Monte Sano State Park sits at 1,621 feet above sea level, creating cooler temperatures than surrounding areas in Harvest, Alabama. Trails range from easy 0.5-mile loops to challenging 5-mile routes across rocky terrain. While summertime temperatures reach the 90s, overnight lows drop into the 60s even during July and August, making tent camping comfortable with proper gear.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Monte Sano State Park offers technical trails for cyclists of various skill levels. "The trails... these are not your easy day hike trails, though it is possible to take it easy. The problem being when you look at the map and read the names you can't help but go check out the trails! Good, technical hiking, bring your sticks and bug stuff," notes Shelly S., who visited Monte Sano State Park Campground.
Waterfall exploration: David Crockett State Park features accessible waterfalls within hiking distance of camping areas. "We had a great time at this beautiful state park! The clear creek to play in is gorgeous! The park had so much to offer. Lots of hiking trails, covered bridge, fishing lake w/boat & kayak rentals plus a beautiful waterfall that is great for sunsets!" says Shana D. about David Crockett State Park Campground.
Shoreline fishing: Many lakefront sites offer direct access to fishing without needing a boat. Sharon H. explains about Honeycomb Campground: "Wonderful staff, very clean, very safe campground on Guntersville Lake. Nice and quiet when we were there early Spring. Shoreline fishing at most sites if that's an interest."
What campers like
Easy access to trails: Many sites connect directly to hiking and biking paths without driving. Greg S. mentions, "Sites are spaced well, wooded, and many have direct access to the trails. The trails! So many! We saw 4 waterfalls, including one inside a cave. A mountain bikers or hikers paradise here."
Private bathing facilities: Several campgrounds offer individual shower rooms rather than communal facilities. "The bathhouse was a bit far from our campsite, but it was new and had private showers!! (Our favorites!)" reports Shana D. about her experience at David Crockett State Park.
Proximity to urban amenities: Many glamping sites near Harvest allow access to both wilderness and city conveniences. "Monte Sano State Park is conveniently situated right next to Huntsville, Al. So you can feel as if your out in the middle of nowhere and town is 10 minutes down the road," writes Shelly S., highlighting the park's convenient location.
What you should know
Limited shade in some areas: Storm damage has reduced tree cover in certain campgrounds. "Full hookup sites. Great views. Due to tornados in recent years, there are not many trees," explains Jaime W. about Lake Guntersville State Park Campground.
Varying site spacing: Site proximity varies significantly between campgrounds. At Point Mallard, Katie D. notes: "This place is tight. Not in the Urban Dictionary meaning of tight, but in the actual meaning of tight. It's hard to tell if there are more trees or RVs on the property."
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts camping experiences differently throughout the year. Jason S. mentions about Sharon Johnston Park: "Staff was friendly and the campgrounds were nice and clean. The camp lots were too close for my liking. Too much noise and I couldn't find firewood anywhere."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer dedicated children's play areas. "There are cool little wooden play obstacles for the kids in the campground and a huge playground 1/2 mile away inside the park," reports Greg S. about Monte Sano State Park.
Swimming opportunities: Water activities provide entertainment for children during summer months. Regarding Point Mallard City Campground, Lenice G. explains: "Very friendly staff, clean bath houses and next to a fun water park. Located in Decatur, AL, you are close to grocery stores, gas stations, restaurants and more!"
Open spaces for recreation: Some parks feature large areas for outdoor activities. M&P M. mention about Sharon Johnston Park: "It's a great site to bring the kids. In the summer the pool is open which is great for the hot days. There's also a track, a baseball field, and soccer fields so I've seen many athletic events held there."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Look for campgrounds with pre-leveled pads to simplify setup. Nancy B. shares about David Crockett State Park: "We really liked that the pads were concrete and level....took a lot of pressure off of the leveling process."
Electrical capacity: Check amperage before booking for higher-demand RVs. Alexis G. notes about Monte Sano: "Great steady power and water. Clean sites, mostly level even for my 43' rig. Beautiful hiking and biking trails and close to Huntsville with plenty of shopping, dining, etc."
Site angle considerations: Some campgrounds design angled sites for easier backing in. Katie D. observed at Point Mallard: "However, the sites were great angles and easy to maneuver into and out of. One nice perk about the park was the trash pick-up three times per day."
