Camping options near Ashland, Alabama center around Cheaha State Park and the surrounding Talladega National Forest. Located in the southern Appalachian Mountains, this area represents Alabama's highest point at 2,407 feet above sea level. The terrain features dramatic elevation changes with pine-oak forests dominating the landscape. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing at higher elevations, while summer daytime temperatures typically reach 85-95°F.
What to do
Hiking diverse trail systems: Pinhoti Trail connects to numerous smaller trails with varying difficulty levels. "Hiking in the area is amazing! No wifi or cell service; but we loved being disconnected. Recommend starting at Cheaha Trailhead and catch Cave Creek Trail to Pinhoti back to the parking lot... views are amazing," shares Emily C. from Upper Improved Campground — Cheaha State Park.
Swimming at Lake Chinnabee: The lake offers recreational swimming during warmer months with beach areas. "We love Chinnabee! The short hike to the gorgeous falls is perfect for the kids. While you can continue on for miles if you wish, we prefer to stay at the water and climb the little falls," notes Bethany M. from Talladega National Forest Lake Chinnabee Recreation Area.
Gem mining activities: Located across from the park store, this activity keeps children engaged. "The store is very well stocked if we forget anything and right across from the store they have a gem mining area that is also great fun for the children," says Bethany M. about recreational options at Cheaha State Park.
What campers like
Waterfall access: Several campsites offer proximity to scenic waterfalls for cooling off. "This walk in campsite is right next to the waterfalls. Tons of exploring can be done around camp or you could extend the trails and explore Devils Den Falls as well," notes Shana D. about Cheaha Falls Campground.
Secluded backcountry sites: For more privacy, several off-trail options exist within hiking distance. "You just follow the river upstream to get there. The site is fairly large and big enough for a couple of tents with nice flat cleared out ground. It also has enough tree cover that you get a good bit of privacy and are away from the main trail," explains Asher K. about Cheaha Falls Private Backcountry Campsite.
Ridge camping with views: Several sites along the ridge provide panoramic vistas. "This is by far my favorite campground to stay at if you are planning on spending the night on the ridge while doing the Skyway loop trail... There is ample room for multiple tents and the firepit is large with logs set around for sitting on," describes Asher K. about Skyways Loop Campground.
What you should know
Water availability varies seasonally: Many backcountry sites lack reliable water sources. "This area is one of the highest peaks in Alabama so water can be scarce at certain times of year. Check ahead by calling the ranger station if you will be backpacking and they can let you know if there will be water in the streams. This is particularly a problem in the late winter months," advises Asher K. from McDill Point Backcountry — Cheaha State Park.
Reservations recommended for improved campgrounds: The established campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "We stayed in the lower improved campground and enjoyed it. The RV next to us said the upper improved campground is even nicer, but because they are gated, we couldn't drive through to see," mentions KatieM about Cheaha Falls Campground.
Tent site quality varies: Some tent sites present challenges with hidden rocks and uneven surfaces. "For tents: Sites vary. There is adequate space between them. Some have electric some don't. Some have rock beds, some have grass beds (but there are hidden big rocks in the grass making it hard to find a good smooth spot)," warns Jenni O. about Upper Improved Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Large group sites available: Multiple sites accommodate larger family gatherings. "Not far up the trail from the Turnipseed campground, you reach a giant tree standing in front of a small creek... if instead you turn right and wander into the woods a short distance you come across an enormous clearing under the tree canopy perfect for a large group to set up camp," recommends Asher K. from Chinnabee Silent Trail Backcountry Site 2.
Dog friendly campgrounds near Ashland: Most backcountry and established campgrounds welcome pets with proper supervision. "My wife and I recently got a chance to escape all the craziness of COVID lockdown and take a socially distanced backpacking trip in Talladega National Forest. We took the Chinnabee silent trail from the parking lot along Cheaha rd and camped out in one of the secluded sites next to the falls," shares Asher K., who brought dogs to Cheaha Falls Private Backcountry Campsite.
Plan for limited connectivity: Cell service is minimal or nonexistent in most areas. "No wifi or cell service; but we loved being disconnected," notes Emily C. about Upper Improved Campground.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Upper Improved Campground offers the most comprehensive RV amenities. "Nice campground with full hookups. Short hikes to fantastic views. Also a pool and playground. Top of my list to visit again," recommends Dianna B. about Wind Creek State Park Campground.
Pull-through sites for easier access: Several campgrounds feature pull-through options for larger vehicles. "Hiking in the area is amazing! The campground is nice... a lot pull through spots," notes Emily C. about Cheaha State Park.
Gated campground security: Upper sections offer increased security with controlled access. "Because they are gated, there is little traffic driving through," explains KatieM about the campground layout at Cheaha Falls.
Legend
