Monte Sano State Park sits 1,600 feet above sea level with temperatures averaging 5-8 degrees cooler than surrounding areas in summer. Located 27 miles from Laceys Spring, the park's elevated location creates distinct microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the year. Winter overnight temperatures can drop significantly compared to Huntsville proper.
What to do
Hike technical trails: Monte Sano State Park offers challenging terrain for experienced hikers. "These are not your easy day hike trails, though it is possible to take it easy. The problem being when you look at the map and read the names you can't help but go check out the trails! Good, technical hiking, bring your sticks and (once again) bug stuff," notes reviewer Shelly S.
Explore underground features: Cave systems near the campgrounds provide unique exploration opportunities. "We saw 4 waterfalls, including one inside a cave. A mountain bikers or hikers paradise here," shares Greg S. about his experience at Monte Sano State Park.
Visit Japanese gardens: Cultural attractions complement natural settings in the area. "The Japanese garden is very cool also. Wonderful overlooks to take in the surrounding area," comments Greg S. after exploring Monte Sano State Park's less-mentioned attractions.
What campers like
Easy town access: Honeycomb Campground offers the perfect balance of seclusion and convenience. "A perfect secure campground for those camping alone or with your family. During season and with the uptick of camping with COVID it's hard to book a site but well worth it if you can plan ahead or camp during the week," explains Patti S.
Heated facilities: Winter camping comfort is enhanced at campgrounds with climate-controlled buildings. "The campground was very clean and had an excellent shower house and bathroom. It was heated, no extra cost for the shower and very clean," reports a visitor at regional glamping facilities.
Security measures: Sharon Johnston Park provides a safe environment for families. "There is a roving security guard most of the night. Great steady power and water," notes a camper who appreciated the extra safety measures.
What you should know
Limited privacy at some sites: Point Mallard City Campground spaces require advance planning for better positioning. "This place is tight. Not in the Urban Dictionary meaning of tight, but in the actual meaning of tight. It's hard to tell if there are more trees or RVs on the property," explains Katie D.
Seasonal booking challenges: The Cove RV Resort offers convenience but requires advance planning. "We were looking for a spot to pull over for the night on the way back from a family vacation. This place is conveniently right off the interstate, but still tucked away enough that it's quiet," shares Meghan T.
Weather considerations: After storms, some campgrounds have lost their shade coverage. "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!" reports Greg H. about conditions near glamping options in Laceys Spring.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Lake Guntersville State Park offers excellent recreation for children. "There are several types of sites, monthly, cabins and tent camping. There are boat slips (local rentals) and a Pavilion on the water, basketball and tennis courts, playground, shady dog park, splash pad, and clean bathhouses," says L&A C.
Water activities: Kids enjoy swimming areas at several campgrounds. "The kids did love the beach front entrance that was built for lake access and swimming. The camp store was well supplied. The staff was also great!" shares one family about their experience at waterfront glamping in Laceys Spring, Alabama.
Open play space: Bring outdoor games to maximize recreation options. "It's a great site to bring the kids. In the summer the pool is open which is great for the hot days. There's also a track, a baseball field, and soccer fields so I've seen many athletic events held there," reports M&P M. about family options.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose locations carefully for convenience. "We were in site 19 which was in the way back, unfortunately near a 'pond' so a few mosquitoes were about. Otherwise pretty spacious sites. I hung my hammock and could have put up a tent," advises Shelly S. about TGL Adventures camping setup.
Hookup limitations: Plan water usage based on campground facilities. "Only downfall is no sewer hook up but they do have a honeypot service and 2 dump stations," reports Patti S. about regional camping near Laceys Spring luxury glamping options.
Road conditions: Prepare for various surfaces at different campgrounds. "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," shares Scotty W. about regional access conditions.
