Camping near Gadsden, Alabama offers options ranging from riverfront sites to mountain settings, with elevations from approximately 500 to 1,800 feet above sea level. Most campgrounds in the area remain open year-round, with spring and fall offering milder temperatures for outdoor activities. The region receives about 55 inches of annual rainfall, creating seasonal waterways perfect for activities like tubing and swimming.
What to do
Tubing adventures: Big Wills Creek Campground offers tubing opportunities right from the property. "The tubing is fun and the powered camp sites are limited but are right next to the water which is nice. They do have bathrooms close to camp area and a playground for kids and other activities for adults like cornhole and a huge outdoor pool table," notes Chris L.
Rock climbing: Cherokee Rock Village provides extensive climbing routes with views of Weiss Lake. "I have camped here at least once every season and gone around 7 times. It's my favorite place to camp! There's so many climbing routes that I love. There's near by water falls and cliff jumping called High Falls," shares Jess C.
Hiking trails: Trails at DeSoto State Park offer various difficulty levels across rocky terrain. "Our favorite hike was starting at the swimming pool (closed for the season) and following the river past the Lodge. It was on the yellow trail and we reached a point where it was getting pretty iffy - just scrambling over rocks at the river's edge," explains Gerri.
Boating and fishing: Multiple water access points at Greensport RV Park provide opportunities for boating and fishing. "I've been boating and fishing. There's plenty to do. Don't forget crappie fishing is just around the corner," mentions William M.
What campers like
Multiple swimming areas: River Rocks Landing features three swimming pools, including an infinity pool. "They have 3 pools and a splash pad! I would say this is my to go to place! Y'all check out the Christmas light display during the holidays!" writes Elizabeth P.
Campsite variety: Cheaha State Park offers everything from tent sites to cabins at Alabama's highest elevation. "We stayed in the Semi-Primitive space and picked a tent. Very clean and water was code by as well as restrooms. Picnic table and fire ring made cooking and dining simple," says George's F.
Camp store amenities: Several campgrounds maintain well-stocked stores. At The Cove RV Resort, "Booking was extremely easy on the website. It was $35 total (including all taxes) for full hookups, water, & sewer. Each site includes a picnic table," according to Meghan T.
Clean facilities: Lake Guntersville State Park maintains spotless bathhouses. "Noccalula Falls was great. The park was fun and the campsites were clean and well kept. The showers were spacious and very clean. Would recommend 100%," says Elizabeth.
What you should know
Site spacing varies: At Noccalula Falls Park & Campground, "Sites~ most are SMALL and right next to your neighbor. Some have more space but all in all its tight. Driving into the campground and finding your site is TIGHT as well," warns Angela.
Seasonal operations: Some areas close during winter months. "Winter camping was good. Some sites might be tight if campground is full," mentions Freida B. about Noccalula Falls.
Gate access restrictions: Security measures may limit after-hours entry. "The gate is locked after 8pm, but you can get a key for a deposit of $10, which you get back when you leave," explains Rose Alice W.
Potential utility issues: Be prepared for occasional infrastructure challenges. "We did have some issues but I was able to verify with the grounds electrician that the low voltage issue was due to Alabama electric and not the camp ground," shares Mocsaw $.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated kid areas: Many campgrounds offer child-specific amenities. At Greensport RV Park, a visitor notes, "Had a great time camping this weekend at Greensport campground. The staff were very helpful, lots of planned activities for the kids. Scenery was great, lots of amenities."
Consider swimming alternatives: When creek levels are low, pools provide reliable options. "They have a playground for the kids, dog park, swimming pool, boating and fishing," notes William M.
Book early for holiday periods: Pineview RV & Park and other sites fill quickly during peak seasons. "This was a quiet little camp with a pond for fishing and the owner was extremely nice and helpful. Would definitely stay again," shares Jennifer P.
Scout educational opportunities: Many parks offer junior programs. "If you're looking for a spot to carry your kids on one of their first trips, this would be the perfect place. They have scout activities, a Junior Ranger program, playgrounds, swimming pools, and plenty of trails to hike," recommends Arden S.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: At DeSoto State Park, "We found our second site 25 especially challenging to back into. There are drop off gulleys at the end of sites and maybe experienced RVers think nothing of it, but we thought it was tricky," warns Gerri.
Consider access roads: Some campgrounds have challenging approach routes. "Accessing the campground from the north can be a little bit harrowing as the roads are steep with hairpin curves and somewhat narrow. The route from the south is much easier particularly if you have a large motorhome or a long fifth wheel," advises Bret D.
Bathroom proximity varies: Check site maps before booking. "The facilities were very clean and spacious but not very accessible. We had to walk nearly a quarter of a mile just to reach them on the camp roads," notes one RVer.
Pet-friendly considerations: For pet friendly camping near Gadsden, Alabama, most campgrounds welcome pets but have specific guidelines. "Leashed pets are welcome throughout most of the property, and several campgrounds feature grassy areas along shorelines that provide additional space for pet exercise," according to local information.
