Every now and then on your travels, you come across a dump station in a location so unexpected and serene that it completely changes your perspective on the task. We’re all used to the noisy, chaotic environment of a truck stop or the cramped quarters of a roadside gas station. But imagine pulling your rig up alongside the calm, flowing waters of the Tennessee River, with nothing but the sound of birds and the gentle breeze in the trees as you empty your tanks. That’s the experience waiting for you at the Easter Posey Recreation Area, a hidden gem tucked away inside the secure perimeter of Redstone Arsenal in northern Alabama. Now, right up front, it’s important to understand that this isn’t a place just anyone can roll into. Access is generally restricted to military personnel, DoD civilians, and other authorized users. But for those who do have the necessary credentials, this spot is an absolute treasure.
The location itself is part of what makes it so special. You’re not just stopping for a chore, you’re gaining access to a beautiful slice of Alabama’s natural landscape. The recreation area is situated near Valhermoso Springs, and its proximity to the Tennessee River provides a backdrop that you just won’t find at any commercial facility. It feels less like a utility stop and more like a peaceful retreat. For those of us who spend a lot of time on the open road, finding these little pockets of tranquility is what it’s all about. It’s a chance to turn a mundane task into a moment of calm and appreciation for the beautiful places our RVs can take us.
Of course, the other major draw is the city of Huntsville, which lies just a few minutes to the north. Huntsville isn’t just any city, it’s “Rocket City,” the cradle of America’s space program. And for anyone with even a passing interest in science or history, the U.S. Space & Rocket Center is an absolute must see. Standing in the shadow of a full stack Saturn V rocket is a humbling and awe inspiring experience. You can easily spend an entire day there, exploring the exhibits and maybe even watching the kids at Space Camp training for their next mission. But Huntsville’s appeal doesn’t stop there. The area is a haven for nature lovers too. The Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge is a major stop for migratory birds, and in the winter, you can witness the incredible spectacle of thousands of sandhill cranes, and if you’re lucky, even a rare whooping crane. Anglers know the Tennessee River here holds some legendary smallmouth bass, and you can launch your boat from nearby Ditto Landing to try your luck. After a day of exploring, downtown Huntsville offers a fantastic craft brew scene and a growing number of excellent restaurants to satisfy any craving.
So what’s it like to actually use a dump station on an active military installation? For starters, it’s a much more orderly and secure process. You’ll need to present your identification at the Arsenal gate, and you should always have your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance handy. Once you’re inside, you’ll find that military campgrounds like Easter Posey are meticulously planned and maintained. The dump station is located on a paved, pull through pad, making access a breeze for even the largest rigs. You won’t be dealing with tight turns or unlevel ground. Because this is also a campground with 23 sites, the traffic is generally very light. You might see a bit of activity during morning PT hours, but for the most part, it’s a quiet and low traffic environment. The lighting is good, though I’d still recommend planning your visit during daylight hours just to make things easier on yourself. There’s a sense of order and cleanliness that you don’t always find on the outside.
When it comes to amenities, Easter Posey has the essentials covered, and they do them well. There’s potable water available at each campsite, plus a dedicated rinse spigot at the dump station itself. This allows you to handle your business cleanly and efficiently. The facility is pet friendly, so your four legged companions are welcome as long as they are on a leash. It’s a great place for a walk along the river, though you’ll want to give the resident herons and other wildlife their space. There’s a modest but clean bathhouse with showers and restrooms, which is always a welcome sight for a weary traveler. And if you decide you want to stay the night, the campsites are equipped with both 30 and 50 amp electric hookups. Trash disposal is straightforward, with dumpsters located near the bathhouse. Just remember that this is a military facility, so you’ll need to pack out any oversized items. The things you won’t find here are fuel, propane, or a repair shop, so make sure you stock up on all your supplies in Huntsville before you enter the Arsenal.
As for the cost, that’s something you’ll need to confirm directly. Prices for military recreation facilities aren’t always published online, and they can vary. Some guests have reported that the dump station access is included with a very modest nightly camping fee. The best course of action is to call the Outdoor Recreation office. The number is readily available online, and a quick call to 256 876 4868 will get you all the current information on fees, payment methods, and any specific access requirements. They are typically set up to handle credit cards or government travel cards, but it’s always wise to ask.
A few tips for a smooth visit. First and foremost, have all your required credentials ready before you get to the gate. This will make the entry process quick and easy for both you and the security personnel. If you have the flexibility, weekends are generally the quietest time to visit. During the week, you might see more activity, especially around lunchtime, as soldiers and civilian employees use the recreation area for a break. Make sure you have the right form of payment, as after hours access, if available, will likely be through an unmanned kiosk. And a personal tip from one RVer to another: take pride in your sanitation practices here. This is a well maintained facility, and it’s a privilege to use it. Keep your hoses and connections clean and leak free. After the work is done, reward yourself. Take a few extra minutes to just sit by the river and watch the sunset. It’s a beautiful and peaceful setting, and it’s the perfect way to end your day.
In conclusion, the Easter Posey Recreation Area offers an exceptional dump station experience, but it’s one that comes with the caveat of restricted access. If you are one of the lucky RVers who has the credentials to get onto Redstone Arsenal, you should absolutely take advantage of it. The combination of a pristine, riverside setting, reliable and clean utilities, and its close proximity to all the attractions of Rocket City makes it a truly unique and valuable stop. Just be sure to do your homework. Confirm your eligibility, call ahead for the latest on costs and hours, and then go enjoy one of the most serene and peaceful tank flushing experiences you’re ever likely to have.
Redstone Arsenal Recreation Area, Valhermoso Springs, AL 35775
Cost: Price not available
Category: Campground
Has Water
redstone.armymwr.com