Best Campgrounds in Alabama

With over 20 state parks, more inland waterways than any other state, and multiple Appalachian peaks, more and more outdoor lovers are turning to Alabama for adventure. While football is still king in this southern state, tourists enjoy the serenity of Alabama's white sand beaches and the thrill found within its carved canyons. So lace up the boots or grab a paddle – it is time to find camping in Alabama!

Alabama's shores have always been a hot spot for southern beach bums, but with the growing popularity of events like Hangout Festival, Gulf Shores is quickly becoming a bucket list destination for many. Fortunately, coastal camping is a reality in the Heart of Dixie.

Beach camping can be one of the most challenging experiences of your life, and simultaneously, the most peaceful. Find camping in Alabama along the sandy coastline of Gulf Shores and wake up to the sound of crashing waves. Warm waters and comfortable year-round temperatures make Gulf Shores a desirable stop for locals and visitors alike.

Looking to escape the crowds? Head north to camp primitively or grab a cabin close to Dismals Canyon. Not only will you find waterfalls and natural bridges at Dismals Canyon, but you can also find "dismalites," a rare fly that emits blue-green light in its larval form. Many explorers tour the canyon at night to catch a once-in-a-lifetime glimpse of this natural light show.

Water lovers might prefer exploring the state by winding through all 631 miles of The Alabama Scenic River Trail instead. As the longest water trail in any single state in the country, this waterway takes paddlers from northeastern Alabama into the Gulf, passing through the heart of the state in the process. With The Dyrt, you can be sure to find the best camping in Alabama along the way.

Best Camping Sites in Alabama (540)

    1. Gulf State Park Campground

    102 Reviews
    Orange Beach, AL
    Website
    +1 (251) 948-7275

    "Gulf Shores Alabama Gulf State Park Current camping spot on the canal. Ours is a nice pull thru with electric and water. Almost 500 sites here from tent to big rig friendly."

    "Gulf Shores Alabama Gulf State Park Current camping spot on the canal. Ours is a nice pull thru with electric and water. Almost 500 sites here from tent to big rig friendly."

    2. Oak Mountain State Park Campground

    94 Reviews
    Hoover, AL
    Website
    +1 (205) 620-2520

    "It is located only about 20-40 min outside downtown. Oak Mountain has several of options of things to do away from just camping and hiking (which of course are also great to do here)."

    "Oak Mountain State Park is Alabama’s largest state park. Located just outside of Birmingham, it’s easy to escape to nature without being too far off the beaten path. This park is HUGE!"

    3. Upper Improved Campground — Cheaha State Park

    90 Reviews
    Oxford, AL
    Website
    +1 (256) 488-5115

    "The kids love hiking around Alabama’s highest peak! There is a lake at the base of the mountain that stays busy in summer but it’s not terribly crowded."

    "Cheaha State Park is a absolute must visit if you're living in Alabama or visiting."

    4. Monte Sano State Park Campground

    75 Reviews
    Brownsboro, AL
    Website
    +1 (256) 534-6589

    $14 - $30 / night

    "This site backs up to a draw and each evening just before dust we could watch the deer walk up through. 

    The bathhouse is centrally located, newer, and cleaned daily."

    "This land trust and state park offers a fun little get away in northern Alabama, just outside the city of Huntsville."

    5. DeSoto State Park Campground

    74 Reviews
    Alpine, AL
    Website
    +1 (256) 845-5075

    $38 / night

    "If you have a large group you want to take camping in Alabama I highly recommend this site. There is great hiking nearby and the sites are large enough for a lot of people."

    "This part of Alabama is absolutely stunning, at close to 1700 feet in elevation, this area provides some of the most elevation in the state with absolutely stunning natural beauty."

    6. Wind Creek State Park Campground

    47 Reviews
    Alexander City, AL
    Website
    +1 (256) 329-0845

    "Lots of trees and lots of waterfront lots on the shores of one of Alabamas most beautiful lakes."

    "We stayed at site 100 it was an excellent site right on the water next to us was like a private beach. This is the only public access to Lake Martin. Large lake for swimming, boating, fishing."

    7. Lake Guntersville State Park Campground

    42 Reviews
    Guntersville, AL
    Website
    +1 (256) 571-5455

    "This is a nice state park in a small town in north Alabama. The lake is really pretty and the campground has a nice view of it."

    "The lake is gorgeous and big! The best fishing I've had in Alabama is at Guntersville St. Park!"

    8. Gunter Hill

    34 Reviews
    Prattville, AL
    Website
    +1 (334) 269-1053

    $26 - $32 / night

    "Very quiet peaceful campground on the wooded shores of the Alabama River. Plenty of level sites. Bathroom and showers centrally located."

    "Gunter Hill Park is a Corp of Engineers campground just outside of Montgomery, Alabama. Although we have not camped at many COE parks, I can't imagine any of them topping this one!"

    9. Noccalula Falls Park & Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

    36 Reviews
    Gadsden, AL
    Website
    +1 (256) 549-4663

    "Here you can swim in the pool, play with your kids on the play ground or take them on walk to view the waterfall . Noccalula Falls is a very large water fall and spectacular to see. "

    "The park is an urban oasis just outside of Gadsden. It is gated. The campground has concrete pads, mostly back in, some shade trees, little grass around the camp sites."

    10. Chewacla State Park Campground

    34 Reviews
    Auburn, AL
    Website
    +1 (334) 887-5621

    "Chewacla State Park is adjacent to Auburn, AL, and it stays busy due to the proximity of the school and city. I stayed twice for a geology class and found the campsites and amenities to be wonderful."

    "Great hike to an amazing g fall close by, and dont hesitate to venture further for other waterfalls. On thing I would say was not so great, laundry space and bathrooms could use update."

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Showing results 1-10 of 540 campgrounds

Recent Reviews in Alabama

2282 Reviews of 540 Alabama Campgrounds



Guide to Alabama

Camping in Alabama offers a mix of beautiful landscapes, outdoor activities, and family-friendly environments. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an action-packed adventure, Alabama's campgrounds have something for everyone.

What to do

  • Hiking and Biking: Many campgrounds, like Oak Mountain State Park Campground, have extensive trails. One visitor mentioned, “The park has so many different activities including hiking, BMX trails, swimming, and an archery range.”
  • Water Sports: At Wind Creek State Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing, kayaking, and swimming. A reviewer said, “We love this campground! Archery, fishing, playgrounds, hiking and so much fun!”
  • Historical Sites: Check out Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park Campground for a mix of history and nature. One camper noted, “Trails to hike, water to play in, fishing, history places to see and go through.”

What campers like

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. One visitor at Gunter Hill said, “Gorgeous site, huge, shady, and across from restrooms.”
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds pride themselves on cleanliness. A reviewer at Millers Ferry Campground mentioned, “Nice bathrooms and showers, friendly and helpful host, clean site with concrete pad and picnic table!”
  • Friendly Staff: Campers appreciate helpful hosts. A visitor at Burchfield Branch Park said, “The camp hosts were active and extremely friendly.”

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Deerlick Creek, have fewer amenities. A camper noted, “The campground doesn’t do the best job at marking how to get to each site.”
  • Wildlife Caution: Be aware of local wildlife. One camper at Gunter Hill Campground warned, “Lots of poison ivy!! And the bathrooms were rundown and dingy.”
  • Seasonal Access: Some campgrounds are only open during certain months. For example, Gunter Hill is open from March 1 to October 31.

Tips for camping with families

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and swimming areas. A parent at Wind Creek State Park Campground said, “The marina store has tons of useful items that you could forget to bring along with alcohol.”
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids, especially near water. One camper at Deerlick Creek mentioned, “Ticks were everywhere, so be cautious.”
  • Plan for Weather: Alabama can get hot and humid. A visitor at Birmingham South RV Park noted, “The bathrooms and showers were consistently clean and the hot water was great.”

Tips from RVers

  • Check Hookups: Make sure your site has the right hookups for your RV. A reviewer at Millers Ferry Campground said, “Water & electric hook ups. Good water pressure, dump station on property.”
  • Space Matters: Look for spacious sites. One camper at Gunter Hill Campground mentioned, “Very spacious sites in Catoma loop. Clean, well kept, very affordable rates.”
  • Be Prepared for Bugs: Bring bug spray, especially in warmer months. A visitor at Burchfield Branch Park warned, “This campground has zero cell service, so if you can’t do without that read no further.”

Camping in Alabama can be a fantastic experience if you know what to expect. Enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available in Alabama?

According to TheDyrt.com, Alabama offers a wide range of camping options, with 540 campgrounds and RV parks in Alabama and 29 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground in Alabama?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground in Alabama is Gulf State Park Campground with a 5-star rating from 102 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping in Alabama?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 29 free dispersed camping spots in Alabama.

What are the best parks in Alabama?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 463 parks in Alabama that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.