Cherokee Rock Village offers primitive camping sites with views of Weiss Lake from the bluff. Located near Leesburg, Alabama, approximately 27 miles from Gallant, the campground has 125 sites available on a first-come, first-served basis. Campsites cost $10-19 per night with senior discounts available. The area features multiple rock formations popular with climbers, along with restrooms, showers, and drinking water.
What to do
Rock climbing: Cherokee Rock Village attracts climbing enthusiasts with numerous routes for all skill levels. "There's so many climbing routes that I love," notes Jess C., adding that the "showers are always clean and warm."
Hiking: Coleman Lake Recreation Area offers trails including a lake loop path. "The trail around the lake was perfect. Caught 3 bass in the lake," reports Jason G. The Pinhoti Trail section passing through the area connects south Alabama to north Georgia.
Fishing: Lake Guntersville State Park Campground provides access to prime fishing waters. "We had a great time. Very clean place and great fishing," mentions Collin D. The park permits boat access and has a marina for campers bringing watercraft.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many reviewers appreciate the well-maintained bathrooms and showers. "The bath house is very clean and up to date. Sites are level and well spaced," writes Micheal S. about Coleman Lake Recreation Area.
Affordable rates: Cherokee Rock Village offers competitive pricing with senior discounts. Kent H. notes, "It's June as I visit, and the full rate is $19 to camp. They gave me a senior discount."
Scenic views: The elevated position of Cherokee Rock Village provides panoramic vistas. "The views were breathtaking to say the least... primitive camping was good on the back side," reports John D. The campground sits atop a ridge overlooking Weiss Lake.
What you should know
Limited equestrian facilities: While searching for horse campgrounds near Gallant, Alabama, options are restricted. Coleman Lake Recreation Area has a separate equestrian campground near the main camping area, but specifics on horse amenities are limited.
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have confusing access roads. "Make sure you use Highway 78 to enter. Google Maps will send you on a 11.5 mile mountain trail (Dugger Mountain Road) that is a dirt 2 track over the mountain...an interesting trip with a camper," warns Micheal S.
Cell service gaps: Coleman Lake Recreation Area has no cellular coverage. "There is absolutely no cell service at all. The nearest reliable service is literally 6 miles down the road," mentions Evan S., adding that "This can certainly be seen as a positive."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds offer play areas for children. "There is a playground for kids and a covered picnic area that could be used for groups," notes Asher K. about Cherokee Rock Village.
Seasonal activities: Coleman Lake hosts special events during holidays. "I camped there on Halloween with my grandkids. My Frankies dressed in costume for me but the camp host saw them and made a point of inviting them for campground trick or treating," shares Evan S.
Water recreation: Lake Guntersville State Park Campground offers water activities suitable for families. Emily C. reports, "We love to SUP, which was great there. The camp hosts and staff were very nice!"
Tips from RVers
Limited privacy: Some campsites at Lake Guntersville State Park offer minimal separation between sites. "Most spots are very close together so you don't eat much privacy. Super crowded on the weekends," advises Scott M.
Utilities available: Cherokee Rock Village accommodates smaller RVs. "We have a truck camper but you could come here in an RV. Super quiet, has a dump station, fire pits, showers and playgrounds," notes Courtney.
Post-tornado conditions: Lake Guntersville State Park experienced significant tree loss. "A few years ago a tornado took out a lot of the big pines so it's a bit hot with very little shade. But it's still the best place to camp around Guntersville!" explains Greg H.
