Cabins near Hodges, Alabama dot Lewis Smith Lake and the nearby Tennessee River. The region's forest elevation ranges from 500 to 900 feet, creating unique waterfront views from many cabin sites. Winter temperatures typically range from 30-50°F while summer months see 75-95°F with higher humidity levels in July and August.
What to do
Explore night hiking trails: At Dismals Canyon Cabins and Primitive Campsites, visitors can experience unique nocturnal wildlife. "We were fortunate enough to enjoy a private tour on a Friday night and were treated to a mesmerizing display of glow worms, which call this canyon home," notes one visitor. Some campers even see these bioluminescent creatures from their campsites: "After we got everything set up and got all the lights out, we noticed the glowing dismalites along the Canyon wall behind our tent!"
Kayak Bear Creek: Located minutes from the cabin accommodations at Elliot Branch - Bear Creek Dev Auth, this waterway offers easy paddling options. "It is a short drive to Bear Creek if you want to kayak or canoe, but the cabins are on lakefront property and you can just jump in!" reports a camper. Access points are available directly from some cabin properties.
Visit the Nature Bridge: A unique destination near Smith Lake cabins that spans forest areas. "You must check out the nature bridge nearby as well as the Houston jail," recommends a camper who stayed at Hidden Cove. This wooden structure offers hiking opportunities and photo locations within a short drive of many cabin rentals.
What campers like
Clean bath facilities: Many cabin rental locations maintain high-quality shower buildings for guest use. At Tombigbee State Park Campground, "Bathrooms were okay. No gate after hours. Very quiet though. Hiking was nice and there are many trails." Another visitor noted, "Bathrooms are adequate. Poor cell service with AT&T and if you have starling it won't work due to all the trees."
Lake access: Direct water entry from cabin properties ranks high among visitor preferences. At J.P. Coleman State Park Campground, "We stayed on campsite #55. It was back away from the water but we had a clear view to the water." Another camper shared, "We stayed right on the water, the spots are big and spacious. Fire pits provided, very clean with great walking trails, dog friendly."
Family-friendly amenities: Many locations include playgrounds and recreation areas. "They have a small playground, pool and mini-golf course," reports a visitor to Tombigbee State Park. Properties with these features tend to fill quickly during summer vacation periods.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly between cabin locations. At controller works, one camper noted, "Independence Day 2021. Heading to MS but needed a stop-over. Lovely rustic place, just what we needed after a long drive. We were the only occupants." Others mention bringing mobile hotspots with AT&T for better coverage.
Reservation timing: Most cabin properties require advance booking, particularly during peak seasons. "We were able to reserve 368 days prior to arrival," mentioned a visitor to J.P. Coleman State Park, indicating the competitive nature of securing waterfront accommodations.
Grocery access: Plan for limited shopping options near most cabin locations. One reviewer noted, "You can't park right next to your site, you will have to park in the parking area and walk to your site." Another mentioned, "Nearest Walmart is Cullman which is 45 mins away. Wouldn't recommend staying here if you prefer to be closer to the city."
Tips for camping with families
Cabin selection criteria: Look for properties with level entry and nearby recreation. "We had lots of fun. Had a nice hiking trail by Wheeler Lake. It was cool camping in February 2017 and we cooked over the fire and enjoyed the nice weather. The sites were pretty level, so setup was simple," shared a visitor at Joe Wheeler State Park Campground.
Pack extra sleeping options: Many cabins accommodate additional guests beyond the standard beds. "The cabins feature a generously sized kitchen, a warm and inviting living room complete with a fireplace, and two comfortable bedrooms," notes a visitor to Dismals Canyon, while others mention bringing cots for children.
Check recreation schedules: Pool hours and guided tours often have seasonal limitations. "I wish I would've known, as I would've planned the trip for spring or fall," noted a camper who missed night tours at Dismals Canyon due to seasonal scheduling.
Tips from RVers
Site selection at cabin/RV parks: Properties offering both cabin rentals and RV sites have specific considerations. At Bama Campground & RV Park, "Sites 2-4 had good views of the pond/field, sites 10-15 backed up to the tree line to provide a little shade all other sites had full sun," notes a visitor. RVers suggest requesting sites with natural windbreaks during stormy seasons.
Leveling challenges: Many cabin areas with RV options require leveling equipment. "Sites are anywhere from $27/night to $48/night. But then they also charge you a $5 cleaning fee (for a campsite????) and a 'one time admission fee' of $30," reports a camper about pricing structures that differ between cabin and RV options at some locations.
Access roads: Some cabin areas have narrow entry roads that pose challenges for larger vehicles. "Twisty, steep and narrow roadway into campsite...not for novice rig drivers," warns a visitor to J.P. Coleman State Park, suggesting arrival during daylight hours for better visibility.
