The forest region surrounding Arley, Alabama offers diverse camping options situated in the William B. Bankhead National Forest at elevations between 500-800 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-95°F with high humidity, while spring and fall bring milder conditions. The area's limestone geology creates unique features including waterfalls, natural bridges, and canyon systems that distinguish the camping experience from other Alabama destinations.
What to do
Hiking trail access: Several campgrounds provide direct access to Bankhead National Forest trails. At Corinth Recreation Area, "This is a great campground which puts you near all the magic of the Sipsey Wilderness Area in the Bankhead National Forest... make sure you have AllTrails with a downloadable trail map before you leave the campsite, because there is not great cell service on most trails."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Morning and evening offer prime wildlife spotting times. "You will see deer in the morning and are likely to have a visitor, raccoons, during the night," notes a camper about their experience at Clear Creek Recreation Area. The quiet surroundings make wildlife encounters common throughout the seasons.
Waterfall exploration: Multiple waterfall features can be found within short hikes from camping areas. At Dismals Canyon Cabins and Primitive Campsites, visitors report, "After we got everything set up and got all the lights out, we noticed the glowing dismalites along the Canyon wall behind our tent!! We also had a creek flowing with crawdads, minnows, and bull frogs." The canyon trails often require getting your feet wet but reward with unique waterfall views.
What campers like
Private camping spaces: Many sites offer good separation between campsites. One camper at Corinth Recreation Area noted, "This was by far one of the most quiet COE campground we have been to... The camp was full but you would have thought the opposite based on how quiet it was."
Water access: The lake access points receive positive reviews for their cleanliness and features. "The majority of sites are pretty level and the comfort stations were clean. It takes four or five presses on the water activator in the shower before the warm water starts flowing, but there is plenty of water pressure," shares a visitor to Clear Creek.
Diverse camping options: The region offers everything from basic tent sites to upscale glamping close to Arley, Alabama. A visitor to Point Mallard City Campground mentions, "Nice clean campground. Walking distance to water park. Sites are very nice, although a little close to each other." The range of accommodations suits different camping preferences and comfort needs.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds in the region have limited operating seasons. Clear Creek operates from March through October, while Corinth Recreation Area runs from "March 15 to October 30." Plan accordingly as facilities close during winter months.
Bathroom availability: During peak seasons and health restrictions, not all facilities may be open. "They are only keeping open one bathroom at a time, so you have to pick and choose your site when you don't have a built-in bathroom," reports a camper at Clear Creek. This affects site selection, especially for tent campers.
Varying site quality: Campsite conditions can vary significantly even within the same area. At Dismals Canyon Cabins and Primitive Campsites, a visitor cautioned, "Totally recommend seeing the canyon, but the campsites are in rough shape. Totally eroded with no level spot for a tent."
Fee structure: Some locations have complex fee systems beyond basic nightly rates. A Dismals Canyon visitor warned, "This is a nice little spot but they nickel and dime you to death... they also charge a $5 cleaning fee (for a campsite????) and a 'one time admission fee' of $30 (good for up to 4 people, additional people = additional money)."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Families appreciate the swimming areas available at several campgrounds. A visitor to Point Mallard City Campground stated, "The fact that this campground stays packed should be an indication of what a great place it is! Very friendly staff, clean bath houses and next to a fun water park."
Recreational amenities: Several campgrounds offer additional recreation beyond water activities. One camper at Clear Creek noted, "There was a basketball and volleyball area in a nice green space area near the boat launch." These amenities provide entertainment options for children of various ages.
Educational experiences: Some locations offer unique learning opportunities. The Ridge Outdoor Resort offers diverse activities as one visitor shared: "There are dirt bike trails, a zip line, an air soft course, a pond, and stunning views of the valley below." These features provide both adventure and learning experiences for children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: RV campers should research their specific site before booking. A visitor to The Ridge Outdoor Resort mentioned, "The sites are grassy. We are the only ones here so we pulled up to the bath house." Understanding the terrain helps with proper RV setup.
Hookup options: Full-service sites are available at several campgrounds. A Corinth Recreation Area visitor explained, "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." First-time RVers find the well-designed sites particularly helpful.
Cell service considerations: Coverage varies significantly across the region. At The Ridge Outdoor Resort, a visitor noted, "I have 2 bars on my Verizon," while at Corinth Recreation Area another camper reported, "Full hookups and AT&T cellphone coverage good enough for working from Trailer. Verizon cellphone coverage didn't work here." This information is crucial for those needing to stay connected.
