Tishomingo State Park Campground offers multiple camping options near Cherokee, Alabama, situated in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains with distinctive sandstone formations. The park features two main camping areas with a new section (sites 38-62) offering recently renovated spaces with improved landscaping and lake views. Overnight temperatures can drop into the 40s during spring and fall months, creating ideal conditions for campfires and evening activities.
What to do
Hiking trail exploration: Several trails showcase the area's natural beauty at Tishomingo State Park Campground. "There is a swinging bridge and trail is very cool! The river is fantastic," notes a visitor who rated their experience highly. The Bear Creek area offers peaceful spots for relaxation between hikes.
Disc golf courses: Multiple disc golf layouts provide recreational opportunities for all skill levels. "Great for families with many hiking trails and 3 disc golf courses," mentions one reviewer who found the park peaceful even during busy periods.
Historical education: Learn about regional history and archaeological significance. The area contains sites important to Native American heritage. "There is a lot to do in Tishomingo! Plenty of trails that would satisfy an Ultramarathoner... and historic sites to visit," explains a frequent camper who visits regularly.
Kayaking opportunities: Explore waterways when conditions permit. "Hoping to kayak here this summer," notes a visitor who enjoyed sitting beside Bear Creek during previous stays. Water levels vary seasonally, with spring typically offering the best conditions.
What campers like
Affordable pricing: J.P. Coleman State Park Campground provides economical camping options with good amenities. "Nice level sites! New grills. Updated picnic tables. Nearby to several local restaurants," reports a camper who appreciated the value. Rates remain competitive compared to private campgrounds in the region.
Clean facilities: Bathhouses receive regular maintenance at most area campgrounds. "Showers were very hot and the bathrooms were very clean!" reports a Tishomingo visitor. Another camper at J.P. Coleman noted, "Restrooms were clean and air conditioned. Family type campgrounds with friendly happy campers."
Waterfront sites: Several campgrounds offer premium spots along lakes and rivers. "Site 13 with electric and lake side was perfectly level and near restroom with showers, which were large!" shares a winter visitor to Tishomingo, highlighting the appeal of off-season camping when crowds thin out.
Helpful staff: Park personnel provide assistance and local knowledge. A J.P. Coleman guest mentioned, "Staff was super friendly and helpful helping us find ice cream during a storm rolling thru." Park rangers often conduct educational programs covering local ecology and history.
What you should know
Site selection considerations: Choose carefully as quality varies widely within each campground. At Pickwick Dam Campground, "The perimeter sites are roomier, offer more privacy than the interior ones." The campground was "totally rebuilt by the TVA after flooding in 2019" and now features level sites with "plenty of room for a tent and RV on all 92 sites."
Seasonal restrictions: Some facilities close during winter months. "The pool has long been out of service and swimming isn't allowed in the lake," notes a Tishomingo visitor, suggesting river swimming may be possible when conditions permit.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly across the region. A camper at Tishomingo observed, "Cellphone coverage is not good here for Verizon or AT&T. Better at front of camp." Plan accordingly if you need reliable internet access.
Reservation timing: Popular sites book quickly, especially during peak seasons. Many campgrounds allow reservations up to one year in advance. Some maintain first-come, first-served sites for spontaneous trips.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: McFarland Park Campground provides multiple play areas for children. "There is a marina, RV and tent campsites, a playground near the campground, and on the other side of the marina is another playground," explains a local resident familiar with the facilities.
Swimming options: Beach areas offer supervised water recreation at some parks. "There is also a small sandy beach between the marina and campground," notes a McFarland Park visitor, though families should check current water conditions before planning beach activities.
Educational opportunities: Ranger programs teach children about local wildlife and ecosystems. Many parks offer junior ranger activities during summer months when visitation peaks.
Safety considerations: Keep children away from steep bluffs and fast-moving water. "This campground is right on the Tennessee River and it is a very large park/campground," observes a McFarland visitor, highlighting both opportunities and potential hazards for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many sites require careful positioning and blocks. At Brush Creek Park, "It has paved roads in it 18 padded spots with water hookups," but leveling can still be challenging on some sites. Another reviewer noted the campground has "separate area for RVs and tents. RV side has all necessary hook up."
Site dimensions: Research pad lengths before booking as some cannot accommodate larger rigs. "Super easy access from the Natchez Trace Parkway. All sites are level concrete but narrow. No room for error on either side," cautions a Tishomingo visitor who found the value good despite space limitations.
Water and electric placement: Position your RV strategically relative to hookups. "The downfall to this park is the camper pads. There are a few that are perfect. Most of them once you step out of your camper has a huge drop off. Just remember to park as close to the hookup side as possible," advises a Tishomingo camper who experienced this challenge firsthand.
