Discover the best lakeside campgrounds in Alabama with campfires

United States
—
Alabama

98% (744 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Alabama

Dog-friendly getaways

Star Hosts in Alabama

99%

(233)

Bohamia - Glamp/RV/Camp

28 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents268 acres · Talladega, AL

Please join us at the land of Bohamia for glamping with luxury beds and private decks, primitive camping in picturesque sites, and RV spots with power and water. Bohamia has an upscale bathhouse with private, hot showers and individual toilet rooms with floor-to-ceiling doors. The bathhouse is within 100 yards of all glamps and RV sites. We also have portalets stationed in the RV/Safari Tent area, at The Barn, and at the pond (0.4 miles from welcome center.) Premium RV spots now available with 30 or 50 amp hookups and water. We do not have sewer hookups or a waste station. Glamp, RV or camp amidst the natural beauty of our 268 acre property; we have open fields, shady spots beneath the hardwoods and pines, and even a five acre pond with plenty of fish if you’d prefer to wake up to a water view or take a morning swim. With miles of trails on our property, easy access to the 392,000 acre Talladega National Forest, and less than ten miles from the Pinhoti trail, you’ll never run out of beautiful places to explore. Be sure to save some time to enjoy the boulder strewn creek just a short walk from our welcome center - it’s a must see! Other local attractions are also within reach with the Top Trails ATV park and the Talladega Marksmanship Park only seven miles away.

Serene Lakefront Retreat

13 sites · RVs, Tents200 acres · Ashville, AL

Greensport RV Park & Marina is a scenic lakeside retreat on Neely Henry Lake in Ashville, Alabama, offering a mix of spacious RV sites with full hookups and serene waterfront tent camping areas nestled among the trees. Enjoy waterfront access with stunning lake views, ideal for fishing, boating, and paddling from our full-service marina. Campers can unwind in shaded picnic areas, explore scenic nature trails, and take advantage of family-friendly amenities, including playgrounds and clean restrooms with showers. Whether you’re here for adventure or relaxation, Greensport RV Park & Marina provides the perfect escape in a welcoming, picturesque setting with all the amenities you could look for. Greensport is perfect for any getaway!

100%

(5)

Lake City Campground

13 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents22 acres · Florala, AL

Just a 10-minute drive to Lake Jackson, Alabama’s only natural lake, this peaceful camping retreat is the perfect place for families to relax and enjoy nature. Positioned in the city of Florala, this campground is a combination of Florida Sunshine and Alabama heritage making it a valuable repository of outdoor activities and perfect for the history-seeking enthusiast. This veteran-owned and operated campground provides a place where family time is revisited with games and campfire stories. Memories can be made in only a short drive for shaded picnics on the beaches of Florala State Park, exploring the peaceful downtown antique shops, or just a shaded stroll through 21+ acres of nature located right outside your door. This location is also an affordable destination for visiting the beaches of Destin, Ft. Walton, or Navarre. Being just an hour drive away, you can spend time enjoying the refreshing salt air, and then return to the campground for some time to relax in the serenity of nature.

Cottaquilla Creek Campground

15 sites · Tents50 acres · Jacksonville, AL

Welcome to Cottaquilla Creek!! We have over 50 acres of farm land with pastures, meadows, giant hardwood trees, large spring with wading pool, mountain bike trail and a 5 acre lake stocked with bass, bream and catfish. Close to town yet far enough out in the country to see the stars at night. The Pinhoti trail is just down the road, along with Hurricane mountain trail, a little traveled wildlife and nature excursion on National forest land. There is so much nearby for nature lovers, including Coldwater Mountain, Talledega National Forest, Terrapin creek, etc. 2 adults per campsite bookings, kids under 21 camp for free. there is 2 lakefront campsites along with camping in a secluded meadow, pasture campsite and a campsite along a spring fed creek. https://www.facebook.com/reel/1357051888191651

Gullatte Acres

11 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Smiths Station, AL

Gullatte Acres is a 100 acre farm with meadows, forests, creeks, a pond, and a cotton field. The electric and sewer hookup is a quarter mile from the road and you’re welcome to set up dispersed camping in the general vicinity of the pond and campground….just let us know if you’d like a tour! We also have listings for RVs and a Cabin. Let us know if you have any questions!

12 top lakeside campgrounds in Alabama with campfires

99%

(233)

Bohamia - Glamp/RV/Camp

28 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents268 acres · Talladega, AL

Please join us at the land of Bohamia for glamping with luxury beds and private decks, primitive camping in picturesque sites, and RV spots with power and water. Bohamia has an upscale bathhouse with private, hot showers and individual toilet rooms with floor-to-ceiling doors. The bathhouse is within 100 yards of all glamps and RV sites. We also have portalets stationed in the RV/Safari Tent area, at The Barn, and at the pond (0.4 miles from welcome center.) Premium RV spots now available with 30 or 50 amp hookups and water. We do not have sewer hookups or a waste station. Glamp, RV or camp amidst the natural beauty of our 268 acre property; we have open fields, shady spots beneath the hardwoods and pines, and even a five acre pond with plenty of fish if you’d prefer to wake up to a water view or take a morning swim. With miles of trails on our property, easy access to the 392,000 acre Talladega National Forest, and less than ten miles from the Pinhoti trail, you’ll never run out of beautiful places to explore. Be sure to save some time to enjoy the boulder strewn creek just a short walk from our welcome center - it’s a must see! Other local attractions are also within reach with the Top Trails ATV park and the Talladega Marksmanship Park only seven miles away.

Gullatte Acres

11 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Smiths Station, AL

Gullatte Acres is a 100 acre farm with meadows, forests, creeks, a pond, and a cotton field. The electric and sewer hookup is a quarter mile from the road and you’re welcome to set up dispersed camping in the general vicinity of the pond and campground….just let us know if you’d like a tour! We also have listings for RVs and a Cabin. Let us know if you have any questions!

County Rd Camp & Glamp

66 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Eufaula, AL

Welcome to our family's cherished property, where history, nature, and comfort intertwine to create an unforgettable experience. For over 100 years, this land has been an integral part of our family's heritage, starting as a flourishing farmland where luscious vegetables once thrived in the sun-kissed fields. Today, we invite you to become a part of this legacy. Nestled amidst the raw natural beauty of the country, our property offers a range of accommodations to suit your preferences. Whether you seek the charm of traditional camping or the allure of glamping, we have something for everyone. Choose from our cozy glamping tents, where the sounds of nature will serenade you to sleep under a starlit sky. If you prefer RV or tent camping, we have ample space for you to set up camp and create your own little haven. We understand that pets are part of the family, and we gladly welcome them to join you on your getaway. They'll love exploring the open fields and running freely in the fresh air. Unwind in the evenings around the fire pit, sharing stories, roasting marshmallows, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Although our property embraces tranquillity and seclusion, we're just a short 10-15 minute drive from the heart of Eufaula, our beautiful historic lakeside Southern town. Immerse yourself in its rich heritage by exploring charming shops, indulging in delectable dining experiences, and marvelling at the sights. Don't forget to take advantage of the world-class fishing and boating opportunities along the pristine shores of Lake Eufaula! Your camping and lodging experience with us extends beyond a mere place to rest. It's an invitation to reconnect with nature, cherish family traditions, and create new memories. Choose from a variety of furnished tents, including bell, yurt, cabin, or teepee styles, to find the perfect sanctuary for your adventure.

Serene Lakefront Retreat

13 sites · RVs, Tents200 acres · Ashville, AL

Greensport RV Park & Marina is a scenic lakeside retreat on Neely Henry Lake in Ashville, Alabama, offering a mix of spacious RV sites with full hookups and serene waterfront tent camping areas nestled among the trees. Enjoy waterfront access with stunning lake views, ideal for fishing, boating, and paddling from our full-service marina. Campers can unwind in shaded picnic areas, explore scenic nature trails, and take advantage of family-friendly amenities, including playgrounds and clean restrooms with showers. Whether you’re here for adventure or relaxation, Greensport RV Park & Marina provides the perfect escape in a welcoming, picturesque setting with all the amenities you could look for. Greensport is perfect for any getaway!

Cottaquilla Creek Campground

15 sites · Tents50 acres · Jacksonville, AL

Welcome to Cottaquilla Creek!! We have over 50 acres of farm land with pastures, meadows, giant hardwood trees, large spring with wading pool, mountain bike trail and a 5 acre lake stocked with bass, bream and catfish. Close to town yet far enough out in the country to see the stars at night. The Pinhoti trail is just down the road, along with Hurricane mountain trail, a little traveled wildlife and nature excursion on National forest land. There is so much nearby for nature lovers, including Coldwater Mountain, Talledega National Forest, Terrapin creek, etc. 2 adults per campsite bookings, kids under 21 camp for free. there is 2 lakefront campsites along with camping in a secluded meadow, pasture campsite and a campsite along a spring fed creek. https://www.facebook.com/reel/1357051888191651

100%

(8)

Starlight Haven at Weiss Lake

18 sites · Lodging50 acres · Cedar Bluff, AL

Starlight Haven at Weiss Lake offers a unique and relaxing experience for our guests. Overlooking nearly 1500 feet of shoreline frontage on Weiss Lake, our unique accommodations, from geodesic domes to safari-style tents to A-frame cabins, are conveniently located only minutes from Little River Canyon and Desoto State Park. Located minutes from Little River Canyon in Alabama, come explore the deepest canyon east of the Mississippi and enjoy the scenic beauty of Weiss Lake!

Lake City Campground

13 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents22 acres · Florala, AL

Just a 10-minute drive to Lake Jackson, Alabama’s only natural lake, this peaceful camping retreat is the perfect place for families to relax and enjoy nature. Positioned in the city of Florala, this campground is a combination of Florida Sunshine and Alabama heritage making it a valuable repository of outdoor activities and perfect for the history-seeking enthusiast. This veteran-owned and operated campground provides a place where family time is revisited with games and campfire stories. Memories can be made in only a short drive for shaded picnics on the beaches of Florala State Park, exploring the peaceful downtown antique shops, or just a shaded stroll through 21+ acres of nature located right outside your door. This location is also an affordable destination for visiting the beaches of Destin, Ft. Walton, or Navarre. Being just an hour drive away, you can spend time enjoying the refreshing salt air, and then return to the campground for some time to relax in the serenity of nature.

92%

(6)

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.

97%

(38)

Camp Travelhick-Eufaula, Al

2 sites · RVs50 acres · Bakerhill, AL

Camp Travelhick is located off an easy on/off main road. A small private driveway leads to an automatic 20' wide secure, coded gate. The camp has two level camping sites. Site 1 is a large 40x62 cement site that can accommodate larger campers/motorhomes with full hookups (electric, water, & sewer). Site 2 is a smaller packed gravel site which is 16x32 with electric and water. Both sites have 50/30/amp connections. For your convenience, there is an additional dump station on the property. Our camping area offers a covered pavilion with two picnic tables, lighting, fans, and a charcoal grill. There is also has an outdoor fire pit for those cold nights or for s’mores! The camping area is about 1.3 acres fully fenced in so pet owners can allow their pets run around and have some secure space without having to worry about a leash. Bring your ATV's or side by sides! The back side of the property has almost 50 acres of ATV and walking trails. A spring fed private 1.5 acre stocked pond with a covered and lighted boat/fishing dock is also located on the property. Covered fishing dock has benches for getting out of the sun and relaxing. Property is less than 15 minutes from a Walmart, Lake Eufaula, many chain/local restaurants, parks, and museums. Property owner is not on site, but is just a phone call/text away.

100%

(10)

River Ridge Retreat

72 sites · Lodging, RVs670 acres · Guntersville, AL

River Ridge Retreat offers 670+ acres of beautiful property full of wildlife for you to explore. There are miles of waterfront, hiking trails and paved roads for biking/golf cart riding. Our property sits directly on Alabama's largest lake, Lake Guntersville. Lake Guntersville covers 69,000 acres and is full of fun activities for the whole family. River Ridge Retreat offers the opportunity to enjoy a quiet, relaxing retreat to nature while still being close enough to local attractions.

99%

(44)

Strattonooga

1 site · RV1 acre · Leesburg, AL

Lovely, forested, water front, 1/2 acre lot located on the best cove Lake Weiss has to offer. Water, sewer, and electric hookup for RV. Drive through access for campers. Private dock! Lots of fun just minutes away: Terrapin creek, DeSoto State Park, Little River Canyon, Pirates Bay Water Park all close by. Decks and docks restaurant is a short 2 minute drive or boat ride away. Cherokee Rock Village is a short 25 minute drive away.

100%

(17)

CAMP 222 (A Private Campground)

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Cullman, AL

Welcome to CAMP 222, a private campground nestled on approximately 1 acre of land adjacent to Lewis Smith Lake in Cullman, AL. Experience the tranquility of lake life as you enjoy boating adventures accessed via our private boat ramp. Relax and bask in the sun on our floating sun deck, or unwind in the shade with a nap in one of our hammocks. As night falls, gather around our fire pit to share stories without the distractions of nearby campers. Our campground offers camper hook-ups for water and electricity, although sewer facilities are not available. Guests must either have a camper with a restroom or bring their own camp toilets. Conveniently situated just off Cullman County Road 222, our campsite is within a quarter mile of two gas stations, two independently owned stores offering short-order food options, and a Dollar General. While there may be some road noise from County Road 222, especially during daytime hours, it typically tapers off in the evening and nighttime. Enjoy stunning views of the 4th of July fireworks from Smith Lake Park, as our property provides a prime vantage point. Lewis Smith Lake, managed by Alabama Power, spans 21,000 acres and is the deepest lake in Alabama at 264 ft. The water level varies throughout the year, usually reaching full-pool from April to July before gradually decreasing for the autumn and winter seasons. Please note the rocky shore near the sun deck, which is why jumping or diving from the sun deck is prohibited. The nearby City of Cullman, located approximately 10 miles away, offers abundant shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Additionally, the city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the Rock The South Music Festival.

Under $50

99%

(43)

Gullatte Acres

11 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Smiths Station, AL

Gullatte Acres is a 100 acre farm with meadows, forests, creeks, a pond, and a cotton field. The electric and sewer hookup is a quarter mile from the road and you’re welcome to set up dispersed camping in the general vicinity of the pond and campground….just let us know if you’d like a tour! We also have listings for RVs and a Cabin. Let us know if you have any questions!

Bohamia - Glamp/RV/Camp

28 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents268 acres · Talladega, AL

Please join us at the land of Bohamia for glamping with luxury beds and private decks, primitive camping in picturesque sites, and RV spots with power and water. Bohamia has an upscale bathhouse with private, hot showers and individual toilet rooms with floor-to-ceiling doors. The bathhouse is within 100 yards of all glamps and RV sites. We also have portalets stationed in the RV/Safari Tent area, at The Barn, and at the pond (0.4 miles from welcome center.) Premium RV spots now available with 30 or 50 amp hookups and water. We do not have sewer hookups or a waste station. Glamp, RV or camp amidst the natural beauty of our 268 acre property; we have open fields, shady spots beneath the hardwoods and pines, and even a five acre pond with plenty of fish if you’d prefer to wake up to a water view or take a morning swim. With miles of trails on our property, easy access to the 392,000 acre Talladega National Forest, and less than ten miles from the Pinhoti trail, you’ll never run out of beautiful places to explore. Be sure to save some time to enjoy the boulder strewn creek just a short walk from our welcome center - it’s a must see! Other local attractions are also within reach with the Top Trails ATV park and the Talladega Marksmanship Park only seven miles away.

County Rd Camp & Glamp

66 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Eufaula, AL

Welcome to our family's cherished property, where history, nature, and comfort intertwine to create an unforgettable experience. For over 100 years, this land has been an integral part of our family's heritage, starting as a flourishing farmland where luscious vegetables once thrived in the sun-kissed fields. Today, we invite you to become a part of this legacy. Nestled amidst the raw natural beauty of the country, our property offers a range of accommodations to suit your preferences. Whether you seek the charm of traditional camping or the allure of glamping, we have something for everyone. Choose from our cozy glamping tents, where the sounds of nature will serenade you to sleep under a starlit sky. If you prefer RV or tent camping, we have ample space for you to set up camp and create your own little haven. We understand that pets are part of the family, and we gladly welcome them to join you on your getaway. They'll love exploring the open fields and running freely in the fresh air. Unwind in the evenings around the fire pit, sharing stories, roasting marshmallows, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Although our property embraces tranquillity and seclusion, we're just a short 10-15 minute drive from the heart of Eufaula, our beautiful historic lakeside Southern town. Immerse yourself in its rich heritage by exploring charming shops, indulging in delectable dining experiences, and marvelling at the sights. Don't forget to take advantage of the world-class fishing and boating opportunities along the pristine shores of Lake Eufaula! Your camping and lodging experience with us extends beyond a mere place to rest. It's an invitation to reconnect with nature, cherish family traditions, and create new memories. Choose from a variety of furnished tents, including bell, yurt, cabin, or teepee styles, to find the perfect sanctuary for your adventure.

Serene Lakefront Retreat

13 sites · RVs, Tents200 acres · Ashville, AL

Greensport RV Park & Marina is a scenic lakeside retreat on Neely Henry Lake in Ashville, Alabama, offering a mix of spacious RV sites with full hookups and serene waterfront tent camping areas nestled among the trees. Enjoy waterfront access with stunning lake views, ideal for fishing, boating, and paddling from our full-service marina. Campers can unwind in shaded picnic areas, explore scenic nature trails, and take advantage of family-friendly amenities, including playgrounds and clean restrooms with showers. Whether you’re here for adventure or relaxation, Greensport RV Park & Marina provides the perfect escape in a welcoming, picturesque setting with all the amenities you could look for. Greensport is perfect for any getaway!

Cottaquilla Creek Campground

15 sites · Tents50 acres · Jacksonville, AL

Welcome to Cottaquilla Creek!! We have over 50 acres of farm land with pastures, meadows, giant hardwood trees, large spring with wading pool, mountain bike trail and a 5 acre lake stocked with bass, bream and catfish. Close to town yet far enough out in the country to see the stars at night. The Pinhoti trail is just down the road, along with Hurricane mountain trail, a little traveled wildlife and nature excursion on National forest land. There is so much nearby for nature lovers, including Coldwater Mountain, Talledega National Forest, Terrapin creek, etc. 2 adults per campsite bookings, kids under 21 camp for free. there is 2 lakefront campsites along with camping in a secluded meadow, pasture campsite and a campsite along a spring fed creek. https://www.facebook.com/reel/1357051888191651

Available this weekend

99%

(43)

Gullatte Acres

11 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Smiths Station, AL

Gullatte Acres is a 100 acre farm with meadows, forests, creeks, a pond, and a cotton field. The electric and sewer hookup is a quarter mile from the road and you’re welcome to set up dispersed camping in the general vicinity of the pond and campground….just let us know if you’d like a tour! We also have listings for RVs and a Cabin. Let us know if you have any questions!

Serene Lakefront Retreat

13 sites · RVs, Tents200 acres · Ashville, AL

Greensport RV Park & Marina is a scenic lakeside retreat on Neely Henry Lake in Ashville, Alabama, offering a mix of spacious RV sites with full hookups and serene waterfront tent camping areas nestled among the trees. Enjoy waterfront access with stunning lake views, ideal for fishing, boating, and paddling from our full-service marina. Campers can unwind in shaded picnic areas, explore scenic nature trails, and take advantage of family-friendly amenities, including playgrounds and clean restrooms with showers. Whether you’re here for adventure or relaxation, Greensport RV Park & Marina provides the perfect escape in a welcoming, picturesque setting with all the amenities you could look for. Greensport is perfect for any getaway!

Cottaquilla Creek Campground

15 sites · Tents50 acres · Jacksonville, AL

Welcome to Cottaquilla Creek!! We have over 50 acres of farm land with pastures, meadows, giant hardwood trees, large spring with wading pool, mountain bike trail and a 5 acre lake stocked with bass, bream and catfish. Close to town yet far enough out in the country to see the stars at night. The Pinhoti trail is just down the road, along with Hurricane mountain trail, a little traveled wildlife and nature excursion on National forest land. There is so much nearby for nature lovers, including Coldwater Mountain, Talledega National Forest, Terrapin creek, etc. 2 adults per campsite bookings, kids under 21 camp for free. there is 2 lakefront campsites along with camping in a secluded meadow, pasture campsite and a campsite along a spring fed creek. https://www.facebook.com/reel/1357051888191651

Bohamia - Glamp/RV/Camp

28 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents268 acres · Talladega, AL

Please join us at the land of Bohamia for glamping with luxury beds and private decks, primitive camping in picturesque sites, and RV spots with power and water. Bohamia has an upscale bathhouse with private, hot showers and individual toilet rooms with floor-to-ceiling doors. The bathhouse is within 100 yards of all glamps and RV sites. We also have portalets stationed in the RV/Safari Tent area, at The Barn, and at the pond (0.4 miles from welcome center.) Premium RV spots now available with 30 or 50 amp hookups and water. We do not have sewer hookups or a waste station. Glamp, RV or camp amidst the natural beauty of our 268 acre property; we have open fields, shady spots beneath the hardwoods and pines, and even a five acre pond with plenty of fish if you’d prefer to wake up to a water view or take a morning swim. With miles of trails on our property, easy access to the 392,000 acre Talladega National Forest, and less than ten miles from the Pinhoti trail, you’ll never run out of beautiful places to explore. Be sure to save some time to enjoy the boulder strewn creek just a short walk from our welcome center - it’s a must see! Other local attractions are also within reach with the Top Trails ATV park and the Talladega Marksmanship Park only seven miles away.

County Rd Camp & Glamp

66 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Eufaula, AL

Welcome to our family's cherished property, where history, nature, and comfort intertwine to create an unforgettable experience. For over 100 years, this land has been an integral part of our family's heritage, starting as a flourishing farmland where luscious vegetables once thrived in the sun-kissed fields. Today, we invite you to become a part of this legacy. Nestled amidst the raw natural beauty of the country, our property offers a range of accommodations to suit your preferences. Whether you seek the charm of traditional camping or the allure of glamping, we have something for everyone. Choose from our cozy glamping tents, where the sounds of nature will serenade you to sleep under a starlit sky. If you prefer RV or tent camping, we have ample space for you to set up camp and create your own little haven. We understand that pets are part of the family, and we gladly welcome them to join you on your getaway. They'll love exploring the open fields and running freely in the fresh air. Unwind in the evenings around the fire pit, sharing stories, roasting marshmallows, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Although our property embraces tranquillity and seclusion, we're just a short 10-15 minute drive from the heart of Eufaula, our beautiful historic lakeside Southern town. Immerse yourself in its rich heritage by exploring charming shops, indulging in delectable dining experiences, and marvelling at the sights. Don't forget to take advantage of the world-class fishing and boating opportunities along the pristine shores of Lake Eufaula! Your camping and lodging experience with us extends beyond a mere place to rest. It's an invitation to reconnect with nature, cherish family traditions, and create new memories. Choose from a variety of furnished tents, including bell, yurt, cabin, or teepee styles, to find the perfect sanctuary for your adventure.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

91%

(16)

Bankhead National Forest

Arley, Alabama

100%

(7)

F.D. Roosevelt State Park

Georgia

100%

(8)

Oak Mountain State Park

Pelham, Alabama

100%

(5)

Wind Creek State Park

Lake Lurleen State Park

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Meaher State Park

Daphne, Alabama

Paul M Grist State Park

Valley Grande, Alabama

88%

(4)

Lake Guntersville State Park

Guntersville, Alabama

Frank Jackson State Park

Opp, Alabama

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Lakeside camping in Alabama with campfires guide

Overview

Even if “Sweet Home Alabama” isn’t already on your road trip playlist, you should add the southern state to your camping itinerary. With its mountains, inland lakes, and Gulf Coast beaches, Alabama has plenty to offer campers, whether you prefer hiking to mountains and waterfalls, diving into Civil Rights history, or renting a seaside cottage—all served with a warm spoonful of Southern hospitality, of course. Opt for a seafront or lakeside campsite in summer when temperatures soar beyond 90°F, or choose a fall or winter trip for cooler weather ideal for hiking.

Where to go

North Alabama

Hikers and campers are in their element in Alabama’s northern wilderness, dotted with caves, waterfalls, and woodlands. Go hiking and kayaking in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains at DeSoto State Park, peep the fall foliage at Little River Canyon National Preserve, and discover the caves of Cathedral Caverns State Park. Or head to the shores of Alabama’s largest lake to camp, boat, and spot bald eagles at Lake Guntersville State Park.

Central Alabama

Urban campers can find plenty of distractions in Birmingham, but Alabama’s largest city is also within easy reach of some of the state’s most memorable natural landscapes. Great hiking, biking, and camping can be found in Talladega National Forest, after which you can scale Alabama’s highest peak at Cheaha State Park and explore ancient caves at Rickwood Caverns State Park. Other popular campgrounds are found at Lake Lurleen and Wind Creek state parks.

South Alabama

Montgomery is the gateway to south Alabama and neighbouring Selma is a key stop on the Civil Rights trail, but outside of the cities, south Alabama is all about lakeside camping. To the east, Lake Eufaula is known as the “Big Bass Capital of the World” and has a wide choice of campgrounds, while nearby Blue Springs State Park offers plenty of lake camping. To the west, the Tombigbee River Valley is also prime for getting on the water.

Gulf Coast

Alabama’s 60-mile stretch of Gulf Coast shoreline is the place to cool off from the summer sun, spot shorebirds along the wetlands, or tee off at one of many coastal golf courses. RV parks are easy to find around the resort towns of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, while Dauphin Island remains a perennial favorite for beach camping. Alternatively, snag an RV site with full hookups at Gulf State Park, or book a cabin on the shores of Lake Shelby at Meaher State Park.