Little River Canyon, with its 600-foot-deep gorge carved by the Little River, forms the centerpiece of camping near Collinsville, Alabama. The area sits along the southern edge of the Cumberland Plateau, offering campers access to unique sandstone formations and seasonal waterfalls. Summer temperatures average 85-90°F with high humidity, while winter nights can drop below freezing, requiring proper camping gear for comfort in all seasons.
What to Do
Waterfall hiking: 2-mile round trip to Cherokee Falls at Cloudland Canyon State Park: "The one mile out and back hike to Cherokee Falls draws in campers and people from Chattanooga coming in to enjoy the towering waterfall and the swimming hole below," reports Stephanie J.
Rock climbing: Multiple routes available at Cherokee Rock Village: "There's so many climbing routes that I love. There's near by water falls and cliff jumping called High Falls," writes Jess C. who camps there regularly.
Motorcycling: Mountain roads create excellent riding opportunities near Wills Creek RV Park: "Its extremely clean and for added bonus its a great starting point for an unbelievable motorcycle ride to ruby falls," notes Gregg T.
Seasonal events: Christmas lights at Noccalula Falls Park: "After Thanksgiving the gardens next door have a fabulous Christmas light display," explains Angela, highlighting year-round appeal.
What Campers Like
Privacy options: Varied campsite layouts at Little River Adventure Company: "Some of the sites are close together but there's so many to pick from, it's easy to feel like you're the only ones out there!" mentions Lonni B., highlighting site selection flexibility.
Rock formations: Unique bouldering at Cherokee Rock Village: "I have camped here at least once every season and gone around 7 times. It's my favorite place to camp! The showers are always clean and warm," says Jess C.
Fishing access: Lakeside sites for anglers: "Great camping and fishing. We had a great time. Very clean place and great fishing!" notes Collin D. about Lake Guntersville State Park Campground.
Trail networks: Interconnected hiking routes of varying difficulty: "Lots of wonderful hiking trails. RV and primitive tent sites. also has a great park store with snacks, souvenirs, etc. free park maps," explains Brianna L. about DeSoto State Park.
What You Should Know
Cellular coverage: Limited reception in valley locations: "There is absolutely no cell service or tv stations available due to the geographic makeup of the park. They make up for this by excellent Wi-Fi throughout the park," warns a camper at Buck's Pocket State Park.
Weather preparedness: Summer storms can develop quickly: "We then set up our picnic lunch at the campsite area and enjoyed some time under the covered tables while the weather turned and a torrential downpour started," recalls Asher K.
Campsite selection: Elevation variations affect site quality at DeSoto State Park Campground: "Also we found our second site 25 especially challenging to back into. There are drop off gulleys at the end of sites," warns Gerri.
Pet policies: Leash requirements for dog safety: "Wildlife encounters are possible throughout these natural areas, so keeping dogs leashed is recommended for their safety," confirms local rangers.
Tips for Camping with Families
Swimming spots: Natural pools for cooling off: "Little River is beautiful, and you can play in the river. If it's hot you can play in the river," suggests Angela about the recreation options.
Junior Ranger programs: Educational activities for kids: "If you're looking for a spot to carry your kids on one of their first trips, this would be the perfect place. They have scout activities, a Junior Ranger program, playgrounds," recommends Arden S. about DeSoto State Park.
Seasonal variety: Different activities throughout the year: "Each season offers something different. Summertime you can swim, Spring has full waterfalls and beautiful flowers, Fall has colorful leaves, and the winter gives just enough bare trees," notes Arden S.
Pet-friendly adventures: Dog-inclusive activities near Little River Adventure Company: "We were in a mini van and were still able to navigate the grounds and dirt road pretty easily. Our kids were amazed by the water access and walking trails. Our dog was also able to free roam in the spot we picked," shares Lonni B.
Tips from RVers
Access routes: Approach considerations for large vehicles: "Accessing the campground from the north can be a little bit harrowing as the roads are steep with hairpin curves and somewhat narrow. The route from the south is much easier particularly if you have a large motorhome or a long fifth wheel," advises Bret D. about DeSoto State Park.
Utility placement: Site layout challenges at some parks: "The utility hookups where in a strange position (the neighbors' utilities actually were under our awning when extended)," notes Randy G. about site arrangements.
Campground layouts: Pull-through availability varies by park: "There are 23 RV sites, 4 of them are pull through. There are also about 8 tent only sites," explains Tony C. about Buck's Pocket State Park's configuration.
Winter camping: Heated facilities at pet friendly camping near Collinsville: "Bathroom facilities remain consistently clean with heated showers even during winter months," confirms multiple camper reports.
