Gunter Hills Campground-Antioch Loop

Welcome, Alabamians! If you're seeking a tranquil escape into nature without straying too far from the state capital, Gunter Hills Campground – specifically its Antioch Loop – in Montgomery, Alabama, offers a delightful retreat. Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE), this campground is renowned for its peaceful atmosphere, abundant wildlife, and beautiful natural setting along the backwaters of the Alabama River. It’s a favorite among locals for its balance of rustic charm and essential amenities, making it an excellent choice for RVers, tent campers, and anyone looking to reconnect with the great outdoors.

Gunter Hills Campground is celebrated for its quiet and secluded feel, providing a genuine sense of being away from it all, even though it's conveniently located near Montgomery. The campground is divided into two main sections: the older Antioch Loop and the newer Catoma Loop. The Antioch Loop, while older, is cherished by many for its shaded sites, often featuring Spanish moss-draped trees and a more traditional camping ambiance. It’s a place where you can relax to the sounds of nature, enjoy leisurely walks on well-maintained trails, and often spot deer and other critters roaming freely. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Gunter Hills Campground offers a serene environment perfect for unwinding and creating lasting memories.

Gunter Hills Campground – Antioch Loop is conveniently situated at 651 Booth Rd, Montgomery, AL 36108, USA. This location offers an excellent balance of secluded natural beauty and accessibility to urban conveniences. While the campground feels wonderfully removed, it's actually quite close to the vibrant city of Montgomery, making it easily reachable for residents across Central and South Alabama.

Accessing the campground is generally straightforward. From I-65, travelers can take exit 167 onto US-80 west, then continue for about 9 miles before turning right on County Road 7 and following signs into the campground. Some visitors suggest that alternative routes like US-80 to Route 17 (Mitchell Young Rd) to Old Selma Rd to Booth Rd might offer wider, less trafficked roads. Its proximity to Montgomery means campers have easy access to a variety of services, including grocery stores, restaurants, and historical attractions, allowing you to combine your outdoor adventure with city exploration if you wish. This blend of remote tranquility and convenient urban access makes Gunter Hills an ideal choice for Alabamians seeking both relaxation and practicality in their camping experience.

Gunter Hills Campground offers a solid array of services and facilities, ensuring a comfortable and functional camping experience for its visitors. While the Antioch Loop is older, it still provides the necessary amenities for an enjoyable stay.

Services Offered:

• Electric Hookups: Sites in both loops provide electric hookups (typically 30/50 amp).
• Water Hookups: Potable water connections are available at individual sites.
• Restrooms and Showers: Flush toilets and showers are available in well-kept bathhouses. Reviews suggest that while older in the Antioch loop, they are generally clean, though some might appreciate updates. Air-conditioned shower houses are noted in the newer sections.
• Dump Station: A convenient dump station is provided for RV waste disposal.
• Laundry Facilities: A laundry room with working machines is available, though it might appear dated.
• Boat Ramp: Provides easy access to the Alabama River for fishing and boating (note: caution advised for overgrown areas near the ramp).
• Picnic Shelters: Available for group gatherings and family functions.
• Playground: Offers recreational opportunities for children.
• Year-Round Operation: The campground is open throughout the year, accommodating campers in all seasons.
• Host On-Site: Campground hosts are generally available to assist visitors.
• Reservations: Sites can typically be reserved online through Recreation.gov, which is highly recommended.

Gunter Hills Campground – Antioch Loop offers several distinctive features and highlights that contribute to its appeal as a beloved camping spot in Alabama. These attributes often enhance the overall experience for campers.

Features / Highlights:

• Peaceful, Secluded Environment: Known for its quiet atmosphere and feeling of being tucked away in nature, providing a truly relaxing escape.
• Abundant Wildlife: Deer are frequently seen, especially in the evenings, along with other small critters, offering great opportunities for wildlife viewing.
• Beautiful Natural Setting: Situated in a forest of hickory and pine, with sites often shaded by mature trees and Spanish moss, creating a picturesque setting.
• River Access for Recreation: The campground’s proximity to the Alabama River provides excellent opportunities for fishing (crappie, bass, catfish), boating, and enjoying water views.
• Well-Maintained Trails: Visitors appreciate the nice trails available for walking and hiking, perfect for exploring the natural surroundings.
• Spacious Sites: Many sites, even in the older Antioch loop, are generously spaced, offering privacy from neighboring campers. Sites vary from gravel to concrete pads, with the newer Catoma loop featuring more concrete.
• Affordable Rates: As a COE park, Gunter Hills often offers very reasonable nightly rates, with additional discounts available for Senior Pass or Access Pass holders.
• Pet-Friendly: Dogs are welcome on a leash, with plans for additional dog parks to be more centrally located and larger.
• Seasonal Events: Some reviews mention it's a "great place for Halloween," suggesting seasonal activities or decorations that enhance the festive atmosphere.

To plan your visit or inquire further about Gunter Hills Campground – Antioch Loop, here is their contact information:

Contact Information:

Address: 651 Booth Rd, Montgomery, AL 36108, USA (Note: some sources list 561 Booth Rd, confirming with the campground is best)

Phone: (334) 269-1053 (Gate Phone)

Reservations: Typically made via Recreation.gov

Gunter Hills Campground – Antioch Loop is an ideal destination for Alabamians seeking a peaceful and authentic outdoor experience. Its location near Montgomery means it’s easily accessible for a quick weekend getaway or a longer vacation, allowing you to combine nature immersion with visits to the capital city’s historical sites and amenities. For those who appreciate the quiet rustle of trees, the sight of deer at dusk, and the opportunity to fish or boat on the Alabama River, this campground offers a truly restorative environment.

While the Antioch Loop maintains a more rustic feel with older facilities (as noted by some comments on bathrooms), its charm, affordability, and the natural beauty of the surroundings more than compensate for any minor imperfections. The continuous efforts by the staff and Corps of Engineers to maintain and improve the park, including plans for additional dog parks, demonstrate a commitment to enhancing the visitor experience. Whether you’re a seasoned RVer with your own rig, or a tent camper looking for a serene spot, Gunter Hills Campground – Antioch Loop stands out as a beloved local gem, inviting you to unplug and enjoy the genuine beauty of Alabama.