Cherokee, Alabama offers several pet-friendly camping options along the Tennessee River with elevation ranging from 410 to 530 feet above sea level. The area experiences mild winters and hot summers with average annual rainfall of 55 inches. Camping areas range from developed sites with full hookups to primitive riverside spots where temperatures typically reach 90°F during summer months.
What to do
Water activities on the Tennessee River: At J.P. Coleman State Park Campground, campers can boat, fish, and swim in the river. "We stayed on campsite #55. It was back away from the water but we had a clear view to the water," notes Laura D. The park also offers mini golf near the entrance and a small playground.
Disc golf courses: McFarland Park Campground provides a full disc golf course as part of its amenities. "It is a very large park/campground. There is a marina, RV and tent campsites, a playground near the campground, and on the other side of the marina is another playground," writes Trinity W. The park sits directly on the Tennessee River offering multiple recreation options.
Historical sites: Visit nearby Shiloh Military Park when staying at Pickwick Landing State Park Campground. "The Shiloh Military Park nearby kept us busy for a whole day and we spent the evening swimming (real pool, not just a lake) and grilling and campfire at this campground," reports Kim B. The area combines outdoor recreation with historical exploration.
What campers like
Spacious waterfront campsites: Campers appreciate the direct water access at Second Creek Rec Area. "We camp here regularly on the weekends. Good location and easy to get to. We have been camping here for years good spot for fishing kayaking and just good family time," says Jake W. The area has concrete picnic tables and is maintained by local volunteers rather than TVA.
Clean facilities: Many dog-friendly campgrounds near Cherokee maintain excellent bathroom facilities. "Clean campground, bathrooms were clean with plenty of warm water. They have vending machine, washer/dryer on site," writes amber about J.P. Coleman State Park. These amenities make extended stays more comfortable for campers with pets.
Affordability: Some locations offer free camping with basic amenities. "Nice lake view from site 45," notes a reviewer about J.P. Coleman, though they mention being "able to reserve 368 days prior to arrival" indicating planning ahead is beneficial for securing preferred spots, especially during peak seasons when waterfront sites fill quickly.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity. "We checked into this campsite after a disastrous experience and the previous one that we were already checked into. We stayed in a premium site which was level with a concrete pad, a cute little bistro table and a picnic table," shares Bonnie C. about Heritage Acres RV Park, suggesting having backup options is wise during busy seasons.
Uneven terrain: Many campsites in the area have leveling challenges. "The campsites are terribly unlevel. I can honestly say that is the only negative. The campground is very shady & they just improved the bathhouse," reports nickie F. about Pickwick Landing State Park. Bringing leveling blocks is recommended for RV campers.
Security concerns: Some free camping areas have reported safety issues. "First impressions pulling in I was thinking it was going to be awesome but while setting up we noticed thrash all over. The wife picked up a full bag of garbage while I was setting up," writes James R. about Brush Creek Park. Sites with gate attendants typically offer more secure environments.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas and swimming options. "This campground is in my hometown of Florence, AL. It is right on the Tennessee River and it is a very large park/campground. 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 reviewer about McFarland Park.
Safety around water: Most riverside camping areas lack lifeguards. "Bruton Branch campground is really pretty and if you get the last 2 spots you have plenty of space for a group with a rock beach to fish from or to swim in," says Brittni F. about Pickwick Landing, suggesting securing campsites away from water edges when camping with small children.
Bathroom facilities: Quality varies significantly between parks. "Bathrooms were clean with plenty of warm water. They have vending machine, washer/dryer on site. They also have small playground at entrance and small area of mini golf," reports amber about J.P. Coleman State Park, highlighting features that make family camping more comfortable.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When booking at Tishomingo State Park Campground, consider specific site recommendations. "The new section - sites 38-62- is amazing! Just perfect. Beautiful large sites with lake views and perfectly paved and landscaped. The rest of the campground needs the same treatment asap and is in rough shape," advises Greg S.
Premium sites worth the upgrade: At Heritage Acres RV Park, spending extra for premium sites makes a difference. "We stayed in a premium site which was level with a concrete pad, a cute little bistro table and a picnic table. The gravel was nicely manicured the concrete pad was pristine and the area surrounding the camp was beautiful," notes Bonnie C.
Leveling challenges: RVers should come prepared with leveling equipment. "Super easy access from the Natchez Trace Parkway. All sites are level concrete but narrow. No room for error on either side. Grills and some picnic tables close to each site but not close to be convenient to an RV kitchen," reports Wendy T. about Tishomingo State Park.
