Glamping in Millerville, Alabama connects visitors to a region where the Talladega National Forest meets Lake Martin's waterways. These facilities sit within Alabama's Appalachian foothills, where elevations range from 600 to 2,400 feet above sea level. Weather patterns vary dramatically between valleys and peaks, with mountain sites experiencing temperatures 10-15 degrees cooler than nearby lowland campgrounds during summer months.
What to do
Hiking trail variety: The Pinhoti Trail runs directly through Pine Glen Recreation Area, offering backcountry hiking options. "We recently did a one night backpacking trip with 2 close friends where we started at the Lake Chinnabee Recreation Area and hiked to join the Pinhoti trail then headed south before looping back around. There are so many amazing campgrounds along the way," reports a camper at Cheaha.
Lake activities: Wind Creek State Park provides access to Lake Martin with rental options. "Boat rentals include two different places. The marina for motorized jon boats and pontoon boats. You can rent these for 4-48 hours. At the Creem Shop (they sell ice cream, burgers, etc) you can rent pedal boats and canoes," notes a visitor.
Historical exploration: Visit the Civilian Conservation Corps structures at Weogufka State Forest. "Access to southern terminus of the Pinhoti Trail. CCC tower and cabins from 1930's," writes one visitor. The area features historic structures dating to the 1930s that can be explored along with hiking opportunities.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Campers consistently praise the secluded lakeside spots at R. Shaefer Heard Campground. "We had an amazing site with a great waterfront view perfect for sunsets. Kids thoroughly enjoyed playing at the edge of the water," writes one visitor. Sites 115 and 116 are particularly noted for their private cove setting.
Weather differences: Mountain glamping near Millerville offers temperature advantages in summer. "We are local to Cheaha and go often, year round. 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 Upper Improved Campground.
Solitude options: Winter visitors appreciate the quieter experience. "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," reports a Wind Creek visitor who camped during off-season.
What you should know
Gate closing times: Several campgrounds enforce strict entrance policies. At R. Shaefer Heard, "the gate is locked shut from 10 PM to 8 AM, no exceptions unless the elderly host personally deems your emergency worthy," cautions a recent visitor.
Road conditions: Access to some sites requires preparation. Pine Glen Recreation Area requires driving "8 miles in on an unpaved, backcountry road with varying inclines on slippery mixture of clay and gravel through hunting recreation area. We were in a Ford Explorer. Everybody else was in trucks."
Facility quality varies: Bathroom facilities differ significantly between campgrounds. 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."
Water access considerations: "The lake is down right now because they are repairing the dam so it was fun to walk along the banks," notes a visitor to R. Shaefer Heard, highlighting that water levels change seasonally and with maintenance work.
Tips for camping with families
Gem mining: Oak Mountain offers activities beyond hiking. "Right across from the store they have a gem mining area that is also great fun for the children," shares a visitor to Oak Mountain State Park.
Site selection for tents: Consider location carefully when bringing kids. At Cheaha, "For tents: Sites vary. There is adequate space between them. Some have electric some don't. Some have rock beds, some have grass beds (but there are hidden big rocks in the grass making it hard to find a good smooth spot)."
Swimming options: Multiple water features provide relief from summer heat. "We cooked Chili for supper. Canopy of trees was pleasant and shady for Summer. We hit the lake again early the next morning. Hiked 3 trails with excellent views. All easy and enjoyable for all 3 of my kiddos, ages 6, 11 and 12," reports a family who visited Cheaha State Park.
Tips from RVers
Seasonal timing: Winter glamping near Millerville creates different experiences. "Winter visitors to the geodesic domes and canvas tents can experience breathtaking mountain vistas and quiet solitude, while summer guests enjoy water recreation and shaded accommodations."
Utility concerns: Service hookups differ by site. At Bohamia, "Several pond-side glamping locations with convenient access to bath facilities and hiking paths throughout the property" offer different amenities. A visitor notes, "Services are great some cabins and tents having ACs, but primitive camping allowed as well. Great showers and bathhouse with filtered drinking water option that I used daily."
Site dimensions: Space can be limited at some campgrounds. Wind Creek sites are "a little bit tight but was worth it," according to one RVer who stayed two months at the park. Site selection matters as some cannot accommodate larger rigs.
