Camping near Shannon, Alabama centers on several campgrounds outside the major developed parks. The area sits at an elevation of around 400-600 feet above sea level with a mix of rolling hills and wooded terrain. Weather patterns include hot, humid summers with daytime temperatures regularly reaching 90°F and mild winters with occasional freezing nights, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons.
What to do
Hiking and trail exploration: Oak Mountain State Park features miles of well-marked trails for all skill levels. "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., highlighting the diverse activities available.
Historical exploration: Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park Campground combines camping with educational opportunities. One visitor shared their experience: "The museum there is very interesting and educational," while another camper mentioned, "The park is full of historical buildings like an old mill, furnace, blacksmith shop, and restored cabins."
Water recreation: Several campgrounds feature lakes and streams for swimming, fishing, and boating. A visitor to Deerlick Creek commented, "Good place for my dogs to swim as well," while another noted the "Boat ramp with easy access to the lake." Most water activities are seasonal, with lakes typically closed during winter months.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing between sites at certain campgrounds. A visitor to Deerlick Creek reported, "Love the large sites that are nicely separated from neighboring sites and overlook the water," while another mentioned, "Each site was set into the hills. We had lots of privacy and peaceful quiet."
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting allows for animal sightings. One Deerlick Creek camper described, "We watched deer almost tamely walking around the campground," providing opportunities for nature photography and observation.
Trade Days at Tannehill: Monthly events draw craft vendors and visitors. "We're craft vendors at Tannehill Trade Days March-November and we've started camping out there every month. My grandkids absolutely love it. They ride their bikes, play in the creek, and eat great ice cream from the creamery!" explains one regular attendee.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer humidity requires planning. At Birmingham South RV Park, a visitor noted, "Ants attempted to infest anything we sat outside... It was horrible," highlighting the need for insect protection during warmer months.
Reservation systems vary: Some parks require reservations while others operate first-come, first-served. For Tannehill, a camper explained their process: "We arrived late on a Thursday night and appreciated that the ranger is on-site 24/7, since the campground doesn't take reservations. The process is easy—you just pull in, find a site, and register/pay the next morning."
Site selection matters: Terrain can affect camping comfort. At Birmingham South RV Park, one visitor advised, "No concrete pads but nice small sites," while a Tannehill visitor observed, "The sites are all gravel with picnic tables (a little worn—we brought our own table setup)."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds offer child-friendly facilities. A visitor to Brookside Greenway Park described it as a "Grassy area behind some ball fields in a small town," providing play space beyond the campsites.
Creek exploration: Children enjoy wading in shallow water features. "Wonderful, quiet and shaded camping areas and also has an awesome clean creek to swim and canoe in," reported a Brookside Greenway visitor, making it suitable for families with active children.
Educational opportunities: Historical sites offer learning experiences. A visitor to Tannehill reported, "There's a Sunday church service at 9AM, playgrounds, picnic pavilions, a general store, a miniature train ride, and even an ice cream shop," providing multiple activities for children of different ages.
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: Hoover Met Complex RV Park offers level sites but with limitations. One RVer noted, "The pads are very uneven and there are just not many amenities. Very close to sports fields though," while another observed, "Easy to navigate in and out of each site."
Electrical hookup access: Some campgrounds have specific electrical configurations. A Birmingham South RV Park camper reported, "The electric hook-up was at the opposite end of the pad from the water and sewer hook-ups," which requires planning for cord length and placement.
Connectivity options: Internet access varies significantly. A visitor to Hoover Met Complex noted, "WIFI is meh. Would expect more from a city campground," while an Oak Mountain camper countered that their park "has wifi throughout and almost everywhere in the park has cell reception."
