This Secluded Campground Near Dismal Canyons Is One of Alabama’s Best Kept Secrets

With moss-covered canyons, waterfalls, footbridges, and its rare blue-green glowworms (dismalites), Dismals Canyon feels like an ancient world far from northwest Alabama. For many visiting the area, camping near Dismals Canyon is limited. The park offers luxury cabins and primitive sites, but spaces can fill up quickly (or become unavailable), especially in the busy season. Luckily, Cedar Ridge Campground in Russellville is only minutes from the park and invites its guests to “Enjoy a Lakeside Campground With All The Extras.” This secluded campground in Alabama offers everything from primitive sites to family yurts to comfy cabins, and it’s a quiet retreat surrounded by peaceful woodlands and tranquil waterways.   

Where This Campground Is and How Close It Is to Dismals Canyon

In the quiet woodlands near the banks of Cedar Creek Lake in Russellville, sits Cedar Ridge Campground. From the campground, you’ll need to drive 22 miles through the forested countryside, passing wide-open farmlands and meadows to get to Dismals Canyon. There are no major cities in between, just small communities and long stretches of rural roads. It’s the kind of route where it will just be you, your favorite tunes, and the winding paths along the rolling hills in northwest Alabama. In less than 30 minutes, you’ll have access to the natural outdoor playground. 

When you stay at the campground, you’ll be in a central location, close to the other attractions in the region. If you want to play on Cedar Creek Lake, cruise the Natchez Trace Parkway, or access the small towns and outdoor recreation in the Shoals area near the Tennessee River, this waterfront campground in Alabama is the right spot for you. Plus, when visiting the waterfalls in Alabama, Cedar Ridge could be a great place to rest as you travel through the state.  

What Makes This Campground So Secluded

The campground is located about 15 miles outside of the remote town of Russellville, tucked away in a heavily wooded area near the lake, so it feels remote and private. Summers are the busiest time of year, so I would suggest planning your trip in late spring or fall for a quieter camping experience.

A past guest had this to say, “The campground is quiet and easy to access from the main road. So, if you are looking for a resort, this isn't the spot. If you are looking for a quiet, clean, warm, and welcoming location - here it is.” That said, you’ll need to bring everything you need, since the closest store is about 20 minutes away. The good news is that there is an on-site store in case you need basic items. 

What to Expect When You Camp Here

As a family and pet-friendly campsite, spending time at Cedar Ridge Campground will be a fun and memorable stay for you and your family. There are several ways to experience this remote campground in Alabama. Choose from shaded RV and motorhome sites with full hookups, tent sites, cabins, and there’s even a family yurt that you can book on Airbnb. The 16-foot canvas tent can sleep up to four people, but we think it’s best for two. This glamping tent is for those who want to be in nature, with a little bit more comfort. 

Surrounded by the woodlands, the cozy tent features a TV, Wi-Fi, a mini-fridge, a microwave, electricity, and water available outside. Just like any camping adventure, you can cook your meals on the outdoor grill and roast marshmallows by the fire pit at night. You’ll also have access to the bathhouse and laundry facilities, both a short walk from the tent. Keep in mind that this is a glamping tent, so you’ll hear outdoor sounds, including rustling and chirping, at night. 

Cedar Ridge’s location next to the lake will be the main highlight of your stay. You can spend peaceful days picnicking, boating, fishing, swimming, and paddling on the water. The little ones can enjoy the rec room with games, ping pong, horseshoes, and more. On days when you want to stretch your legs, there are paths near the campsite where you can take a walk after your morning coffee. 

When you want a quick snack, a cool drink, ice, and necessities, visit the on-site store, and the friendly folks will help you with what you need. The store is open daily, and it also issues fishing permits in case you don’t have one. And speaking of fishing, a fish cleaning station is on the campsite, so whatever you reeled in for the day, you can get it prepared to grill for dinner. Although you’ll have access to Wi-Fi and modern amenities, with all that there is to do here, you might not even need your phone or devices. 

Between the lake, the peaceful woodlands, and easy access to Dismals Canyon, you might find yourself returning to this woodland campground again and again. On your next trip to northwest Alabama, be sure to visit the Cedar Ridge Campgrounds website to book your stay, or check out the Airbnb listing to see pictures and learn more about the cool glamping tent.