The best camping near DeSoto State Park

The Little River Canyon cuts through this large, accessible state park, creating natural beauty with multiple waterfalls and trails to explore across DeSoto State Park’s 3,500 acres. The park’s primitive campsites are excellent for tent camping, while a variety of cabins, RV sites with hookups, and even wall tent sites are also available within the park. The option to use modern restrooms between hikes, fishing trips, and time spent kayaking the river can be a nice bonus. A pool, picnic sites, and other common areas are also available to DeSoto campers. Just seven miles from Fort Payne, DeSoto State Park serves as a nice getaway for Alabamians looking for some time in nature.

• Best for getting away: DeSoto State Park has two backpacking sites with weather shelters and tent platforms.
• Best for glamping: Take advantage of DeSoto’s wall tent campsites for a comfortable experience that requires no tent setup or breakdown.
• Best for tent sites: The primitive DeSoto campground has 18 sites with fire rings, toilets, and water. Individual and group sites are available in the primitive zone.

1. The park’s primitive sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Summer weekends are popular, so arriving on a weekday is ideal for snagging a site. 
2. Wall tent sites, group sites, and a camping cabin can be reserved in advance via the Alabama State Parks reservation system.
3. If you prefer cabins or a motel, these are reservable in advance or on-site. Check availability by calling first, as they can fill during the busy season.
4. Some campsites are designed for RVs and trailers with reservations possible in advance or on-site.

DeSoto State Park’s mountaintop location and the presence of a cold river help maintain a nice climate year-round. March, April, and May are often busy with the best weather, so it’s best to make camping reservations in advance for this time. Summer is hot and humid, but the park’s trees and river help cool things down. Like spring, fall is also a great time to visit for moderate temperatures. Winter is cooler and has less traffic, but temperatures tend to hover right above freezing at night. Winter camping is possible with appropriate warm weather gear.

• The Little River is an excellent place for kayaking and swimming in hot weather. Bring your swimsuit and take advantage of the cool waters.
• The park store is helpful for last-minute needs, but visitors should still stock up on groceries and supplies in a nearby town like Fort Payne.
• The park is dog-friendly with enforceable leash rules.
• Park rangers advise caution for large rigs driving the park. GPS is not always accurate, and drivers should call ahead for special directions.