Arley, Alabama sits near Lewis Smith Lake in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains at around 700 feet elevation. The region features a humid subtropical climate with mild winters and hot summers, making spring and fall the most comfortable seasons for camping. Cell service in the area varies dramatically by carrier, with AT&T generally providing better coverage than Verizon throughout the region's wooded campgrounds and rv sites near Arley, Alabama.
What to do
Natural Bridge hike: Located near Bama Campground & RV Park, this short hike leads to Alabama's longest natural bridge. "This is a great little campground tucked away on the edge of Bankhead National Forest. The location of the campground makes it an excellent location to enjoy the numerous waterfall hikes in the area," notes Jennifer H.
Smith Lake boating: Bring your own watercraft when staying at Thousand Trails Hidden Cove. "This RV park is right on a lake, but a bit away from anything else. If you have any sort of boat, kayak, paddle board, bring it! There is hiking about an hour away at the Bankhead National Forest," recommends Mara S.
Bankhead National Forest trails: Multiple hiking options within 30 minutes of Bama Campground & RV Park. "The campground has hiking trails on the property if you don't have time to visit Bankhead NF," according to Jennifer H., who also mentioned the numerous waterfall hikes nearby.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the room between sites at Togetherness Works RV Park. "Secluded, peaceful w/ full hookups. Had 2 acre site all to ourselves. Camped in 5th wheel. Our dog was happy and made friends w/ the resident deer," reports Annaliese M.
Clean facilities: Quail Creek RV Resort receives high marks for cleanliness. "It's very nice and peaceful. Great bath house. With laundry. Has an inn and golf course on property. Close to 65," writes Tina B. who stayed there for two months.
Stargazing opportunities: The area's low light pollution creates excellent night sky viewing. "Stayed here on an overnight while driving through the state. Great site tucked in the woods, very private area. Huge field with little light pollution to stargaze," notes Chris at Bama Campground.
What you should know
Limited shopping access: Plan ahead for supplies as stores are not nearby. "Nearest Walmart is Cullman which is 45 mins away. Wouldn't recommend staying here if you prefer to be closer to the city but perfect if you want to be in the middle of the woods," explains Nick & Allyssa S. about Hidden Cove.
Variable cell connectivity: Signal strength changes dramatically between locations and carriers. "I had no reception with Verizon but my AT&T hotspot had good reception," reports Mara S. about Hidden Cove. Ronald R. confirms this, noting "Wifi weak cel signal weak."
Seasonal amenities: Some facilities close during winter months. "We were here during winter, so there wasn't a lot going on. This is a nice campground that is adding a lot of new sites," explains Jason E. about Thousand Trails Hidden Cove.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Palomino RV Resort offers several recreation options. "The park was very clean and the employees were super nice. There was a swimming pond, a fishing pond, basketball & tennis court, fire pit, picnic tables," shares Crystal H.
Private camping options: Some parks offer secluded sites for families. "This place is great if you like peace and quiet. Its in the middle of the country side near Bankhead Forest. The campground is nice," writes Steve T. about Bama Campground.
On-site trail access: Parks with on-property hiking save travel time with kids. "The campground has hiking trails on the property if you don't have time to visit Bankhead NF," notes Jennifer H. about Bama Campground, making it convenient for families with limited time.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Thousand Trails Hidden Cove, location matters. "A and B sections are the original sections. C section is brand new with 50 amps hookup. All the big rigs there. I was on C74 with a great backyard overlooking the hills," advises Mara S.
Road considerations: Watch for challenging access roads to some rv sites near Arley. "Be careful driving here the road is very narrow and no shoulders. We met a school bus on the road and ended up having to go into the pit next to the road to avoid the bus that was in our lane," warns Alisa P. about Quail Creek RV Resort.
Leveling preparation: Some parks offer assistance with uneven sites. "Jr Beasely always carries extra lumber in his gator for leveling assistance. At 85 he is very spry and energetic," mentions Jerry W. about Togetherness Works RV Park, noting the owner's helpfulness with site setup.
