Glamping accommodations near Jacksonville, Alabama sit within the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains with elevations ranging from 650 to over 2,400 feet. The region's diverse terrain creates distinct camping microclimates with temperature variations of 5-10 degrees between valley floors and mountain sites. During summer months, overnight temperatures typically remain above 65°F even at higher elevations, while spring and fall can see significant temperature swings.
What to do
Hike the Pinhoti Trail: Access this premier Alabama hiking route through Pine Glen Recreation Area where the trail runs through the campground. "The Pinhoti Trail runs straight through the campground and provides hiking opportunities, and if you're willing to drive a little while there is a lot to do in the area," notes one camper who gave the site a 5-star review.
Explore mountain boulders: Cheaha State Park offers unique hiking experiences with boulder formations. "There's a trailhead that leads up to amazing views. It's a fun hike climbing over huge boulders for much of the way. The kids enjoy this too," explains a reviewer from Cheaha State Park.
Go kayaking on Cedar Creek: For water-based activities, Cedar Creek RV & Outdoor Center provides equipment and transportation. "They have kayaks to rent, and a shuttle. You can try out and buy kayaks there, too," shares a visitor who describes the owners as "stewards of the waterways."
Search for the crashed airplane: Cheaha State Park contains a hidden historical site that makes for an interesting adventure. "There is an old crashed airplane up there, off a trail. Google before you go and see if you can find directions!" suggests one reviewer who frequents the park year-round.
What campers like
Accessibility for beginners: The backcountry sites at Cheaha State Park provide an approachable wilderness experience. "I have hiked the back country here and lots of good sites with adequate water make it a good backpacking adventure for beginners," says a reviewer who appreciates the convenience of the lodge for post-hike meals.
Private creek-side camping: Pine Glen Recreation Area offers a peaceful natural setting with water features. "It is fairly remote and has few amenities. Shoal Creek runs right past the campground, giving a pleasant white noise at night, and it is situated in a glen of pine trees," notes a camper who appreciates the spacing between sites.
Scenic views from mountain vantage points: Lake Guntersville State Park provides multiple overlooks within a short hiking distance. "Short hikes to fantastic views. Also a pool and playground. Top of my list to visit again," says a visitor who appreciated the full hookup campsites at Lake Guntersville State Park Campground.
Water recreation options: Multiple swimming areas and pools complement the glamping experience at River Rocks Landing. "They have 3 pools and a splash pad! I would say this is my go-to place!" shares an enthusiastic visitor who particularly enjoys watching sunsets over the river.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Communication connectivity varies significantly throughout the area. "No wifi or cell service; but we loved being disconnected," mentions a Cheaha visitor who still rated their experience 4 stars despite limited connectivity.
Seasonal water availability: Water access can be inconsistent in certain locations. "First of all, a lot of sites were underwater. Not the campgrounds fault it had been rainy, just saying. However, the fact that all the water faucets were inoperable is another thing," reports a camper from Pine Glen Recreation Area.
Reservation requirements: Many glamping sites require advance booking. "The bath house was a pleasant surprise. They were spacious, warm and clean," notes a winter visitor to a nearby Jellystone Park, highlighting year-round availability but indicating the need to book ahead.
Road conditions: Access to some remote sites requires preparation. "The road in is long and pretty bumpy so be prepared for that. Would definitely stay again. Glad it hadn't rained before because I could see how other people said it floods," warns a Pine Glen camper.
Tips for camping with families
Look for designated kid areas: Several campgrounds offer specialized facilities for children. "The kids love the lake and the pool, and there is an easy walk on a boardwalk with amazing views at the end on days when the kids don't feel like hiking," shares a frequent visitor to Cheaha State Park.
Check activity schedules: Yogi Bears Jellystone Park provides structured entertainment for children. "They have plenty of activities to keep the kids busy. There's a kiddie pool and a big kid pool, a jump pad and an inflatable slide, a nice playground, and a small arcade that's affordable," recommends a family camper.
Consider proximity to water features: Family-friendly glamping sites often include water access. "Beach was clean with plenty of space. Park was there too. My kids loved the diving platform. Bathrooms were nice. It was super refreshing and awesome view!" reports a family that camped with children aged 6, 11, and 12.
Choose appropriate trails: Several sites offer hiking suitable for various age groups. "We hiked 3 trails with excellent views. All easy and enjoyable for all 3 of my kiddos, ages 6, 11 and 12. High Falls was my personal favorite. Also hiked Bold Rock and Pulpit Rock," shares a parent who found Cheaha trails manageable for younger hikers.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Choose sites based on specific needs. "There are some pull-thru spots, but we opted for the creek view and you should too!" recommends an RVer at Cedar Creek who prioritized scenery over convenience.
Varying hookup availability: Facilities differ significantly between campgrounds. "Most RV sites have little to no shade with a few shady spots on the creek side. Down side: water pressure was slightly over 40 psi which made my water pump run continuously until I just shut it off," notes a Cedar Creek visitor highlighting infrastructure considerations.
Campground access limitations: Some locations have restrictions for larger vehicles. "Nice place to stay for a night or a week. Not good for large campers. No water or electric. Pit toilets that can get ripe if not emptied in a while," explains a Pine Glen visitor, indicating site limitations for RVers.
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts can affect the RV camping experience. "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!" mentions an RVer who still recommends Lake Guntersville State Park despite reduced shade cover.
