Monte Sano State Park — Attraction in Huntsville

My wife and I spent two nights here on 01-02 August 2024. We were very impressed with what a beautiful and well-maintained State Park it was, to include the very picturesque drive up to and down the 1500 foot tall plateau (mountain) it sits on. We booked our reservations online several weeks prior, and our check-in was easy and quick at the camp store where the staff member who helped us was very friendly and professional. Our campsite #4 had a gravel base, but it was very level. The picnic table, fire ring, and electrical and water hook up looked like they were very new and recently installed. The shower house / bathrooms were also very clean and spacious, but they were not air conditioned, so the doors were left open at night, allowing bugs inside (spiders, moths, skeeters, etc.). That was the only issue that precluded me from giving this campground a 5-star review. The shower house also had a two washers/driers but we didn't use them. The campground is heavily wooded so just about every camp site is fully shaded. We also saw several young whitetail deer roaming around the outskirts of the campground. The pull through and around dump station at the entrance to the campground is easy to use. They also have a security gate for after hours that requires you to enter a 4-digit code that they give you at check-in, but we felt very safe here because the park is off the beaten path, even though it's less than 5 miles drive to downtown Huntsville. I would definitely recommend visiting this beautiful state park if you in the Huntsville metro area, even if you are not camping. It also has lots of quaint rental cabins / cottages with scenic overlooks, a nice lodge building used for events like weddings and retreats, and numerous hiking trails with great views of the city of Huntsville and its surrounding areas (which is Cumberland Plateau hill country). The park is also very close to the "Burritt On The Mountain" mansion and museum that has a great patio and overlook, as well as a petting zoo and an old school house that kids will love. We also fell in love with the beautiful, clean, safe, and quaint city of Huntsville and Monte Sano State Park while staying there and will likely return for a longer stopover visit the next time we transit...

Title: Nature's Embrace at Monte Sano State Park Campground

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Our stay at Monte Sano State Park Campground was a delightful surprise, turning an unplanned reservation into a memorable mountain retreat. Nestled at the mountain's pinnacle amidst a hardwood forest, this campground provided an enchanting backdrop for our visit to the area.

The journey to the campground, albeit adventurous, revealed the beauty of the location. The mountain road, with a 5 to 6 percent grade, added a touch of excitement to our ascent. While a challenging switchback initially gave us pause, we later discovered a more accessible route from the Huntsville side, ensuring a smoother entry for those towing vehicles.

The check-in process was seamless, with a well-organized station and ample parking before entering the campground. For late arrivals, a helpful Camp host at the entrance gate's left side ensured easy access with the necessary code.

Our stay at site #3 was both comfortable and scenic, featuring full hookups, a gravel base, a picnic table, and a fire pit. The off-season visit granted us the luxury of choosing from numerous open campsites, showcasing the campground's capacity of 85 RV sites and a designated area for tent camping.

As a traveling photographer, I found two experiences particularly memorable. The first was the breathtaking sunrise from the scenic overlook to the east—a perfect spot for capturing the dawn's beauty. The second occurred during RV setup when I turned around to find several deer quietly observing from just a few feet away—an unexpected encounter that left me in awe. (Video link attached)

The campground's abundant wildlife, including squirrels, birds, and even a coyote, added to the allure of the stay. Over our four-day visit, tranquility prevailed, making it a peaceful escape.

I highly recommend Monte Sano State Park Campground to fellow travelers, with the friendly suggestion to approach it from the Bankhead Parkway via US-431 for a more convenient and scenic route. This campground is a haven for nature lovers and those seeking a serene...

Spectacular! This state park is managed so well, park personnel are very friendly and helpful. My original interest on Montesano was for trail walking, but is also perfect and safe for trail runners and bikers. Very respectful and friendly environment.

Hiking around the park, I saw really nice cabins, a lodge with a spectacular playground for kids and many campers. This is a safe place to enjoy with kids and family.

The park entry and fees are based on an honor system. Paid $5.00 per person, I did not understand stand the system at first so I slipped $10.00 loose which felt awkward initially, but then found envelopes with an attached slip you hang in your card. Is now clear for the next visit! 👍

Pros: Easy drive. Plenty of parking A great variety of trails for all levels and distance Trails are well marked A descent park store with very helpful and friendly attendants. You can get a Map at this store. Restrooms by the store Plenty of spectacular picnic areas! Found several scenic areas with beautiful views

Cons: I found NO negative aspects at Montesano State Park. Just found the payment format a little confusing for first time visitors, specially when you have other cars waiting. But once you understand the expected format of payment, you are on the clear for the next visit.

I will highly recommend this State Park, and will be...