Oak Mountain State Park offers camping cabins near Shannon, Alabama with newly renovated facilities. Located in hilly terrain with elevations reaching 1,000 feet, the park spans over 9,900 acres of woodland habitat. Most cabins in the region are situated between 400-600 feet elevation, providing moderate temperatures even during hot Alabama summers that typically reach 90°F in July and August.
What to do
Mountain biking at Oak Mountain: The park features extensive trail systems for various skill levels. "This place has everything, mtn bike, gravel bike, trail running, road running, road biking, golf, equestrian, sailing and fishing," notes a visitor at Oak Mountain State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Visit the wildlife rescue center at Oak Mountain. "You'll never run out of things to do between the endless hiking trails, the museum of wildlife, and the wildlife rescue center. There's an archery station within the park and a petting farm," shares a camper at Backcountry Site — Oak Mountain State Park.
Lake activities: Smith Lake offers fishing, swimming, and boating opportunities. "There is a beach area and a boat launch. They have pavilions with grills and electrical outlets," mentions a visitor at Smith Lake Park.
What campers like
Spacious, updated sites: Recent renovations have improved many cabin areas. "They put a massive amount of money into updating this place. This is the #1 best state park campground I have ever been at," explains a camper at Oak Mountain State Park.
Private cabin settings: Some locations offer complete seclusion. "We loved this place, a little off the heating path but well worth it. You must check out the nature bridge nearby as well as the Houston jail. Sites were large and bathrooms were very clean," notes a review from The Ridge Outdoor Resort.
Historical exploration: Visit nearby historical sites. "This quiet campground has great staff. Clean restrooms. Easy in and out," reports a visitor at Brierfield Ironworks Historical Park, where guests can explore iron-making history.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin sites require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. "We reserved 363 days prior to arriving. Very friendly check in staff," shares an Oak Mountain State Park visitor.
Amenity variations: Cabin facilities differ significantly between locations. "Big campground. Great guess service. Staff friendly. Spot are very bigs and a good distance between them. Full hookup sites. Amenitied are very cleans, kids play grounds," explains a camper at Thousand Trails Hidden Cove.
Location considerations: Some cabin sites are remote. "Very nice, quiet campground. Only reason for 4 instead of 5 stars is the lack of things to do. No fenced in dog park but plenty of space to have one. Right on the lake but unaware of any kind of rentals available nearby—closest rentals are 40 mins away on the opposite side of the lake," notes a Hidden Cove visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Check playground conditions: Some campgrounds have aging equipment. "We stayed close to the park, mini golf, and horse shoes since we have a child. The wood on the playground needs to be replaced and the grass really needed cut," advises a Hidden Cove reviewer.
Look for kid-friendly activities: Several parks offer youth-oriented amenities. "The campground is easily navigated with multiple bathhouses per campground so you'll always have one nearby," notes a visitor to Backcountry Site — Oak Mountain State Park.
Consider cabins with full facilities: Some locations offer more home-like accommodations. "We got a tent site with power. Great price! Clean park, lake is always a good thing. Bath house shower had great hot water with good pressure," explains a Smith Lake Park camper.
Tips from RVers
Check site descriptions carefully: Cabin and RV site types vary. "GPS took us in a very rural way with lots of twisty roads. Once there we found an open spot on our own since it was a holiday the office was closed. Full hook ups and a fairly level grass pad," shares a Smith Lake Park visitor.
Be prepared for limited supplies: Some locations are far from stores. "Nearest Walmart is Cullman which is 45 mins away. Wouldn't recommend staying here if you prefer to be closer to the city but perfect if you want to be in the middle of the woods," explains a Hidden Cove visitor.
Consider seasonal weather impacts: Alabama summers can be intense. "Very hot, humid and rainy time of year! Would be back in the fall perhaps," notes a visitor to Hidden Cove regarding summer conditions.
