Free camping on the shore of a TVA-managed lake, Second Creek Rec Area sits off Highway 1 in northern Alabama, with pull-off sites visible on the left as you drive in. Access is straightforward. The area has multiple spots to choose from, including a site right at the entrance with direct lake frontage that reviewers favor for its open sightlines toward the water. Porta-potties and concrete picnic tables are on-site, and locals keep the grass mowed, though the level of maintenance can vary depending on when you visit.
Fishing and kayaking draw repeat visitors here, and the lake access makes the campground a workable base for a weekend on the water. Summer A. calls it a "quiet pretty spot to camp," and the trees across the property give hammock campers several reasonable options. Mosquitoes can be heavy after dark, so bug protection is worth packing. Cell service is available, and alcohol is permitted.
Campers planning a longer stay in the region can look at places to camp around Second Creek Rec Area or nearby options like Brush Creek Park a few miles to the southeast. The no-cost entry and low-key atmosphere make Second Creek worth a look for anyone passing through the camping areas around Cherokee corridor.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsSecond Creek Rec Area is located in Alabama near Cherokee
Coordinates
34.9304002 N
88.03920027 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 8/7/26
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 8/7/26
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Second Creek Rec Area needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 33 min from Florence, AL
- 1 hr 18 min from Decatur, AL
- 1 hr 34 min from Huntsville, AL
- 1 hr 42 min from Jackson, TN
















