Oak Mountain State Park Campground sits within a 9,940-acre state park in central Alabama, serving as a key destination for glamping near McCalla, Alabama. The park terrain features rolling woodland hills with elevations ranging from 600 to 1,260 feet above sea level. Most camping areas offer a mix of pine and hardwood forest coverage, creating shaded spots during Alabama's hot summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F.
What to do
Trail exploration: 50+ miles of trails Hikers at Oak Mountain State Park Campground can access an extensive trail network with varying difficulty levels. "The park has so many different activities including hiking, BMX trails, swimming, archery range, and more I can't even remember," notes one camper. The Tree Top Nature Trail receives particular attention from wildlife enthusiasts.
Water activities: Multiple lake options. The park maintains several lake areas for fishing and boating. Visitors mention seeing wildlife even at their campsites: "Our site on the lake was beautiful and had ducks came right up to our site," reports a camper at Oak Mountain. Rental equipment is available seasonally.
Outdoor recreation beyond hiking: The Ridge Outdoor Resort offers specialized activities not found at most glamping sites near McCalla. "There are dirt bike trails, a zip line, an air soft course, a pond, and stunning views of the valley below," explains one regular visitor. The resort provides these amenities with minimal crowds during off-peak times.
What campers like
Newly renovated facilities: The recent upgrades at Oak Mountain State Park have transformed the camping experience. "They put a massive amount of money into updating this place. This is the #1 best state park campground I have ever been at," shares a 2024 visitor. The renovations include modernized bathhouses and improved site layouts.
Privacy between sites: Deerlick Creek offers well-spaced sites that campers consistently praise. "Very clean and peaceful. Great get away location," notes one reviewer. Another mentions, "Nice level concrete pads with awesome shade. Bath house stayed clean." The separation between sites creates a more secluded glamping experience near McCalla.
Lake access: Water proximity is a significant advantage at many area campgrounds. At Clear Creek Recreation Area, "The perimeter lake lots in the Hoot Owl Loop all had steps or path access from the site to the shore. This would be especially nice in the summer." Many sites provide direct water views for a premium outdoor experience.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Book well in advance for peak seasons. One camper at Clear Creek Recreation Area notes, "This is a highly used camping area on Smith lake. In peak times can be hard to get a spot." Most campgrounds allow reservations 6-12 months ahead.
Bathroom facilities vary: Some campgrounds limit bathroom access or have seasonal closures. "At the time of our visit, the closest bath house was closed 'due to Covid', which is silly. Having ALL guests on the loop use ONE bathhouse would make sure everyone caught the germ if anyone brought it," reports a visitor to Clear Creek.
Cell service considerations: Connectivity differs between campgrounds. Oak Mountain provides exceptional service with one camper noting, "It has wifi throughout and almost everywhere in the park has cell reception." Other campgrounds may have limited or no service.
Tips for camping with families
Basketball and recreational spaces: Deerlick Creek provides athletic facilities beyond just natural attractions. "We had a blast. The beach was closed when we went but we still enjoyed all the trails and basketball goal! We stayed right on the river in the perfect spot," shares a family who visited with children.
Swimming areas: Look for designated beaches during warmer months. "White sand around swimming area. Pavilion is rentable for gatherings. Very nice place. Usually crowded," notes a visitor about Clear Creek's facilities. Most water access points are open May through September.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy animal sightings around campgrounds. A visitor to Deerlick Creek observed, "We watched deer almost tamely walking around the campground." Wildlife is most active at dawn and dusk.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: Bama RV Station offers convenient access for travelers. "Literally right off the interstate at Tuscaloosa. Much lower noise level than I expected. Definitely a parking lot, without trees. We are in site 9, pretty level gravel site, electric and water hookup only," shares an RVer. The station provides convenient overnight accommodations.
Hookup variations: Many campgrounds offer different levels of service. "Our site didn't have sewer but had water and electricity," notes a camper at Clear Creek. Check specific site amenities when booking if full hookups are required.
Level sites: Despite the rolling terrain of central Alabama, many RV sites are engineered for level parking. A visitor to Deerlick Creek comments, "The sites were level and private, and the staff was friendly and helpful." Most campgrounds provide information on pad length and surface type during the reservation process.
