Omer F.
Scout
ScoutJennings Ferry
Excellent campground. Clean and well maintained. Nice and friendly host.
Best Tent Camping in Alabama
Alabama offers a variety of primitive tent camping experiences, from backcountry sites in state parks to established campgrounds near scenic waterways. Cheaha State Park features multiple tent-only backcountry options along the Pinhoti Trail, including the highly-rated McDill Point Backcountry campsite which sits on a ledge with panoramic mountain views. Little River Adventure Company provides more accessible tent camping with 30 sites that include fire rings and picnic tables, situated near Little River Canyon.
Most primitive tent sites in Alabama have basic amenities with fire rings but limited services. The Pinhoti Trail backcountry sites offer no drinking water, requiring campers to filter water or pack in their supply. At Turnipseed Campground, vault toilets are available, but no drinking water or showers. Most walk-in tent sites are set on natural, ungraded surfaces with minimal improvements beyond fire rings. Sites near water sources like Cheaha Falls Campground require hikers to pack garbage out as trash service isn't available. During summer months, many primitive areas implement fire restrictions due to drought conditions.
Areas farther from main roads provide deeper seclusion for tent campers. McDill Point campsite accommodates several tents and hammocks while offering striking sunrise and sunset views. A camper noted, "The site is pretty primitive and doesn't have any hookups but it is fairly large and has plenty of space to cook." Sites along Thompson Creek Trail allow fires and pets, though they lack facilities, making them ideal for experienced tent campers seeking solitude. Little River Adventure Company's tent sites are spaced for privacy with one reviewer commenting that "while other camp grounds all over are focusing on RV & pull behind trailers this place is specific to tent and RTT." Primitive tent setups throughout the state generally provide better access to trail networks and natural features than vehicle-based camping options.
Best Tent Campgrounds in Alabama (100)
1. Gulf State Park Campground
109 ReviewsOrange Beach, ALWebsite+1 (251) 948-7275"There is an awesome pool and splash pad, basketball courts, and boat launch on the property, plus a laundromat and impressive camp store."
"The site is kept very clean and mostly covered in sand so it was wonderful to walk around barefoot."
2. Oak Mountain State Park Campground
104 ReviewsPelham, ALWebsite+1 (205) 620-2520"Although the first few tent sites on the B-side are located right off the road, they're set back far enough that they feel pretty secluded with plenty of trees to give a slight sense of privacy."
"Oak Mountain State Park is Alabama’s largest state park. Located just outside of Birmingham, it’s easy to escape to nature without being too far off the beaten path. This park is HUGE!"
3. Monte Sano State Park Campground
83 ReviewsBrownsboro, ALWebsite+1 (256) 534-3757"I stayed at site number 063, which was an RV site with electric and water, and it was adjacent to the primitive sites."
"I'm a local and tent camping saves my sanity from a high preassured daily life. When I cant leave to camp I'll set up at a primitive site here for a week at a time. It's a simple space."
4. DeSoto State Park Campground
77 ReviewsAlpine, ALWebsite+1 (256) 845-5380$36 / night
"Desoto State Park Campground is a large campground with 94 full hookup sites, 16 primitive tent sites, and 2 primitive backcountry sites. All sites with hook ups also included cable hook ups."
"This part of Alabama is absolutely stunning, at close to 1700 feet in elevation, this area provides some of the most elevation in the state with absolutely stunning natural beauty."
5. Wind Creek State Park Campground
47 ReviewsAlexander City, ALWebsite+1 (256) 329-0845"Clean campsites with power and water and fire rings, near by bait store that sells a lot more than just bait. The park rangers and staff are here help and friendly."
"Tent camping with family during Hurricane evacuation. Beautiful park, numerous bath houses, laundry, camp store, playgrounds, mini golf, and so much more."
6. Lake Guntersville State Park Campground
44 ReviewsGuntersville, ALWebsite+1 (256) 571-5440"Anywhere in F would be pretty nice) The primitive section is quite nice looking and right on the waterfront. "
"Lake Guntersville State Park campground is just about as idyllic as it gets."
7. Meaher State Park Campground
37 ReviewsDaphne, ALWebsite+1 (251) 626-5529"Meaher is a great state park near Mobile. We stayed one night. Many of the sites are shady. The park streets and sites are asphalt. The park was clean and quiet except for road noise which wasnt bad."
"Nice flat sites in the pines and next to the Bay. Bathhouses are nice. Only problem is they are push button showers so it takes a couple pushes to get it hot."
8. Chewacla State Park Campground
36 ReviewsAuburn, ALWebsite+1 (334) 887-5621"Sewage is nicely placed in a low spot so you won't need a hose lifter (a rarity in our experience). Out spot is across from the bath house, but also the dump station."
"Chewacla was a favorite to visit for a few hours a a local college student and now it’s an excellent location to take the family on an RV trip."
9. Cathedral Caverns State Park Campground
19 ReviewsWoodville, ALWebsite+1 (256) 728-8193"state employees live fulltime within walking distance of the campsites."
"There was one picnic table, one set of water/electric utilities, and two fire rings (not sure why there were two). This site could easily fit a large Class A or two smaller campers. "
10. Joe Wheeler State Park Campground
19 ReviewsRogersville, ALWebsite+1 (256) 247-5466"Nice quiet park out on the lake. We were in loop C at the end of the improved sites."
"Some were well shaded , others had nice water views. We had an oversized site that was a pull through. We got there after sunset, so it was nice to have a quick and easy set-up."
Recent Tent Camping Photos in Alabama
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Tent Camping Reviews in Alabama
2111 Reviews of 100 Alabama Campgrounds
ashley R.
GuidePrairie Creek Campground
Truly a stunning campground! The waterfront site we stayed in was beautiful. Well kept park, easy to maneuver. Would love to come back.
- KKate S.Scout
Desoto Falls State Park
Spacious and well maintained spots. Pull through spots available for larger rigs. Facilities well maintained and clean. The falls being driving distance away is the only drawback.
C H.ScoutCampOut Alabama
After almost seven years at Campout Alabama, I’ve stayed quiet about why I left. But watching one of the owners publicly boast about “new money” while remembering what went on behind the scenes is too much to swallow.
I remember credit cards declining when we needed supplies for his own business. I remember us practically begging for chlorine for the pool. I remember power lines in pine trees and box fans being used to cool breaker panels. That’s what comes to mind when I see the displays of wealth.
A mansion doesn’t impress me when the people keeping your business running are asking for basic supplies and payment. Bragging about wealth under those circumstances is embarrassing.
Before delivering another speech about “new money,” try explaining why the basics were such a struggle. Chlorine. Supplies. Paying people for their work. These are basic responsibilities of owning a business.
I cannot recommend Campout Alabama under this ownership. Almost seven years gave me plenty of time to form that opinion, and no amount of bragging changes what I experienced and so many others experience!
- KKathy F.Scout
Desoto Falls State Park
Clean quiet and very nice
Beautiful place !!
- GGina B.Scout
Bama Campground & RV Park
BEST Place Ever !!
My friend and I stayed Friday and Saturday night in the two-story cabin. The location was easy to find, and it was extremely affordable. Such a great value, when most places are out of reach even for two days! The cabin was so clean and had everything you need. There's a fire pit with kindling and firewood that's nice and dry and burns excellently. We went during the Fall Festival, and they had hot air balloon rides, a pumpkin patch, cornhole boards, bouncy houses for the kids, horse rides, wonderful food, and a night hike to the cave(they even provided glow sticks!). It was an event-filled weekend with the best atmosphere! I can't say enough about Steve and his staff. They're all so kind, it's like you've known them forever. Anything you need, just give them a call and they're Johnny-on-the-spot. We will definitely come and stay again. I'd recommend this peaceful, beautiful place with a 5-star rating and more! Love this place!!
Chris S.ScoutIsaac Creek
It is dated, but it is quiet and secluded. I’m sure that is t for everyone, but we are enjoying it.
- AAnna R.Guide
Brushy Lake Recreation Area
Great spot for $5! Sites are spacious and it's a quick walk to the day use area bathhouse if needed. Only 3 other groups on a Monday night.
- LLarry M.Scout
Bohamia
This is the kind of place that I wish I could find more often. I got lucky this time.
Guide to Alabama
Tent camping in Alabama offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure, making it an ideal choice for nature enthusiasts and families alike.
Tent campers should check out Cheaha Falls Campground
- Located near stunning waterfalls, Cheaha Falls Campground features multiple small campsites with easy access to water and established fire rings.
- This campground is perfect for those who enjoy hiking, as it’s not far from the main Cheaha road parking, allowing for a scenic trek with your gear.
- Campers appreciate the shaded spots and the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful surroundings, especially during warmer months.
Explore local activities at Thompson Creek Trail Campsites
- Thompson Creek Trail Campsites offers a fantastic primitive camping experience with access to beautiful trails and waterfalls, ideal for hiking and exploring.
- The Sipsey Wilderness nearby is known for its stunning rock formations and numerous waterfalls, providing ample opportunities for outdoor adventures.
- Families can enjoy shallow areas for kids to play in the water, making it a great spot for a fun-filled day in nature.
Tent campers appreciate these amenities at Little River Adventure Company
- Little River Adventure Company provides well-maintained tent sites with access to drinking water, showers, and toilets, ensuring a comfortable stay.
- The campground is conveniently located near Little River Falls, offering breathtaking views and a variety of outdoor activities like swimming and fishing.
- Campers can enjoy the friendly atmosphere and the helpful host, making it a welcoming place for both new and experienced campers.
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