Camping cabins near Cordova, Alabama offer convenient shelter in the southernmost region of the Appalachian Mountains. Located within the William B. Bankhead National Forest region, the area sits at elevations ranging from 500-800 feet, creating moderate temperature variations between day and night. Cabin availability becomes limited during autumn months when fall foliage attracts visitors from Birmingham and surrounding areas.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Smith Lake Park features multiple hiking paths suitable for various skill levels. "Great campground & people! Only reason for 4 instead of 5 stars is the lack of things to do. No fenced in dog park but plenty of space to have one," notes one visitor at Hidden Cove RV Resort.
Water activities: Fishing and boating options exist at several lakes near cabin locations. "This RV park is right on a lake, but a bit away from anything else. If you have any sort of boat, kayak, paddle board, bring it! There is hiking about an hour away at the Bankhead National Forest," mentions a camper at Hidden Cove RV Resort.
Nature observation: Wildlife viewing opportunities exist throughout the area, with Bama Campground & RV Park offering on-property nature trails. "The campground has hiking trails on the property if you don't have time to visit Bankhead NF," states a reviewer.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Cabin and campground cleanliness receives positive mentions. "Clean and quiet. Bathhouse was extremely clean. It was extremely clean. Then moved over to Section B of the main camp ground. Remodeled spaces with adequate space for a newbie to back her travel trailer in with no problems," shares a camper at Oak Mountain State Park Campground.
Lake views: Multiple cabins offer water views or quick access. "We loved this place, a little off the heating path but well worth it. You must check out the nature bridge nearby as well as the Houston jail. Sites were large and bathrooms were very clean," says a visitor at Hidden Cove RV Resort.
Quiet atmosphere: Many cabins provide peaceful settings away from main camping areas. "This is a great little campground tucked away on the edge of Bankhead National Forest. The location of the campground makes it an excellent location to enjoy the numerous waterfall hikes in the area," notes a Bama Campground & RV Park visitor.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Mobile reception varies significantly between locations. "Cell service is spotty so either have a mobile data setup or by the local connection for your stay," warns a camper at The Ridge Outdoor Resort.
Distance from supplies: Plan ahead for grocery needs as many cabin locations require driving. "Nearest Walmart is Cullman which is 45 mins away. Wouldn't recommend staying here if you prefer to be closer to the city but perfect if you want to be in the middle of the woods and have no reason to leave," advises a Hidden Cove RV Resort visitor.
Seasonal considerations: Weather affects cabin comfort and access. "Very hot, humid and rainy time of year! Would be back in the fall perhaps," reports a summer visitor to the area.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several cabin locations maintain playground facilities for children. "The campground was laid out well with spacious gravel sites and full hookups. Sites 2-4 had good views of the pond/field, sites 10-15 backed up to the tree line to provide a little shade all other sites had full sun," explains a Bama Campground visitor.
Educational opportunities: Wildlife centers and farm experiences exist near some cabin areas. "I've been going here since I was a kid and it's one of my favorite places in the world. You'll never run out of things to do between the endless hiking trails, the museum of wildlife, and the wildlife rescue center," shares an Oak Mountain Backcountry visitor.
Beach access: Some cabins offer swimming areas for family enjoyment. "We got a tent site with power. Great price! Clean park, lake is always a good thing. The beach area had a lot of rocks! Probably due to water level low had to go buy some water shoes, but then it was all good," mentions a Smith Lake Park reviewer.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose cabin location based on specific needs. "We were here during winter, so there wasn't a lot going on. This is a nice campground that is adding a lot of new sites. The older sites seem to be mostly 30 amp, FHU. They do have some 50 amp, and it looks like all the new sites are 50 amp. You are right on the lake with a good view."
Hookup availability: Determine utility needs before booking. "Full hookups. Amenitied are very cleans, kids play grounds. Park for walking, biking, use your boat and kayak, boat ramp access. Access is restricted at night. We have a great time and fun time."
Accessibility issues: Some cabin areas have challenging access roads. "We found this spot on the Dyrt a few days ago! Put together a last minute camping trip with some other college students. Very cheap, clean and friendly! Most of the camp is for dirt bike riding but the park was almost empty at the end of the night!"
