Alabama might not be the first place you think of for a splashing vacation (hello, Florida). But the state’s glittering Gulf Coast and its many beaches and parks remain beloved, attracting 8 million visitors a year. The state is also absolutely swimming in waterways and lakes, and we’re not talking about small puddles either. Case in point: Lake Guntersville, Alabama’s largest lake with an area of nearly 70,000 acres. It’s pretty impressive, but if you want to dive into the deepest waters in the heart of Dixie, slather on some sunscreen and head to Lewis Smith Lake.
You’ll find this beauty about 70 miles from sprawling Guntersville in the northern part of the state. It extends north of Birmingham, Alabama’s artistic city known for its food. This reservoir sinks over 260 feet, making it very large. Lewis Smith Lake (also known as Smith Lake) has over 20,000 acres of water and hundreds of miles of shoreline.
“It winds through three counties in Alabama, each with a different landscape,” one local shared on Tripadvisor, adding that the reservoir’s terrain ranges from “beautiful cliffs to woodland forests to grassy sloped lawns.” Smith Lake is loved for its clear waters, perfect for boating or overnight camping.
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Fun at Lewis Smith Lake
Aerial view of boats on Lewis Smith Lake in northern Alabama – Wayne M./Google Reviews
Lewis Smith Lake in Alabama was created in the early 1960s by damming the winding Black Warrior River. The massive reservoir has three main fingers, each with many smaller branches to explore. Sipsey Bay is at the far west, Ryan Creek Bay extends to the east, and Rock Creek Bay meanders through the middle.
If you want to get out and stroll the water, a dozen boat ramps and air launches are spread out on every finger. You can also enjoy an afternoon of paddling in a kayak or canoe. There are plenty of sandy beaches if you just want to hang out.
If you don’t have any boats to sail, there are plenty of boat rental companies around the reservoir. Trident Marina and Smith Lake Marina on Ryan Creek Arm both have rave reviews on Google reviews, with one review writing: “Best boat rental experience ever. Everything from communication to cleanliness is top-notch.” A word of advice: Before you hit the ripples and waves, be sure to read all of the state’s boat regulations, including new restrictions on wakeboarding and wakeboarding.
Camp under the stars at Lewis Smith Lake
Corinthian Recreation Area on Smith Lake in Lewis, AL – Review by Tanya MrsTtotheW / Google
Camp along the water under the Alabama stars and enjoy long hours of views of Lewis Smith Lake. You’ll find an array of comfortable campsites along the coast, including campervan-friendly sites that rival any of the best RV destinations in the United States. Thousand Trails Hidden Cove in the Middle Arm is one of the best RV parks on the reservoir, according to online reviews.
The campground features a swimming pool, mini golf course, marina and children’s playground. Located on the outskirts of the town of Allee, the property also has tent sites and cabins available for rent. “This was our second trip in a new RV and we were impressed with this family-run campground,” a Tripadvisor review reads, adding that the owners “take pride in their property and making sure their guests are satisfied.”
Clear Creek Recreation Area on the west arm of Smith Lake also gets high ratings on Google. Nestled in the rugged Bankhead National Forest near Jasper, it has more than 100 fully furnished RV campsites to choose from. Corinth Recreation Area is about 30 miles north of the same arm. It’s a bit small, with 52 campsites, but is favored for its somewhat remote location.
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