Camping in Alabama: Best Alabama Campgrounds 2024

United States
—
Alabama

98% (2836 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Alabama

Star Hosts in Alabama

Top camping destinations

Oak Mountain State Park

Monte Sano State Park

747 campgrounds

Blue Springs State Park

390 campgrounds

Bankhead National Forest

465 campgrounds

Under $50

99%

(232)

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.

Hidden Branch Campground

10 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Ashland, AL

Nestled in the heart of rural Clay County, Alabama, Hidden Branch Campground is a serene and rustic haven that beckons nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers seeking respite from the urban hustle. This tranquil retreat features five spacious RV campsite lots, each equipped with 20/30/50 amp hookups and water to ensure a comfortable camping experience amidst the beauty of nature. Additionally, four tent/primitive sites cater to those seeking a more traditional camping experience. For those yearning to disconnect from city life without sacrificing modern conveniences, Hidden Branch Campground is the perfect escape. The campground offers an intimate setting with a half-mile hiking trail winding through the grounds, providing an opportunity for campers to explore the natural surroundings. Facilitating responsible waste management, the campground provides an on-site dump tank, and a shower and outhouse adds to the convenience of visitors. Two of the RV campsite lots offer a captivating view of a small, tranquil pond, enhancing the camping experience with picturesque scenery. The pond's serene waters invite activities such as fishing, wildlife watching, or simply basking in the peaceful embrace of the great outdoors. In recognition of the need for connectivity, Hidden Branch Campground ensures that campers can stay in touch with the outside world through WiFi access. Whether you're catching up on work or communicating with loved ones, the campground's amenities cater to the demands of today's connected lifestyle. Environmental stewardship is a priority at Hidden Branch Campground, evident in strategically placed garbage receptacles that facilitate a litter-free and eco-friendly space. This commitment to preserving the environment contributes to the overall appeal of the campground. Whether you seek a rejuvenating retreat by the pond, a convenient base camp for exploring Clay County's natural beauty, or simply a place to unwind and recharge, Hidden Branch Campground offers a well-appointed and tranquil setting for campers looking to immerse themselves in the scenic wonders of rural Alabama.

Parksland Retreat

10 sites · Lodging, Tents40 acres · Talladega , AL

Parksland Retreat is a 40 acre forest and nature retreat with off grid facilities and homestead all surrounded by the Talladega National Forest. Parksland is in the heart of Talladega National Forest. Come for a hike on the trails on property, nearby Pinhoti trail or swim in the beautiful creek. Furnished Cabins, Bell Tents and Primitive Camping Available for you, your partner, and/or a group. We have Parking for one (1) car per booking. , and access to the Retreat grounds and waters where we have swimming, and hiking. Clothing Optional Property LGBTQ+ & BIPOC FRIENDLY

Dark Hollow

5 sites · RVs, Tents14 acres · Crossville, AL

Dark Hollow Park provides beautiful, private, and secure primative campsites. Potable water and a composting privey are available. The camp host is on site if there are any questions. There is a one-mile hiking trail, a small stream and waterfalls located a short hike down into Dark Hollow. The Hollow is rich in history. There is a small Amphitheater in the bottom of the hollow where permanent water remains year-round. Dark Hollow has played many roles from sanctuary to battleground over the years. There are numerous activities within a short distance.

Argo’s Park & Trails

13 sites · RVs, Tents21 acres · Mount Olive, AL

We are conveniently located 15 miles north of Birmingham AL and 2 miles off of Interstate 65. Our property is approx 21 acres of beautiful hardwoods and pine trees. The front 7 acres is a mixture of open and shaded areas. The back 14 acres consists of trails and roads you can explore. You won’t have any problems finding a place to hang a hammock and relax. There is always wildlife on the property. Come relax and enjoy the land for a few days or come sleep overnight in a safe environment.

12 top campgrounds in Alabama

99%

(97)

Dark Hollow

5 sites · RVs, Tents14 acres · Crossville, AL

Dark Hollow Park provides beautiful, private, and secure primative campsites. Potable water and a composting privey are available. The camp host is on site if there are any questions. There is a one-mile hiking trail, a small stream and waterfalls located a short hike down into Dark Hollow. The Hollow is rich in history. There is a small Amphitheater in the bottom of the hollow where permanent water remains year-round. Dark Hollow has played many roles from sanctuary to battleground over the years. There are numerous activities within a short distance.

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.

Argo’s Park & Trails

13 sites · RVs, Tents21 acres · Mount Olive, AL

We are conveniently located 15 miles north of Birmingham AL and 2 miles off of Interstate 65. Our property is approx 21 acres of beautiful hardwoods and pine trees. The front 7 acres is a mixture of open and shaded areas. The back 14 acres consists of trails and roads you can explore. You won’t have any problems finding a place to hang a hammock and relax. There is always wildlife on the property. Come relax and enjoy the land for a few days or come sleep overnight in a safe environment.

Parksland Retreat

10 sites · Lodging, Tents40 acres · Talladega , AL

Parksland Retreat is a 40 acre forest and nature retreat with off grid facilities and homestead all surrounded by the Talladega National Forest. Parksland is in the heart of Talladega National Forest. Come for a hike on the trails on property, nearby Pinhoti trail or swim in the beautiful creek. Furnished Cabins, Bell Tents and Primitive Camping Available for you, your partner, and/or a group. We have Parking for one (1) car per booking. , and access to the Retreat grounds and waters where we have swimming, and hiking. Clothing Optional Property LGBTQ+ & BIPOC FRIENDLY

Hidden Branch Campground

10 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Ashland, AL

Nestled in the heart of rural Clay County, Alabama, Hidden Branch Campground is a serene and rustic haven that beckons nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers seeking respite from the urban hustle. This tranquil retreat features five spacious RV campsite lots, each equipped with 20/30/50 amp hookups and water to ensure a comfortable camping experience amidst the beauty of nature. Additionally, four tent/primitive sites cater to those seeking a more traditional camping experience. For those yearning to disconnect from city life without sacrificing modern conveniences, Hidden Branch Campground is the perfect escape. The campground offers an intimate setting with a half-mile hiking trail winding through the grounds, providing an opportunity for campers to explore the natural surroundings. Facilitating responsible waste management, the campground provides an on-site dump tank, and a shower and outhouse adds to the convenience of visitors. Two of the RV campsite lots offer a captivating view of a small, tranquil pond, enhancing the camping experience with picturesque scenery. The pond's serene waters invite activities such as fishing, wildlife watching, or simply basking in the peaceful embrace of the great outdoors. In recognition of the need for connectivity, Hidden Branch Campground ensures that campers can stay in touch with the outside world through WiFi access. Whether you're catching up on work or communicating with loved ones, the campground's amenities cater to the demands of today's connected lifestyle. Environmental stewardship is a priority at Hidden Branch Campground, evident in strategically placed garbage receptacles that facilitate a litter-free and eco-friendly space. This commitment to preserving the environment contributes to the overall appeal of the campground. Whether you seek a rejuvenating retreat by the pond, a convenient base camp for exploring Clay County's natural beauty, or simply a place to unwind and recharge, Hidden Branch Campground offers a well-appointed and tranquil setting for campers looking to immerse themselves in the scenic wonders of rural Alabama.

98%

(496)

Choccolocco Creek Campground

8 sites · RVs, Tents35 acres · Eastaboga, AL

Convenient stop for the night or a few days for RV’s or Tent campers and a good place to get a hot shower - only a easy mile a half from I-20 exit 173 ( Eastaboga - Talladega Superspeedway Exit ) also a good base camp to see Cheaha State Park - bike at Coldwater Mountain- see the Talladega Superspeedway , Combat Park Flea Market , Oxford ballgames or other area Activities - I reserve one RV site and two tent sites for hipcamp and rent the other five RV sites at the top of hill on a monthly basis - these hipcamp sites are wooded, shady with woods between the other sites to give some privacy while still not far from the unique showers made from the old chicken house feed bins -these showers are very functional and I have been complimented that they are the best showers on the east coast

99%

(38)

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!

98%

(147)

Heart of the Country

8 sites · RVs, Tents12 acres · Bay Minette, AL

Heart of the Country is our home and also your own personal twelve acre state park whenever you stay with us! We are less than 15 minutes from Interstate 10 and from Interstate 65. I offer a half-dozen campsites, all either on a relatively level paved driveway or grass. Power (20 amp and 30 amp) and water is available. We have two 30 amp campsites, which are first come, first served. WIFI is available! (please ask for password). We have a portable toilet for your use. This is a Longleaf Pine sanctuary with lots of nature trails. This is also a hobby farm with livestock (Donkey, two Goats, a Duck and a flock of Chickens). I feed the livestock grain every morning usually between 8 and 9 am, and again hay before dusk. You are always welcome to join me and I'll introduce all of them to you! My dog, Homer, is our very friendly welcoming ambassador who will enthusiastically great you upon your arrival. I put him up in his kennel each evening around dusk, then lock him in his shed until morning which keeps him from backing during the night. We also host an AirBnB, so other guests may be here as well. Texting via the app is our preferred mode of communication. If you call, please leave a message if I can't answer, and I will call you back. We are slowly updating the site photos. Use them only to determine your price, for example: A site with 30 amp power and water is $25 per night. A site with 20 amp power and water is $20 per night. A boondocking site (no power) is $15 per night. All sites have access to a porta-potty and water. Suggested local attraction: Blakeley State Historic Park is four miles away.

97%

(152)

CampFire at the Riverbend

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents38 acres · Robertsdale, AL

38 plus acres with 1200ft pristine riverfront. Remote but accessible. Chose your site. Blaze a trail to the river, private beaches, tubing and swimming. 20 acres wooded and open field for a more remote experienced. Camp off your tailgate. You still have river access. RVs are welcome nice level easy access spots but no hook ups. Plenty of room for extra vehicles and trailers. Bring your horses!

97%

(77)

Colorful Camping at Beakertopia✨️🌈

22 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2 acres · Bon Secour, AL

Come camp on one of the Southeast's most unique properties, Beakertopia! Our 2.4 acre artist compound is enclosed in bamboo and lush with hundred-year-old live oaks + native pollinator flowers we’ve planted. Choose any spot to pitch your tent and enjoy our magic oasis only 20 min from the beautiful white sandy beaches of Gulf Shores. You're welcome to use the "outdoor living room" as you please. This area includes a bar with rainwater catchment for washing hands/dishes, refrigerator, freezer, electric tea kettle, microwave, solar oven, complimentary coffee/tea station, 2 burner biogas stovetop with cooking equipment&utensils, games, aerial yoga silks, climbing wall, slackline, Iyengar yoga rope wall, trash/recycling, filtered alkaline drinking water and more! Feel free to use our laundry facilities, communal picnic basket, and complimentary condiments, seasonings, sauces, etc found in the door of the fridge. Attached to the lounge is our air conditioned ecobathroom with *hot* shower, bio toilet, and complimentary toiletries if you forget anything. We currently have an armadillo taking up residence at Beakertopia and he comes out every night. He is cute and harmless, but sounds like a grown man walking around if it’s dark and you can’t see him- don’t be alarmed! Please note that our growing community is not "finished" as we have many years worth of projects we intend on using this land to experiment with. With our 2 aircrete domes are under construction, there are lots of tools and materials on site. We do try to limit any loud work being done while campers are here, but we cannot fully clean up the construction site every single day. While many visitors leave with inspiration for their own homes & appreciate the chance to view our building process rather than just the final product, we understand it's not for everyone. Gulf Shores offers many nice, high-end condos+hotels if you're looking for a more luxurious experience. Just like ourselves, Beakertopia is a work in progress and we are happy to share our journey with those who resonate! Learn more about this land: Community. Art. Sustainability. At Yum Arts Collective we believe that the power lies in the collective, rather than the individual. A group of people working towards a shared goal can truly create magic out of thin air. We know this to be true because we've witnessed it time and time again through our business and life. We created Beakertopia to show that alternative lifestyles are indeed possible and can actually flow beautifully. We hope to inspire others to break out of the square boxes that society puts you in from the moment you enter this world. Beakertopia is a beautiful 2.4 acre piece of land in Bon Secour, AL that we purchased in 2020 to explore sustainability, alternative building methods, and permaculture. Due to the seasonal nature of this region we're able to devote half the year to our business and half the year to our land which allows for a symbiotic relationship for the 2 to serve one another simultaneously. Our intention for this artist community is to bring like-minded people together and make the world a more beautiful place. It serves as our primary residence and also residence for seasonal workers&traveling artists when they come here. Every year we have the opportunity to employ about a dozen people to work with us during the tourist season, from March-October. Aside from our local employees, we also wanted to create a space that would allow for fellow travelers to join our crew. Beakertopia provides the possibility for friends from around the world to come live and work. Check out our website for more info ✨️

98%

(77)

Little River Adventure Company

34 sites · Tents40 acres · Fort Payne, AL

Our 40 acre ADV base camp is top rated by riders, climbers, paddlers, cyclists, hikers, and explorers visiting the Little River Canyon National Preserve, DeSoto State Park, and Lookout Mountain area. We are also a Destination Yamaha Location renting bikes and ebikes. No RVs or heavy vehicles please.

100%

(25)

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

98%

(496)

Choccolocco Creek Campground

8 sites · RVs, Tents35 acres · Eastaboga, AL

Convenient stop for the night or a few days for RV’s or Tent campers and a good place to get a hot shower - only a easy mile a half from I-20 exit 173 ( Eastaboga - Talladega Superspeedway Exit ) also a good base camp to see Cheaha State Park - bike at Coldwater Mountain- see the Talladega Superspeedway , Combat Park Flea Market , Oxford ballgames or other area Activities - I reserve one RV site and two tent sites for hipcamp and rent the other five RV sites at the top of hill on a monthly basis - these hipcamp sites are wooded, shady with woods between the other sites to give some privacy while still not far from the unique showers made from the old chicken house feed bins -these showers are very functional and I have been complimented that they are the best showers on the east coast

Heart of the Country

8 sites · RVs, Tents12 acres · Bay Minette, AL

Heart of the Country is our home and also your own personal twelve acre state park whenever you stay with us! We are less than 15 minutes from Interstate 10 and from Interstate 65. I offer a half-dozen campsites, all either on a relatively level paved driveway or grass. Power (20 amp and 30 amp) and water is available. We have two 30 amp campsites, which are first come, first served. WIFI is available! (please ask for password). We have a portable toilet for your use. This is a Longleaf Pine sanctuary with lots of nature trails. This is also a hobby farm with livestock (Donkey, two Goats, a Duck and a flock of Chickens). I feed the livestock grain every morning usually between 8 and 9 am, and again hay before dusk. You are always welcome to join me and I'll introduce all of them to you! My dog, Homer, is our very friendly welcoming ambassador who will enthusiastically great you upon your arrival. I put him up in his kennel each evening around dusk, then lock him in his shed until morning which keeps him from backing during the night. We also host an AirBnB, so other guests may be here as well. Texting via the app is our preferred mode of communication. If you call, please leave a message if I can't answer, and I will call you back. We are slowly updating the site photos. Use them only to determine your price, for example: A site with 30 amp power and water is $25 per night. A site with 20 amp power and water is $20 per night. A boondocking site (no power) is $15 per night. All sites have access to a porta-potty and water. Suggested local attraction: Blakeley State Historic Park is four miles away.

CampFire at the Riverbend

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents38 acres · Robertsdale, AL

38 plus acres with 1200ft pristine riverfront. Remote but accessible. Chose your site. Blaze a trail to the river, private beaches, tubing and swimming. 20 acres wooded and open field for a more remote experienced. Camp off your tailgate. You still have river access. RVs are welcome nice level easy access spots but no hook ups. Plenty of room for extra vehicles and trailers. Bring your horses!

Argo’s Park & Trails

13 sites · RVs, Tents21 acres · Mount Olive, AL

We are conveniently located 15 miles north of Birmingham AL and 2 miles off of Interstate 65. Our property is approx 21 acres of beautiful hardwoods and pine trees. The front 7 acres is a mixture of open and shaded areas. The back 14 acres consists of trails and roads you can explore. You won’t have any problems finding a place to hang a hammock and relax. There is always wildlife on the property. Come relax and enjoy the land for a few days or come sleep overnight in a safe environment.

Parksland Retreat

10 sites · Lodging, Tents40 acres · Talladega , AL

Parksland Retreat is a 40 acre forest and nature retreat with off grid facilities and homestead all surrounded by the Talladega National Forest. Parksland is in the heart of Talladega National Forest. Come for a hike on the trails on property, nearby Pinhoti trail or swim in the beautiful creek. Furnished Cabins, Bell Tents and Primitive Camping Available for you, your partner, and/or a group. We have Parking for one (1) car per booking. , and access to the Retreat grounds and waters where we have swimming, and hiking. Clothing Optional Property LGBTQ+ & BIPOC FRIENDLY

Dog-friendly getaways

98%

(496)

Choccolocco Creek Campground

8 sites · RVs, Tents35 acres · Eastaboga, AL

Convenient stop for the night or a few days for RV’s or Tent campers and a good place to get a hot shower - only a easy mile a half from I-20 exit 173 ( Eastaboga - Talladega Superspeedway Exit ) also a good base camp to see Cheaha State Park - bike at Coldwater Mountain- see the Talladega Superspeedway , Combat Park Flea Market , Oxford ballgames or other area Activities - I reserve one RV site and two tent sites for hipcamp and rent the other five RV sites at the top of hill on a monthly basis - these hipcamp sites are wooded, shady with woods between the other sites to give some privacy while still not far from the unique showers made from the old chicken house feed bins -these showers are very functional and I have been complimented that they are the best showers on the east coast

99%

(97)

Dark Hollow

5 sites · RVs, Tents14 acres · Crossville, AL

Dark Hollow Park provides beautiful, private, and secure primative campsites. Potable water and a composting privey are available. The camp host is on site if there are any questions. There is a one-mile hiking trail, a small stream and waterfalls located a short hike down into Dark Hollow. The Hollow is rich in history. There is a small Amphitheater in the bottom of the hollow where permanent water remains year-round. Dark Hollow has played many roles from sanctuary to battleground over the years. There are numerous activities within a short distance.

99%

(928)

Parksland Retreat

10 sites · Lodging, Tents40 acres · Talladega , AL

Parksland Retreat is a 40 acre forest and nature retreat with off grid facilities and homestead all surrounded by the Talladega National Forest. Parksland is in the heart of Talladega National Forest. Come for a hike on the trails on property, nearby Pinhoti trail or swim in the beautiful creek. Furnished Cabins, Bell Tents and Primitive Camping Available for you, your partner, and/or a group. We have Parking for one (1) car per booking. , and access to the Retreat grounds and waters where we have swimming, and hiking. Clothing Optional Property LGBTQ+ & BIPOC FRIENDLY

Argo’s Park & Trails

13 sites · RVs, Tents21 acres · Mount Olive, AL

We are conveniently located 15 miles north of Birmingham AL and 2 miles off of Interstate 65. Our property is approx 21 acres of beautiful hardwoods and pine trees. The front 7 acres is a mixture of open and shaded areas. The back 14 acres consists of trails and roads you can explore. You won’t have any problems finding a place to hang a hammock and relax. There is always wildlife on the property. Come relax and enjoy the land for a few days or come sleep overnight in a safe environment.

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.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

91%

(16)

Bankhead National Forest

Arley, Alabama

100%

(7)

F.D. Roosevelt State Park

Georgia

100%

(14)

Blue Springs State Park

Blue Springs, Alabama

100%

(5)

Gulf State Park

Orange Beach, Alabama

100%

(8)

Oak Mountain State Park

Pelham, Alabama

100%

(5)

Wind Creek State Park

Our Town, Alabama

100%

(6)

Talladega National Forest

Maplesville, Alabama

100%

(3)

Buck's Pocket State Park

Langston, Alabama

100%

(3)

Cathedral Caverns State Park

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping in Alabama 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.