Lake Guntersville State Park sits at approximately 600 feet above sea level in northeastern Alabama, where the Tennessee River widens to form the 69,000-acre reservoir. After the 2011 tornado removed much of the tree canopy, the open landscape now offers unobstructed views of the surrounding mountains and lake while creating more accessible terrain for equestrians. Water levels can fluctuate by 1-2 feet seasonally, affecting shoreline camping and trail conditions.
What to do
Fishing from shore or boat: Lake Guntersville offers world-class bass fishing opportunities throughout the year. "We had a great time. Very clean place and great fishing!" notes Collin D. about Lake Guntersville State Park Campground.
Explore rock formations: Drive approximately 50 miles to Cherokee Rock Village for unique boulder formations and climbing opportunities. "We explored the caves and climbed the rock formations. There are also trails to hike, run or bike," shares Dori H. about Cherokee Rock Village.
Swimming in designated areas: Cool off during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F. "The camp hosts and staff were very nice! There is a splash pad, and clean bathhouses," reports L&A C. about Lake Guntersville State Park.
Water sports: Bring your stand-up paddleboard or kayak to explore the lake. "We love to SUP, which was great there," shares Emily C. about Lake Guntersville State Park Campground.
What campers like
Open campsites: The tornado-cleared landscape creates spacious camping areas. "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. about Lake Guntersville State Park Campground.
Lake views and water access: Sites near the shoreline provide direct water access. "The park is one of the nicer parks. Great mountainous drive to get to the entrance of the park. Right on the banks of Guntersville lake which has great fishing and watersports," says Brad W.
Park amenities: The state park offers numerous facilities beyond standard camping. "The SP Lodge is worth visiting, which has a nice restaurant. LGSP has a golf course, and the quaint town is close by and has shopping and several restaurants," mentions L&A C.
Seasonal considerations: Fall brings cooler temperatures and changing foliage along the lake. "We went to the state park for the weekend... the views, the facilities, and the trails were awesome. Can't beat lake Guntersville for beauty and nature," notes Alanna R.
What you should know
Limited shade: The lack of mature trees affects summer camping comfort. "Such a beautiful spot! We like a bit more trees, which they had until a tornado came through in 2011 or 12. There is not a lot of privacy," warns Emily C.
Site proximity: Many campsites are positioned close together. "Most spots are very close together so you don't eat much privacy. Super crowded on the weekends," cautions Scott M.
Clean facilities: Despite high usage, restrooms and common areas receive regular maintenance. "Super clean bathrooms, beautiful view of the lake," reports Zoë about Lake Guntersville State Park Campground.
Store supplies: The on-site store stocks camping essentials. "The store at the front has a good variety of anything you might want/need," confirms Alanna R. who stayed in the A camping area.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple play areas accommodate different age groups. "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," details L&A C. about Lake Guntersville State Park Campground.
Kid-friendly parks nearby: Consider nearby alternatives for family camping. "We loved Sharon Johnson. Really good camp for littles and good spot for first time campers. Camp host was awesome," recommends RON M. about Sharon Johnston Park.
Nature exploration opportunities: Create fossil-hunting adventures for children. "Did I mention fossils? All over the place some of the oldest creatures to crawl the earth are there for you to find! I'm not kidding we saw trilobites everywhere along the creek," shares Bruce G. about Red Coach Resort.
Off-grid experience options: Consider the trade-offs of remote camping with children. "It is absolutely beautiful! The most beautiful I've stayed. There are not a lot of amenities but the beautiful site of those mountains. Be warned... There is no cell service and no Wi-Fi," notes Nathan T. about Mountain Cove Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose sites strategically based on hookups needed. "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.
Bring portable shade: Due to limited tree cover, consider portable canopies or awnings. "Full hookup sites. Great views. Due to tornados in recent years, there are not many trees," confirms Jaime W. about Lake Guntersville State Park Campground.
Space for larger RVs: The open landscape accommodates larger rigs. "Tent site... full hookups... plenty of space," reports Dale B. who stayed at Lake Guntersville State Park Campground.
Equestrian camping accommodations: While no permanent horse facilities exist, the campground layout supports equestrian needs. The park requires proper manure management and restricts horses to designated multi-use pathways throughout the 6,000-acre property.
