Cabins near Dadeville, Alabama sit primarily along the shores of Lake Martin, a 44,000-acre reservoir with over 750 miles of wooded shoreline. The area features a mix of public and military recreation facilities, with elevations ranging from 480-520 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically reach 90°F during peak camping months, while spring and fall offer milder conditions in the 70-80°F range.
What to do
Hiking trails near Cheaha State Park: Located within driving distance of Dadeville's cabins, these paths offer various difficulty levels through Alabama's highest elevation points. "We hiked 3 trails with excellent views. All easy and enjoyable for all 3 of my kiddos, ages 6, 11 and 12. High Falls was my personal favorite. Also hiked Bold Rock and Pulpit Rock," notes one visitor at Cheaha State Park.
Lake activities at Highland Marina: Boat rentals provide access to West Point Lake's coves and fishing spots. The marina area becomes particularly active during summer months. A visitor mentions that "the marina is nice in the summer. would recommend the cabins they are really nice" at Highland Marina Resort.
Mountain biking at Chewacla: The trail system includes challenging technical sections for experienced riders and gentler routes for beginners. "It's in a nice park with water features, they have a swimming area, small creek, and falls. Many areas have killed mtb trails to ride, worth a sniff," reports a visitor at Chewacla State Park Campground.
What campers like
Privacy at lakeside sites: Many cabin areas offer secluded spots with lake views and private water access. A camper at R. Shaefer Heard notes, "Lake sites are huge and well spaced out with plenty of shade and privacy, others seemed packed in (as with most parks)." R. Shaefer Heard Campground provides this type of setup.
Winter cabin availability: Off-season camping offers quieter experiences and often better site selection. One visitor shared: "We were the only trailer in loop D. It was quiet and very enjoyable! Being right on the lake and having the ducks swim up really thrilled our dogs. The bathrooms were very clean. I imagine that summer is a very different experience, but we enjoyed it!"
Historic structures at Weogufka: The Civilian Conservation Corps cabins provide a glimpse into 1930s forestry history. "Simple and enjoyable. Caretaker and author Sunny Eberhart (Nimblewill Nomad) is wonderful to talk to. Access to southern terminus of the Pinhoti Trail. CCC tower and cabins from 1930's," notes a visitor at Weogufka State Forest Flagg Mtn.
What you should know
Gate closure policies: Several campgrounds implement strict night access restrictions. At R. Shaefer Heard, a camper warns: "The gate is locked shut from 10 PM to 8 AM, no exceptions unless the elderly host personally deems your emergency worthy. Installing a simple keypad would save everyone time and dignity."
Military campground access: Lake Martin Recreation Area primarily serves military personnel but allows civilian use when space permits. A reviewer cautions: "This is another one of the U.S. Military Campgrounds (similar to the Maxwell/Gunter AFB one in Montgomery) and similarly, it caters primarily to RVs. There are a few tent sites available but they aren't very nice or well maintained."
Wi-Fi and cell service variability: Signal strength differs dramatically between cabin locations. "WiFi works great in our section as well if you need that. Speed test showed 10Mbps on my device and I had no issues streaming 4K on a Roku TV," notes one visitor at Chewacla State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several cabin areas offer dedicated recreation facilities for children. A camper at Wind Creek shares: "We love camping at Wind Creek. lots to do for the kiddos!" Another notes that "They have playgrounds throughout the campground, trails from 1 mile long to 15 miles long that can be utilized by horse, bike, or on foot." Wind Creek State Park Campground consistently receives positive reviews from families.
Swimming access points: Many cabin areas include designated swimming zones with safety features. "The kids love the lake and the pool, and there is an easy walk on a boardwalk with amazing views at the end on days when the kids don't feel like hiking," reports one parent.
Educational opportunities: Some cabin areas offer interpretive programs and wildlife viewing. "The store is very well stocked if we forget anything and right across from the store they have a gem mining area that is also great fun for the children," mentions a family visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Pay attention to site dimensions when booking cabins or RV sites. "Reserved out spot long in advance to get a spot on the lake, please do like all campgrounds all sites are not created equal. Most all are concrete pads and level but if your camper is over 25' or so length may cause a problem," advises a visitor at Jackson Lake Towne of Spectre.
Full hookup availability: Services vary significantly between cabin areas. "We stayed in C section with full hook-ups. They have playgrounds throughout the campground, trails from 1 mile long to 15 miles long that can be utilized by horse, bike, or on foot."
Extended stay considerations: Some cabin facilities offer amenities specifically useful for longer visits. A camper reports: "I spent 2 months there and loved everyday. We hated to leave," while another mentions, "Late checkout (3pm) was so nice."
