Camping near Leeds, Alabama offers access to various natural settings including elevated mountain terrain, lakeside spots, and open valleys. Most camping areas remain accessible year-round despite Alabama's humid subtropical climate that brings hot summers and mild winters. Flooding can occur in low-lying campgrounds during spring rainstorms, particularly along the Coosa River drainage areas.
What to do
Archery practice: Oak Mountain State Park features an archery station where campers can practice their skills during their stay. "We just spent some time at several of Alabama's state parks. This is by far the best state park that we went to. I can't wait to go back!" noted one Oak Mountain State Park visitor.
Explore wildlife education: The park houses wildlife exhibits including rescued birds of prey. "Oak Mountain is a big state park with lots to do (golf, biking, archery, lots of trails that are very well marked, petting zoo, very neat trail with rescued owls, turkeys and red hawks, and more)," shared another visitor.
Rock climbing activities: Families camping at Hoover Met Complex RV Park can enjoy nearby rock climbing features. "Super easy to get in and out. Easy hooks ups and good WiFi available. Playground and rock climbing area a plus," mentioned a camper.
Boating on Logan Martin Lake: For water enthusiasts, Lakeside Landing provides boat launch access. "Great fishing!!!" reported one visitor simply but enthusiastically about the lake opportunities.
What campers like
Recently renovated facilities: Campers appreciate the updated amenities at Oak Mountain Backcountry Site. "I've been going here since I was a kid and it's one of my favorite places in the world. You'll never run out of things to do between the endless hiking trails, the museum of wildlife, and the wildlife rescue center," shared a regular visitor.
Mountain-top experiences: The elevation at Upper Improved Campground at Cheaha State Park offers cooler temperatures even during summer months. "Cheaha is beautiful and fit perfect for kids and families! We stayed in the Semi-Primitive space and picked a tent. Very clean and water was code by as well as restrooms," reported a camper.
Waterfront sites: Lakeside camping ranks high among visitor preferences. "This was our second time staying here. The sites have full hookups. The lake is right in front of the RV. The people that work here are very very nice," noted a visitor to Safe Harbor RV Park.
Quiet seclusion: Many campers seek out sites that provide a sense of isolation. "An excellent place to camp and enjoy a beautiful weekend. I've camped in all site areas available to camp and enjoyed every one of them," mentioned a Cheaha State Park visitor.
What you should know
Renovation improvements: Birmingham South RV Park has undergone significant upgrades. "They put a massive amount of money into updating this place. This is the #1 best state park campground I have ever been at. Some of the non-5star reviews are people before the updates," reported a visitor to Birmingham South RV Park.
Cell phone coverage varies: While many parks have improved connectivity, service levels differ. "It has wifi throughout and almost everywhere in the park has cell reception," noted one Oak Mountain visitor, contrasting with more remote areas.
Site leveling challenges: Not all camping pads are level. "The pads are very uneven and there are just not many amenities. Very close to sports fields though," cautioned a visitor to Hoover Met Complex RV Park.
Train noise at some locations: Some campgrounds experience railway disruptions. "I've been here for the month of April it's on the water and Good people around... ya do hear the train going down the track but I've gotten used to it and it's not that bad," reported a camper at Safe Harbor.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Lakeside Landing RV Park & Marina offers family-friendly water access. "Very well maintained RV park. Store and gas station on site," noted one visitor about the conveniences available.
Educational wildlife opportunities: Families appreciate Oak Mountain's animal encounters. "There's an archery station within the park and a petting farm. The campground is easily navigated with multiple bathhouses per campground so you'll always have one nearby," shared a visitor.
Diving platform fun: Cheaha State Park's lake features water recreation structures. "My kids loved the diving platform. Bathrooms were nice. It was super refreshing and awesome view! We cooked Chili for supper," mentioned a family visitor.
Short, kid-friendly hikes: Several parks offer manageable trails for young hikers. "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," reported a Cheaha visitor.
Tips from RVers
Easy pull-through access: RVers camping in the Leeds area appreciate accessible sites. "Very easy to find and super easy to park. Very clean and easy hookups. All lots are pull through and asphalt," noted a visitor to Covenant Woodlands.
Section selection matters: Different campground areas offer varying experiences. "Oak Mtn State Park Equestrian & section B campground... Remodeled spaces with adequate space for a newbie to back her travel trailer in with no problems. What an Ego booster! Remodeled bathhouses as well and kept clean even on a busy July 4th weekend," shared a visitor.
Overflow parking availability: During busy periods, some parks offer additional options. "The owners are very friendly. Great helpers. The campground has overflow parking where we were set," mentioned a visitor to Safe Harbor RV Park.
Morning sun considerations: Some sites have specific sun exposure patterns. "Gets morning sun but shade in the afternoon," noted a visitor about section B at Oak Mountain, which helps RVers plan for temperature management.
