Fort Payne and the surrounding areas near Gaylesville, Alabama contain a network of outdoor recreation sites at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 1,800 feet. The region experiences mild winters with occasional snowfall and humid summers that typically peak in the upper 80s. Canyon systems throughout the area feature waterfalls that flow strongest during spring and fall rainy periods, with many creeks and swimming areas drying significantly during summer months.
What to do
Hiking at Cloudland Canyon State Park: About 30 miles from Gaylesville, this park offers trails ranging from easy to strenuous with significant elevation changes. "The main road to the trailheads and day use area runs past this loop and while there are trees for shade they do not offer any privacy," notes Stephanie J. about the East Rim campground area. For more seclusion, "the west rim is perfect for campers who want the convenience of a bathhouse with running water and/or the ability to run electric in their RVs, but without giving up the feeling of being immersed in nature."
Kayaking at Cedar Creek RV & Outdoor Center: Located in Cave Spring, Georgia, this campground specializes in water recreation. "80 spaces for large RVs at $46 a night. Kayaking is one of the main activities. Kayak rentals and sales," explains Robert C. The creek provides a consistent water source even when other area waterways run low.
Fishing at Lake Guntersville State Park: Alabama's largest lake offers extensive fishing opportunities. "Great place if you like to fish," notes Scott M. The park features boat ramps and docking facilities, with bass fishing particularly productive in spring and early summer. A valid Alabama fishing license is required and can be purchased at the park store.
What campers like
Privacy at walk-in sites: Many experienced campers appreciate the secluded tent camping options. At Cloudland Canyon State Park, Abby M. reports, "Love the tent-only serenity of the walk-in sites. There is a separate parking lot at the back of the park for the walk-in sites, which are a short distance away (easy to haul your gear)." These sites feature tent pads, picnic tables, and fire rings while maintaining separation from RV areas.
Running water at primitive sites: Tent campers particularly value backcountry sites with water access. Anna M. says of Cloudland Canyon, "Our backcountry campground had a fire pit and even a picnic table, and was nestled beside a babbling brook. The visitor's center is only a few minutes' drive away if anyone in your camping party desires running water."
Seasonal accessibility: Many sites in the region remain open year-round. At Wills Creek RV Park, a recent visitor noted it was "Easy to get to from I-59 in Fort Payne. They have some sites that are shaded, but the pull through sites are in an open area. Gravel roads and pads (thankfully, as everything around was standing in water from the recent downpour)."
What you should know
Weather impacts: The region's clay soil retains water, creating muddy conditions after rain. At Lookout Mountain-Chattanooga West KOA, a camper observed, "Small sites and will flood when rains." Many campgrounds have gravel roads and pads to mitigate these conditions.
Yurt camping near Gaylesville: Several parks offer yurt accommodations as alternatives to tent camping. At Lookout Mountain KOA, yurts provide a more weather-resistant option approximately 35 miles from Gaylesville. One visitor mentioned, "This would still not be my primary choice for tent camping as it is still largely geared towards RVs, however the group camping, the wooded feel, and the convenience to Chattanooga make this an amazing place to stay."
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly throughout canyon areas. At Chief Ladiga Trail Campground, Charles B. reports, "There are no hook ups and cell service is spotty. You are in a remote peaceful valley with hills all around." Some campgrounds offer WiFi, but bandwidth capabilities differ widely between locations.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated areas for children. At River Rocks Landing, "They have 3 pools and a splash pad! I would say this is my to go to place!" according to Elizabeth P. The campground also features convenient riverside activities for multiple age groups.
Educational opportunities: Many parks provide ranger-led programs seasonally. "Friendly staff, with the Jr ranger program still going with the help of adult campers during covid. Still so much fun and so clean and beautiful!!" reports Cheryl C. about Red Top Mountain State Park.
Safety considerations: Most facilities have controlled access after hours. Rose Alice W. notes about River Rocks Landing, "The gate is locked after 8pm, but you can get a key for a deposit of $10, which you get back when you leave. This means it is pretty secure at night."
Tips from RVers
Site selection criteria: For RV campers seeking privacy, west rim locations typically offer better spacing. G F. advises about Cloudland Canyon, "The West Rim campground is VASTLY superior with tons of privacy, tree cover, great terraces at most sites, with the ones outside ones being the best."
Technical assistance: Some campgrounds maintain on-site service personnel. At Wills Creek RV Park, "the office staff and the on-sight tech were particularly helpful," reports Randy G., which makes this location advantageous for travelers experiencing equipment issues.
Narrow roads: Several campgrounds feature tight turns and limited maneuvering space. "Heavily wooded sites that are not well maintained. Very narrow roads in the campground with lots of pot holes. Not the easiest state park to pull a travel trailer in," warns Brock D. about Red Top Mountain State Park.
