Hames RV Park

For RV enthusiasts and campers across Alabama, particularly those drawn to the serene beauty of Smith Lake, Hames RV Park in Cullman offers a long-standing and uniquely positioned option. Nestled at 671 Co Rd 248, this park has been a fixture for many years, providing a direct and easy route to one of North Alabama's most cherished natural assets. While the world of RV parks can vary widely in amenities and management style, Hames RV Park presents a specific experience rooted in its history and location.

RV parks in Alabama serve a diverse community, from seasonal residents seeking a consistent getaway to those looking for a long-term, affordable living solution. Hames RV Park falls into this category, with some residents having called it home for a decade or more. Understanding the nuances of such a community is crucial for prospective visitors or long-term residents, especially given recent changes and consistent feedback from those who know it best.

This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of Hames RV Park for local users in Alabama, highlighting its strengths as well as areas that prospective residents should consider. Our goal is to offer a realistic perspective that aligns with real customer experiences, ensuring informed decision-making. While the allure of Smith Lake access is strong, a complete picture encompasses all aspects of the park.

The experience at Hames RV Park is certainly distinct. It’s a place that fosters a unique sense of community among its long-term residents, often built around the shared love for Smith Lake. Despite some challenges, its enduring presence and loyal residents speak volumes about its fundamental appeal to a specific segment of the Alabama RV community.

Hames RV Park is strategically located at 671 Co Rd 248, Cullman, AL 35057, USA. This address places the park in Cullman County, a picturesque area known for its rolling hills, agricultural roots, and, most notably, its direct connection to Lewis Smith Lake. Smith Lake is a sprawling 21,200-acre reservoir with 500 miles of shoreline, making it a prime destination for boating, fishing, and various water sports in North Alabama.

One of the park's strongest assets, repeatedly emphasized by residents, is its unparalleled access to Smith Lake. For those coming from Birmingham, reaching Smith Lake via Hames RV Park is described as being "faster or easier" than other routes. This direct and convenient access to the lake is a significant draw for boat owners and water enthusiasts. The park features a boat launch, making it possible for residents to get their vessels onto the water with relative ease.

However, accessibility within and around the park comes with certain caveats. Reviews mention that the "roads in and around the camp are horrible." This suggests that driving a "nice or new boat" down these roads to launch might be a concern for some, indicating a need for caution and perhaps a vehicle capable of navigating rougher terrain. Additionally, the park's lots are noted as "not level," which is a common consideration in many RV parks and requires proper leveling equipment for comfortable living. Parking is also described as "extremely limited," both within the camp and around the launch, with most lots accommodating only two vehicles, depending on neighborly relations.

Despite these internal road and parking challenges, the overall geographical location near Smith Lake in Cullman County remains a compelling factor. For those prioritizing quick lake access over perfectly paved internal roads, Hames RV Park offers a practical and still considered "not bad for Smith Lake" option given the broader market. Cullman itself provides essential services and amenities, though visitors might need to drive to reach them from the park's specific location.

• RV and Camping Lots: Hames RV Park provides spaces for RVs and campers, accommodating both short-term and long-term stays.
• Boat Launch: The park features a boat launch, offering direct access to Smith Lake for boating activities.
• Water Hookups (Seasonal): Water is included in the lot rent; however, it is not available year-round, meaning water access is limited during half of the year, likely due to winterization to prevent freezing.
• Waste Disposal: While not explicitly detailed, standard RV park operations would include access to waste disposal facilities.
• Pet-Friendly (with restrictions): Animals are allowed, but with certain breed restrictions, indicating a policy for pet owners.
• Lot Sales and Transfers: The park facilitates the sale of lots, though buyers must undergo a credit and background check with the owners. Owners may offer to buy back lots, but at potentially unreasonable offers.

• Unbeatable Access to Smith Lake: The most significant highlight is the park's direct, quick, and easy access to Smith Lake, a major draw for water recreation in Alabama.
• Beautiful Surroundings & Atmosphere: One resident praises the "beautiful surroundings, stunning atmosphere" and describes it as "quite and comfortable," offering a serene natural setting.
• Spaced-out RV Spots: Unlike many RV parks with tightly packed sites, Hames RV Park offers "spaced out RV spots with enough room for dogs to happily play in the yard without going to another person's RV spot," providing more privacy and space.
• Proximity to Hiking Trails: There are "3 hiking trails nearby and a lot of fresh air," appealing to outdoor enthusiasts.
• Long-Term Community: With residents staying for a decade or more, the park fosters a sense of a long-standing, established community among its residents.
• Cleaned Up Camping Area: Reviews note that the "RV/Camping area" has been "cleaned up," indicating some improvements in specific areas.

For those interested in learning more about Hames RV Park, including lot availability, rental details, or any other inquiries, please use the following contact details:

Address: Hames RV Park, 671 Co Rd 248, Cullman, AL 35057, USA

While a phone number was not explicitly provided in the initial input, for most local businesses of this nature, direct contact is often the most effective way to gain current information. It is recommended to search for the most current publicly listed phone number or other contact methods to inquire directly with the park management.

Update: Based on additional public data, a common phone number associated with mobile home or RV park operations that might be related in the Cullman area is often a general office. However, for Hames RV Park specifically, direct contact through a local directory search for their current contact information would be best, as phone numbers were not explicitly provided for this specific listing.

For residents across Alabama, particularly those in the northern part of the state and around the Birmingham area, Hames RV Park offers a unique proposition for RV and camping enthusiasts drawn to Smith Lake. Its suitability for locals hinges on specific priorities and expectations regarding RV park living.

The most significant advantage and why it remains suitable for a segment of locals is its unparalleled, direct, and "faster or easier" access to Smith Lake. For boat owners, anglers, and anyone who cherishes spending time on this vast body of water, Hames RV Park provides a prime location that few others can match in terms of convenience from major population centers like Birmingham. The presence of a boat launch further solidifies its appeal for water sports enthusiasts. The "beautiful surroundings, stunning atmosphere," and the ample "fresh air" also resonate deeply with Alabamians who seek natural beauty and outdoor recreation.

The "spaced out RV spots" offer a welcome sense of privacy and room for activities, including allowing dogs to play, which is a significant plus for pet owners. This contrasts with many RV parks where sites can feel cramped. The mention of "3 hiking trails nearby" adds another layer of appeal for those who enjoy land-based outdoor activities.

However, prospective locals must consider the important "disclaimers" outlined by a long-term resident. The reported "horrible" roads, "unkept docks," and issues with basic maintenance like grass cutting, ditch cleaning, and closed facilities (restrooms, store) indicate that Hames RV Park operates with a more rustic approach to amenities and upkeep. The significant increase in lot rent without commensurate improvements and the complexities of selling or leaving the park are critical financial and logistical considerations. The seasonal nature of water access is also an important detail for year-round residents.

Ultimately, Hames RV Park is most suitable for Alabama locals who prioritize direct and easy access to Smith Lake above all else, are prepared for a more rustic and less manicured environment, and are willing to navigate the existing management structure and internal road conditions. It caters to those who value spacious lots and a long-standing community feel, even if it means fewer polished amenities. For individuals and families who can adapt to these conditions and whose primary focus is proximity to Smith Lake, Hames RV Park continues to be a viable, albeit distinct, option in Cullman County.

Hames RV Park

Hames RV Park, 671 Co Rd 248, Cullman, AL 35057, USA