Smith Lake forms the central feature of the camping landscape near Addison, Alabama, with elevations ranging between 500-800 feet throughout the surrounding Bankhead National Forest. Winter temperatures average 30-50°F while summer months regularly reach 85-95°F with high humidity. Most dispersed camping sites in this region require high-clearance vehicles due to unmaintained forest service roads that become difficult to navigate after rainfall.
What to do
Hiking trails and waterfalls: Thompson Creek Trail offers multiple primitive campsites within hiking distance of several waterfalls. "The entire Sipsey Wilderness is gorgeous, but if you want a trail with lots of great spots to camp, this trail is fantastic. Don't expect bathrooms or drinking water to be nearby, but if you're looking to really get away from it all and do some primitive camping, this is a great place to go," according to Trinity W. at Thompson Creek Trail Campsites.
Mountain biking: Clear Creek Recreation Area maintains both hiking and paved bike trails through the forest. "The site is really well kept with hot showers and toilets along with individual well spaced campgrounds. The sites are very private and what is great is that they each have their own picnic benches and areas to hang things," notes Asher K. about the Houston Recreation Area.
Stargazing opportunities: The remote nature of many campsites provides exceptional night sky viewing. "The stars were incredible after the moon went down a bit. Lots of bird sounds especially in the morning," reports Rae W. about the Boondock Dispersed Camping area, which offers free camping with minimal light pollution.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Most campgrounds in the area provide ample room between sites. "The sites had plenty of space, level, and easy to back into. There is a nice overlook and plenty of hiking trails," mentions Mike M. about Corinth Recreation Area, which offers electric hookups and water access.
Water access: Smith Lake's clear water provides recreation opportunities at multiple campgrounds. "The lots were beautifully wooded and spacing between each site was adequate, but you can definitely see from one site to the next. The perimeter lake lots in the Hoot Owl Loop all had steps or path access from the site to the shore," notes M&P M. about Clear Creek Recreation Area.
Private campsites: Many campgrounds feature wooded sites that offer privacy. "We loved this place, a little off the heating path but well worth it. You must check out the nature bridge nearby as well as the Houston jail. Sites were large and bathrooms were very clean," states Nathan W. about camping at Hidden Cove RV Resort.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Most camping areas have unreliable cellular coverage. "Cell service is spotty so either have a mobile data setup or buy the local connection for your stay," advises Nathan W. about Hidden Cove RV Resort, while Mara S. adds "I had no reception with Verizon but my AT&T hotspot had good reception."
Distance from supplies: The remote location means limited access to groceries and other necessities. "This campground is right on a lake, but a bit away from anything else. If you have any sort of boat, kayak, paddle board, bring it! There is hiking about an hour away at the Bankhead National Forest," notes Mara S.
Weather considerations: Summer months bring high humidity and insects. "Very hot, humid and rainy time of year! Would be back in the fall perhaps," comments Nick & Allyssa S. about Thousand Trails Hidden Cove, suggesting that fall offers more comfortable camping conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Smith Lake provides designated swimming areas at several campgrounds. "Swimming area has shaded picnic areas but is down a steep hill a good way from your car. Also small pebbles in swim area are very painful. It's a nice place but definitely not so friendly on your feet," cautions Kelly S. about Corinth Recreation Area.
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. "Was ok for a quick weekend trip. We booked this campground due to all they had to offer. We stayed close to the park, mini golf, and horse shoes since we have a child. The wood on the playground needs to be replaced," notes Kara S. about Hidden Cove RV Resort.
Trail difficulty: Consider trail ratings when hiking with children. "The hike in is not difficult. You do have to cross a stream, which was not as difficult for my 6'2 husband as it was for me at 5'2. The water was clear. The waterfall was beautiful and we found a quiet spot up the creek to camp," shares Miranda C. about Thompson Creek Trail Campsites.
Tips for RVers
Access roads: Many campgrounds require navigating narrow roads. "GPS took us in a very rural way with lots of twisty roads. One there we found an open spot on our own since it was a holiday the office was closed. Full hook ups and a fairly level grass pad," reports Wendy T. about Smith Lake Park.
Site leveling: Prepare for varied site conditions across campgrounds. "Very expensive, crowded and noisy but what do you expect. Spaces are a little closer and tighter than other campgrounds," notes Anna M. about Corinth Recreation Area, while Thomas H. states "Loved this park! It was our first trip in our new Travel Trailer and it couldn't have gone better. We stayed at Yellow Hammer site #9 easy pull through with plenty of room."
Pet friendly amenities: Many campgrounds welcome pets with designated areas. "This is a great little campground tucked away on the edge of Bankhead National Forest. The campground was laid out well with spacious gravel sites and full hookups. They have a general store, laundry, bathhouse, and small dog park," reports Jennifer H. about Bama Campground & RV Park.
