Lake Guntersville State Park and surrounding camping destinations sit at elevations of 560-1500 feet in northeastern Alabama's mountainous terrain. Many sites feature limited shade due to tornado damage in 2011-2012 that removed numerous pine trees. Water access dominates the camping experience with direct riverfront and lakeside options available.
What to do
Fishing access year-round: At Lake Guntersville State Park Campground, the fishing opportunities extend beyond standard lakeshore access. "Great mountainous drive to get to the entrance of the park. Right on the banks of Guntersville lake which has great fishing and watersports," notes Brad W.
Canoe and kayak adventures: TGL Adventures offers direct river access with tent sites and glamping yurts just steps from the water. "We ended up fishing til daylight because the river was physically only 10 steps from our tents," shares Heather B., who adds, "I did not rent a canoe or kayak but I did notice they were headed out they also offered shuttle rides back."
Mountain trails for hiking and biking: The trail system at Monte Sano State Park Campground provides varied terrain for outdoor activities. According to Shelly S., "The hiking is moderate to extreme up and down some interesting rock formations. The mountain bikers and bikers seem to enjoy themselves too, flying down the closed roadway or the steep roadways and challenging themselves on the rocky terrain."
What campers like
Lakefront sites with minimal setup: Campers appreciate the prepared glamping yurts and tent sites along the waterfront near Albertville. At Honeycomb Campground, "Our site was spacious and right on the lake. The beach was very nice and the staff was beyond helpful," reports Derenda M.
Multiple swimming options: The various water access points provide alternatives beyond the main lake. "Nice camp store for necessities...very clean bath houses and friendly staff. Super close to all the things in the city. Boat ramp at campground as well," notes Tanya A. about River Rocks Landing.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural setting allows for animal sightings throughout your stay. "The lake is beautiful... Tons of deer in the park too," mentions Greg S. from Monte Sano State Park, where trails wind through forested areas frequented by wildlife.
What you should know
Shade limitations: Due to past weather events, many sites have less tree cover than expected. "A few years ago a tornado took out a lot of the big pines so it's a bit hot with very little shade. But it's still the best place to camp around Guntersville!" explains Greg H.
Site spacing varies significantly: Campgrounds range from spacious to compact. "Most spots are very close together so you don't eat much privacy. Super crowded on the weekends," reports Scott M. about Lake Guntersville State Park.
Facility differences between campgrounds: Point Mallard City Campground offers additional amenities not found at other locations. "The spaces were a little bit tight & close but they were angled nicely. We had to maneuver the trailer around the trees but not complaining about the shade," notes Timothy T.
Tips for camping with families
Water park access: "Walking distance to water park. Sites are very nice, although a little close to each other," shares Timothy R. about Point Mallard City Campground, which combines camping with water recreation facilities.
Playground facilities: Some locations offer kid-specific amenities. "Nice playground for the kids as well," notes Chris B. about TGL Adventures, which provides yurt camping near Albertville, Alabama with family-friendly features.
Splash pad for younger children: Lake Guntersville State Park includes water features for various ages. L&A C. reports, "There are several types of sites, monthly, cabins and tent camping. There are boat slips (local rentals) and a Pavilion on the water, basketball and tennis courts, playground, shady dog park, splash pad, and clean bathhouses."
Tips from RVers
Pull-through site navigation: RVers should consider site orientation when booking. "We went to the state park for the weekend. Stayed in the A area which we were told had sewer (it does not but it's very close to the dump station). Spots were average for a state park," advises Alanna R.
Utility placement considerations: Wills Creek RV Park has specific site configurations to be aware of. "Sites at park very close together and our dually truck had to be parked sideways in front or back of site. One side of park is for long term stays while the other side is for up to two week stays," explains Ryan & Lorri R.
Leveling requirements: The terrain can create challenges for larger rigs. As Randy G. notes, "The sights weren't particularly level, all gravel and the grass appeared hastily sown over unleveled soil with large clumps of clay and rocks present. You had to watch where you walked to avoid twisting an ankle."
