97% (536) • 1,031 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Athens
Red Coach Resort & RV Park
1. Red Coach Resort & RV Park
100%
(30)
14mi from Athens · 30 sites
The resort resides on 81 stunning acres full of inspiring wildlife, majestic trees, and serene creeks and ponds. Stroll along our nature path through the beautiful meadows entangled with gorgeous wildflowers, or contemplate besides the rolling waters. Time for some local entertainment, space exploration, groceries, or fine dining? You're just 5- 20 minutes from shopping and restaurants in three directions.
Centrally located near many famous attractions in Alabama and Tennessee, Red Coach Resort sits just 9 minutes off interstate 65. It is easily possible to park in this one location and enjoy the convenience of day trips in any direction to see the best that the south has to offer.
Pets
Full hookups
Platos Branch Farm RV park
2. Platos Branch Farm RV park
96%
(26)
19mi from Athens · 6 sites
Platos Branch Farm RV: Named after the large branch that runs thru the property
across the horse pasture.
There are large fish in the Branch. Which is on private property so you can fish without a state license.
The park
is located on a working farm. The horses are usually in site.
Campers tell us that the stars here at night are a beauty to behold.
This is a quiet peaceful place.
But still minutes away from the conveniences.
Grocery within 5 miles and numerous restaurants.
Hope you see us soon.
Learn more about this land:
RV Spots in the country, Total of 6 RV Spots. Great view of horse pasture with 5 horses. Platos pond across pasture. Great Fishing. Look at the stars and have some peaceful nights. 3 miles to Grocery store and resturants. Joe Wheeler state Park within 5 miles. Awesome trails for hiking or biking. 25 minutes to Florence ( UNA) or Athens. Brownsferry Plant about 20 minutes. Weekly and monthly rates available.
Pets
Full hookups
Bates Farm
3. Bates Farm
100%
(113)
19mi from Athens · 46 sites · Tents, RVs
Bates Farm: A Wildlife Haven & Primitive Camp
Welcome to Bates Farm, a magical, nature-forward escape where adventure meets conservation. Our primitive campground invites car campers and groups to reconnect with the land in a simple, unplugged setting surrounded by thriving habitats.
Wildlife & habitats at a glance
- 45 acres of native plant corridors that support birds, pollinators, and diverse wildlife
- Wildlife-friendly habitats woven throughout the property, designed for sustainable enjoyment
- Monarch Waystation zones to sustain these delicate monarch populations
- Firefly habitats that illuminate summer evenings with natural wonder
- 30,000+ sq ft of seasonal wildflowers to attract pollinators and provide stunning views
Camping experience
- Primitive camping in a pristine, undeveloped setting (no hookups)
- Simple, family-friendly outdoor living with minimal impact on the landscape
- Easy access to open skies, quiet nights, and nature listening
Activities & versatility
- 3D archery range tucked into the natural surroundings (great for all skill levels)
- Scenic venues for weddings, gatherings, and small events, set against our wild landscapes
- Nature education and exploration through partner programs that celebrate native flora and fauna
What to expect
- An immersive, low-impact camping experience focused on wildlife habitat appreciation
- A peaceful basecamp for exploring local ecosystems, wildlife watching, and field-guided learning
- A welcoming, responsible outdoor community committed to conservation and sustainable fun
Booking notes
- Primitive camping means no electrical hookups; plan accordingly with essentials
- Share your plans with hosts for alfresco safety, archery etiquette, and wildlife viewing times
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Joe Wheeler State Park
4. Joe Wheeler State Park
100%
(1)
State park 24mi from Athens · 116 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Joe Wheeler State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Monte Sano State Park
5. Monte Sano State Park
94%
(9)
State park 26mi from Athens · 114 sites
Monte Sano State Park: A Haven for Nature Lovers and Adventure Seekers.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
York Hollow
6. York Hollow
97%
(37)
27mi from Athens · 1 site · Tent, RV
Campsite is located at the base of York Mountain.
Learn more about this land:
Pitch your tent, hang you hammock, or park your camper and enjoy the great outdoors. There are a couple of level spots for your tents, as well as a nice rock fire pit for you to use. There is usually plenty of firewood available and there is an outhouse on the site. The pond hasn't yet been stocked with fish, but hopefully soon it will have more than just frogs. But for now the frogs provide great music. This is a rustic campsite, with rocks, roots, and steep terrain. Please bring your own camping gear, including chairs, and please take your trash with you. There is plenty of privacy, even though you are right near a public road that has very little traffic. There are no other campsites nearby and the owner lives 1/2 mile away. Recreation nearby includes Canoeing/kayaking on both the Elk River and Richland creek (shuttles can usually be arranged), Stillhouse Hollow Falls (beautiful waterfall hiking), Trail of Tears Interpretive Center, and Big Creek Winery.
Tents/Table/and cots are available to rent as well.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Caney Hollow Creek Retreat
7. Caney Hollow Creek Retreat
99%
(80)
45mi from Athens · 3 sites
Escape the crowded, generic campgrounds on this rural property that is designed with RVs up to 45 ft in mind and enjoy the peaceful space.
Learn more about this land:
Out little slice of heaven has a beautiful spring fed creek and two large fields to play in. The creek can be waist deep in areas but mostly is good for sitting in and just relaxing. Extremely quiet on a dead end road. We have 5 bars of AT&T 5g cell service, Verizon can be hit or miss. All other cell services do not work. We love the creek and our secluded valley. Only a few farmers live down the road. This makes for a very private experience that can be naturalist / clothing optional friendly. The creek is secluded with plenty of trees to enjoy however you wish.
Spaces are extremely level and there are good Satellite tv abilities. We have firewood on site and two stone fire pits. Nearby is a wonderful old grist mill, Tim's Ford state park, Tim's Ford lake, Jack Daniels Distillery and other attractions. We are also about 45 minutes from Huntsville, AL with the NASA Space and Science Center. Space #1 is closest to the road. Space #2 has a larger patio. This retreat is the Perfect way to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, yet not too far away from essentials. Hiking adventures nearby include University of the South Domain, Buggy Top, Walls Of Jerico and many more.
30 and 50 Amp pedestals at each site along with water and sewer hookups. Level sites. Due to health regulations, we only accept RVs with a pottie system as we do not offer bathroom facilities.
Pets
Full hookups
Secluded Cabin on Horse Farm
8. Secluded Cabin on Horse Farm
97%
(77)
46mi from Athens · 1 site
Welcome to The Bunkhouse on our 93-acre horse farm. Intentional off-grid living: no electricity or cell service, just kerosene lanterns, a wood-burning stove, and peace.
Sleeps 8 in cozy memory-foam bunks. Free-roaming horses wander through camp. Spend your days hiking trails, exploring the creek, and sitting by the fire. Perfect for groups seeking a digital detox.
Flush toilet and basic amenities provided. 15 minutes to Columbia, 1 hour to Nashville.
The road to the campsite goes through a very small creek and up a little hill. Very low vehicles may bottom out. In the rainy months you need 4-wheel drive to get out to the site.
We live on the property and will be available to make sure your stay is comfortable and enjoyable. We ask campers to please check in before 7pm and be courteous about communicating your ETA, as we will be planning our day around your arrival time. We are available via messaging up until 8pm.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Reed Creek Campsites
9. Reed Creek Campsites
100%
(24)
47mi from Athens · 4 sites
Our property is an amazing plot of 45 acres of mostly woods and sits atop a beautiful ridge.
Our campsite sits near Reed Patch creek at the bottom of the the ridge as well as near the frog pond! Here, are homes of turkey, deer, owls, woodpeckers, and many other
We are a leave no trace campsite.
We are 1.5 hours from Nashville, 40 minutes from Amish Country (Ethridge) 20 from Lake Meriwether, and 15 minutes from Natchez Trace.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Bankhead National Forest
10. Bankhead National Forest
91%
(17)
National forest 48mi from Athens · 195 sites
Find your sweet home in Alabama’s Bankhead National Forest where skies really are so blue! With 16 wilderness areas to explore, places like the Sipsey Wilderness offer adventure and solitude out on the trails. Horseback riding and bike trails are a rad way to get miles under your feet, while spotting wildflowers and quail galore. Looking to cool off? There’s plenty of fishing and swimming for water lovers, or take shade under Bee Branch, a 500 year old poplar tree that stand majestically in the park. Over 150 miles of hiking trails are a show in all seasons and with sick campgrounds that have all the hook-ups you’re sure to return to Bankhead time and time again.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Cathedral Caverns State Park
11. Cathedral Caverns State Park
100%
(3)
State park 44mi from Athens · 13 sites
Discover the grandeur of Cathedral Caverns State Park and its natural wonders.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Tims Ford State Park
12. Tims Ford State Park
100%
(5)
State park 50mi from Athens · 72 sites
Aquatic activities are the main draw at this Tennessee park.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Sipsey Creek Farm
13. Sipsey Creek Farm
100%
(26)
47mi from Athens · 3 sites · RVs, Lodging
Toilet and kitchen are on site and accessible in the barn. Wake up to a sunrise overlooking a fiber farm, or sleep in a cave. the possibilities are endless.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
CAMP 222 (A Private Campground)
14. CAMP 222 (A Private Campground)
99%
(70)
47mi from Athens · 1 site · Tent, RV
Welcome to CAMP 222, a private campground nestled on approximately 1 acre of land adjacent to Lewis Smith Lake in Cullman, AL.
Experience the tranquility of lake life as you enjoy boating adventures accessed via our private boat ramp. Relax and bask in the sun on our floating sun deck, or unwind in the shade with a nap in one of our hammocks. As night falls, gather around our fire pit to share stories without the distractions of nearby campers.
Our campground offers camper hook-ups for water and electricity, although sewer facilities are not available from April - November a portable toilet is on site. During the months of December - March, guests must either have a camper with a restroom or bring their own camp toilets.
Conveniently situated just off Cullman County Road 222, our campsite is within a quarter mile of two gas stations, two independently owned stores offering short-order food options, and a Dollar General. While there may be some road noise from County Road 222, especially during daytime hours, it typically tapers off in the evening and nighttime.
Enjoy stunning views of the 4th of July fireworks from Smith Lake Park, as our property provides a prime vantage point.
Lewis Smith Lake, managed by Alabama Power, spans 21,000 acres and is the deepest lake in Alabama at 264 ft. The water level varies throughout the year, usually reaching full-pool from April to July before gradually decreasing for the autumn and winter seasons. Please note the rocky shore near the sun deck, which is why jumping or diving from the sun deck is prohibited.
The nearby City of Cullman, located approximately 10 miles away, offers abundant shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Additionally, the city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the Strawberry Festival in April, Octoberfest in October, and Christkindlmarkt in November & December.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Southport Saltpeter Cave
15. Southport Saltpeter Cave
100%
(19)
48mi from Athens · 10 sites
Southport Saltpetre Cave was mined during the Civil War for Saltpetre to manufacture black powder. David Crockett got his Saltpetre from this cave. The property also has hiking trails and primitive camping.Learn more about this land:We offer primitive cabins and tent camping in a forest setting. Several caves, springs, streams, bluffs, wildlife, and views make for a great camping experience. We also offer marked hiking trails. Nearby areas include Stillhouse Falls State Natural Area, The Farm, many wineries and distillers, home of James K Polk, and David Crockett SP.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
River Ridge Retreat
16. River Ridge Retreat
100%
(16)
49mi from Athens · 40 sites
River Ridge Retreat offers 670+ acres of beautiful property full of wildlife for you to explore. There are miles of waterfront, hiking trails and paved roads for biking/golf cart riding. Our property sits directly on Alabama's largest lake, Lake Guntersville. Lake Guntersville covers 69,000 acres and is full of fun activities for the whole family. River Ridge Retreat offers the opportunity to enjoy a quiet, relaxing retreat to nature while still being close enough to local attractions.
Pets
Full hookups
Hidden Acres Getaway LLC.
17. Hidden Acres Getaway LLC.
100%
(12)
49mi from Athens · 4 sites
Hidden Acres Getaway is a newly opened mom and pop campground on 3 acres with 4 big-rig friendly sites. These sites have 30 and 50 amp electrical boxes with a 110. The water pressure is strong. All 4 sites have full hookups. We are renting Site 2 as self-contained. The sites are large enough for your vehicle and boat. Our campground offers a quiet atmosphere. We have deer, racoons, and eagles visiting the property. We are located next door to Little Mountain Marina. There are many places to visit during your stay in Guntersville, Alabama
A few places to explore:
Guntersville State Park. 10.5 miles
Bucks Pocket State Park 12.5 miles
High Falls Park 13.9 miles
Unclaimed Baggage (The world's only retailer of lost luggage) 10 .5 miles
There are boat ramps close by.
Come camp with us!
Pets
Full hookups
Getaway Hideaway Glampground
18. Getaway Hideaway Glampground
17mi from Athens · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to The Getaway Hideaway Glamping Site—your perfect escape where nature meets comfort and unforgettable memories are made. Our cozy retreat is designed for everyone, whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a solo reset, an adventure-filled weekend, or a fun trip with friends or family. Enjoy the beauty of the outdoors with the comfort of a thoughtfully curated space, featuring relaxing amenities, peaceful surroundings, and all the little touches that make your stay feel special. You’ll also love how convenient the location is—just minutes from the Tennessee River and Huntsville International Airport, with local shopping and dining nearby. Spend your days exploring trails, water views, and local attractions, then unwind with quiet mornings, cozy evenings, and stargazing nights you’ll never forget.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
D' Campsite
19. D' Campsite
24mi from Athens · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
D' Camp is closed to Joe Wheeler State Park, Wheeler Dam, and a min from Second Creek. Second Creek is a great place for paddleboarding and leisure kayaking. It is a min from the property with boat ramp to launch.
Property has 4.5 acres partly wooded with plenty of space to car or tent camp close to the road and 72 hwy, still private. One concrete pad without hookups for a long RV to park for the night or two right on side of the road.
Pets
Campfires
Timberline Glamping Huntsville
20. Timberline Glamping Huntsville
25mi from Athens · 5 sites
Just minutes from downtown Huntsville, Monte Sano State Park, rises more than 1,600 feet above sea level.
In Spanish, Monte Sano means “Mountain of Health” and is known for spectacular views, fresh mountain air, fall colors, and mineral springs. Guests can enjoy 20 miles of hiking trails, beautiful Japanese Gardens, a Planetarium and Lodge, and all of the attractions, shops, and restaurants of the one-and-only, “Rocket City” Huntsville, Alabama.
Combining luxury and the great outdoors, our extra spacious completely furnished Safari Tents give large families or groups of friends the extra space they need to glamp in comfort.
What Is Glamping?
At Timberline Glamping, We believe that luxury and comfort should not be sacrificed when spending time outside.
You will have a very comfortable bed with proper linens.
You will have places to sit, places to eat, and places to charge your phone.
You will still be able to wake up and have a fresh cup of coffee from a Keurig Coffee Maker.
We do provide heaters in the winter and air conditioners in the summer, but remember this is a tent with a canvas exterior. The heating and cooling will be just enough to take the edge off, but will not have the same effect of a home.
Most Importantly, you will have a chance to re-imagine the world around you as you make special memories with family and friends.
If you are on the fence and have more questions, check out our FAQ page or please reach out to us and ask questions. It is better that you know before you go!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Katherine
1 week ago
15 ft travel trailer
What an unexpected and wonderful experience. Not that I didn’t think the site was nice, from the reviews, but my husband and I had a lovely time! We had all the wood we could want for a fire. We sat by the lake in the Adirondack chairs and read and sipped cocktails. We were close to Cullman which had plenty of activities and dining options. Granted, the weather was perfect and we love lazy days at the campsite. The site is right next to a road and I was worried about that at first, but I didn’t really notice too much. There were dogs across the lake who barked some, but not continuously (and I am super sensitive about annoying noises). The port a potty was clean and did not smell bad. My favorite part was the outdoor shower. Such a pleasure. All in all a fabulous spot.
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S
Sarah
1 week ago
28 ft travel trailer
Beautiful place! We loved our stay here. We had the place to ourselves and it was so peaceful! The entire area is gorgeous! We would definitely love to come back!
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Amber
2 weeks ago
20 ft Class C
Rodger’s property was just lovely! It was exactly as described. He was a very responsive and personable host, who clearly wants people to feel comfortable and happy at the site. It’s a small and quaint campsite, if you are looking for something not as big as an RV park or giant state park. The campsites are quite big and spread apart, so you don’t feel like you’re on top of each other. I definitely recommend staying here if you’re in the area.
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Emily
2 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
This was such a cute place and the hosts were so kind and nice. Mary told us all about the kind of foods and flowers she was growing and her husband helped us out when our tent broke. The bath house was very nice and clean. It was a good place to just hang out for a night with some friends.
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Carrie
2 weeks ago
28 ft Class C
With pets
Rachel was very responsive to our questions and timing. The weather was not cooperative, but he campsite was clean and easily accessible.
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Savannah
2 weeks ago
Tent
Very peaceful and beautiful. Great for when you need to get away for a day or two.
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Davy
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Great shower! Right on the water with boat ramp. Private
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Cierra
3 weeks ago
16 ft rooftop tent
With kids
Second stay here. Mary is so cool to talk to is very knowledgeable. She has so many awesome projects that she’s working on from monarch butterflies to beautiful flowers and gardens. Plus archery!
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C
Clint
April 2026
Tent
Stayed one night to try out a new tent setup. Grounds are clean. I did not get a chance to checkout the amenities. I would stay here again.
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A
Andrea
April 2026
Tent
Amazing people very friendly, knowledgeable accommodating. Beautiful place , well kept , very peaceful and spacious. The sites are not on top of each other . A great archery set up , showers , laundry no extra charge for them. Just all around the best campsite I've been too would highly recommend.
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Terry
April 2026
45 ft travel trailer
With pets
Our stay at Red Coach was flawless. Communication was great; we knew right where to go. We liked our campsite (A-15) as it overlooked a woods area and not another camper. We would definitely return in the future.
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Cierra
April 2026
16 ft rooftop tent
With kids
Host was so nice. She showed us around the property and let us pick a site that worked best with our rooftop tent and set up. She showed us all of the amenities and gave us access to everything. The camp spots are spaced out from each other and are very peaceful. We had two adults and two small kids and they all enjoyed as well. The host was nice enough to educate us on some of the local critters, trees, and plants too. Forgot to take a picture of our setup while it was up, but here’s post camp pictures.
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James
April 2026
Tent
I very much enjoyed my stay here at the Endor campsite. Very friendly and hospitable host with great accommodations. Great if you have kids as well.
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Trachelle
April 2026
20 ft campervan
Wonderful hip camp spot. It is peaceful and serene right along the water. The hot water is instant in the shower. The owner is quick to respond to messages and very helpful. There are comfortable Adirondack chairs and tables, nice eating table, dock.
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Jim
April 2026
21 ft campervan
Rachael has taken extra steps to ensure her guest enjoy their stay at Camp 222. The shower and latrine are in excellent condition and the shower's hot water supply is a nice positive. The fire pit, night lights, hammocks, and swing all add to a relaxing and pleasing atmosphere with several spot to lay back and enjoy your stay. If you like to fish, I had the most luck going left upstream on the branch and fishing a little north of Cappie's Boat dock. I would highly recommend Camp 222 to future campers. One negative comment, the camp is just off a fairly busy road. You will hear traffic throughout the day and early evening. But, the positives far out weight this minor negative for me.
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Lori
March 2026
29 ft travel trailer
With pets
Great! As advertised! Nelson was a wonderful host, always checking in and readily available. Beautiful setting! Enjoyable for both dogs (off leash) and humans (relaxing). Loved it!
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Jeffery
March 2026
15 ft travel trailer
With kids
Always have a great time at 222. Love the shower, and how clean and private the site is. Kids had a great time.
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Dusty
March 2026
Weekend Trip to Sipsey Creek Farm
I booked this trip for my father. He had an amazing stay. Andrea went out of her way to make sure he had an enjoyable experience. Thank you so much!
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Jennifer
March 2026
38 ft Class A
With pets
Rodger was fantastic! He contacted me immediately after I booked (my notifications were off, so wasn't aware) ... it was so nice to be advised in advance of what to expect.
I feel that his description & check in procedures were exactly stated. He offered additional site information based on his current occupancy & we really appreciated his "real-time" assessment.
We selected this site based on location. It was an easy access to Greenville, Scottsboro, Chattanooga & Hwy 59 (when we departed).
We would definitely stay again & recommend to our fellow campers.
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Rita
March 2026
Tent
It’s a beautiful place to be outdoors. We enjoy fishing from the dock, napping in the hammocks and sitting around the campfire in the evening.
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