Glamping close to Piper, Alabama offers contrasting natural landscapes with hardwood forests and red clay soil typical of the state's central region. Located in the foothills of the Appalachians, this area maintains moderate temperatures through much of the camping season, with most sites ranging from 400-1,100 feet in elevation. Campgrounds typically remain open March through November, though some luxury glamping options operate year-round.
What to do
Hiking trails: Oak Mountain State Park Campground features numerous well-marked trails for all skill levels. "Great camping area for RV's or tents. Big lakes for fishing, swimming or canoeing," notes Scott C., who adds the park has "lots of trails that are very well marked."
Mountain biking: Outdoor enthusiasts find challenging terrain at Oak Mountain, which one visitor described as having "everything, mtn bike, gravel bike, trail running, road running, road biking, golf, equestrian, sailing and fishing."
Water activities: Deerlick Creek offers water access with a boat ramp for easy lake entry. "Nice 1/2 mile asphalt bike/walking trail. Hiking trail with hills and valleys skirting the lake. Boat ramp with easy access to the lake," according to Eric H.
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds in the area provide opportunities to observe local fauna. "We watched deer almost tamely walking around the campground," reports Don K. about his stay at Deerlick Creek.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers consistently mention site spacing at Deerlick Creek as a major benefit. "Love the large sites that are nicely separated from neighboring sites and overlook the water," writes Steve V., who stayed at site 39.
Historic features: Weogufka State Forest Flagg Mtn offers a unique camping experience with historic structures. "CCC tower and cabins from 1930's," mentions Ro J., and another visitor noted it's "Private and Historic" with potential need for "four-wheel-drive to get up to the ruins."
Cleanliness: Multiple reviewers comment on the cleanliness of facilities. At Kountry Air RV Park, a camper noted, "The campground is immaculate and very well maintained with each site carefully leveled with gravel to make set up easy!"
Modern amenities: For those seeking luxury glamping near Piper, some sites offer unexpected comforts. "We got 2 bars on Verizon, and their WiFi was better than most CGs this size," reported one visitor at Kountry Air RV Park.
What you should know
Water access considerations: While many sites have water views, accessibility varies. At Deerlick Creek, sites 39 and 40 are noted for water views, and Steve V. mentions they "overlook the water."
Reservation requirements: Rolling Hills RV Park allows spontaneous stays in some cases. "We just needed a stop with hookups for the night. But this place exceeded expectations," reports David S., who appreciated not having to "disconnect our tow dolly" at their pull-through spot.
Seasonal considerations: Most glamping accommodations near Piper operate from March through November, though some remain open year-round. Oak Mountain State Park offers all-season access.
Site selection importance: Campground layouts can impact your experience. At Rolling Hills, one camper noted, "There's quite a bit of space between most of the sites (particularly the back in sites). Our site was right up against another pull through on our patio side though."
Tips for camping with families
Accessibility options: For families with young children, Bama RV Station provides convenient access. "Literally right off the interstate at Tuscaloosa. Much lower noise level than I expected," reports Cat R., making it suitable for quick family stops.
Playground availability: Several campgrounds offer child-friendly amenities. Deerlick Creek features "two play areas with balls and other toys for the kids," according to Suzanne Z.
Swimming opportunities: Families appreciate water access for cooling off. One Deerlick Creek visitor mentioned, "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."
Beginner-friendly sites: First-time campers with children should consider Oak Mountain. "My campground was great for true car campers. The campsite was only a few strides from my car and there was a water spigot 5 steps away," writes Elyssa M.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: At Oak Mountain State Park, campers appreciate the recent renovations. "Remodeled spaces with adequate space for a newbie to back her travel trailer in with no problems. What an Ego booster!" shared Melinda S. about Section B of the main campground.
Hookup availability: For RVers requiring full hookups near Piper, Alabama, options vary. Bama RV Station offers "electric and water hookup only. 2 dump stations are available," according to one visitor who paid "$30 dollars a night" for their stay.
Campground layouts: Some RV parks cater specifically to different camping styles. At Rolling Hills, a visitor explained, "If we were coming to stay for a while we would get a back in spot," noting the difference between overnight and extended stays.
Entrance accessibility: RVers should note access considerations. At Kountry Air, campers are advised to "only take exit 179 off I-65 and follow the GPS directions, as any other way will take you on narrow roads, including gravel roads."
