Elkmont, Alabama camping areas span diverse terrain in the northern part of the state with elevations ranging from 600 to 900 feet. The region experiences mild winters and warm, humid summers with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing from April through October. Several campgrounds offer river access points along the Tennessee River watershed with seasonal water levels that fluctuate based on dam operations.
What to do
Hiking trails for dogs: Monte Sano State Park offers technical hiking trails where leashed pets can join their owners. "These are not your easy day hike trails, though it is possible to take it easy. The problem being when you look at the map and read the names you can't help but go check out the trails! Good, technical hiking, bring your sticks and (once again) bug stuff," notes reviewer Shelly S.
Water activities: Decatur / Wheeler Lake KOA Holiday provides multiple water-based recreation options. "There's horse back riding, paddle boards, jet skis, electric bicycles to rent & Kayaks," says Nichole K. The campground sits directly on Wheeler Lake with easy water access.
Golfing: Point Mallard City Campground places campers next to golfing opportunities. "The golf course is at the campground entrance. There is a six mile walking/biking trail along the Tennessee river," mentions Kathy C., highlighting the convenient proximity to multiple activities.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Red Coach Resort offers unusually large camping areas. "There are large spaces in the woods only minutes from Huntsville. A quiet piece of heaven. A beautiful large creek runs through it, with miles of walking paths, a horse barn, and spaces to play and relax. LOTS OF SPACE," according to Bruce G.
Nature watching: David Crockett State Park Campground provides opportunities for wildlife observation. "Most mornings I can sit outside & watch the deer grazing as I have my coffee," writes nickie F. The park's wooded setting creates natural habitat for area wildlife.
Fossil hunting: Red Coach Resort offers unexpected paleontological opportunities. Bruce G. reports, "Did I mention fossils? All over the place some of the oldest creatures to crawl the earth are there for you to find! I'm not kidding we saw trilobites everywhere along the creek."
What you should know
Waterfront site selection: Sites at Decatur/Wheeler Lake KOA vary in placement and ground conditions. "Our site was rather low, as we asked for a lake site. Since it just rained, there was a lot of standing water around," notes Craig F., suggesting campers consider seasonal rainfall when choosing waterside locations.
Connectivity limitations: York Hollow offers a true disconnect from technology. Tammy M. explains, "Our phones did not get any signal and it was such a welcome relief." Similarly, at Red Coach Resort, Bruce G. mentions, "We did have poor coverage for our mobile data but the phones and texting always worked."
Pet policies: T's Outback RV Park maintains standard pet rules similar to other dog friendly campgrounds near Elkmont. While specific rules aren't detailed in reviews, the campground is consistently listed as pet-friendly with standard leash requirements for common areas.
Tips for camping with families
Water park access: Point Mallard City Campground provides easy access to water recreation. "Walking distance to water park. Sites are very nice, although a little close to each other," Timothy R. notes. The proximity means families can easily walk between their campsite and water activities.
Play areas: David Crockett State Park includes designated activity zones for children. "Loved the trail system as well!! The park had so much to offer. Lots of hiking trails, covered bridge, fishing lake w/boat & kayak rentals plus a beautiful waterfall that is great for sunsets!" writes Shana D., highlighting multiple family-friendly amenities.
Kid-friendly trails: Monte Sano State Park offers trails suitable for children with interesting features. "The trail we took was a little rough, definitely technical but plenty of cool things to keep my granddaughter interested in the next turn," explains Shelly S., suggesting the trails offer engaging elements for younger hikers.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Joe Wheeler State Park Campground provides spacious waterfront sites. "Most sites are on the water with full hook ups! All sites are spacious! Hiking trails all around with water access everywhere!" writes Noel J., highlighting the generous spacing compared to other pet-friendly campgrounds near Elkmont, Alabama.
Pad construction: T's Outback RV Park features solid foundations at each site. "Gravel road but cement pavements on site. Site is very clean and landscape is well maintained," notes Stephanie R., indicating the improved surface makes setup easier.
Maneuverability considerations: Point Mallard City Campground requires careful navigation due to tight roads. Katie D. explains, "The roads to the site was hard to navigate due to the amount of vehicles parked along the roads. However, the sites were great angles and easy to maneuver into and out of." Despite tight access, the site design helps with parking.
