I would like to welcome guest blogger Angela Hawke, a small business owner who lives here in Huntsville, AL. In this blog, she shares her favorite campground ranch and refuge, Rattlesnake Saloon in Tuscumbia, Alabama. Thanks, Angela ~
If you are in the Alabama area or if you live here locally, perhaps you might like a little respite away from the hustle and bustle. Sounds like Rattlesnake Saloon maybe a stay-cation worth visiting. It is located at 1292 Mount Mills Road Tuscumbia, AL 35674
Rattlesnake Saloon offers a “taxi” from the parking lot to the saloon.
What is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear Rattlesnake Saloon (RS) as a place to take your travel trailer? My aversion to rattlesnakes had me on edge until I started to investigate the history and details surrounding this family-owned campground. The pictures are breathtaking and the view seems to never end. Located at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains in North Alabama, there is a long history of generational entrepreneurs who worked the 6,000 acres known for its Southern hospitality.
It wasn’t until 2009 that the watering hole and restaurant were added where the natural cave is found. The cavity had previously given refuge to hogs, which lends to the novelty of the saloon. Although a nest of rattlesnakes was found during the excavation, they are no longer guests today. We found some of the best southern comfort food here.
Reservations
Upon calling for our reservation we were asked, “Will you be bringing your horses?” That had me surprised to which I replied, “I wish!” As much as I love horses, my limited experience includes the occasional guided trail ride. For our family, bringing horses was not an option, but we brought our fur baby, Peppermint Patty, who is a chocolate lab mix. Most of the other campers brought horses or mules and it was clear that we were the oddballs out. For reservation, just call their office: 256.370.7218 ask for Ms. Tee Tee.
We were delighted to see that RS has all the right resources available and ready for those who are not well-equipped equestrians. With just enough notice, the friendly staff at RS can hook you up with a horse in no time. As for the sleeping accommodations, they offer everything from tent camping, full trailer hook up, cabins, and even the option to sleep in a silo. The restaurant does not require reservations and it was clear that it is a hot spot for locals who enjoy good food and live music.
Rustle Up Some Grub
Downhome all American and country-style cooking is what you can expect when heading for your evening supper. Reasonably priced, there is something that will make everyone happy in your wagon-train and for the heartiest of appetites check out the Gigantor Meal on their menu. It’s a two-pound hamburger, a pound of french fries, a half-pound of onion rings, and a whole pitcher of your favorite beverage. Best of all, if you can finish the Gigantor (thanks Jennifer Kornegay from Alabama Living who also loved it and for snapping this photo) within 45 and minutes – it’s FREE! Are you up for the challenge?
Special Events
Rattlesnake Saloon takes great pride in their activities, which are especially entertaining for four-footed friends. Things to do that are family-friendly include Frontier Days, Chuckwagon Races, Horse Races, Live Music and so much more! Visit the trading post for souvenirs and check out their calendar to book the perfect get-away that will have you hooting and hollering for more. Of course, the hiking trails range in difficulty and unquestionably abundant even for those who prefer to travel on foot. The rolling hills appear to wave like a flag on the fourth of July and it never gets tiring.
~ More to see ~
Other things to do in the area that we made a point to visit include:
- The National Coon Dog Cemetery
- Ivy Green – Helen Keller’s birth home
We found so much rest and relaxation while touring Rattlesnake Saloon in our travel trailer. What a wonderful gift we gave ourselves to get away for a quick weekend to this local legend.
In my next blog, I will share our time at Ivy Green where I fulfilled my childhood dream of visiting Helen Keller’s birthplace.
About The Author
Angela Hawke was born and raised in Michigan. She now lives in Huntsville, AL with her family. She has her bachelor’s degree in business – specializing in healthcare, she has years of experience in the nonprofit sector, and is philanthropic at heart. Angela owns a small business where she provides a wide variety of content writing to entrepreneurs. Her purpose is to encourage others in their God-given gifts, to appreciate their differences, and create intentional and genuine connections that honor God.
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