Cabin camping near Millerville, Alabama offers access to the highest elevations in Alabama, with Cheaha State Park sitting at 2,407 feet above sea level. The region experiences four distinct seasons with mild winters and warm summers, making cabin rentals available year-round at most locations. Water features prominently in the area's camping experience, with Lake Martin's 44,000 acres and 750 miles of shoreline accessible from several cabin sites.
What to do
Hiking trails: At Oak Mountain State Park Campground, trails are well-marked and diverse. "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)," notes Scott C.
Water recreation: Wind Creek State Park Campground provides multiple water activities on Lake Martin. "Awesome campground. If you look at the map you'll see that some sites are full hook-up and some are not... Boat rentals include two different places. The marina for motorized jon boats and pontoon boats. You can rent these for 4-48 hours," explains Romeo M.
Backcountry exploration: The Pinhoti Trail system begins at Weogufka State Forest Flagg Mtn, offering hiking opportunities for various skill levels. "Access to southern terminus of the Pinhoti Trail. CCC tower and cabins from 1930's," states Ro J., while another camper notes it has "a platform that goes around 3 walls on the inside which is enough space for about 3 people to stay comfortably."
What campers like
Historic structures: The cabin options in Weogufka State Forest feature restored Civilian Conservation Corps buildings. "Simple and enjoyable. Caretaker and author Sunny Eberhart (Nimblewill Nomad) is wonderful to talk to," mentions Ro J.
Lake access: Campers consistently rate the waterfront locations at Wind Creek among their favorites. "We were the only trailer in loop D. It was quiet and very enjoyable! Being right on the lake and having the ducks swim up really thrilled our dogs," says Erin L.
Privacy options: R. Shaefer Heard Campground offers secluded cabin and camping spots. "Older facilities but the views make up for it. Water and power year round even in winter. Some spots are a little closer than others but most have woods in between so they are somewhat private," notes SJ W.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Peak seasons (May through September) require advance planning as cabins fill quickly, especially at lakeside parks.
Bathroom facilities: Quality varies significantly between parks. At R. Shaefer Heard, "The bathhouses are something out of a post-apocalyptic travel journal— rusted fixtures, broken tiles, and enough cockroaches and spiders to start a nature documentary," according to Denis P.
Gate policies: Some parks enforce strict access hours. "But beware: the gate is locked shut from 10 PM to 8 AM, no exceptions unless the elderly host personally deems your emergency worthy," warns Denis P. about R. Shaefer Heard.
Off-grid options: Misfit Mountain provides a more rustic cabin experience. "It is such a cute cabin with everything you need including a luxurious outdoor shower and composting toilet. The trails on the property looked nice and well maintained," shares Stephanie S.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing: Oak Mountain offers educational opportunities with animal encounters. "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," writes Bethany M.
Swimming options: Multiple cabin locations offer family-friendly water access. "We rented a chalet for our honeymoon and it was gorgeous. We definitely recommend Cheaha! There is an old crashed airplane up there, off a trail. Google before you go and see if you can find directions!" suggests Bethany M.
Activity variety: Covenant Woodlands cabins provide entertainment options. "Want total privacy with every kitchen supply, shampoos, comfy beds, wood for the fire pit, coffee and plenty of amusements provided? Great movie selection, oldie classic records for the victrola, hammock, outdoor dining furniture, rockers on a covered porch plus several trails," says Kay C.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Wind Creek, certain areas offer better amenities. "We stayed in C section with full hook-ups. They have playgrounds throughout the campground, trails from 1 mile long to 15 miles long that can be utilized by horse, bike, or on foot," notes Romeo M.
Lake Martin access: The Wind Creek marina provides boat rental options for cabin and RV guests. "At the Creem Shop (they sell ice cream, burgers, etc) you can rent pedal boats and canoes. They have a zip line and tree line adventure course, mini-golf, a beach area for swimming, and plenty of fishing spots," adds Romeo M.
Connectivity concerns: Signal strength varies by location. "This place has everything, mtn bike, gravel bike, trail running, road running, road biking, golf, equestrian, sailing and fishing. It has wifi throughout and almost everywhere in the park has cell reception," reports Soren B. about Oak Mountain.
