Gadsden Campground & Tubing - Attalla, Alabama

Kimberly R.

My family and I stayed at this campground in April and unfortunately, our experience didn’t match the expectations set by the pictures on Google or their website. It was clear once we arrived that the campground is under major construction, but we were not informed about this ahead of time. Many of the amenities and areas looked run down or in disrepair, and there was a constant flow of construction trucks, loud noise, and what felt like a giant sandbox surrounding the campsites.

To add to that, the train and highway are right across the river, and both were surprisingly loud — especially the train that would pass through around 10pm while we were trying to sleep. It really disrupted the peaceful camping experience we were hoping for.

Some sites were also without power, though we do appreciate that the staff was understanding, allowed us to move, and refunded us for the inconvenience — that part was handled professionally.

Overall, had we known what the actual conditions were like, we probably would have chosen a different place. Hopefully, these updated details and photos help others make a more informed decision.

Amber B.

I was looking for a tubing location that offered camping. The internet directed me to Big Wills. I’d never heard of it but it offered all that I needed. My friend and I booked a little cabin for two nights. Because of work and the 75 minute commute, we would be arriving around 9pm. I called ahead of time and explained. The owner, a doll of a southern woman, made accommodations for our late check in and had the AC running in our cabin when we arrived. My GPS directed us there with long, dark back roads. We felt like we were in the middle of nowhere. When we woke up the next morning with sunlight, we discovered we were camping right on the water and breakfast options were only 5 minutes away. The shuttle for tubing is a large trailer with wrap around seating and plenty of space for floats pulled by a truck. Very nice. The walk in (and take out) for the water is an easy one and the water itself was refreshingly cold, yet slow and steady. No falls, no rushing, no massive boulders to dodge. The float itself takes about an hour and we went again and again until the sun started to set. On a Saturday evening, it was not crowded at all and there was never an issue of finding quiet. In fact, the last time I went, I was completely alone on the river. Absolutely peaceful. The evening wrapped up with 90s country karaoke on the covered back patio of the main building with a small crowd of very welcoming and friendly campers and staff. Feeling recharged from life, we packed up and headed home the next morning. I got home, and immediately made more reservations. My grandmother has been wanting to go tubing and I know this is the place to take her. The water does not cause me any concern for her safety here, and the slow pace of life and sense of community just sealed the deal for me. 10/10 recommend this place. But not to too many folks. I like the solitude out there!

Terry W.

Tonia and her staff do an excellent job!! Friendly, serving and always available to help. Our kids love the tubing in the summer. It’s a great place for the whole family! Showers, bathrooms and laundry room are always clean. Highly recommend this place for camping and anyone looking for a tiny home community.

Tara W.

The new shower houses are amazing! The grounds are so clean! The creek is beautiful! The staff is so accommodating!

Terry W.

Great place to camp or even live. Full time camping available as well as brand new tiny homes, and cabins to rent. We love the staff and all the NEW UPDATES that have been done are amazing plus more renovating and construction is coming. Definitely a good vibe from staff and people there. Highly recommended!!!

Judy S.

We stayed a week to tour and enjoy the fall leaf colors in the area. It was a perfect choice. It was off season for the tubing. A plus for us. Very quiet. We were right on the pretty creek near a waterfall, beautiful view! There is a railroad track and a road a ways on the other side of the creek but it never bothered us. They are a work in progress but we never heard any noises. I was surprised not many campers there. Nice place.

Becki G.

Moved in today. ms Diana at the office has been super nice. Will post an update later with pics and thoughts

UPDATE: I have lived at the campground now for several months. it is ever growing and adding new items to the store and the grounds every time I look outside. I have had friends and family visit and they loved it here. The staff is always willing to help and give information. Have not had a bad experience with any of my neighbors or staff. I am giving a new rating of 5 stars based on all the changes I have seen. Onsite laundry, shower houses, ever growing store, food trucks for big weekends, design space to get lots of souvenirs, and at a price that is super affordable.
I hear rumors of a RC track and Body Sculpting Day Spa being added in the near future. Can't wait to see what the future has in store for us. if ya want a great weekend with kids, or longer term ... maybe work has you away from home, well Big Wills Campground will make it feel like home away from home with lots of fun.

Hollie M.

We went tubing with my friend & her kids and had a blast. Very friendly staff & useful shuttle feature for getting down to the creek & back to the starting point or parking lot\office area when finished. The price of admission is a little bit too high to do very often if on a budget like most families. $12.99 daily admission cost per person plus cost of each person's inner tube at a cost of up to 9.99 each. But a beautiful place to spend your time! It's incredibly peaceful out there so go check em out at least one time to see for yourselves!