Camping options near Cordova, Alabama range from lakeside sites to forest settings across varied terrain. The region sits in the southern Appalachian foothills with an average summer temperature of 89°F and winter lows around 34°F. Most campgrounds in the area span elevations between 400-800 feet, creating diverse microclimates throughout the camping season.
What to do
Water activities at Smith Lake: Clear Creek Recreation Area offers excellent swimming and boating options. "The lots were beautifully wooded and spacing between each site was adequate... The perimeter lake lots in the Hoot Owl Loop all had steps or path access from the site to the shore. This would be especially nice in the summer," reports one visitor to Clear Creek Recreation Area.
Cave exploration: Tour the underground formations at Rickwood Caverns where the temperature remains constant year-round. "The tour of the caverns was well worth the trip. One additional note, the campsite we had did have electricity, much easier to make pancakes for breakfast carrying the electric griddle," notes a camper at Rickwood Caverns State Park.
Hiking trails: The Sipsey Wilderness trails near Corinth Recreation Area provide excellent day hiking options. "This is a great campground which puts you near all the magic of the Sipsey Wilderness Area in the Bankhead National Forest... If you go hiking, make sure you have AllTrails with a downloadable trail map before you leave the campsite, because there is not great cell service on most trails," advises a visitor.
What campers like
Peace and quiet: Burchfield Branch Park offers secluded camping spots away from crowds. "We were blown away by how peaceful Burchfield was. Lot 17 felt like we were all alone. There was adequate place between us and the neighbors, a peaceful creek separating us. The bath house was super clean," notes a visitor to Burchfield Branch Park.
Spacious lakefront sites: Campers appreciate the waterfront options at Corinth Recreation Area. "We stayed at Yellow Hammer site #9 easy pull through with plenty of room. Not only did all the sites have amazing scenery but the roads were well maintained. Full hookups and AT & T cellphone coverage good enough for working from Trailer," shares a camper at Corinth Recreation Area.
Well-maintained facilities: Clear Creek campground receives praise for its clean grounds and spacious sites. "Large spacious sites, quite, and clean. You can find a site to satisfy almost anyone. Lots of sites on the water. If you prefer seclusion, try the upper grounds. You will see deer in the morning and are likely to have a visitor, raccoons, during the night," reports another camper.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have limited connectivity. "This campground has zero cell service, so if you can't do without that read no further... It's a four star only because of cell service. My mom fell while we were there and my children couldn't get in touch with us," warns a visitor to Burchfield Branch Park.
Limited shower facilities: Some campgrounds restrict bathroom access. "There was also a notice that stated only one of the restroom facilities for the entire campground was available so tent families beware and plan your site accordingly. I believe this was due to cleaning for covid-19 but not sure," notes a camper at Clear Creek.
Distance from amenities: Many campsites in the area are remote. "It is deep in the wilderness so do not expect Wi-Fi or cell signal. It's nearly an hour to town come well-stocked!" advises a visitor to Burchfield Branch Park.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Thousand Trails Hidden Cove offers kid-friendly water access. "Big campground. Great guess service. Staff friendly. Spot are very bigs and a good distance between them. Full hookup sites. Amenities are very cleans, kids play grounds. Park for walking, biking, use your boat and kayak, boat ramp access," shares a family camper.
Playground considerations: Check which facilities are open before booking. "We booked this campground due to all they had to offer. The wood on the playground needs to be replaced and the grass really needed cut. There were no horse shoes to play and no golf stuff. The bath house could use a good cleaning as well," notes a visitor to Hidden Cove.
Farm-based camping: Faye Whittemore Farms offers unique animal experiences. "Lots to do and amazing trails. Helpful and friendly farmers. Clean washrooms and near campsite. Not too far from town," reports a family at Faye Whittemore Farms.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Look for level, spacious sites for easier setup. "We've stayed here multiple times and hopefully will many more. This is a quiet campground with well spaced sites, many of which are either on the water (sites #1-8) or close to a small stream," advises an RVer at Burchfield Branch Park.
Hookup availability: Many campgrounds offer full-service sites but with variations. "This is a highly used camping area on Smith lake. In peak times can be hard to get a spot. The area is well maintained has all kinds of hookups. Swim area access to the lake and day use area also," notes a visitor to Clear Creek.
Seasonal considerations: Plan for local weather patterns. "The sites were close enough to see your neighbors but far enough away to not hear them! We stayed here for memorial day weekend and I don't believe there were any empty sites! It was packed," reports a holiday camper at Clear Creek.
