Steele, Alabama sits at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains with an elevation of around 500 feet above sea level. Several creeks and waterways flow through the area, connecting to nearby Lake Guntersville and the Coosa River. The region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly reaching the 90s, while winters remain relatively mild with occasional light snowfall.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Guntersville State Park offers excellent fishing access with multiple points to cast from shore or launch a boat. "Stayed in site 11. Has vault bathrooms that were stocked with toilet paper. Sites are spaced out pretty well. Has a nice little creek you can walk over to," notes a camper at Pine Glen Recreation Area.
Hiking trails: The Pinhoti Trail runs through Pine Glen Recreation Area and connects to miles of wilderness trails. "The Pinhoti Trail runs straight through the campground and provides hiking opportunities, and if you are willing to drive a little while there is a lot to do in the area," explains a reviewer.
Water recreation: Swimming and boating options abound at Honeycomb Campground, which provides direct lake access. According to a visitor, "This campground is located on Lake Guntersville. There are plenty of sites with trees for shade and hammocking. Clean bathrooms and showers. Kayak, canoe, and boat rentals."
What campers like
Secluded sites: Pine Glen Recreation Area offers more isolated camping for those seeking quiet. "Insanely peaceful and quiet. Even with a full campground the sites are all spaced far enough from each other that you won't hear your neighbors," shares one camper who visited multiple times.
Multiple swimming areas: River Rocks Landing features several pools for visitors seeking glamping close to Steele, Alabama. A visitor notes, "Beautiful campground right on the lake! Private with boat docks and nice camping spots. 3 pools that r very nice and clean. One pool is an infinity pool!"
Adventure options: The Ridge Outdoor Resort combines upscale glamping near Steele with outdoor activities. "There are dirt bike trails, a zip line, an air soft course, a pond, and stunning views of the valley below. The staff brings around all the firewood you could ever need," explains one regular visitor.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Storms can impact the area, as noted at Lake Guntersville State Park Campground: "A few years ago a tornado took out a lot of the big pines so it's a bit hot with very little shade. But it's still the best place to camp around Guntersville!"
Accessibility concerns: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. At Pine Glen Recreation Area, a visitor warns, "The drive in is 8 miles on an unpaved, backcountry road with varying inclines on slippery mixture of clay and gravel through hunting recreation area."
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds remain open year-round, but facilities may change. For The Cove RV Resort, a visitor notes, "This is a great campground that has ONLY long term camping so you really get to know your neighbors. The power is not included but the prices are very reasonable."
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly amenities: River Rocks Landing provides multiple family features. A visitor shares, "Had to go there while on hurricane evacuation and turned it into a hurricane induced 5 day vacation, best choice ever. Friendly staff, beautiful park, beautiful pools and splash pad. Right on the river."
Check shower facilities: Honeycomb Campground maintains clean facilities for families. "This campground is great for families, couples, singles, whatever! The staff is always super friendly and helpful. The restrooms and showers are very clean," notes a repeat visitor.
Consider camping location: Select sites based on your family's preferences. At Oak Mountain State Park Campground, a visitor reports, "Campground was great. Our site on the lake was beautiful and had ducks came right up to our site. Clean and staff were friendly."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions matter: Some campgrounds can't accommodate larger rigs. A Pine Glen visitor advises, "Nice place to stay for a night or a week. Not good for large campers. No water or electric. Pit toilets that can get ripe if not emptied in a while."
Check hookup availability: Honeycomb offers partial hookups but lacks sewer at most sites. "This has quickly become one of our favorite places to camp. It is quiet and relaxing. The views are amazing. The only downside is that they do not have sewer hookups," explains a frequent camper.
Consider site spacing: River Rocks Landing provides upscale glamping accommodations near Steele, Alabama, but with close quarters. "Very well maintained! Spots are very close together but everyone is friendly," notes one RVer who rated the campground highly despite this limitation.
