Tucked away in the woods of Crane Hill, just above the sparkling shoreline of Smith Lake, sits a truly unforgettable overnight experience—the treehouse and cabins at Fire Tower Camp.
Listen to the Unexpected Adventures in North Alabama podcast episode all about Fire Tower Camp:
Whether you're planning a romantic weekend, a family retreat or just a quiet getaway with your dog and a good book, this treehouse invites you to slow down, breathe deep and reconnect with the natural beauty of North Alabama.
Inspired by a recent episode of Unexpected Adventures in North Alabama, today we’re diving into some of our favorite parts of Fire Tower Camp.
A Hidden Gem on Smith Lake
Fire Tower Camp is a boutique lodging property founded by North Alabama native Billy Claunch and inspired by generations of family tradition on the lake. What started as a love for the outdoors and a passion for unique places has become one of North Alabama’s most captivating destinations.
While the entire camp offers cabins, kayaking, trails and even a restored 1930s fire lookout tower, the crown jewel is the treehouse—a custom-built hideaway perched just a hundred feet from the water.
Step Inside the Treehouse
This isn’t the backyard treehouse of your childhood. It’s a full-fledged retreat that blends rustic charm with modern comfort. With a king-size bed, two sets of bunk beds, and panoramic windows that open up to views of Smith Lake, the space is designed to bring the outdoors in.
You’ll wake up to a chorus of birdsong and the gentle shimmer of the lake, steps from your private cove. The treehouse also features indoor plumbing, a well-equipped bathroom, and perhaps the most charming touch of all: an outdoor shower built around a living tree. That’s right—your morning rinse happens beneath the leaves, attached to a real tree trunk.
If you’re looking for a peaceful blend of comfort and nature immersion, you’ve found it.
The treehouse was thoughtfully built to accommodate both romantic getaways and family adventures. Couples can enjoy quiet mornings on the porch swing with a cup of coffee, while kids can run free on the trails, explore the creeks, and even climb aboard the on-site vintage firetruck (a retired Disney monorail unit, no less!).
More Than a Stay—An Experience
Fire Tower Camp sits on over 300 acres of privately owned woodland. Guests have access to miles of hiking trails, hidden waterfalls, natural bluffs, and 3,800 feet of shoreline. Whether you're into paddling a kayak across the lake, exploring the woods with your kids, or watching the sunset from a bluff, you’ll find something magical here.
And if you’re up for a little adventure, be sure to check out the camp’s namesake: the restored 109-foot-tall fire lookout tower, originally built in 1933. Guests can climb to the top for a 360-degree view of North Alabama’s hills, trees, and water—perfect for sunrise seekers and golden hour photographers alike.
Built With Purpose (and a Bit of Whimsy)
One of the most charming aspects of Fire Tower Camp is its backstory. It’s not a corporate development or a cookie-cutter rental—it’s a personal project born out of a deep love for family, the outdoors, and small-town Alabama heritage. Billy and his wife Paula designed the camp around the things that mattered most to them: family memories, simple pleasures, and a sense of wonder.
You’ll notice those touches everywhere—from the design of the treehouse to the care taken in preserving the surrounding trees and trails. Even the firetruck that sits on the property serves as a nod to Billy’s two-decade career in the fire and emergency services industry.
A Quiet Corner of North Alabama
Crane Hill may not be as well-known as other lake towns, but that’s part of its charm. Located about an hour and fifteen minutes from Huntsville and 90 minutes from Birmingham, Fire Tower Camp offers easy access with just the right amount of “off the beaten path.”
You won’t find high-rise hotels or crowded boardwalks here. What you will find is space to roam, water to explore, and a sense of calm that’s hard to come by in today’s fast-paced world.
Plan Your Visit
If you’re searching for your next memorable escape—something a little offbeat, a little luxurious, and completely one-of-a-kind—Fire Tower Camp’s treehouse is waiting. Perfect for couples, families, adventurers, and anyone craving a breath of fresh North Alabama air.
To learn more or book your stay, visit www.firetowercamp.com or follow them on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok at @firetowercamp.
