McFarland Park Shoalsfest — Attraction in Florence

Had planned on tenting next to friends in an RV Spot.

Guy walks up Him: "Hey what's this all about?"

Me: "What do you mean"

"This" points at my tent

"Oh, that's my tent"

"What's it doing here?"

"Well was planning on sleeping in it tonight"

"You can't do that"

"Why not"

"Cause you haven't paid"

"Oh, I though a tent spot was included in the RV rental"

"Only if they're kids"

"Really, ok, I'll pay"

"Sir come with me to the office"

Him: " Sir , since you're not staying in the primitive tent spots, you'll have to pay 25"

"But I'm sharing with my friends who've already paid 25"

"You'll have to pay another 25"

"But primitive camping is only 12"

"Sir if you'd like to move your tent to primitive camping, I'll charge you 12"

"But my tent is already set up"

"I'm sorry that's the rules"

Found the camp rules/regs that reads "a rented RV and/or tent may be located in each spot", and pointed out to the curmudgeon "What exactly does "and" mean there?"

"That's only for kids"

"But your guidelines say nothing about being child specific"

"If you don't pay 25 you'll have to leave. And then the cops will Come".

Me: paid my 25. Dude was a jerk and a borderline extortionist.

Will never...

"A Year-Round Gem on the Tennessee River – McFarland Park!"

McFarland Park is an absolute beautiful escape, no matter what time of year you visit. Nestled right on the scenic Tennessee River, it offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and Alabama’s rich culture. The park is well-maintained, with plenty of spots to relax, enjoy nature, or take in the peaceful river views.

The highlight of my visit was the visitor's center, where the woman working there was incredibly insightful and helpful. She provided excellent tips and shared fascinating stories about the area’s history and its deep-rooted traditions. It added so much to the overall experience.

McFarland Park is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the beauty and history of Alabama. Whether you’re there for a walk, a picnic, or just to soak in the views, you’ll leave feeling connected to the rich heritage and natural wonders this state...

Last week my son had a college bass tournament on Pickwick, so he wanted to carry a popup camper to McFarland and camp for the week. The park does not let you reserve a spot unless you are there with your camper. So you have to pull it there and hope that you get lucky that it is not full. He got lucky to get a spot. Sunday night(5/19/19) they had a shoot out near the boat launch. We go up there to get the camper on Friday as we are packing up a couple ask if we were leaving and wanted to put a tent up on our spot no problem with that except the park manger would not allow them to do that to reserve it for their friends. When leaving I see kids play tents holding RV lots so it depends who you are. Also on Memorial Week restrooms in the middle of the park closed for construction???? Florence you need someone to manger...