Camping options near Gurley, Alabama include several state parks and private campgrounds within a 30-mile radius. The region sits at the southern edge of the Cumberland Plateau with elevations ranging from 600-1,000 feet, creating varied terrain for recreation. Summer temperatures typically reach the 90s with high humidity, while winters remain mild with occasional frost, making year-round camping viable.
What to do
Cave exploration: Rickwood Caverns State Park Campground offers impressive underground tours. "The tour of the caverns was well worth the trip," notes Matthew D. The cave system maintains a constant cool temperature and features unique formations. "The cave tour is worth doing," confirms Lee D.
Mountain biking: Oak Mountain State Park Campground provides extensive trail systems for cyclists. "This place has everything, mtn bike, gravel bike, trail running, road running, road biking," explains Soren B. The park includes trails for various skill levels across its expansive grounds.
Water activities: Swimming and fishing opportunities exist at multiple locations. "Sites on the lake were beautiful and had ducks came right up to our site," reports maureen L. about Oak Mountain. At Smith Lake Park, "There is a beach area and a boat launch," mentions Vanessa S., providing water recreation options from swimming to boating.
What campers like
Campsite privacy: The primitive camping areas at Rickwood Caverns offer more seclusion. "The primitive loop offers more space between sites," with sites "bordered by woods and hills which gave the kids lots to explore," reports Melissa R.
Recent renovations: Oak Mountain has undergone significant improvements. "They put a massive amount of money into updating this place. This is the #1 best state park campground I have ever been at," states Soren B. Improvements include "remodeled spaces with adequate space for a newbie to back her travel trailer in with no problems," according to Melinda S.
Natural swimming: Big Canoe Creek Outfitters provides access to creek swimming. "Did some tent camping brought my inflatable fishing boat fish the river caught about eight bluegill and a couple Bass," shares Ryan T. The creek offers refreshing water during hot Alabama summers.
What you should know
Site sizes vary significantly: Many campgrounds have mixed site types. At Smith Lake Park, "the tent sites are nicely tucked inside of wooded areas, the RV sites are tightly packed together with little shade," reports Dwight L.
Weather considerations: Alabama summers can be extremely hot and humid. "If it's hot you can play in the river," suggests Angela about Noccalula Falls Park & Campground, highlighting the importance of water access during summer months.
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "Reserved 363 days prior to arriving," mentions one Oak Mountain camper, indicating the need to plan well ahead for prime weekends.
Gate security: Some campgrounds implement controlled access. "The campgrounds implement a gate with security code access after hours," providing additional safety measures for overnight stays.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds offer play areas for children. "There is a cute playground for the little ones," notes Melissa R. about Rickwood Caverns, while Noccalula Falls has "a playground, access to public park, bathrooms, pavilion," according to Tiffany D.
Multi-activity options: The Ridge Outdoor Resort provides diverse recreation. "There are dirt bike trails, a zip line, an air soft course, a pond, and stunning views of the valley below," describes Megan M., offering activities for various ages.
Animal encounters: Several parks feature wildlife viewing opportunities. Oak Mountain includes "a very neat trail with rescued owls, turkeys and red hawks, and more," notes Scott C., providing educational experiences for children.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most dog friendly campgrounds near Gurley offer various utility connections. Oak Mountain features "remodeled spaces with adequate space for a newbie to back her travel trailer in with no problems," shares Melinda S.
Site leveling: Pay attention to terrain when booking. "A30 level site and nearly full shade coverage" is recommended at Oak Mountain by one reviewer, highlighting the importance of checking site specifications when booking.
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have navigation difficulties. "Poor signage upon entering Park," notes one Oak Mountain reviewer, while Noccalula Falls is described as "TIGHT as well" when "driving into the campground and finding your site," according to Angela.
