Camping at DeSoto State Park in Fort Payne
Adventure Destination

Camping at DeSoto State Park in Fort Payne

Explore camping in DeSoto State Park, Fort Payne, AL with options ranging from RV hookups to primitive sites. Enjoy hiking and beautiful waterfalls. Best in Spring and Fall. Accessible for drive-in campers, but busy during summer.

Camping7.0/10Moderate
Photo Gallery

Category

Camping

Typical Duration

Overnight

Difficulty

Moderate

About This Adventure Destination

DeSoto State Park, located atop Lookout Mountain, is one of Alabama’s premier camping destinations. Known for its scenic waterfalls, lush forests, and diverse wildlife, the park provides a variety of camping options ranging from primitive campsites to full RV hookups. Campers can enjoy over 30 miles of trails, access to Little River, and picturesque mountain views. Whether you're looking for a rugged backcountry experience or a comfortable stay with modern amenities, DeSoto State Park offers something for every kind of camper.

Editorial Assessment

DeSoto State Park in Fort Payne offers a charming outdoor adventure with its beautiful landscapes, hiking trails, and camping facilities. While it provides a lovely natural setting, it lacks the unique geological features needed for a rating over 90.

Camping at DeSoto State Park in Fort Payne

Adventure Guide to Camping at DeSoto State Park in Fort Payne

1

#

  • Highlights:

2

Improved Campground

  • Location:

    Near the park’s main entrance off AL-89.

  • Why It’s Special:

    Features 94 full-hookup campsites with water, electricity, and sewer connections, making it ideal for RV campers.

  • Amenities:

    Bathhouses with hot showers, a picnic table and fire ring at each site, and nearby access to trails, the playground, and the country store for supplies.

  • Local Insights:

    Spots fill up quickly during peak seasons, so reservations are highly recommended. Weekdays offer a quieter experience.

3

Primitive Camping Area

  • Location:

    Near the CCC Pavilion, off the orange-blazed trail.

  • Why It’s Special:

    Offers secluded tent sites with few modern conveniences, perfect for those seeking an immersive outdoor experience.

  • Amenities:

    Fire rings, picnic tables, and easy access to hiking trails including the Lost Falls and Laurel Falls trails.

  • Local Insights:

    The area can be damp after rain—waterproof gear is a must.

4

Backcountry Campsites

  • Location:

    Along DeSoto’s backcountry trails.

  • Why It’s Special:

    These remote sites provide a true wilderness experience, away from the main campground.

  • Amenities:

    No restrooms or running water—backpackers must bring their own supplies.

  • Local Insights:

    Hiking in with a good map and GPS is recommended, as cell service can be unreliable.

5

Visitor Tips

  • Best Time to Visit:

    Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures and vibrant foliage. Summer can be humid, and winter temperatures can drop below freezing.

  • What to Bring:

    Sturdy shoes, insect repellent, firewood (outside wood is not allowed due to pest concerns), a hammock for relaxing, and a waterproof tent if camping in primitive areas.

  • Driving Directions:

    From Birmingham, AL, take I-59 north to Exit 218 in Fort Payne, then follow AL-35 to AL-89 into the park (about 1.5 hours).

Reviews

T
Terri Arsenaultin the last week

The campground was very nice, clean... The Mountain Inn Restaurant was terrible. I ordered a steak, potato & veggie. Veggie was very good, potato was good but bearly warm. The steak was extremely fatty & hard to chew. I actually started choking & had to dislodge meat from throat! My husband ordered salmon, veggie & potato. The salmon was extremely dried out, appeared to be precooked frozen patty. His potato was cold and couldn't even melt butter on it. It came with fried hash brown type of something that was so hard he couldn't bite it. The waitress was extremely nice & polite. She asked how it was, we explained all this, she was going to tell her manager. We never saw a manager. She came back with bill & didn't adjust it according to leftovers on the plates. Very disappointing. Save $ and eat somewhere else. 3 stars is average between 5 star camping & 1 star restaurant.

N
Nikkia month ago

Let me just start with, we did not end up staying at this park, but at no fault of the campground. I'm giving this park 5 stars due to the friendly and helpful customer service. We made a reservation but were in an accident before we could make it to our spot so we called and let them know we couldn't make it. The staff was so helpful and caring. We will definitely be making another reservation, hopefully soon, and I'm sure we will love it!

J
James Jefferson2 months ago

Camp fire are the best

M
mary mitchell3 months ago

Tons of great large pull-through sites for class A RVs and other large rigs. I did a full walk-through video showing each campsite on my YT channel outdoormary, check it out if you need help finding the best site for you.

V
Van Phillips4 months ago

Nice place to camp. Their TV cable service from spectrum has been in and out of service for over a year.

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