Lake Camping Near Shoal Creek, Alabama, US: 12 Best Lake Campsites 2025

Set up camp at Shoal Creek, where over 190 lakefront spots line the water’s edge. Pitch your tent, park your camper, or go full glamp—this area covers it all. You’ll find sites with toilets, pet-friendly rules, and fire rings ready for marshmallows. Anglers cast lines at sunrise, hikers follow shaded trails, and horseback riders trot the shoreline. Budget options start at $25, while the average night runs $119. For a crowd favorite, try Bohamia - Glamp/RV/Camp (190 reviews), Serene Lakefront Retreat (27 reviews), or CAMP 222 (A Private Campground) (21 reviews). Locals know: early mornings mean glassy water and quiet shores. Bring a fishing pole and a good pair of boots—Shoal Creek won’t disappoint.

99% (295)

Top-rated campgrounds

Set up camp at Shoal Creek, where over 190 lakefront spots line the water’s edge. Pitch your tent, park your camper, or go full glamp—this area covers it all. You’ll find sites with toilets, pet-friendly rules, and fire rings ready for marshmallows. Anglers cast lines at sunrise, hikers follow shaded trails, and horseback riders trot the shoreline. Budget options start at $25, while the average night runs $119. For a crowd favorite, try Bohamia - Glamp/RV/Camp (190 reviews), Serene Lakefront Retreat (27 reviews), or CAMP 222 (A Private Campground) (21 reviews). Locals know: early mornings mean glassy water and quiet shores. Bring a fishing pole and a good pair of boots—Shoal Creek won’t disappoint.

99% (295)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. CAMP 222 (A Private Campground)

98%

(55)

50mi from Shoal Creek · 1 site · Tent, RV · Cullman, AL

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 Rock The South Music Festival.

2. Bohamia - Glamp/RV/Camp

99%

(298)

31mi from Shoal Creek · 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. The Perfect 6

100%

(6)

6.5mi from Shoal Creek · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Birmingham, AL

✨ The Perfect Six – Nature, Comfort, and a Touch of Magic ✨ Tucked away on six thoughtfully cared‑for acres, The Perfect Six is a place where nature and comfort meet. Our property borders a peaceful tributary that flows straight into the legendary Cahaba River—home to rare lilies, rich wildlife, and endless quiet moments. A short five‑minute stroll along a gentle trail takes you right to the river’s edge. On site, you’ll find a stocked pond perfect for casting a line at sunrise or simply watching the water ripple at dusk. In season, you can wander through our blueberry bushes and enjoy picking a handful of fresh berries right from the land. Evenings are made for gathering around our large communal fire pit—a centerpiece for stargazing, storytelling, and making s’mores under the Alabama night sky. We’ve carved out shaded campsites and a dedicated RV parking area with full hookups, so whether you’re in a tent or a rig, you’ll have a comfortable home base. Wake up to birdsong, explore our private walking paths, and experience a little Alabama magic—just minutes from the Cahaba but a world away from the noise.

4. Breath of Life Farm

100%

(1)

32mi from Shoal Creek · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Ashville, AL

The Dry Bones Live (Ezekiel 37). The first visit in 2019 to this 21 acres was both a shock and a confirmation. It had everything on our check list and more - nearly flat land, convenient location, but also twice the acreage, a roadbed, diversity, Monarch butterflies everywhere, access to a big lake.....and it was littered with logs!! They were in piles and scattered everywhere. But this particular land was being placed in my hands to steward and to reveal the creativity and loving nature of Yahweh. And that meant not bulldozing or burning the logs. Instead, the task was to breathe life into the logs and the land through gentle stewardship to protect the biodiversity and build good soil. Breath of Life Farm is being regeneratively developed to cultivate elderberries, vineyards, peaches, mushrooms, and small plantations of trees for wood or nuts. My sister, Pam, and I hope that visitors will come to enjoy the seasonal changes of flower colors, watch for foot and hoof prints of wildlife, enjoy the songs of the birds and the frogs, see how many different native mushroom species they can spot, and be marveled by the stars as they sparkle in the dark night sky. Our wish is that through the years, folks return to see the changes and positive impact of regenerative farming practices. To be a witness to the life breathed into this land. We hope you will be inspired, uplifted, strengthened, and energized by the story of Breath of Life Farm. Peace and blessings, SandraLearn more about this land:Drive up to very private site. Beautiful sunsets and night sky. Wildlife, diverse plants, birdwatching. Learn about regenerative farming. Fish/kayak/canoe at lake or creek. Horse Pens 40/Ashville/Springville minutes away (good restaurants). 1 hour to Mentone, Little River Canyon, Lake Guntersville. Video security at entrance.

5. Serene Lakefront Retreat

99%

(47)

42mi from Shoal Creek · 13 sites · Tents, RVs · Ashville, AL

Greensport RV Park & Marina is a scenic lakeside retreat on Neely Henry Lake in Ashville, Alabama, offering a mix of spacious RV sites with full hookups and serene waterfront tent camping areas nestled among the trees. Enjoy waterfront access with stunning lake views, ideal for fishing, boating, and paddling from our full-service marina. Campers can unwind in shaded picnic areas, explore scenic nature trails, and take advantage of family-friendly amenities, including playgrounds and clean restrooms with showers. Whether you’re here for adventure or relaxation, Greensport RV Park & Marina provides the perfect escape in a welcoming, picturesque setting with all the amenities you could look for. Greensport is perfect for any getaway!

6. Glamping at Cheaha State Park

100%

(1)

46mi from Shoal Creek · 8 sites · Lodging · Delta, AL

Located inside Cheaha State Park - The Highest Point in Alabama! ⛺ Surrounded by the Talladega National Forest, this foothill of the Appalachian Mountains holds the reputation of the highest point in Alabama. Standing 2,407 ft. above sea level, it is no wonder why the local Creek Indians named this place "Chaha," meaning "high place." Come enjoy incredible views and many hikes & waterfalls in the 2,799 acre state park - including Pulpit Rock, Bald Rock, sightseeing tower, rappelling, swimming, and fishing. Waterfalls include Devil's Den Falls, Cheaha Falls, Salt Creek Falls, and more! Cheaha is only 30 minutes away from several historic cities, including Talladega, Anniston, Oxford, Heflin, Lineville, Munford, and Ashland, which are packed with shopping, dining, cultural arts, and recreational opportunities. 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. Cheaha State Park Amenities: - Hiking - Swimming - Fishing - Outdoor Recreation Programs - Mountain Store - Beach Area - Historical Sights - Event Center - Interpretive Nature Center - Rock Climbing / Rappelling / Geocaching - Playgrounds

7. Arns Park

24mi from Shoal Creek · 1 site · RV · Talladega, AL

Cleared and quiet 2+ acres. Gradual slope to water, 4 steps to get in the water or jump off pier. There's a sidewalk along the water. Concrete ramp is year round for any size boat. If you're coming to crappie fish it's an easy launch. Nice sandy bottom and an unbelievable sunset. 10 min to publix, 2 min to Dollar General.

8. The Shoals Retreats at Lay Landing

14mi from Shoal Creek · 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.

Camper favorites near Shoal Creek

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Breath of Life Farm

100%

(1)

32mi from Shoal Creek · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Ashville, AL

The Dry Bones Live (Ezekiel 37). The first visit in 2019 to this 21 acres was both a shock and a confirmation. It had everything on our check list and more - nearly flat land, convenient location, but also twice the acreage, a roadbed, diversity, Monarch butterflies everywhere, access to a big lake.....and it was littered with logs!! They were in piles and scattered everywhere. But this particular land was being placed in my hands to steward and to reveal the creativity and loving nature of Yahweh. And that meant not bulldozing or burning the logs. Instead, the task was to breathe life into the logs and the land through gentle stewardship to protect the biodiversity and build good soil. Breath of Life Farm is being regeneratively developed to cultivate elderberries, vineyards, peaches, mushrooms, and small plantations of trees for wood or nuts. My sister, Pam, and I hope that visitors will come to enjoy the seasonal changes of flower colors, watch for foot and hoof prints of wildlife, enjoy the songs of the birds and the frogs, see how many different native mushroom species they can spot, and be marveled by the stars as they sparkle in the dark night sky. Our wish is that through the years, folks return to see the changes and positive impact of regenerative farming practices. To be a witness to the life breathed into this land. We hope you will be inspired, uplifted, strengthened, and energized by the story of Breath of Life Farm. Peace and blessings, SandraLearn more about this land:Drive up to very private site. Beautiful sunsets and night sky. Wildlife, diverse plants, birdwatching. Learn about regenerative farming. Fish/kayak/canoe at lake or creek. Horse Pens 40/Ashville/Springville minutes away (good restaurants). 1 hour to Mentone, Little River Canyon, Lake Guntersville. Video security at entrance.

Serene Lakefront Retreat

99%

(47)

42mi from Shoal Creek · 13 sites · Tents, RVs · Ashville, AL

Greensport RV Park & Marina is a scenic lakeside retreat on Neely Henry Lake in Ashville, Alabama, offering a mix of spacious RV sites with full hookups and serene waterfront tent camping areas nestled among the trees. Enjoy waterfront access with stunning lake views, ideal for fishing, boating, and paddling from our full-service marina. Campers can unwind in shaded picnic areas, explore scenic nature trails, and take advantage of family-friendly amenities, including playgrounds and clean restrooms with showers. Whether you’re here for adventure or relaxation, Greensport RV Park & Marina provides the perfect escape in a welcoming, picturesque setting with all the amenities you could look for. Greensport is perfect for any getaway!

Glamping at Cheaha State Park

100%

(1)

46mi from Shoal Creek · 8 sites · Lodging · Delta, AL

Located inside Cheaha State Park - The Highest Point in Alabama! ⛺ Surrounded by the Talladega National Forest, this foothill of the Appalachian Mountains holds the reputation of the highest point in Alabama. Standing 2,407 ft. above sea level, it is no wonder why the local Creek Indians named this place "Chaha," meaning "high place." Come enjoy incredible views and many hikes & waterfalls in the 2,799 acre state park - including Pulpit Rock, Bald Rock, sightseeing tower, rappelling, swimming, and fishing. Waterfalls include Devil's Den Falls, Cheaha Falls, Salt Creek Falls, and more! Cheaha is only 30 minutes away from several historic cities, including Talladega, Anniston, Oxford, Heflin, Lineville, Munford, and Ashland, which are packed with shopping, dining, cultural arts, and recreational opportunities. 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. Cheaha State Park Amenities: - Hiking - Swimming - Fishing - Outdoor Recreation Programs - Mountain Store - Beach Area - Historical Sights - Event Center - Interpretive Nature Center - Rock Climbing / Rappelling / Geocaching - Playgrounds

Arns Park

24mi from Shoal Creek · 1 site · RV · Talladega, AL

Cleared and quiet 2+ acres. Gradual slope to water, 4 steps to get in the water or jump off pier. There's a sidewalk along the water. Concrete ramp is year round for any size boat. If you're coming to crappie fish it's an easy launch. Nice sandy bottom and an unbelievable sunset. 10 min to publix, 2 min to Dollar General.

The Shoals Retreats at Lay Landing

14mi from Shoal Creek · 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 Shoal Creek

100%

(8)

Oak Mountain Campground

8.8mi from Shoal Creek · 167 sites · Tents, RVs · in Oak Mountain State Park

Stories from the community

M

Michael

1 week ago

26 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at CAMP 222 (A Private Campground)

Beautiful place, everything is exactly as described. The road is a little noisy but I didn’t mind. Where else do you get a camper spot on the water, with private boat launch, dock, fire pit etc. For the information of future campers, there is a free rv dump station at the Interstate rest area 7 miles away. We stopped on the way out to flush the tanks.

J

Jessica

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Bohamia - Glamp/RV/Camp

Bohamia is beautiful! The camp sites were clean and spread out nicely. We loved taking the conoe & paddle boat out on the pond.

D

Darien

3 weeks ago

21 ft campervan

2 nights at CAMP 222 (A Private Campground)

This campsite is exactly as described by the hosts. Amenities and facilities are well maintained. My favorite HipCamp to date.

J

Jacque

November 2025

Tent

1 night at The Perfect 6

Another stop at a The Perfect 6. Nice peaceful spot. This time I had enough time to fish in the pond. What a way to spend the afternoon. I'll be back next time I'm coming through.

C

Connie

November 2025

14 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Serene Lakefront Retreat

Post card pretty! Well thought out! Awesome amenities! Will visit again!

J

Joanna

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Serene Lakefront Retreat

Absolutely loved it here and wish we could have stayed longer. We did tent camping and it was so peaceful and beautiful, many sites to camp and private. Just behind the tent sites was a wonderfully maintained RV park with very clean bath houses, pools, and play areas for kids. We came up for 1 night as a couple and want to come back soon for 2 nights with our kids, one of the nicest spots we’ve found to camp.

S

Stephanie

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Serene Lakefront Retreat

This was a great weekend getaway. The staff is so kind and great to work with. I will go again for sure!!

J

Jeffery

October 2025

12 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to CAMP 222 (A Private Campground)

2nd time here. Nice, clean, and peaceful as always. Definitely recommend and will be back soon.

S

Samantha

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bohamia - Glamp/RV/Camp

My friend and I spent 2 nights tent/car camping at the pond area. I’ve been camping since I was a kid and she’s never been camping, but Bohamia was perfect for both of us. Leigh was wonderful, the camp sites were well maintained, quiet, and spread out enough to be more private than a lot of campgrounds. There’s only a Porta-potty in the pond area, but it was clean. The bathhouse is a short drive and very nice. The virtual camp store was so convenient for ordering wood for the fire and had a lot of other necessities. Highly recommend bringing hiking boots with good grip and hiking to the overlook/waterfall. The hiking trails are all very well maintained but not always well marked. However, Bohamia welcomes you to explore their unmarked trails as well, and it would likely be very hard to get truly lost on the property. My pit-mix comes on nearly every camping trip with me and I’m always a little weary of how she will be viewed, but she didn’t get so much as a sideways glance at Bohamia. I felt comfortable having her on a long tie-out or a zip-line and, because the sites were so spread out, there was no worry of her bothering anyone else. Before we even packed up, my friend was convincing the rest of our friend group to move our upcoming camping trip to Bohamia, so we will definitely be coming back.

B

Bianca

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bohamia - Glamp/RV/Camp

Very big and pretty piece of property. The tent camping area is in a field with a pond and surrounded by woods. Two others were camped also but it was spread out enough that it felt comfortable and quiet. Great trails on property. Pretty in the fall. Host was very nice.

J

Jacque

October 2025

Tent

1 night at The Perfect 6

Beautiful piece of property! Nice and peaceful. Brian responded quickly when I messaged him asking about the weather. He has a nice gravel pad beside their barn, so rain was no problem. I will stop here again on my way from Texas to Virginia.

Debbie

October 2025

17 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Serene Lakefront Retreat

Very nice campground. We were right in the water and it was beautiful. Lots of activities to do there. Friendly people. We will be back

T

Todd

October 2025

38 ft travel trailer

With kids

3 nights at The Perfect 6

This campsite is truly a hidden gem! From the moment we arrived, we were blown away by how clean, well-kept, and scenic everything was. The site are spacious with plenty of shade, and the natural surroundings are breathtaking — a mix of tall trees and a peaceful water view that makes you instantly relax. The amenities were excellent —convenient hookups, a picnic table and fire pit. We loved how quiet it was at night; you could hear the crickets and the crackle of the fire instead of traffic or noise. Brian was so friendly and helpful, going above and beyond to make sure our stay was comfortable. You can really tell he cares about keeping the place beautiful and family-friendly. We will definitely come back when we are in the area. Highly recommend to anyone who loves camping, nature, and a little peace of mind.

d

daniel

October 2025

16 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to CAMP 222 (A Private Campground)

This was our second stay and we had a great time once again. Cannot beat those hammocks!

L

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!

R

Roy

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bohamia - Glamp/RV/Camp

What a great place! The cleanest and nicest bath house I’ve ever seen. The owner greeted us and led us right to our site. Private, quiet, beautiful……. We are so glad we stayed here.

T

Tim

October 2025

23 ft Class B

With pets

2 nights at CAMP 222 (A Private Campground)

The gentleman that met us was very nice and explained how to use everything. We loved the fact that everything was so clean and we wanted for nothing including wood for the campfire. The shower was really neat and hot water was really appreciated. Only drawback was the dogs across the lake barked non stop from 5-9 PM. No fault of owner of campground so don't hold that against them. Just be aware that you will have to deal with that. The only other small problem for me was getting up the little rise out of the port-a-potty/shower area. If you are not a senior, it will not be a problem for you. I would just have appreciated a couple of rock steps or something there. All in all, we loved our time there and if ever back in this area would definitely try to book it again.

Peggy

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Bohamia - Glamp/RV/Camp

Bohamia is such a magical place!!! The property is so amazing and well taken care of. Bath house is like no other and always immaculate. So much to do on the land, you don’t even need to leave. From paddle boat/ canoe on the pond, fishing, swimming, hiking, and boulder hopping on the beautiful river that runs through the property, to relaxation at its best! This was our 2nd year coming here and definitely will be our yearly place to go to recharge and find our peace! The owner is exceptionally kind and always so welcoming!!! We love her and the land she shares with others, it’s all so perfect!!

Shawn

October 2025

15 ft travel trailer

1 night at The Perfect 6

It was a nice spot to spend the night, had a power hookup and nice view of the pond.

J

Jake

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Serene Lakefront Retreat

This RV community was beautiful. There are many sites along the lake with picturesque views. There are plenty of activities on the grounds and the staff could not have been more friendly. I highly recommend staying here!