-GulfCoastNative1
This is a huge State park surrounding the TVA waters. We stayed first at the old cabins by the Wheeler Dam, then at one of the lakeside cottages about 11 miles on the other side of the park. (So if some of your group are at the cottages, they're not close enough to hike or bike to.) The cabins are very old and a bit drafty, but clean and tidy with modern but simple appliances. They're heated with built in space heaters. The cabins are close together so it doesn't have the feeling of being in the seclusion of the great outdoors; more like an adequate place to spend a night or two. The lakeside cottages are modern, comfortable, luxury accommodations. There was plenty of room for the six of us. The views out of the many large windows were beautiful. Had the weather been nice, we would have enjoyed sitting on the back porch watching the little birds. There are lots of paths and areas to explore. The park is full of deer (we counted almost 50 late one afternoon), wild turkeys, and raccoons. We had breakfast one morning at the lodge. It was reasonably priced and really tasty. We briefly walked along the marina, and I've been told it's easy to catch fish there, but the weather was cold and rainy. Every employee we encountered was so very nice, from the park ranger to the guy that put salt on our front steps to prevent us from falling. There was an area to build a small outdoor fire, but we used our indoor fireplace. A bundle of wood was about $5 at the lodge, but our kids like to collect sticks and limbs to build the fire. I've been to a lot of parks with a long list of "don'ts" that have a stifling effect on the kids' fun (don't climb the trees, don't pick up dead branches, don't swim in the lake, don't have a camp fire, don't ride your bike); this park was very welcoming. Rogersville is a few miles away. There's a nice little grocery store and a few fast food places. Florence is about 20 miles away and has a mall, Publix, lots of great restaurant choices, etc. We'll definitely be back!
MarshallL41
We went there with the kids today and lunch was absolutely great. All of us had a very good portion sandwiches chicken fingers in grilled hamburger patty. Drinks for prompt service was great. I would suggest this place for anybody in North Alabama.
X5246EXjohnb
A truly nice AL State Park. Ron and I camped there in our RV; The Chubby, for 5 nights. Albeit cold, we loved it. It is clean and beautiful. The only reason that we did not give it five stars is because some of the pads were broken with deep cracks, the WiFi was slow, and there is very limited local TV... I know, but we like TV... It was a nice stay with more Deer than people.We will be returning. Jon and Ron
588myrac
Joe Wheeler has a really nice camping area with all hookups. It is also nice as it is located on the lake.
KarenTweetypie
So sweet, quiet, relaxed, tranquil. You can breathe here. People smile. I want to go again and get out on the water. The marina was full of yachts. Always a good sign.
483donnap
We stayed at campground B at a corner spot. Lots of room. This park is huge with lots of amenities. If u need WiFi park next to bathrooms, if not your out of luck. Bathrooms fairly clean. Overall recommended.
MarshallL41
We like to go to the park anytime. great little get away. We always dine there, it is never crowded and the fuud is good. Sometimes it is a little pricy, on the Prim Rib and Seafood night, but they always have alimited menu that we can choose from.Can't wait until that have the fireplace going, love to sit around and look out to the lake.
coyote60
Joe Wheeler is a very beautiful, well kept up park. I spent the weekend in the campground and except for it being very busy I enjoyed it. I set up my tent and it was far enough away from all the large RVs that they weren't a bother. I would like to go back, but next time I'll find out when their off season is or go on a weekday. I would recommend bringing your own toilet paper. What they have is cheap and very lacking.
onemissannie
The lodge, located in the State Park, is a nice place to stay for a couple of days. Our room was quite large but very plain and the bathroom was small. The staff in the restaurant and at the front desk were very nice and welcoming. We really enjoyed sitting on our balcony overlooking the lake watching the occasional boat go by. The lake is beautiful and the leaves were just starting to turn into their fall colors. The restaurant in the lodge overlooks the lake. This is not even a 4 star resort, but the setting is beautiful and the price was right. The staff was very hospitable and we are looking forward to returning and staying in one of the lakeside cabins. The Lodge is a few miles off the main road and a family of deer will welcome you to the Park.
653matthewb
The sites are in need ofLeveling up the pad to the rest of the sites. Not cramped but not exactly Ga spaced either. Found a nice lot on loop B. Have the peninsula to my self. Have not used bathrooms. Lodge food is well priced and typical. Breakfast was good. Marina and trails are very nice. Geocaching also a plus! Rangers drive thru but don't pester you. All the lots have power, water and sewer which is a plus. Shopping and dining nearby although minimal it had grocery, subway....... Will be back! With some minor TLC this place would be top notch! Sign of the economy not the workers here! They all are busy working on something which is nice to see!
Alabamabusybee
Lunch Buffet good. Seafood on weekend was great. The lodge is located on the river, with super views. The staff provided great service.
Nommie2
Sure the State could spend a little money and give it a wow factor - but this is a park. The place is serene and so lovely. We even saw a couple if deer as we drove to the park. We have gone for many years and truly enjoy and relax. Beautiful Tennessee River!!
laurabender
The slip was easy in/easy out. 50 amp power worked well, however didn't try the cable. The pool is beautiful and is peppered with little people so if you want to get in a swim workout, go before they're out of bed. We hiked one afternoon and are so accustomed to the "flatlands" of FL, that we were surprised that AL would have such STEEP hills! We had 2 meals in the lodge. Breakfast was excellent. My husband loved his omelet but my waffle was so dry that there wasn't enough syrup in the world to make it easier to swallow. Dinner was on a "2 for $20 Tuesday". Not gourmet but very good for the price. That includes drink, salad bar and dessert so a whopper of a deal. Our server, Donna, is in training and she was all smiles all the time. She'll be a huge asset to this restaurant. Great visit and we anticipate returning.
676JimP
Stayed at the lodge for a long weekend. The bed was very hard and uncomfortable as a result. The room was clean and the weekend fun. We will probably go back but will take a mattress topper.
stammercindy
a fun place to go to enjoy camping, fishing, hiking, swimming, and all outdoor activities. Or, if you prefer a beautiful air conditioned lodge to relax in, while gazing at the beautiful lake, they have that too. Lots of fun trails, if you are a hiker and a real nice swimming beach, if you are a swimmer.