Guntersville
Lets travel to beautiful Alabama this time where we will learn about the outdoor beauty and historic gems. Here’s some reasons why travelers choose Guntersville!Â
1. Scenic Beauty and Outdoor Activities
Lake Guntersville: The area’s centerpiece is Alabama’s largest lake, covering 69,000 acres. It offers picturesque views, and excellent boating, fishing, kayaking, and swimming. Anglers, in particular, visit Guntersville for its world-renowned bass fishing tournaments.
Guntersville State Park: This expansive park, which spans 6,000 acres, is perfect for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. The trails offer stunning lake views, and the park is known for its bald eagle population, especially during winter migration. Visitors often attend the annual Eagle Awareness Weekends.
Sunsets and Scenic Drives: The landscape, with rolling hills, waterfront views, and lush forests, is ideal for scenic drives, especially along the roads leading into town and through the park. This is a big part of Alabama, so take the time to take drives and really drink in the best parts of this great state.Â
2. Historical Aspects
Cherokee and Indigenous History: Guntersville traces back to the Cherokee Nation. The area was initially known as “Gunters’ Landing,” named for John Gunter, a Scottish trader who married a Cherokee woman in the late 18th century. The city played a significant role as a riverport on the Tennessee River.
Civil War History: During the Civil War, Union forces partially destroyed Guntersville in 1865. A marker near the lake commemorates its wartime significance.Â
Historic Downtown Guntersville: The downtown area features preserved historic buildings, antique shops, and local boutiques. Visitors can explore the city’s past while enjoying the charming architecture of the early 20th century.
Guntersville Museum and Cultural Center: Housed in a historic armory, this museum showcases local history, Native American artifacts, and art exhibits. Displays include relics from the Civil War era and items documenting the lake’s creation during the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) projects in the 1930s.
3. Local Attractions
- Town Creek Fishing Center: A popular launch point for boaters and anglers. It’s a great place to enjoy the serenity of the lake.
- Art on the Lake Festival: An annual event that celebrates regional artists and artisans with art displays, food, and live entertainment.
- Main Street Music and Dining: The downtown area has cozy cafes, Southern-style restaurants, and live music venues where you can enjoy local fare and culture. Popular eateries include places that serve fresh catfish and barbecue.
- Screaming Eagle Zipline: This thrilling attraction, located within Guntersville State Park, allows visitors to experience the scenery from above while soaring through the treetops.
Restaurants in Guntersville
đź“Ť 1201 Gunter Ave, Guntersville, AL 35976
A local favorite, Rock House Eatery serves up a menu that blends Southern flavors with a contemporary twist. Known for their fresh, locally sourced ingredients, dishes like shrimp and grits, wood-fired pizzas, and gourmet burgers make this a must-visit. The ambiance is relaxed yet elegant, making it perfect for both casual lunches and date nights.
đź“Ť 7004 Val Monte Dr, Guntersville, AL 35976
If you’re a seafood lover, Top O’ the River is the place to be. This longstanding eatery is famous for its fried catfish, hush puppies, and riverfront views. The portions are generous, the service is friendly, and the experience is quintessentially Southern. Expect a lively, family-oriented atmosphere with a rustic charm.
đź“Ť 410 Old Town St, Guntersville, AL 35976
For an upscale dining experience, Old Town Stock House delivers sophisticated Southern-inspired dishes with a modern flair. The menu rotates seasonally, featuring steak, fresh seafood, and artisan-crafted appetizers. Housed in a historic building, this fine-dining gem offers an intimate, candlelit atmosphere perfect for special occasions.
đź“Ť 14455 U.S. 431 S, Guntersville, AL 35976
A regional chain with deep Southern roots, Wintzell’s Oyster House is the go-to spot for fresh Gulf Coast seafood. Their oysters are served fried, grilled, and raw, and the menu also includes delicious options like shrimp po’ boys, gumbo, and blackened redfish. The waterfront location adds to the relaxed, beachy atmosphere.
đź“Ť 336 Gunter Ave, Guntersville, AL 35976
If you’re looking for a light meal in a charming setting, Café 336 is an excellent choice. This downtown café offers a selection of freshly made paninis, wraps, soups, and salads. The cozy, welcoming ambiance makes it a great stop for a laid-back breakfast or lunch. Their homemade desserts and fresh coffee are also a hit among locals.
đź“Ť 2140 Gunter Ave, Guntersville, AL 35976
Located inside the Wyndham Garden hotel, Aqua Restaurant boasts one of the best dining views in Guntersville. The menu features lobster flatbread, pecan-crusted chicken, and filet mignon, complemented by a well-curated wine selection. The lakeside setting makes it an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.
RV Parks NearbyÂ
1. Lake Guntersville State Park Campground
Location: 1155 Lodge Dr, Guntersville, AL 35976
Overview: Spanning over 6,000 acres, Lake Guntersville State Park offers a vast campground nestled along the banks of the Tennessee River. The park provides a serene natural setting with modern conveniences, making it a favorite among nature enthusiasts.
Amenities:
- 282 improved campsites with water and electrical hookups; select sites include sewer connections.
- Primitive camping area for tents.
- Bathhouses, two equipped with washers and dryers.
- Playground and recreation area featuring a splash pad.
- Campground store for essentials.
Reservations: Reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons. A reservation fee applies.
Contact: For more information or to make a reservation, call 256-571-5455.
Location: 2450 Monsanto Rd, Guntersville, AL 35976
Overview: Situated on over 670 acres of picturesque landscape, River Ridge Retreat offers both RV sites and cabin accommodations. With its expansive lakefront and modern facilities, it’s an ideal spot for those looking to blend comfort with nature.
Amenities:
- 54 large, pull-thru RV sites equipped with full hookups (30/50 amp service).
- Each site features a grill, fire ring, 12×24 patio, and picnic table.
- On-site laundry facilities.
- Private shower rooms available for daily rental.
- Pet-friendly accommodations with designated dog parks.
- Recreational amenities including playgrounds, hiking trails, fishing pier, and golf cart rentals.
Reservations: Advance booking is recommended.
Contact: For reservations or inquiries, call 256-505-1454.
Location: 188 Campground Rd, Grant, AL 35747
Overview: Located between Huntsville and Guntersville, Honeycomb
Campground is a lakeside retreat offering a variety of camping options. Its proximity to Lake Guntersville makes it a prime spot for water activities and relaxation.
Amenities:
- 130 campsites, including 36 waterfront sites with 50/30/20 amp electric and water hookups.
- Private bathhouses and a general store on-site.
- Swim beach, boat rentals, and fishing opportunities.
- Laundry facilities available.
Reservations:Â Bookings can be made through their website.Â
Contact: For more details, call 209-345-1928.
Location: 6065 AL-69, Guntersville, AL 35976
Overview: Perched atop Georgia Mountain, this RV resort offers a tranquil environment with modern amenities. It’s conveniently located just minutes from Lake Guntersville, making it a perfect base for exploring the area.
Amenities:
- Full-service pull-through RV sites.
- Bathhouse and laundry facilities.
- Free Wi-Fi and cable TV.
- Seasonal outdoor swimming pool and playground.
- Pet-friendly environment with walking trails and outdoor fire pits.
Reservations: Special discounts are available for stays longer than three months. Reservations can be made by calling 256-505-3010 or through their website.
RV Dump & Propane
Lake Guntersville State Park : With Potable Water
U-Haul Moving and Storage of Gadsen: Propane Fill-UpÂ
Books about Guntersville
Guntersville
By Whitney A. Snow & Barbara J. Snow
Long before the creation of its famous lake in 1939, Guntersville had a reputation for ferries, farms, and factories. Its streets bustled with customers patronizing shops, cafĂ©s, and movie theaters. From the Nedofik Surgical Sofa Company and the Basket Factory to the Saratoga Victory Mills, Guntersville’s diverse industries have helped the community thrive. Today, businesses like Wayne Farms Feedmill and Kappler, Inc., continue to reflect the city’s industrial nature. This rich manufacturing history and lake tourism meant Guntersville drew visits from various actors, singers, authors, scientists, and politicians. Many came frequently, and a few chose to stay. A mesh of new and old, industry and lake, Guntersville continues to charm.
A Real Family Story
The Wilson family’s weekend in Guntersville, Alabama, was filled with adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable moments by the lake. Staying at Lake Guntersville State Park Campground, they enjoyed evenings by the campfire, delicious Southern food at Top O’ the River, and early mornings fishing and kayaking on the lake. The kids reveled in boating and swimming, while Jack and Sarah soaked in the peaceful scenery. From hiking Eagle’s Nest Trail to reeling in their first catch, every moment felt like a perfect escape. As they packed up to leave, one thing was certain—they’d be back again soon!
Final Thoughts for The Smart RVer
Guntersville, Alabama, is a dream destination for RVers, offering the perfect mix of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and small-town charm. Nestled along the shores of Lake Guntersville, the state’s largest lake, this scenic town is a haven for fishing, boating, and wildlife enthusiasts. With multiple RV parks featuring lakefront views, full hookups, and modern amenities, visitors can enjoy both comfort and the great outdoors. Whether exploring the miles of hiking trails at Lake Guntersville State Park, dining on fresh seafood, or simply relaxing by the water, Guntersville provides an unforgettable escape for RV travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility!