks and ponds. Stroll along our nature path through the beautiful meadows entangled with gorgeous wildflowers, or contemplate besides the rolling waters. Time for some local entertainment, space exploration, groceries, or fine dining? You're just 5- 20 minutes from shopping and restaurants in three directions. Centrally located near many famous attractions in Alabama and Tennessee, Red Coach Resort sits just 9 minutes off interstate 65. It is easily possible to park in this one location and enjoy the convenience of day trips in any direction to see the best that the south has to offer.

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Hood Lodge

3 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Houston, AL

Learn more about this land:Beautiful pasture and woods to explore. Lots of wildlife all around. Flowing creek is on property and a small cascade. Bankhead National Forest and many hiking trails are very close. No hunting allowed on property, but public hunting grounds are very close. The property is very quiet and serene.

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KatzLandia

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents60 acres · Pulaski, TN

This beautiful place has been in my family for 3 generations. Since I was a child I loved having campfires and hiking. I used to imagine cabins speckling its landscape and story’s being told by travelers from far off places! Now that I am owner I can and will build those dreams and share them with as many folks as come to visit us! There’s 60 acres of hills for hiking a peaceful creek for meditation or just stick your feet in! A beautiful bamboo grove where we plan to build a camping platform in the very near future and you’ll be able to sleep in tha bamboo forest! We’ve come a long way in the last year, we have platforms, tents we can set up as glampers for those that love the idea but don’t want to have to set it all up. There’s several old buildings and unfinished projects left behind from my father we have a series of small cabins we will be building with them over the next 2 years it’ll be called “Boho Bottom”. We also host events, so far they are few and small but so much fun!! There is currently one communal bathroom with several more due to be built in the next year or so. As campers come the profit will help with future site development. Look forward to more updates as things develop!! We look forward to camp with you!

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Reed Creek Campsites

5 sites · Tents45 acres · Collinwood, TN

We are Soulfull Waters Farm. Our property is an amazing plot of 45 acres of mostly woods and sits atop a beautiful ridge. Our campsite sits near Reed Patch creek at the bottom of the farm. Home of turkey, deer, owls, woodpeckers, and many other amazing wildlife. We also have a simple bunkhouse with compost toilet at top of ridge, submersed amongst the trees. We are 1.5 hours from Nashville, 40 minutes from Amish Country (Ethridge) 20 from Lake Meriwether, and 15 minutes from Natchez Trace.

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Camp Wonder Wander is Wanderful

15 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents17 acres · Waynesboro, TN

Your host Val has walked away from her life as a tenured graphic design professor for a passion that is probably her true calling. Inspired by travels and a youth immersed in girls scouts, I created this retreat center and camp for the opportunity to relish in nature, put away the phone and get back to craft, conversation, and the basics of life. You'll relish in the quiet and beauty of the rural rolling foothills of Appalachia in mid-south TN. 20 minutes from any town so prepare en route. Route 99 splits the 17 acres with retreat center on one side and an 11.5 acre campground with significant river front property On The Buffalo. This is in Lewis county - of the Lewis and Clark adventurers. The Buffalo River is a class 1 and sometimes 2 river perfect for kayaking. Ask about add on options like a tour and story about the camp and animals or even a pottery lesson or art workshop.

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Platos Branch Farm RV park

6 sites · RVs20 acres · Rogersville, AL

Platos Branch Farm RV: Named after the large branch that runs thru the property across the horse pasture. There are large fish in the Branch. Which is on private property so you can fish without a state license. The park is located on a working farm. The horses are usually in site. Campers tell us that the stars here at night are a beauty to behold. This is a quiet peaceful place. But still minutes away from the conveniences. Grocery within 5 miles and numerous restaurants. Hope you see us soon. Learn more about this land: RV Spots in the country, Total of 6 RV Spots. Great view of horse pasture with 5 horses. Platos pond across pasture. Great Fishing. Look at the stars and have some peaceful nights. 3 miles to Grocery store and resturants. Joe Wheeler state Park within 5 miles. Awesome trails for hiking or biking. 25 minutes to Florence ( UNA) or Athens. Brownsferry Plant about 20 minutes. Weekly and monthly rates available.

The best camping near Joe Wheeler State Park guide

Overview

About

There's camping, and then there's glamping. Joe Wheeler State Park definitely fits into the latter category. Whether you decide to arrive on your boat or in your trusty car, the 2,550 acres here offer everything you could hope for in a resort. Take advantage of the full-service marina and explore nearly 70,000 acres of water on Wheeler Lake, where bass and catfish catches are prime. If you don't have your own watercraft, no worries—kayaks and waterboards are available for rent, and a beautiful beach provides the perfect milieu for sunning and swimming. Whether you want to get a hole-in-one in golf or hike the trails, it's all here. Stop by the tasty restaurants for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, where BBQ reigns supreme come sunset.

Notable campgrounds

Lakeside Cottages: Enjoy waterfront views and modern comforts in these cozy retreats.
Full Hookup Campsites: Ideal for any size camping unit, these sites come with all the essentials.
Primitive Camping: For a more rustic experience, pitch your tent amid the park's natural beauty.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons and holidays.
Consider mid-week stays for better availability and a quieter experience.
Check for cancellations regularly as plans change and spots may open up.
Explore nearby camping options for overflow or alternative accommodations.

When to go

The best time to visit Joe Wheeler State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant. Summers can be hot and busy, while winters are quieter but chillier, which might affect some of the park's offerings.

Know before you go

Check the park's official website for any alerts on closures or safety information before your visit.
Accessibility varies across facilities, so inquire ahead if you have specific needs.
The lodge front desk is open 24/7 for any assistance during your stay.
Remember to pack essentials for outdoor activities, including water, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Marina services are available for those arriving by boat, with both permanent and overnight slips.