The Decatur area offers RV camping options along the Tennessee River and surrounding countryside. Several campgrounds sit within 30 minutes of downtown Decatur, providing access to water recreation, hiking trails, and nearby attractions. Weather ranges from hot, humid summers with temperatures above 90°F to mild winters where overnight freezing sometimes occurs.
What to do
Lake activities at Smith Lake: Thousand Trails Hidden Cove provides direct lake access for boaters and paddlers. "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!" notes a visitor who recommends water recreation as the primary activity.
Hiking in Bankhead National Forest: Located about an hour from several campgrounds, the forest offers waterfall trails and scenic paths. "You must check out the nature bridge nearby as well as the Houston jail. Sites were large and bathrooms were very clean," shared one camper staying at Bama Campground & RV Park.
Stargazing opportunities: Rural campgrounds away from city lights provide excellent night sky viewing. "Great site tucked in the woods, very private area. Huge field with little light pollution to stargaze," reports a visitor about Bama Campground.
What campers like
Quick interstate access: Northgate RV Travel Park provides convenient overnight stays. "Easy to make a reservation by either phone or e mail. Site was very clean and well spaced from other campers. Site was level and required no adjustments to level the RV," notes a traveler who appreciated the straightforward setup.
Swimming options: Several parks maintain pools or swimming areas during warm months. "They have a shower house, laundry room, several common areas to sit, docs, boat ramp, salt water pool & basketball hoop," mentions one camper about Jay Landings Marina & RV Park.
Peaceful environment: T's Outback RV Park offers a quiet setting with natural surroundings. "This place is all the above. The owners are very nice and helpful. Will definitely stay here when ever I'm down here again working," writes a long-term visitor who valued the tranquility.
What you should know
Cell service variability: Connectivity differs significantly between parks. "I had no reception with Verizon but my AT&T hotspot had good reception," reports a camper at Thousand Trails Hidden Cove, while another notes "Cell service is spotty so either have a mobile data setup or by the local connection for your stay."
Limited amenities at some parks: Palomino RV Resort focuses on basics rather than extensive facilities. "A little pricey for an overnight stay, but really well kept campground with 50 AMP & full hookup," mentions one reviewer about the straightforward offerings.
Distance to supplies: Many campgrounds sit away from major shopping areas. "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," advises a camper at Thousand Trails Hidden Cove.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Check for updated play equipment before booking. "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," notes a visitor at Thousand Trails Hidden Cove who found some recreational options lacking maintenance.
Recreation alternatives: StarStream Campground and other parks offer various activities when weather prevents water recreation. "We stop for an overnight stay. The park was very clean and the employees were super nice. There was a swimming pond, a fishing pond, basketball & tennis court, fire pit, picnic tables," describes a family at Palomino RV Resort.
Campground security: Some parks implement safety measures for families. "Access is restricted at night. We have a great time and fun time," mentions a visitor at Thousand Trails Hidden Cove who appreciated the secure environment.
Tips from RVers
Entrance challenges: Watch for difficult driveways at several parks. "When we departed, heading back towards the interstate, you come to a stop sign. Our RV GPS and Waze wanted us to turn right on Mt. Zion Rd instead of going left as we did when we arrived. We took the right turn, and about the time the trailer swung, we saw the drop-off into the ditch," warns a camper at Quail Creek RV Resort.
Site leveling considerations: Many parks feature gravel sites requiring minimal adjustment. "Site was level and required no adjustments to level the RV. Wi Fi was a bit slow and we were completely unable to get any over the air and there was no cable tv available," reports a camper about their experience.
Military camping options: Active duty and retired military personnel can access Redstone Arsenal facilities. "This is your typical military PCS campground for people in transit. No shade! Cement pads to park on. A laundry room, pavilion and showerhouse. There is a dog park and you are off the beaten path."
