Dining
Trident Marina Grill ~15 min
Nice spot right on the lake to grab a bite to eat and drinks. Great views and a relaxed atmosphere.
Ethos Craft Brewing ~35 min
Good spot to eat with craft beer on tap. Kid friendly.
Groceries & Essentials
The Country Mall ~10 min
Located in Crane Hill, the Country Mall Convenience & Hardware is a locally owned convenience store, hardware stop, and lake-life hub serving both residents and visitors. Good for basic staples. No fresh foods.
(256) 747-6235
Dollar General ~20 min
Everyday essentials, snacks, cleaning supplies, and basic household items.
Nearby Towns
Cullman, AL ~30 min
The nearest city with all the major stores and restaurants you'd need — Walmart, Lowe's, Chipotle, Dick's Sporting Goods, and more. Cullman also has a quaint main street worth exploring with local shops and eateries.
Outdoor Activities
Smith Lake and the surrounding North Alabama area offer a mix of lake recreation, scenic hiking, waterfalls, forests, and small-town outdoor experiences. Whether you're looking for a quiet morning paddle or a full-day adventure, there's plenty nearby to explore.
Hiking & Nature
Sipsey Wilderness
Known as the "Land of a Thousand Waterfalls," Sipsey Wilderness is one of Alabama's most beautiful natural areas. Guests can explore shaded canyon trails, waterfalls, natural bridges, and towering rock formations. Many trails are moderate and family-friendly, while others are better suited for experienced hikers.
(205) 489-5111
U.S. Forest Service — Sipsey Wilderness
William B. Bankhead National Forest
Covering nearly 200,000 acres, Bankhead National Forest offers hiking, scenic drives, wildlife viewing, fishing, and picnic areas. The forest is especially beautiful in the spring and fall.
(205) 489-5111
U.S. Forest Service — Bankhead National Forest
Golf
Chesley Oaks Golf Course ~30–40 min
A scenic public golf course with rolling terrain and well-maintained greens.
Cross Creek Golf Course ~35 min
A relaxed and affordable 18-hole course suitable for casual golfers and families. Rated one of the best municipal courses in Alabama.
Adventure & Recreation
Hawk Pride Mountain Offroad
A large off-road park popular for ATV and side-by-side riding. Open Friday through Sunday.
Red Mountain Park
For guests wanting a day trip adventure, Birmingham offers zip lining, climbing activities, and extensive walking trails. Call ahead to confirm availability of aerial adventures.
Scenic Drives & Small Towns
Guests often enjoy exploring the nearby towns of Cullman, Jasper, and Double Springs for local restaurants, antique shops, breweries, and seasonal festivals.
Family Fun
There are plenty of relaxed, family-friendly activities around Smith Lake for kids and adults alike.
Ice Cream & Sweet Treats
The Duchess Bakery ~30 min
A longtime local favorite since 1939, known for pastries, cookies, cakes, and sweet treats.
Widlöcher's ~30 min
A charming bakery in Cullman known for specialty cheesecakes, scones, floral teas, and beautifully crafted baked goods. A perfect treat after a day on the lake.
Bowling, Arcade & Indoor Fun
Cullman Bowling Center ~30 min
Family-friendly bowling with 24 lanes, arcade games, a full-service restaurant, and live entertainment on weekends.
AMC CLASSIC Marktplatz 10 ~30 min
A convenient movie theater for rainy days or relaxed evenings.
Mini Golf & Entertainment
Funzone ~30 min
Features go-karts, mini golf, batting cages, and inflatable activities for younger kids.
Seasonal Attractions
Ave Maria Grotto ~30 min
A unique and surprisingly interesting attraction featuring miniature reproductions of famous landmarks from around the world. Great for families and photographers alike.
Smith Lake Park
Offers playgrounds, picnic areas, beach access, fishing spots, and open space for kids to play.
Rainy Day Options
Families can also enjoy shopping and dining in downtown Cullman, indoor trampoline parks in nearby cities, coffee shops and bakeries, and local antique stores and boutiques.