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Best Campgrounds in Alabama

2,319 Reviews

With over 20 state parks, more inland waterways than any other state, and multiple Appalachian peaks, more and more outdoor lovers are turning to Alabama for adventure. While football is still king in this southern state, tourists enjoy the serenity of Alabama's white sand beaches and the thrill found within its carved canyons. So lace up the boots or grab a paddle – it is time to find camping in Alabama!

Alabama's shores have always been a hot spot for southern beach bums, but with the growing popularity of events like Hangout Festival, Gulf Shores is quickly becoming a bucket list destination for many. Fortunately, coastal camping is a reality in the Heart of Dixie.

Beach camping can be one of the most challenging experiences of your life, and simultaneously, the most peaceful. Find camping in Alabama along the sandy coastline of Gulf Shores and wake up to the sound of crashing waves. Warm waters and comfortable year-round temperatures make Gulf Shores a desirable stop for locals and visitors alike.

Looking to escape the crowds? Head north to camp primitively or grab a cabin close to Dismals Canyon. Not only will you find waterfalls and natural bridges at Dismals Canyon, but you can also find "dismalites," a rare fly that emits blue-green light in its larval form. Many explorers tour the canyon at night to catch a once-in-a-lifetime glimpse of this natural light show.

Water lovers might prefer exploring the state by winding through all 631 miles of The Alabama Scenic River Trail instead. As the longest water trail in any single state in the country, this waterway takes paddlers from northeastern Alabama into the Gulf, passing through the heart of the state in the process. With The Dyrt, you can be sure to find the best camping in Alabama along the way.

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Best Camping Sites in Alabama (551)

    1. Gulf State Park Campground

    102 Reviews
    Orange Beach, AL
    Website
    +1 (251) 948-7275

    "Gulf Shores Alabama Gulf State Park Current camping spot on the canal. Ours is a nice pull thru with electric and water. Almost 500 sites here from tent to big rig friendly."

    "Gulf Shores Alabama Gulf State Park Current camping spot on the canal. Ours is a nice pull thru with electric and water. Almost 500 sites here from tent to big rig friendly."

    2. Oak Mountain State Park Campground

    95 Reviews
    Hoover, AL
    Website
    +1 (205) 620-2520

    "It is located only about 20-40 min outside downtown. Oak Mountain has several of options of things to do away from just camping and hiking (which of course are also great to do here)."

    "Oak Mountain State Park is Alabama’s largest state park. Located just outside of Birmingham, it’s easy to escape to nature without being too far off the beaten path. This park is HUGE!"

    3. Upper Improved Campground — Cheaha State Park

    90 Reviews
    Oxford, AL
    Website
    +1 (256) 488-5115

    "The kids love hiking around Alabama’s highest peak! There is a lake at the base of the mountain that stays busy in summer but it’s not terribly crowded."

    "Cheaha State Park is a absolute must visit if you're living in Alabama or visiting."

    4. Monte Sano State Park Campground

    76 Reviews
    Brownsboro, AL
    Website
    +1 (256) 534-6589

    $14 - $30 / night

    "This site backs up to a draw and each evening just before dust we could watch the deer walk up through. 

    The bathhouse is centrally located, newer, and cleaned daily."

    "This land trust and state park offers a fun little get away in northern Alabama, just outside the city of Huntsville."

    5. DeSoto State Park Campground

    74 Reviews
    Alpine, AL
    Website
    +1 (256) 845-5075

    $38 / night

    "If you have a large group you want to take camping in Alabama I highly recommend this site. There is great hiking nearby and the sites are large enough for a lot of people."

    "This part of Alabama is absolutely stunning, at close to 1700 feet in elevation, this area provides some of the most elevation in the state with absolutely stunning natural beauty."

    6. Wind Creek State Park Campground

    47 Reviews
    Alexander City, AL
    Website
    +1 (256) 329-0845

    "Lots of trees and lots of waterfront lots on the shores of one of Alabamas most beautiful lakes."

    "We stayed at site 100 it was an excellent site right on the water next to us was like a private beach. This is the only public access to Lake Martin. Large lake for swimming, boating, fishing."

    7. Lake Guntersville State Park Campground

    43 Reviews
    Guntersville, AL
    Website
    +1 (256) 571-5455

    "This is a nice state park in a small town in north Alabama. The lake is really pretty and the campground has a nice view of it."

    "The lake is gorgeous and big! The best fishing I've had in Alabama is at Guntersville St. Park!"

    8. Gunter Hill

    35 Reviews
    Prattville, AL
    Website
    +1 (334) 269-1053

    $26 - $32 / night

    "Very quiet peaceful campground on the wooded shores of the Alabama River. Plenty of level sites. Bathroom and showers centrally located."

    "Gunter Hill Park is a Corp of Engineers campground just outside of Montgomery, Alabama. Although we have not camped at many COE parks, I can't imagine any of them topping this one!"

    9. Chewacla State Park Campground

    36 Reviews
    Auburn, AL
    Website
    +1 (334) 887-5621

    "Chewacla State Park is adjacent to Auburn, AL, and it stays busy due to the proximity of the school and city. I stayed twice for a geology class and found the campsites and amenities to be wonderful."

    "Great hike to an amazing g fall close by, and dont hesitate to venture further for other waterfalls. On thing I would say was not so great, laundry space and bathrooms could use update."

    10. Cherokee Rock Village

    33 Reviews
    Leesburg, AL
    Website
    +1 (256) 523-3799

    $0 - $35 / night

    "We attended North Alabama trails and recreation’s Rock and Rig event here. The park is beautiful with amazing views."

    "the locals) since 2011, starting back when it was still largely undeveloped and free…totally worth paying for these days - they’ve made it such a great place: showers, bathrooms, dumpsters, plenty of walk-in"

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Showing results 1-10 of 551 campgrounds

Recent Camping Photos in Alabama

660 Photos of 551 Alabama Campgrounds

Recent Reviews in Alabama

2319 Reviews of 551 Alabama Campgrounds

Guide to Alabama

Camping in Alabama offers a mix of beautiful landscapes, outdoor activities, and family-friendly environments. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an action-packed adventure, Alabama's campgrounds have something for everyone.

What to do

  • Hiking and Biking: Many campgrounds, like Oak Mountain State Park Campground, have extensive trails. One visitor mentioned, “The park has so many different activities including hiking, BMX trails, swimming, and an archery range.”
  • Water Sports: At Wind Creek State Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing, kayaking, and swimming. A reviewer said, “We love this campground! Archery, fishing, playgrounds, hiking and so much fun!”
  • Historical Sites: Check out Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park Campground for a mix of history and nature. One camper noted, “Trails to hike, water to play in, fishing, history places to see and go through.”

What campers like

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. One visitor at Gunter Hill said, “Gorgeous site, huge, shady, and across from restrooms.”
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds pride themselves on cleanliness. A reviewer at Millers Ferry Campground mentioned, “Nice bathrooms and showers, friendly and helpful host, clean site with concrete pad and picnic table!”
  • Friendly Staff: Campers appreciate helpful hosts. A visitor at Burchfield Branch Park said, “The camp hosts were active and extremely friendly.”

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Deerlick Creek, have fewer amenities. A camper noted, “The campground doesn’t do the best job at marking how to get to each site.”
  • Wildlife Caution: Be aware of local wildlife. One camper at Gunter Hill Campground warned, “Lots of poison ivy!! And the bathrooms were rundown and dingy.”
  • Seasonal Access: Some campgrounds are only open during certain months. For example, Gunter Hill is open from March 1 to October 31.

Tips for camping with families

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and swimming areas. A parent at Wind Creek State Park Campground said, “The marina store has tons of useful items that you could forget to bring along with alcohol.”
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids, especially near water. One camper at Deerlick Creek mentioned, “Ticks were everywhere, so be cautious.”
  • Plan for Weather: Alabama can get hot and humid. A visitor at Birmingham South RV Park noted, “The bathrooms and showers were consistently clean and the hot water was great.”

Tips from RVers

  • Check Hookups: Make sure your site has the right hookups for your RV. A reviewer at Millers Ferry Campground said, “Water & electric hook ups. Good water pressure, dump station on property.”
  • Space Matters: Look for spacious sites. One camper at Gunter Hill Campground mentioned, “Very spacious sites in Catoma loop. Clean, well kept, very affordable rates.”
  • Be Prepared for Bugs: Bring bug spray, especially in warmer months. A visitor at Burchfield Branch Park warned, “This campground has zero cell service, so if you can’t do without that read no further.”

Camping in Alabama can be a fantastic experience if you know what to expect. Enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds in Alabama for families?

Alabama offers excellent family-friendly campgrounds with amenities kids will love. DeSoto State Park Campground is ideal for large family groups with spacious sites, beautiful waterfalls, nearby hiking trails, and caves to explore. At 1,700 feet elevation, it offers some of Alabama's most stunning scenery. Another top family destination is Oak Mountain State Park Campground near Birmingham, providing a quick getaway with warm fall weather and proximity to city attractions. Many families also enjoy Time Away RV Resort with its playground, covered picnic areas, and swimming pool that's perfect for hot Alabama days.

Are there any tent-only campgrounds in Alabama with privacy?

For tent campers seeking privacy in Alabama, McDill Point Backcountry — Cheaha State Park offers a secluded experience worth the hike. This primitive site provides incredible privacy and stunning views, especially at sunrise and sunset. While it requires a trek to reach, the isolation and scenery make it worthwhile. Corinth Recreation Area near Double Springs also offers more secluded tent camping options among its 52 sites. Many can be reserved through Recreation.gov. For tent campers seeking privacy, look for backcountry sites or primitive camping areas within state parks, which typically offer more seclusion than developed campgrounds.

What amenities can I expect at typical Alabama campgrounds?

Alabama campgrounds typically offer a range of amenities depending on the type of facility. Most state parks like Monte Sano State Park Campground and Wind Creek State Park Campground provide water hookups, electricity, restrooms with showers, picnic tables, and fire rings or grills. Many have dump stations for RVs. Privately owned campgrounds often feature additional amenities such as Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, camp stores, and recreational facilities. RV parks typically include full hookups (water, electric, sewer), pull-through sites, and sometimes cable TV connections. Most campgrounds have some form of recreational opportunities nearby, whether hiking trails, fishing, boating access, or playgrounds. Cell service varies by location, with better coverage in developed areas.

Where can I find camping in South Alabama near the Gulf Coast?

Gulf State Park Campground is the premier camping destination on Alabama's Gulf Coast, offering nearly 500 sites for both tents and RVs. The campground features spacious sites with electric and water hookups, some with lake or canal views. It provides easy access to the Gulf shores along with extensive walking and biking trails. The park also houses an impressive nature center showcasing local wildlife. Another option in southern Alabama is Frank Jackson State Park Campground, which offers a pleasant stopover when traveling between Alabama and Florida. For those seeking Gulf Coast camping, these locations provide the perfect base to enjoy Alabama's beautiful coastal environment.

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