The best river, stream, or creek glamping near Gardendale, Alabama

Looking for a luxurious camping experience near Gardendale, Alabama with a river nearby? Look no further than Hipcamp, with over 180 options available for glamping near the area's rivers. The average price per night is $45, with options as low as $20 per night. Some of our top campsites near Gardendale include Parksland Retreat (281 reviews), Bohamia - Glamp/RV/Camp (38 reviews), and Your Tallapoosa River Hideaway! (18 reviews). Popular amenities include potable water, pets, and showers, while popular activities include paddling, snow sports, and wildlife watching.

100% (710)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking for a luxurious camping experience near Gardendale, Alabama with a river nearby? Look no further than Hipcamp, with over 180 options available for glamping near the area's rivers. The average price per night is $45, with options as low as $20 per night. Some of our top campsites near Gardendale include Parksland Retreat (281 reviews), Bohamia - Glamp/RV/Camp (38 reviews), and Your Tallapoosa River Hideaway! (18 reviews). Popular amenities include potable water, pets, and showers, while popular activities include paddling, snow sports, and wildlife watching.

100% (710)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Parksland Retreat

99%

(1069)

48mi from Gardendale · 13 sites · Tents, Lodging · Waldo, AL

Parksland Retreat is a 40 acre forest and nature retreat with off grid facilities and homestead all surrounded by the Talladega National Forest. Parksland is in the heart of Talladega National Forest. Come for a hike on the trails on property, nearby Pinhoti trail or swim in the beautiful creek. Furnished Cabins, Bell Tents and Primitive Camping Available for you, your partner, and/or a group. We have Parking for one (1) car per booking. Access to the Retreat grounds and waters where we have swimming, and hiking. Fall - Spring: shared Hot Tub Available Friday nights, Shared Sauna Available with cold plunge Saturday nights. Clothing Optional Property All guests must be 18+ years old LGBTQ+ & BIPOC FRIENDLY Be advised! The bridge located on Berney Station Road over Dry Creek (just West of the turn onto Germany Mountain Rd) is going to be replaced. This section of the roadway will be closed beginning March 3rd and will be closed for approximately one year. Route your arrival from the East on Berney Station road.

2. Bohamia - Glamp/RV/Camp

99%

(298)

47mi from Gardendale · 28 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Talladega, AL

Please join us at the land of Bohamia for glamping with luxury beds and private decks, primitive camping in picturesque sites, and RV spots with power and water. Bohamia has an upscale bathhouse with private, hot showers and individual toilet rooms with floor-to-ceiling doors. The bathhouse is within 100 yards of all glamps and RV sites. We also have portalets stationed in the RV/Safari Tent area, at The Barn, and at the pond (0.4 miles from welcome center.) Premium RV spots now available with 30 or 50 amp hookups and water. We do not have sewer hookups or a waste station. Glamp, RV or camp amidst the natural beauty of our 268 acre property; we have open fields, shady spots beneath the hardwoods and pines, and even a five acre pond with plenty of fish if you’d prefer to wake up to a water view or take a morning swim. With miles of trails on our property, easy access to the 392,000 acre Talladega National Forest, and less than ten miles from the Pinhoti trail, you’ll never run out of beautiful places to explore. Be sure to save some time to enjoy the boulder strewn creek just a short walk from our welcome center - it’s a must see! Other local attractions are also within reach with the Top Trails ATV park and the Talladega Marksmanship Park only seven miles away.

3. Rock Creek Retreat & Ventures

100%

(4)

45mi from Gardendale · 5 sites · Lodging · Addison, AL

Creekside Geodesic Dome Retreat Unplug, unwind, and reconnect with nature in one of our four cozy geodesic domes nestled along a peaceful creek. Each dome is designed with comfort and simplicity in mind—step inside to find a queen bed, a bean bag that transforms into a floor mattress for extra guests, a private EcoFlow power bank, coffee maker, and griddle for easy meals. For your comfort, every dome is equipped with Dreo fans, solar exhaust fans, and solar insulation to keep your stay breezy and sustainable. Outside, evenings are best spent gathered around your private fire pit, swapping stories or roasting marshmallows under the stars. During the day, relax in gravity chairs, explore the private hiking trail we built by hand, or cool off in the creek just steps away from your dome. When it’s time to slow down indoors, enjoy classic card games that spark a little laughter and friendly competition. Each dome also features a private outdoor nature shower and toiletry area, so you can refresh under the trees while still feeling tucked away in your own space. Thoughtful touches—including Bibles for both men and women in each dome—make this retreat feel like a soulful, restorative getaway. What we offer: • Four geodesic domes with queen beds & creek views • Bean bag that converts into a floor mattress (great for kids or extra guests) • Dreo fans, solar exhaust fans & solar insulation in every dome • Private outdoor showers & toiletry areas • EcoFlow power banks, coffee makers, & griddles in each dome • Fire pits with seating for evening gatherings • Gravity chairs & panoramic creekside windows • Card games for unplugged fun • Direct creek access & hand-built hiking trails • Two-night stay minimum for a slower, more meaningful getaway Come experience the quiet magic of the forest, the flowing water, and the simple joys of being together in nature.

4. Oak Mountain State Park

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(8)

167 sites · Pelham, Alabama

Alabama’s largest state park offers scenic landscapes, and an impressive array of ways to play.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

5. Artist And Timber Framer Home

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(1)

33mi from Gardendale · 2 sites · Lodging · Cullman, AL

You can relax in the peaceful country in this cute camper full of folk art. You will be 15 minutes from Cullman and 4.1 miles from Rock the South, 7.9 miles from the Strawberry Festival, Oktoberfest, and ChristKindlMarkt, 9.8 miles to the Bloomin’ Festival and Bernard Blues n BBQ. Come see our 5 country acres just 15 minutes from the nice micro city of Cullman, AL. You can enjoy walking on and around our acreage, enjoying the old farmstead with old pecan, walnut, and peach trees.

6. Hardwoods Campground

100%

(1)

42mi from Gardendale · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging · Talladega, AL

Hardwoods Campground is a private, small scale campground located in Talladega, AL, just minutes away from the NASCAR Talladega Super Speedway! Convenient to the city, yet surrounded by trees of nature, Hardwoods Campground is the place to kick back and relax. Whether pitching a tent or staying in one of our rustic rentals, you will be sure to enjoy your time here!

7. The Shoals Retreats at Lay Landing

32mi from Gardendale · 2 sites · Lodging · Vincent, AL

🚗 Arrival & Access Info • The gravel driveway is about one mile long and winds through the woods to the cabin. • Cars can access the driveway, and many guests have arrived in standard vehicles. However, for a smoother ride—especially in wet conditions—we recommend a medium to high clearance vehicle. 🐶 Pet-Friendly Stay Well-behaved dogs are welcome—up to 2 max. Please clean up after pets and keep them off the furniture unless using provided covers. A small pet fee applies. Let us know ahead of time if you’re bringing furry friends! 🐾 Please leash your pets outdoors. The cabin is in the middle of the woods, and there is abundant wildlife on the property. Unleashed pets may chase animals or become difficult to locate. ⚡ Modern Off-Grid Living This home runs fully off-grid with solar power and battery storage, while offering all the comforts of a modern home: • Mini split system for heating and cooling • High-speed Wi-Fi + Smart TV • Full kitchen with dishwasher, oven, and fridge • Clean, pressurized running water 🛶 Lake & Outdoor Enjoyment • The property has direct access to Lay Lake—perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding (bring your own gear). • The nearest public boat launch is just 2.5 miles away for those bringing boats. ✈️ Private Airstrip + Paramotor Flying (By Request Only) 🪂 The property includes a private airstrip occasionally used for paramotor flying and small aircraft takeoffs or landings. While not visible from the cabin, you may hear or spot aircraft activity—an exciting bonus for aviation lovers.

Public campgrounds near Gardendale

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(8)

Oak Mountain Campground

24mi from Gardendale · 167 sites · Tents, RVs · in Oak Mountain State Park

Stories from the community

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Megan

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Artist And Timber Framer Home

We had a great time!! And Laura is a fantastic host who even gives perfect directions to this secluded but close to town camper!!

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Abby

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Parksland Retreat

Me and my partner had a fantastic time at Parksland retreat, I really can’t say enough good things about our getaway. Our yurt was spacious and clean, the bed comfortable, and our campsite was secluded.

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Louis

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Rock Creek Retreat & Ventures

Kara was an amazing host. It was my wife and I's first time glamping. Our 2 dogs enjoyed it a lot as well. The little one wouldn't calm down until I took her to the creek. We'll definitely be visiting again in the future.

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Adam

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Parksland Retreat

A weekend at Parksland is heavenly. Every time we’re there, we’re happy. We’d move in, if we could.

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Chef

October 2025

With pets

2 nights at Rock Creek Retreat & Ventures

This camping experience was unlike any other! Kara and her team have done such a beautiful job creating a space that exudes tranquility and ease. The dome itself is amazing, truly set up with everything you need - bed, tables, power bank (more than ample, we charged things the whole 2.5 day trip and only use 50%), games, blackstone (CLUTCH - grill tools provided, just bring food), lamp, drip coffee maker (not k cup), climate control options (ac fan, top exhaust fan, heater, we were very comfortable in the 40°-70° temp ranges). And don’t even get me started on how wonderful the hot shower is! Toilet is easy to use, nice privacy, and there’s a hand sink!! Our site had a wonderful view of the creek, which we did venture down to in the afternoon - lots of rocks, bring solid water shoes! The space is lit up nicely at night time with the solar lights. The only “downside” if there is one is the hill we had to traverse to unload and load the car, but with some ingenuity and leg power, not too bad. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at this hidden gem, and suspect Kara will be fully booked up in no time! Get it if you can 👍👍

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Lizzie

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Bohamia - Glamp/RV/Camp

Fabulous campsite an hour from Birmingham! Every amenity you could want and the nicest staff!

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Andrea

October 2025

With pets

2 nights at Rock Creek Retreat & Ventures

What a magical vacation! If you’re looking for a truly unique glamping experience this is the place! The geodome was so clean and tidy. It had everything we needed plus a nice hot shower. You truly cant beat a campfire overlooking a beautiful creek! Don’t forget to checkout the lit up trail to have an adventure under the stars. Kara was a kind and excellent host that made our stay unforgettable. We will definitely be coming back!

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Noemi

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Parksland Retreat

We had an amazing time camping here! It was a wonderful and new experience for both of us — being without clothes truly helped us connect with nature in a beautiful way. Dustin was so kind and welcoming the entire time, and everyone there made us feel like part of a big family. We will definitely be coming back!

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Max

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Parksland Retreat

I had such a phenomenal experience. It’s literally paradise with an amazing community. Dustin is also awesome

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Dawn

September 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Bohamia - Glamp/RV/Camp

Very clean and well Maintained site!! We stayed in the glamping tent and it was so nice and clean and had everything you could need.

D

Daniel

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Parksland Retreat

Great place to stay the people was friendly. Ready to go back

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Russell

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Parksland Retreat

I always look forward to my Parksland trips! This was the first time I did yurt camping and the bed was so comfy! They were hosting a Fall Equinox Celebration, so there were plenty of fun activities included like morning yoga, a bonfire, a sauna session, and a cacao drink ceremony by the fire. The shower was so relaxing! Tip: Just remember, if you haul something down the hill, you have to haul it back up.

J

Jamie

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Parksland Retreat

Dusty in a very nice guy and a great host. We stayed in FF1, a bell tent, the bed was extremely comfortable.

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Daniel

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Parksland Retreat

I have stayed at Parksland before. This was my first time staying in the cabin. Everyone is very friendly and welcoming. The cabin was cozy, although we spent most of our time at the camp center listening to music and enjoying the sauna. The trail from the parking spot to the cabin is relatively short, so it doesn't take you long to get your stuff there. Everyone, from the host to the other guests, was very friendly. We packed our own battery-operated fans, which is something I'd recommend during the warmer months. The cabin to the swimming hole has very direct access as well. You'll enjoy any of the sites on the land, but if you need something enclosed, the cabin works for that. Very welcoming location all around. Anyone who doesn't emphasize love and respect likely wouldn't be allowed back by the host.

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Daniel

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Parksland Retreat

Just the kind of chill weekend I was looking for. Definitely be prepared to see the nude human form and to climb lots of hills. Just the fact that I could show up and not have to set up my own tent and it had a simple but comfortable bed was super nice. Also met a lot of nice folks some of whom are regular guests. I will be making a trip back next time I need to recharge.

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Chad

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Parksland Retreat

I spent the weekend at FF1 after reading the website and knew it was right for me. First off, Dustin Parks is a genuine, welcoming guy who makes everyone feel at home. But what he’s created is so much more than just campsites in the woods it’s a true sanctuary to unplug, be free, and connect. Deep in the forest, you can camp privately or meet others in common areas. It’s very clothing-optional I fully embraced it and found it freeing and equalizing. No judgment, just real conversations and acceptance. Dustin has built an experience an enchanted forest with creeks, swimming holes, and trails where you can feel nature’s energy as intended. I met amazing people within an hour and made real friends. I packed light just food, drinks, and basics everything else was ready. Be prepared: it’s on a mountain, with steep paths to campsites, so you’ll get a workout! The only downside was leaving and putting clothes back on I felt like I was leaving a piece of freedom behind. Dustin didn’t just create a getaway he built a place to remember what really matters: people, nature, and kindness. I’ll be back and will support ParksLand Retreat however I can. Go careless, go open-minded, and feel free.

Wes

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Hardwoods Campground

This was my first time at a campground as unique and freeing as hardwood camp. I enjoyed every aspect of my weekend from the outdoor shower, to the lit walking trails. It's a one of a kind experience that you can absolutely see the attention to detail that Jeremy put into this place.

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Dennis

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Parksland Retreat

If you not gay you are not welcome it a nice place put you have to be gay to be asexual

Jerry

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Parksland Retreat

Hmm. What can you say really to describe the wonderfulness of Parksland? From low tech to high tech, cool clear waters, hot to cold sauna shower, and good company, what more do you need? Prepare for as primitive or as glamorous as you care to. Dusty is a real Man's Man, gracious host, great conversationalist and free with his knowledge, plays no games. Be with people if you want or see no people the whole stay. Your camp spot and the grounds layout allow just that. If you like to hike this is your spot. Hike the Ridgeline trail with it's stunning views and vegetation crossing the creek twice. There is a "bowl" at the main swimming hole that is a fantastic massage. Let me know when you find the "strike" stretch. A+, 10/10, I'll go again. In closing, I had a "just what the doctor ordered" experience. For those who know, you know. For those ho don't come find out. ~Jerry Griffies Birmingham

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Tori

May 2025

3 nights at Parksland Retreat

The bell tent set up was very convenient and the land was peaceful! I enjoyed a hike along the trails and the stream was absolutely stunning! Would have loved to camp with some good company. Dustin was a very great host as well. Good conversationalist and a joy to be around! I would definitely camp here again!