Best Campgrounds near Piedmont, AL

Northeastern Alabama's Piedmont region sits at the gateway to multiple camping environments, from the Talladega National Forest to nearby state parks. Chief Ladiga Trail Campground provides direct access to the rails-to-trails bike path that runs from Piedmont to the Georgia state line, making it popular with cyclists and backpackers. Coleman Lake Recreation Area offers water and electric hookups in a remote forest setting, while Pine Glen Recreation Area provides more primitive camping along Shoal Creek. Within an hour's drive, campers can reach Cheaha State Park, which contains Alabama's highest point and offers everything from backcountry sites to fully-equipped RV camping.

Summer heat and humidity significantly impact camping comfort in this region, with many visitors preferring spring and fall visits when temperatures moderate. Cell service remains spotty throughout much of the area, particularly in the Talladega National Forest where Coleman Lake is described by one reviewer as having "no cell phone service at all." The Chief Ladiga Trail Campground provides a convenient stop for bike travelers with "a path directly off the trail" and sites "along a little stream that is large enough to go swimming in." Fire restrictions vary seasonally, and some primitive areas like Warden Station Horse Camp prohibit fires entirely. Most developed campgrounds remain open year-round, while Coleman Lake operates seasonally from March to December.

Hiking trails connect many of the area's campgrounds, with the Pinhoti Trail serving as a major thoroughfare through the region. According to one camper, "Pine Glen is my favorite campground in this region of Alabama. It is fairly remote and has few amenities. Shoal Creek runs right past the campground, giving a pleasant white noise at night." Cheaha State Park receives consistent praise for its views, with one visitor noting that "the sunset AND moon rise are unbeatable for Alabama." Tent campers should be aware that some developed sites have extremely compacted ground, making it "very difficult to drive stakes." Mosquitoes can be abundant in warmer months, with reviewers recommending bug spray and screen tents for comfortable camping experiences.

Best Camping Sites Near Piedmont, Alabama (141)

    1. Coleman Lake Rec Area

    14 Reviews
    Fruithurst, AL
    11 miles
    Website

    "Coleman Lake is in the Talladega National Forest and very remote. There is no cell phone service at all. We have been camping here all my life. It is one of my favorite campgrounds."

    "This can certainly be seen as a positive."

    2. Cherokee Rock Village

    33 Reviews
    Leesburg, AL
    21 miles
    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"

    3. Chief Ladiga Trail Campground

    6 Reviews
    Piedmont, AL
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (256) 282-2370

    "The Chief Ladiga Trail is a rails to trails bike path running from Piedmont, AL to the Georgia state line then continues almost to Atlanta as the Silver Comet Trail."

    "You are in a remote peaceful valley with hills all around. The Chief Ladiga bike trail runs by the property so you have easy access to biking or hiking."

    4. Pine Glen Recreation Area

    13 Reviews
    Heflin, AL
    14 miles
    Website

    "Pine Glen is my favorite campground in this region of Alabama. It is fairly remote and has few amenities. (vault toilets and trash cans but nothing else at time of writing.)"

    "Points to consider: -The drive in is 8 miles in on an unpaved, backcountry road with varying inclines on slippery mixture of clay and gravel through hunting recreation area."

    5. Upper Improved Campground — Cheaha State Park

    90 Reviews
    Oxford, AL
    33 miles
    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."

    6. Noccalula Falls Park & Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

    36 Reviews
    Gadsden, AL
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (256) 549-4663

    "Here you can swim in the pool, play with your kids on the play ground or take them on walk to view the waterfall . Noccalula Falls is a very large water fall and spectacular to see. "

    "The park is an urban oasis just outside of Gadsden. It is gated. The campground has concrete pads, mostly back in, some shade trees, little grass around the camp sites."

    7. Warden Station Horse Camp

    2 Reviews
    Fruithurst, AL
    10 miles
    Website

    "Horse trails are usually well maintained and marked which makes up for the super primitive camping. Nevertheless I will always love this place."

    8. Misfit Mountain

    1 Review
    Jacksonville, AL
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (252) 562-8337

    $25 - $75 / night

    "The trails on the property looked nice and well maintained but we unfortunately didn’t get a chance to try them."

    9. DeSoto State Park Campground

    74 Reviews
    Alpine, AL
    41 miles
    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."

    10. Cane Creek RV Park

    5 Reviews
    Heflin, AL
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (256) 463-2602

    "Very peaceful and friendly campground with nature trails and scenic drives close by."

    "Laundry on-site, or nearby laundromat 

    Library within minutes or 2 more within a 20 minute drive 

    Recently upgrading their wifi 

    Plenty of homeschool co ops in the area 

    2 parks within 5 minutes of"

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 141 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Reviews near Piedmont, AL

696 Reviews of 141 Piedmont Campgrounds


  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Lake Guntersville State Park Campground

    Great place for kids

    We went to Guntersville State Park campground for our first camping trip and really enjoyed it. We went on Labor Day weekend so it was pretty full. Even though nearly every campsite was booked, there was plenty of room for kids to roam, ride bikes, and play. I was really surprised how quiet it was despite the number of people there. No noise issues (other than my own kids). We spent alot of time at the playground and also a morning on the beach area. We’ll definitely be back one day.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Wills Creek RV Park

    Convenient location

    This was an overnight stay on our way to the Smokies. Easy to get to from I-59 in Fort Payne. They have some sites that are shaded, but the pull through sites are in an open area. Gravel roads and pads (thankfully, as everything around was standing in water from the recent downpour)

    The facility is dated, but clean and an easy on and off on the way through.

    Nightly rate was $45

    WiFi worked

  • Stephanie S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Misfit Mountain

    Cute off grid cabin

    We had a great experience here! 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 but we unfortunately didn’t get a chance to try them. I would just recommend texting the host before showing up as it can be tricky to find and she has some additional info that’s useful.

  • L
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Desoto Falls State Park

    Nice well spaced sites

    Very clean, well spaced sites. Google GPS to us directly to the campground. Be sure to check in at the store

  • Lisa M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 9, 2025

    Tallapoosa River RV and Outdoor Center

    Well maintianes and all the needs

    This was a quick overnight stop for us. It was very clean and well maintained with a variety of options - small cabins , RV hookups and tent sites all along a river.

    There is a convenient bathroom for the night time and a large boathouse by the office with four family style bathrooms with showers and all the needs.

    Lots of activities as it is along a quiet river nothing big- canoe and kayak and pickle ball as well.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 8, 2025

    Cherokee Rock Village

    Rocks and Rigs

    We attended North Alabama trails and recreation’s Rock and Rig event here. The park is beautiful with amazing views. We camped on the “brow” not in the rv parking area so I can’t speak to the camping spots or amenities for RVs, but the staff and facilities are nice.

  • Zoey T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 2, 2025

    Sky Mtwy Dispersed

    Beautiful remote place to set up for the night

    It took us a bit to get here. Google maps tries to send you a way that doesn’t exist. Stay on Campbell rd until you are in the park on a gravel / dirt road and then keep driving. For being a gravel dirt road it’s pretty well maintained. The pull offs for van camping are limited and extremely dispersed off the multiple dirt roads. Some going very deep in the Forrest. We found a great pull through one on the left across from the fire watch tower. Limited to no trash. Beautiful piney woods. Plenty of wood. Completely quiet. Maybe 3 cars pulled past all day. Some cell service. Plenty of trails to hike.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 20, 2025

    Cane Creek RV Park

    Peaceful escape from fast paced life.

    Very peaceful and friendly campground with nature trails and scenic drives close by.


Guide to Piedmont

Camping near Piedmont, Alabama, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Cheaha State Park. One camper mentioned, "A gorgeous serene park with great staff, spacious spots, beautiful views and tons of hiking!" This park is perfect for those who love to hit the trails.
  • Fishing: Enjoy some fishing at Coleman Lake Rec Area. A visitor shared, "Caught 3 bass in the lake. You can't beat the price." It’s a great spot for anglers looking to relax by the water.
  • Climbing: If you're into climbing, check out Cherokee Rock Village. One reviewer said, "Best climbing in the southeast, bouldering and sport," making it a must-visit for climbing enthusiasts.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Noccalula Falls Park & Campground. A reviewer noted, "The campground is very clean, and the bathhouse was nice and clean." Clean facilities can make a big difference in your camping experience.
  • Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the spaciousness at Upper Improved Campground — Cheaha State Park. One camper remarked, "Very clean, very quiet, and very spacious state park." Having room to spread out is a big plus for families.
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpful staff at Little River RV Park and Campground. A visitor said, "Owner came around and she was very sweet," highlighting the welcoming atmosphere.

What you should know:

  • Limited Cell Service: Be prepared for spotty cell service at Turnipseed Campground. One camper mentioned, "We had cell service. Used 10' trailer/camper. No hookups or running water." It's a great place to disconnect, but keep this in mind if you need to stay connected.
  • Tight Spaces: Some campgrounds, like Noccalula Falls Park & Campground, have smaller sites. A reviewer noted, "The sites are very close together," which might not be ideal for those seeking privacy.
  • Primitive Camping: If you prefer a more rustic experience, Cheaha Falls Campground offers hike-in sites with no amenities. A camper shared, "Great little spots for tents! Smooth surfaces, very shady," perfect for those who enjoy nature.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds, like Little River RV Park and Campground. A reviewer mentioned, "The park has a nice playground and a pool," making it a fun spot for kids.
  • Plan for Meals: Bring your own cooking gear, especially if you're at a campground like Cherokee Rock Village where cooking over a fire is common. One camper advised, "Bring your own fire pit if you want to cook over a fire."
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids near water. A visitor at Coleman Lake Rec Area noted, "The lake and surrounding area are full of birds and wildlife," which can be exciting but also requires supervision.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure to check the size of RV sites at places like Greensport RV Park and Campground. A reviewer mentioned, "A bit too close together for my liking," so knowing your space can help you avoid tight spots.
  • Be Prepared for Weather: Weather can change quickly, especially in the mountains. A camper at Cheaha State Park warned, "Be aware of the weather," which is crucial for RVers.
  • Use QR Codes for Entry: Some campgrounds, like Greensport RV Park and Campground, use QR codes for entry after hours. A visitor noted, "Make sure you check your email or text messages as the gate is opened with a QR code," so stay informed.

Camping near Piedmont, Alabama, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Piedmont camping grounds?

Time Away RV Resort features excellent amenities including a swimming pool, playground, and several covered areas for picnics and group gatherings. The resort has been recently renovated and is well-maintained. For those seeking a different experience, Wills Creek RV Park offers utility hookups for RVs, though sites in the newer section can be tight. Many campgrounds in the region provide fire rings, picnic tables, and access to hiking trails, while state parks typically offer more extensive facilities including restrooms, showers, and in some cases, laundry facilities.

When is the best season for camping in Piedmont?

Spring and fall are ideal seasons for camping in the Piedmont region. DeSoto State Park Campground showcases spectacular scenery during these seasons, with its elevation of nearly 1,700 feet providing stunning views and pleasant temperatures. The park is particularly beautiful in spring when wildflowers bloom and in fall when foliage changes color. Summer camping is also popular at places like Turnipseed Campground, which offers peaceful surroundings and good walking trails, though be prepared for higher temperatures and humidity. Many campgrounds in the region remain open year-round, with winter offering solitude but requiring proper cold-weather gear.

Where can I find camping spots in Piedmont?

The Piedmont region offers diverse camping opportunities. Chief Ladiga Trail Campground provides convenient access to the rails-to-trails bike path running from Piedmont, AL to the Georgia state line, making it perfect for bike camping adventures. Another excellent option is Coleman Lake Rec Area, which offers drive-in access with water and toilet facilities. For those seeking other experiences in the region, several campgrounds within a short drive include DeSoto State Park, Cheaha State Park, and various RV parks that provide different levels of amenities and accessibility.