Best Camping near Athens, AL

Athens is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Athens is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Alabama camping adventure.

Best Camping Sites Near Athens, Alabama (112)

    Camper-submitted photo at Monte Sano State Park Campground near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at Monte Sano State Park Campground near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at Monte Sano State Park Campground near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at Monte Sano State Park Campground near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at Monte Sano State Park Campground near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at Monte Sano State Park Campground near Athens, AL

    1. Monte Sano State Park Campground

    76 Reviews
    422 Photos
    381 Saves
    Brownsboro, Alabama
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $14 - $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Joe Wheeler State Park Campground near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at Joe Wheeler State Park Campground near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at Joe Wheeler State Park Campground near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at Joe Wheeler State Park Campground near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at Joe Wheeler State Park Campground near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at Joe Wheeler State Park Campground near Athens, AL

    2. Joe Wheeler State Park Campground

    18 Reviews
    39 Photos
    84 Saves
    Rogersville, Alabama

    In addition to the resort lodge, Joe Wheeler features lakeside cottages and cabins. Joe Wheeler State Park's campground features a total of 116 campsites. 110 of those sites have full hookup with water, electricity, and sewer. There are bathhouses located in each section. Most sites can accommodate any size camping unit. Tents are also welcome. Picnic tables, pedestal, or fire grills are located at each site.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $17 - $256 / night

    3. Point Mallard City Campground

    12 Reviews
    38 Saves
    Decatur, Alabama
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo at Decatur / Wheeler Lake KOA Holiday near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at Decatur / Wheeler Lake KOA Holiday near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at Decatur / Wheeler Lake KOA Holiday near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at Decatur / Wheeler Lake KOA Holiday near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at Decatur / Wheeler Lake KOA Holiday near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at Decatur / Wheeler Lake KOA Holiday near Athens, AL

    4. Decatur / Wheeler Lake KOA Holiday

    7 Reviews
    11 Photos
    13 Saves
    Trinity, Alabama

    The inviting waters of Wheeler Lake surround this KOA, perched on a peninsula and dotted with native trees. The campground makes the most of its enviable setting, with sites overlooking the water, right along the waterfront and tucked among the shade trees. Thanks to the campground's own boat ramp, it's easy to get out on the lake for a carefree day of fishing, water-skiing or exploring the TVA chain of lakes. A sandy beach welcomes swimmers, and there's plenty of space for strolling and bird-watching. Rent a kayak, a canoe or a bike (child/adult sizes) to explore the lakeshore or campground.

    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Cabins
    • Market
    Camper-submitted photo at T's Outback RV Park near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at T's Outback RV Park near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at T's Outback RV Park near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at T's Outback RV Park near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at T's Outback RV Park near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at T's Outback RV Park near Athens, AL

    5. T's Outback RV Park

    6 Reviews
    8 Photos
    10 Saves
    Rogersville, Alabama

    We are a 51 site RV Park. All sites are 30/50 amp and are full hook up. We are located on the outskirts of Athens, AL near lakes and rivers. We have affordable daily, weekly, and monthly rates. We are pet friendly, all pets should be on a leash and their waste picked up and disposed of properly. We have an onsite laundry, storm shelter and showers. We also have a catch and release pond and a playground for the kids. Take full advantage of our location & enjoy country living. Our close proximity to shopping, sporting and outdoor venues provide you with many choices during your stay.

    Where Alabama & Southern hospitality greets you!

    Please send an email or call for bookings.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $45 - $550 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Northgate RV Travel Park near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at Northgate RV Travel Park near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at Northgate RV Travel Park near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at Northgate RV Travel Park near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at Northgate RV Travel Park near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at Northgate RV Travel Park near Athens, AL

    6. Northgate RV Travel Park

    5 Reviews
    17 Photos
    13 Saves
    Athens, Alabama

    All pull-thru / Full hook-up sites 30 & 50 amp service at every site 4 inch self closing sewer connections Frost free water hydrants with great pressure Free WiFi No mean people Friendly faces in a farm setting

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $45 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Beyonder Getaway at Wheeler Lake near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at Beyonder Getaway at Wheeler Lake near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at Beyonder Getaway at Wheeler Lake near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at Beyonder Getaway at Wheeler Lake near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at Beyonder Getaway at Wheeler Lake near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at Beyonder Getaway at Wheeler Lake near Athens, AL

    7. Beyonder Getaway at Wheeler Lake

    5 Reviews
    10 Photos
    10 Saves
    Trinity, Alabama

    The inviting waters of Wheeler Lake surround Beyonder Getaway Wheeler Lake, nestled on a peninsula and sprinkled with native trees. The campground optimizes its picturesque setting with sites offering breathtaking views of the water, locations directly on the waterfront, and spots nestled among the shade of trees. Boating enthusiasts can easily access the lake for a fun-filled day of fishing, water-skiing, or touring the TVA chain of lakes via the campground's boat ramp. A sandy shore welcomes those looking to swim, while ample space is available for walking, horseback riding, and bird-watching. Visitors can rent kayaks, canoes, jet skis, or bikes (available in both child and adult sizes) to explore the lakeshore or the campground's grounds. The maximum pull-through available is 75 feet.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $40 - $65 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at David Crockett State Park Campground near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at David Crockett State Park Campground near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at David Crockett State Park Campground near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at David Crockett State Park Campground near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at David Crockett State Park Campground near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at David Crockett State Park Campground near Athens, AL

    8. David Crockett State Park Campground

    25 Reviews
    110 Photos
    102 Saves
    Lawrenceburg, Tennessee
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo at Brushy Lake Recreation Area near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at Brushy Lake Recreation Area near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at Brushy Lake Recreation Area near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at Brushy Lake Recreation Area near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at Brushy Lake Recreation Area near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at Brushy Lake Recreation Area near Athens, AL

    9. Brushy Lake Recreation Area

    15 Reviews
    43 Photos
    140 Saves
    Addison, Alabama

    Brushy Lake Recreation Area offers everything from camping, picnicking, boating, and fishing to sanitary facilities including a bathhouse.A 33-acre lake, Brushy Lake has 13 campsites that accommodate very small recreational vehicles and tents. Campers occupy sites on a first come, first serve basis.

    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Trash
    Camper-submitted photo at Redstone Arsenal RV Park & Campground near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at Redstone Arsenal RV Park & Campground near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at Redstone Arsenal RV Park & Campground near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at Redstone Arsenal RV Park & Campground near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at Redstone Arsenal RV Park & Campground near Athens, AL
    Camper-submitted photo at Redstone Arsenal RV Park & Campground near Athens, AL

    10. Redstone Arsenal RV Park & Campground

    5 Reviews
    40 Photos
    13 Saves
    Huntsville, Alabama

    For Active and Retired Military only.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
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Showing results 1-10 of 112 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Athens, AL

416 Reviews of 112 Athens Campgrounds


  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo at Cathedral Caverns State Park Campground near Athens, AL
    Feb. 26, 2025

    Cathedral Caverns State Park Campground

    Beautiful cave!

    General: Small (36-site) campground in two loops; only the upper has a bathhouse. It is about a ¼ mile walk from the lower to the bathhouse. 

    Site Quality: Sites are gravel and vary; some are back-in, some are pull-through and some are parallel. Site 32 was very generous in size although not completely level. There was one picnic table, one set of water/electric utilities, and two fire rings (not sure why there were two). This site could easily fit a large Class A or two smaller campers. 

    Bath/Shower House: Clean and heated. The toilets and showers have a curtain for privacy which IMO feels less private. When I was in the shower, someone opened the curtain not realizing (!) that someone was in there. Warm water at the sinks and showers was appreciated on a damp and chilly day. There is also a clean laundry facility - $3/wash and $2 to dry. The laundry room also has a microwave oven. 

    Activities: There are daily cave tours; we have been in many caves and this one is very nice. By the lower loop is a small climbing wall. There are also hiking trails and gemstone mining, although we did not take advantage of either of these. We were there for the Cave Run - a 10km or half marathon where the last 1.2 miles AND finish are INSIDE the cave, which was very cool! 

    Mason, the camp host, was great. Upon our arrival, he escorted us to our site in his golf cart (entirely not necessary but welcomed) and went over what we needed to know including the WiFi password (otherwise we had no service on Verizon). Be sure to go to the office (up a very steep hill or you can drive) and ask for your 15% senior discount if applicable (you need to show proof you are old!).

  • Bille W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo at Ditto Landing City Campground near Athens, AL
    Feb. 10, 2025

    Ditto Landing City Campground

    Not the best

    We stayed one night of three planned and checked out early . Not mowed, sites were wet and buggy. Would be a decent place if yu wanted to be by your boat.

  • PThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo at Stoney Creek Travel Park near Athens, AL
    Jan. 10, 2025

    Stoney Creek Travel Park

    Great Overnight Spot or Extended Stay

    Easy access to Interstate. Very friendly and helpful staff. A winter storm was headed our way and the made sure we were aware and prepared.

  • MickandKarla W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo at Northgate RV Travel Park near Athens, AL
    Nov. 13, 2024

    Northgate RV Travel Park

    Good for Our Needs

    Our GPS brought us right into the campground (CG) that is conveniently located off I-65 and US-31. Check in was pleasant and quick. They take cash or check.We were assigned pull through site D-1(water and electric 50/30/20 AMP) behind the office. The advantage of this site, is that it has a yard area as the other sites do not. This is a bare bones CG with no amenities. Most of the sites have FHUs. The pad was plenty long enough for our 40’ fifth wheel and F450 plus fairly level. However, if you unhook and leave, you have a long, slightly curved road to back up on to get back in position to hook your rig up unless the site next to you is empty. The utilities are in the middle of the pad and you can maneuver to suit your needs. Water pressure was good at 50 psi and we got 4 bars on Verizon. There’s no Wifi here but due to this CG being a parking lot, no issues with satellite. Like other reviewers stated, there’s a deep ditch on either side of the driveway when you pull in, so keep an eye on how your rig tracks. This CG filled up the Saturday to Sunday we overnighted and we were assigned one of the few water and electric only sites, but were still charged$45 same as the FHU sites? Overall, this CG worked for our needs.

  • Donald S.
    Camper-submitted photo at Marcella Falls RV Park and Campground near Athens, AL
    Sep. 20, 2024

    Marcella Falls RV Park and Campground

    Beautiful! Like going back in time!

    It was so cool sitting outside and watching the amish buggies drive by! We visited some amish farms close by and found all kinds of stuff! Their candy is so good!!!

  • l
    Camper-submitted photo at Beyonder Getaway at Wheeler Lake near Athens, AL
    Sep. 16, 2024

    Beyonder Getaway at Wheeler Lake

    What a dump.

    This campground is nothing like the pictures or reviews. A complete dump top to bottom. Lots of problems from staff to grounds. And Staff is rude and do nothing but smoke and stand around.

  • eThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo at Heritage Acres RV Park near Athens, AL
    Aug. 30, 2024

    Heritage Acres RV Park

    Great spot!

    Everything is clean and new and the bathrooms are amazing. Beautiful pool and splash area for kids. Pool table inside the store and a cute macaw named paco is a fun surprise.

  • Elizabeth H.
    Camper-submitted photo at Beyonder Getaway at Wheeler Lake near Athens, AL
    Jul. 27, 2024

    Beyonder Getaway at Wheeler Lake

    Great family campground!

    This is a huge, beautiful campground with spots that back right up to the water's edge. There are plenty of amenities for the kids, and we had a blast. Definitely pack lots of bug repellent if you stay on the water.

  • Jamie Y.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo at Monte Sano State Park Campground near Athens, AL
    Jul. 23, 2024

    Monte Sano State Park Campground

    Great Primitive Sites

    Really enjoyed the primitive camping site. The bathhouse was clean and there are lots of trails to hike. Very close proximity to Huntsville, making it easy to resupply or just go out and enjoy the city. 🌲🌳🏞️ #PrimitiveCamping #HikingAdventures #CloseToHuntsville

  • C
    Camper-submitted photo at Bama Campground & RV Park near Athens, AL
    Jul. 15, 2024

    Bama Campground & RV Park

    Very friendly host, well setup, Would recommend!

    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. Very friendly host. Would Recommend.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo at Honeycomb Campground near Athens, AL
    Jul. 15, 2024

    Honeycomb Campground

    Difficult site

    Deep ditches around my site made it very, very difficult to park my van - terrified that one of my wheels would fall off the edge. Don’t think I will be back.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo at Thousand Trails Hidden Cove near Athens, AL
    Jul. 15, 2024

    Thousand Trails Hidden Cove

    Average Park-Would return

    *Cabin 3 Stars- Older cabin that had some maintenance and repair issues, generally clean however several minor details needed some cleaning attention, would also benefit from a fresh coat of paint throughout, could use a pressure wash outside *Campground 3 Stars- very peaceful and quiet, nice lake overlook areas, minimal shade, gravel roads *Amenities 3 stars- many amenities yet minimally maintained and showing age and wear *Staff 5 stars- Very friendly, helpful, and responsive

  • L&A C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo at Marshall County Park near Athens, AL
    Jun. 13, 2024

    Marshall County Park

    Beautiful County Park, near Lake Guntersville SP, on TN River

    Marshall County Park, is easy to find/see right on 431. Nothing fancy, but well maintained property, and plenty of room for parking and boating.

  • Nichole K.
    Camper-submitted photo at Beyonder Getaway at Wheeler Lake near Athens, AL
    Jun. 5, 2024

    Beyonder Getaway at Wheeler Lake

    Lovely, family friendly, beautiful views all around

    I only have great things to say. We truly enjoyed our stay, we were right on the water. Its quiet & there's plenty of room between sites so your not sitting on top of your neighbor's. There's horse back riding, paddle boards, jet skis, electric bicycles to rent & Kayaks. We can not wait to stay again. The ladies up front were super helpful & definitely keep the morale up with their bubbly personalities.

  • Steve T.
    Camper-submitted photo at Bama Campground & RV Park near Athens, AL
    Jun. 2, 2024

    Bama Campground & RV Park

    Very peaceful surrounded by nature lots of amenities. Good people!

    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.

  • L&A C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo at Monte Sano State Park Campground near Athens, AL
    Jun. 1, 2024

    Monte Sano State Park Campground

    Beautiful, North Alabama State Park

    Scenic Mountain View! Arrived and greeted by staff at the State Park guard gate, then checked into campground at separate office. Map and instructions given. Nice gravel back-in-site, water and 50amp hook ups. Picnic table and fire-ring at each site. Lots of trees. Sites spaced but not private, not at 33. Lots of traffic , since it is at the entrance and lots of kids riding bikes behind our site as well as tents directly in front of us. Will venture out and explore after the rain, and update as I get info. We Have Starlink, still with very poor reception((under 50) and little to no connectivity with T-Mobile. Would not reserve here for 2 weeks again at this site, for lack of privacy and for partial hook ups.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo at Wolf Pen Hunters Camp near Athens, AL
    Apr. 21, 2024

    Wolf Pen Hunters Camp

    Good free camping

    Sites were level and clear. A little muddy but it had been raining. No utilities or restrooms but thats to be expected with a free site. Sites are spread out and pretty private. Overall a good free camp site.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo at Monte Sano State Park Campground near Athens, AL
    Apr. 3, 2024

    Monte Sano State Park Campground

    Recently renovated camper sites

    Definitely remember to look at the Park's website for the best way into the park. Our RV specific GPS was waaaay off! All the camper pads have recently been redone, so it's pretty easy to find a flat site. We enjoyed the Japanese tea garden, and look forward to coming back for more hiking and site seeing. 1 washer/dryer per bath house-- not new but got the job done. ATT and Verizon signals weren't super strong but good enough to stream some TV and check email, but we used a high gain antenna.

  • L
    Camper-submitted photo at Beyonder Getaway at Wheeler Lake near Athens, AL
    Mar. 17, 2024

    Beyonder Getaway at Wheeler Lake

    Peaceful getaway

    This campground is perfect for a weekend getaway. Being right by water and soaking in the tranquility of this campground is the recharge anyone needs heading back to the real world. We enjoy being close to conveniences, but far enough away to unplug and unwind.


Guide to Athens

Camping near Athens, Alabama, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Hiking: Explore the numerous trails available at Monte Sano State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "There are lots of trails to hike," making it a great spot for nature lovers.
  • Fishing: At Lake Guntersville State Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing right from the shore. A camper shared, "We stayed three nights in primitive camping and it was fantastic. Our site was right on the water."
  • Zip-lining: For a thrill, check out the zip-lining at Lake Guntersville State Park. One family noted, "After taking our granddaughter to Screaming Eagle Zip-line Adventures, we visited the Campground… and it’s amazing!"

What campers like

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the bathhouses at Henry Horton State Park Campground. A visitor remarked, "The bathhouse was clean and general store was great to have onsite."
  • Scenic views: Many enjoy the beautiful landscapes at Clear Creek Recreation Area. One camper said, "Camp grounds are very scenic," highlighting the area's natural beauty.
  • Family-friendly activities: Campgrounds like David Crockett State Park Campground offer various activities for families. A reviewer mentioned, "The campground was very neat… Staff was very friendly, just like fellow campers."

What you should know

  • Limited cell service: Some campgrounds, like Corinth Recreation Area, have poor cell reception. A camper noted, "Not much cell service," so plan accordingly if you need to stay connected.
  • Reservations recommended: Popular spots like Honeycomb Campground can fill up quickly. One visitor advised, "You better stick with the national parks or the army corps on recreation.gov."
  • Weather considerations: Be prepared for sudden weather changes, especially at Meriwether Lewis Campground. A camper mentioned, "Numerous thunderstorms, unfortunately," so check the forecast before heading out.

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose spacious sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites, like Lake Guntersville State Park Campground. A family shared, "Our site was right on the water and far away from any other campers."
  • Plan activities: Make sure to have a list of family-friendly activities. One camper at Henry Horton State Park Campground enjoyed the "pool area with concessions."
  • Pack snacks: Keep everyone happy with snacks on hand. A visitor at Clear Creek Recreation Area mentioned, "The staff was extremely helpful with locating a spot to my specifications."

Tips from RVers

  • Check site dimensions: Before booking, ensure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Joe Wheeler State Park noted, "The pads were huge," which is great for larger rigs.
  • Be aware of amenities: Some campgrounds, like Honeycomb Campground, have limited bathroom facilities. One camper said, "Only one working bathroom/shower house… could be an issue when the campground is crowded."
  • Bring a portable dump station: If you're staying at a site without a dump station, consider bringing a portable one. A visitor at Corinth Recreation Area mentioned, "There are dump stations but they are far from the campsites."

Camping around Athens, Alabama, has something for everyone, whether you're in a tent, RV, or cabin. Enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Athens, AL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Athens, AL offers a wide range of camping options, with 112 campgrounds and RV parks near Athens, AL and 6 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Athens, AL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Athens, AL is Monte Sano State Park Campground with a 4.8-star rating from 76 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Athens, AL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 free dispersed camping spots near Athens, AL.

  • What parks are near Athens, AL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 15 parks near Athens, AL that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.