Your needs in Alabama are going to much different than Colorado. You're more likely to need AC than heat during most of Alabama's season. All of it unless you live near the Tennessee border. The heat given off from a Coleman lantern will keep the inside of your tent warm enough for your needs. Once in the sleeping bag and lights out you won't need any heat. Light the lantern and give it 10 minutes or so before you get out of the sleeping bag and you'll be fine. The Fall is still Hurricane season in the SE. You might seriously consider a small AC unit sitting on a milk crate aimed into the tent and run it off of a generator for part of each night.
I've camped in canvas tents, nylon, back of the truck, pop-up's and travel trailers while hunting. What is best depends on a lot of factors. If you're going to be in one spot for a week or more then it is worth it to set up an elaborate camp. Otherwise a small tent and cold food or backpacking food is a lot easier.
The size of the party matters too. A 6 man nylon tent is about right for 2 people to sleep. You have room to stand and get dressed and a little room to move around. Virtually all of our meals and eating are done outside. A large tarp over the table and cooking area will keep you dry if it rains and provide shade.
