The best safari tent rentals near Huntsville, Alabama

Home to the U.S. Space & Rocket Center and known as "Rocket City," Huntsville in Northern Alabama is famous for space history. But the city is also an excellent spot for nature lovers thanks to its location in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains and near national forests. It’s close to several beloved state parks and miles of hiking and biking trails that offer stunning views of the Tennessee River Valley. Camping options range from traditional tent camping sites with picnic tables and fire rings to RV camping and RV parks with full hookups. Fishing, boating, and swimming are popular on the Flint and Tennessee Rivers and nearby lakes.

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Timberline Glamping Huntsville

9.5mi from Huntsville · 5 sites · Lodging · Huntsville, AL

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!

2. Timberline Glamping Lake Guntersville

34mi from Huntsville · 7 sites · Lodging · Albertville, AL

Situated right on the shores of the beautiful 69,000-acre Lake Guntersville, this 5,909 acre park offers incredible views, an 18-hole championship golf course, tree canopy zip lines, a resort, convention, and banquet facilities, a full-service restaurant, a beach complex with a rental pavilion, a fishing center, hiking trails, nature programs, and the list goes on and on.

Home to the U.S. Space & Rocket Center and known as "Rocket City," Huntsville in Northern Alabama is famous for space history. But the city is also an excellent spot for nature lovers thanks to its location in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains and near national forests. It’s close to several beloved state parks and miles of hiking and biking trails that offer stunning views of the Tennessee River Valley. Camping options range from traditional tent camping sites with picnic tables and fire rings to RV camping and RV parks with full hookups. Fishing, boating, and swimming are popular on the Flint and Tennessee Rivers and nearby lakes.

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Timberline Glamping Huntsville

9.5mi from Huntsville · 5 sites · Lodging · Huntsville, AL

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!

2. Timberline Glamping Lake Guntersville

34mi from Huntsville · 7 sites · Lodging · Albertville, AL

Situated right on the shores of the beautiful 69,000-acre Lake Guntersville, this 5,909 acre park offers incredible views, an 18-hole championship golf course, tree canopy zip lines, a resort, convention, and banquet facilities, a full-service restaurant, a beach complex with a rental pavilion, a fishing center, hiking trails, nature programs, and the list goes on and on.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best safari tents near Huntsville guide

Where to go

Huntsville Surrounds

It's easy to get outdoors in Huntsville without even leaving because there are camping sites within the city limits. Go hiking, biking, rock climbing, or explore the extensive cave system at Monte Sano State Park, and then take advantage of the picnic areas at lunchtime. Go paddling in the Flint River, or back-in to Ditto Landing to launch a boat into the Tennessee River. And although it's not necessarily a nature experience, the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, with its virtual reality programs and simulators, is a must-visit attraction for any visitor to Huntsville.

Lake Guntersville State Park

About an hour southeast of Huntsville lies Alabama's largest lake, which is ideal for boating, fishing, and swimming. Hiking and biking trails meander through this state park's forests and along the lake's shoreline. At the same time, anglers can rent a boat and catch abundant bass, catfish, and crappie. Those seeking more adrenaline-fueled adventures can go zip-lining or explore an aerial course. The beach area, which is perfect for sunbathing, also has picnic tables for gathering with friends and family.

Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge

Take a 30-minute trip southwest on I-565 to explore this wintering area for migratory birds. Covering 35,000 acres, it provides a great diversity of habitats for wildlife, such as waterfowl, cranes, deer, and amphibians. Hikers and bikers will enjoy exploring the miles of trails, while anglers can rent a boat or bring their own to catch bass, catfish, and crappie. Visitors can also enjoy the lake's serene waters by kayaking, paddleboarding, or swimming.

Little River Canyon National Preserve

In the rugged terrain of northeastern Alabama, the preserve is home to one of the deepest canyons east of the Mississippi River. Find hiking trails leading to breathtaking waterfalls and natural pools. The river also allows for kayaking and fishing. In addition to its natural beauty, the preserve has evidence of early human habitation dating back over 10,000 years. Picnic areas are also available if you need to take a rest.

When to go

Huntsville's mild climate makes it a year-round destination for nature lovers. The most pleasant weather occurs during spring and fall, from April to October. Summers can be hot and humid, but visitors can beat the heat with water sports like swimming, kayaking, and fishing. Winters can be cold, but instances of warm weather make hiking and biking possible at nearby state parks. The best time to visit Huntsville depends on personal preferences and your favorite activities.