Coleman Lake Recreation Area offers equestrian camping near Anniston, Alabama with direct access to the Pinhoti Trail system. The campground features separate areas for regular and horse camping with full hookup sites costing $16 per night and primitive overflow sites available for $6. Water, electricity, clean bathrooms, and shower facilities accommodate both riders and non-riders. The recreation area sits at approximately 1,600 feet elevation within the Talladega National Forest, creating cooler temperatures than surrounding lowland areas during summer months.
What to do
Fishing at the lake: Coleman Lake Recreation Area provides a peaceful fishing experience with multiple species available. According to Jason G., "This is a great camping spot with a beautiful lake. Caught 3 bass in the lake. You can't beat the price."
Hiking the loop trail: The path around Coleman Lake offers accessible terrain for all skill levels. Michael S. notes, "The campground is very well maintained. The bath house is very clean and up to date. Sites are level and well spaced."
Visit splash park nearby: Little Tallapoosa Park offers water recreation for families with young children. Andy M. shares, "Splash park was fun and clean for the kids as well as really nice walking trails we enjoyed."
Explore equestrian trails: Horse owners can access extensive trail networks directly from their campsites. The surrounding forest provides both beginner-friendly and challenging routes for riders exploring horse campgrounds near Anniston.
What campers like
Complete disconnection: The remote location provides a true escape from technology. Evan S. explains, "The only negative is that there is absolutely no cell service at all. The nearest reliable service is literally 6 miles down the road. This can certainly be seen as a positive."
Clean facilities: Cherokee Rock Village maintains well-kept restrooms and shower facilities. According to Liz H., "Great trees for hammocking, bathrooms were well-kept and clean, and it's right next to the crag."
Helpful camp hosts: The staff at Coleman Lake provides exceptional service to campers. Wendy L. reports, "Hosts were great and even deliver firewood to your site. Clean bathrooms, showers, and overall campground."
Year-round accessibility: Multiple equestrian campgrounds near Anniston remain open throughout different seasons, with Coleman Lake operating from March through December and other nearby options available year-round.
What you should know
Navigation challenges: GPS directions can route visitors inappropriately. Michael S. advises, "Make sure you use Highway 78 to enter. Google Maps will send you on a 11.5 mile mountain trail (Dugger Mountain Road) that is a dirt 2 track over the mountain...an interesting trip with a camper."
No reservations: Coleman Lake operates on a first-come, first-served basis, which requires planning during busy periods. AMANDA D. notes, "Sites are first come, first serve, water and electric. There is a campground host on duty."
Limited site availability: During peak times, overflow areas may be necessary. David M. reports, "Popular campground with 39 sites, water & electric, flush toilets and shower. $16/nt. Overflow area has no hookups."
Site spacing concerns: Some campsites position campers closer together than others. One reviewer mentions, "We like it kids enjoyed it we wish there was fire pits on camping place and not so close to other campers other than that is was good."
Tips for camping with families
Halloween activities: Coleman Lake Rec Area offers special seasonal events for children. Evan S. shares, "I camped there on Halloween with my grandkids. My Frankies dressed in costume for me but the camp host saw them and made a point of inviting them for campground trick or treating. Almost every camp site gave candy and the kid turn out was impressive."
Evening quiet hours: Some campgrounds enforce early quiet times. Jess N. notes, "This is a family-friendly campground. The quiet is nice, however all lights were out by 9, which was a little early for me and my group."
Playground access: Several horse campgrounds near Anniston provide play areas for children. Swain K. mentions, "Small water park and play ground for little ones. Great price for full hookup at $30 per night and senior discount is offered."
Tent camping with children: Designated tent areas often include family-friendly amenities. Sarah F. explains, "My kids enjoyed biking around the camping loop and we did some geocaching. For the price ($15/night), this is a pretty great place to camp."
Tips from RVers
Access routes for large rigs: Little Tallapoosa Park accommodates larger vehicles with appropriate road access. Hollis K. reports, "Great RV park that is owned and ran by the county. We stayed in the horse camp section because the RV area was full. They use the horse camp area as overflow."
Site amenities: Full hookup options vary between campgrounds. Laura M. states, "This was a very clean park with paved loop and sites. It had nice grassy areas and swing set and bike and walking trails. Full hook ups are available."
Specialty sites: Some locations provide additional features for RVers. Swain K. notes, "The sites are nice and paved with full hookups. There was even a dish at our site for satellite."
Level sites: Many equestrian campgrounds near Anniston feature properly graded camping spots. One reviewer mentions, "Sites are level and well spaced," making setup easier for RVs and horse trailers.
