Camping in Alabama is an experience like no other.
Once you experience it, you won’t want to travel anywhere else.
The Yellowhammer State has rich biodiversity that outsiders don’t see.
While Gulf Shores and Orange Beach grab headlines, every area has natural beauty.
If you love the outdoors, you should experience the best campgrounds in Alabama.
Here’s our guide to staying in the Heart of Dixie for local wilderness experiences.
What Makes a Campground the Best?
The best campgrounds in Alabama and other areas rely on natural beauty.
From forests to mountains and beaches, Mother Nature gives you photo opportunities from your tent or cabin.
Your chosen site should also have good facilities like clean bathrooms, hot showers and utility hookups for RVs.
It’s also nice to have people to share your experience with.
Experts say over 57 million Americans went camping in 2024, so you may bond with fellow campers on your trip.
Recreational diversity is essential at campgrounds, so look for sites with trails, swimming holes and playgrounds.
When there’s something for everyone, the whole family can enjoy the experience.
Campground 1: Oak Mountain State Park
Oak Mountain State Park near Birmingham is the Yellowhammer State’s largest public recreation area.
The park includes over 11,000 acres of nature trails, rescued wildlife and archery stations.
Summertime excursions could include time at the Aquapark or one of the pristine lakes.
Family-friendly activities are abundant at the state park, so embrace the diversity.
Your crew could hike the Enchanted Fairy House Trail, relax on the beach and head to an 18-hole golf course.
Oak Mountain State Park stands out because of its size, meaning your family won’t run out of things to do.
From BMX trails to waterfalls, you can easily spend a week here.
Address: 200 Terrace Dr, Pelham, AL 35124
Phone number: (205) 620-2520
Campground 2: DeSoto State Park
Traveling to Fort Payne will land you near DeSoto State Park and Lookout Mountain.
This campground lets you stay in Alabama while enjoying time near the Georgia and Tennessee borders.
DeSoto is famous for its Olympic-sized swimming pool, the Civilian Conservation Corps Museum and the ADA-accessible boardwalk trail.
Outdoor lovers can spend all day outside on 35 miles of hiking trails and 11 miles of mountain biking paths.
Your stroll will introduce you to the stunning Lookout Mountain, beautiful wildflowers and enchanting waterfalls.
Pick DeSoto State Park if you want cozy cabins, primitive sites and invaluable history lessons.
Address: 7104 DeSoto Pkwy NE, Fort Payne, AL 35967
Phone number: (256) 845-5075
Campground 3: Wheeler Lake KOA
Wheeler Lake KOA is one of the best campgrounds in Alabama if you want to be near the Tennessee River.
This campground offers a beginner-friendly experience, especially for those who have never had an outdoor excursion.
Wheeler Lake KOA has traditional camping with modern amenities like hot showers and clean bathrooms.
Campers feel connected to civilization with cabin electricity, Wi-Fi and laundry facilities.
Celebrate Wheeler Lake and its calm waters by swimming, paddling or riding your boat.
The campground is conveniently located between Decatur and Huntsville, letting you enjoy both cities in north Alabama.
Rain is more frequent in the spring in north Alabama, so bring a jacket to shield yourself from storms.
Address: 44 County Road 443, Hillsboro, AL 35643
Phone number: 1-256-280-4390
Campground 4: Cheaha State Park
Cheaha State Park is east of Birmingham and close to the famous Talladega Superspeedway.
I’m a big fan of this area and have completed many hikes here! (I even ran a 50k once…)
This location takes you to the natural peak of Alabama, as the mountain reaches 2,407 feet above sea level.
The park is for adventurers and those who want the finer things in life.
If you like fancy beverages, check out the local wineries selling homemade and fruity wines.
Mount Cheaha is at the southern tip of the Appalachian Mountains, which creates hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities.
While hiking is popular, Cheaha State Park includes ATV trails, rock climbing and lake fun.
The best time to camp might be the fall when the Talladega Scenic Drive is at its finest.
Address: 19644 Highway 281, Delta, AL 36258
Phone number: (256) 488-5111
Campground 5: Gulf State Park
Of course, Gulf State Park deserves a mention when discussing the best campgrounds in Alabama.
This famous recreational site in Baldwin County is by the Gulf of Mexico and offers a taste of the salty air.
If you want to camp by the ocean, it’s the best in the Heart of Dixie.
Gulf State Park has almost everything you want from the water, including paddling, kayaking and parasailing.
Staying on land lets you enjoy the backcountry trails, butterfly gardens and geocaching.
While the beach draws tourists, you can enjoy the nearby shops in the Mobile area.
Gulf State Park encompasses over 6,000 acres and two miles of white-sand beaches that embody Alabama’s biodiversity.
Finding the Best Campgrounds in Alabama
From the mountains to the beaches, Sweet Home Alabama’s campgrounds should be on your bucket list.
These campsites feature hiking trails, swimming opportunities and ample wildlife viewing.
Experienced and beginner-friendly options are available, depending on your camping history and preferences.
2025 is a fantastic year to visit the campgrounds and take advantage of Alabama the Beautiful.
Share your camping experiences and visit The Mobile Rundown for more local content!
