RV camping near Houston, Alabama places visitors near the Bankhead National Forest where hiking trails lead to numerous waterfalls. The area experiences hot, humid summers with frequent afternoon rainfall, while fall brings moderate temperatures and colorful foliage. Cell service varies significantly by carrier throughout the region, with AT&T generally providing better coverage than Verizon in most locations.
What to do
Waterfall hiking trails: Multiple trails through Bankhead National Forest offer access to waterfalls within driving distance of local campgrounds. "This is a great little campground tucked away on the edge of Bankhead National Forest. The location of the campground makes it an excellent location to enjoy the numerous waterfall hikes in the area," noted a visitor at Bama Campground & RV Park.
Stargazing opportunities: Clear nights offer excellent viewing conditions at several campgrounds with minimal light pollution. "Huge field with little light pollution to stargaze," reported one camper staying at Bama Campground.
Water recreation: Smith Lake provides boating, fishing, and swimming options for RV campers. "This RV park is right on a lake, but a bit away from anything else. If you have any sort of boat, kayak, paddle board, bring it!" advised a camper at Thousand Trails Hidden Cove.
Nature Bridge exploration: This unique geological formation attracts visitors for day trips. "You must check out the nature bridge nearby as well as the Houston jail," recommended a camper who stayed at Thousand Trails Hidden Cove.
What campers like
Lake access: Direct access to Smith Lake remains a primary attraction for many RVers. "Nice location on Smith lake. Sites were roomy. Well managed," commented a visitor to Thousand Trails Hidden Cove.
Peaceful settings: The rural location provides quiet camping experiences away from urban noise. "This place is great if you like peace and quiet. Its in the middle of the country side near Bankhead Forest. The campground is nice," wrote one camper about Bama Campground & RV Park.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses receive consistent praise. "Bath house is brand new and squeaky clean," noted a guest at Thousand Trails Hidden Cove, while another visitor commented that Palomino RV Resort has "Nice concrete pads, park is ran very well by the city...clean and organized campground."
On-site recreation: Campground amenities provide entertainment options without leaving the property. "There was a swimming pond, a fishing pond, basketball & tennis court, fire pit, picnic tables. They had some really neat buddy camp sites," noted a visitor to Palomino RV Resort.
What you should know
Shopping access: Dollar General stores provide basic supplies within 5-10 minutes of most campgrounds, while major shopping requires longer drives. "Nearest Walmart is Cullman which is 45 mins away. Wouldn't recommend staying here if you prefer to be closer to the city," advised a camper about Thousand Trails Hidden Cove.
Limited cell coverage: Prepare for spotty connectivity at most campgrounds. "Cell service is spotty so either have a mobile data setup or by the local connection for your stay," recommended a camper at Thousand Trails Hidden Cove.
Site levelness varies: Some campgrounds offer more consistently level sites than others. "Not many even close to level spots. It is sad because it is on such a lovely lake," observed a guest at Thousand Trails Hidden Cove, while at Heritage Acres RV Park, "The concrete pad was within 1/4" of level and even had two sewer connections."
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat impacts camping comfort significantly. "Very hot, humid and rainy time of year! Would be back in the fall perhaps," noted a visitor to Thousand Trails Hidden Cove.
Tips for camping with families
Playground quality: Check recent reviews for playground condition updates. "The wood on the playground needs to be replaced and the grass really needed cut. There were no horse shoes to play and no golf stuff," reported a family staying at Thousand Trails Hidden Cove.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer swimming facilities on-site. "The pool was very clean and well maintained. The pool was also a perfect temperature for a nice relaxing after driving dip!" shared a visitor to Jay Landings Marina & RV Park.
Pet-friendly trails: Many campgrounds offer on-site walking paths for pets. "The campground has hiking trails on the property if you don't have time to visit Bankhead NF," mentioned a camper at Bama Campground.
Limited entertainment options: Some parks lack structured activities for children. "Only reason for 4 instead of 5 stars is the lack of things to do. No fenced in dog park but plenty of space to have one," noted a family staying at Thousand Trails Hidden Cove.
Tips from RVers
Route selection: Choose approach roads carefully to avoid hazards. "When we departed, heading back towards the interstate, you come to a stop sign. Our RV GPS and Waze wanted us to turn right on Mt. Zion Rd instead of going left as we did when we arrived. We took the right turn, and about the time the trailer swung, we saw the drop-off into the ditch," warned a visitor to Quail Creek RV Resort.
Full hookup availability: Most area campgrounds offer full hookups, though amenities vary. "Appalachian Foothills RV Park has a few with concrete pads and decks," noted a visitor, while at Togetherness Works RV Park, "There are about eight sights all gravel and level. The back in sites have a nice deck beside your parking spot."
Big rig considerations: Several parks accommodate larger RVs with specialized sites. "There are also a few pull thrus for longer rigs or those who do not want to unhook," shared a visitor to Togetherness Works RV Park.
Extra lumber for leveling: Some parks provide assistance with leveling. "Jr Beasely always carries extra lumber in his gator for leveling assistance," reported a camper at Togetherness Works RV Park.
