Spring and summer in North Alabama mean one thing—boating season! Whether you enjoy fishing, water sports, or simply cruising on the water, Huntsville and its surrounding areas offer some incredible destinations for boating enthusiasts. At Gasoline Alley Storage, we know how important it is to have a great place to launch, so we’ve rounded up some of the best boating spots near Huntsville.
1. Lake Guntersville
📍 Distance from Huntsville: ~40 miles
As Alabama’s largest lake, Lake Guntersville is a must-visit for boaters. Stretching 75 miles along the Tennessee River, this lake is perfect for fishing, wakeboarding, tubing, and relaxing on the water.
🚤 Why You’ll Love It:
- Excellent bass fishing (one of the top-ranked in the U.S.)
- Multiple boat ramps & marinas
- Beautiful mountain and wildlife views
- Plenty of dockside restaurants for a bite on the water
Launch Locations:
- Guntersville Municipal Park Boat Ramp
- Goose Pond Colony Marina
- Waterfront Boat Ramp
2. Wheeler Lake
📍 Distance from Huntsville: ~30 miles
Covering 60,000 acres, Wheeler Lake is a prime destination for boaters looking for wide open waters and plenty of room to explore. It’s a favorite for fishing, sailing, and watersports.
🚤 Why You’ll Love It:
- Deep waters for sailing and larger boats
- Great catfish and crappie fishing
- Peaceful, scenic views with less boat traffic than Guntersville
- Direct access to Joe Wheeler State Park for on-shore fun
Launch Locations:
- Ingalls Harbor (Decatur)
- Joe Wheeler State Park Marina
- First Creek Boat Launch
3. Smith Lake
📍 Distance from Huntsville: ~55 miles
If you’re looking for crystal-clear water, deep coves, and breathtaking scenery, Lewis Smith Lake (or just Smith Lake) is the place to be. Known for being one of the cleanest lakes in the U.S., this is a great spot for a relaxing day on the water.
🚤 Why You’ll Love It:
- Deep, clear waters (perfect for swimming and scuba diving!)
- Great for wakeboarding, skiing, and tubing
- Hidden coves and islands to explore
- Smith Lake Park offers a great spot for picnicking and camping
Launch Locations:
- Smith Lake Park Boat Ramp
- Duskin Point Marina
- Speegle’s Marina
4. Tennessee River (Ditto Landing)
📍 Distance from Huntsville: ~10 miles
For those who want to stay close to Huntsville, Ditto Landing on the Tennessee River is an easy and convenient place to launch your boat. The river stretches for miles, providing a great place to cruise, fish, and enjoy the sunset over the water.
🚤 Why You’ll Love It:
- Only minutes from Huntsville
- Smooth, calm waters perfect for pontoon cruises
- Marina and fuel dock available on-site
- Great spot for kayaking and paddleboarding too
Launch Location:
- Ditto Landing Marina
5. Pickwick Lake
📍 Distance from Huntsville: ~75 miles
If you’re up for a longer trip, Pickwick Lake is worth the drive. This spectacular lake on the Tennessee River is known for its excellent fishing, boating, and waterfront restaurants.
🚤 Why You’ll Love It:
- Top-ranked fishing destination
- Beautiful waterfalls & rocky bluffs along the shoreline
- Great overnight trip option with lakefront cabins & lodges
Launch Locations:
- Florence Harbor Marina
- Pickwick Landing State Park
Store Your Boat Safely with Gasoline Alley Storage
When you’re done with your day on the water, Gasoline Alley Storage is the perfect place to store your boat. Our covered, secure storage protects your investment from the elements, so it’s ready to go whenever you are.
📍 Reserve your spot today at GAS231.com!
🚤 Where’s your favorite boating destination? Let us know in the comments!
