Bankhead National Forest spans 181,230 acres of rugged terrain with elevations ranging from 500 to 1,200 feet across northwestern Alabama. The Sipsey Wilderness area within Bankhead contains over 25 miles of trails that follow winding creek beds and traverse sandstone bluffs. Water levels in streams vary dramatically throughout the seasons, with summer often bringing low water conditions while winter and spring typically offer higher flows for water access.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: Multiple trails through the Sipsey Wilderness connect to impressive waterfall formations. At Thompson Creek Trail Campsites, one camper mentioned, "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."
Creek swimming: Many tent camping spots offer direct access to swimming holes. "You'll find fire pits at most of the sites that previous campers have made, but that's about it. Most of the time, except during dry spells, there are LOTS of waterfalls. Also lots of shallow places for the kids to play in the water," notes a camper from Thompson Creek.
Photography opportunities: The sandstone formations and moss-covered boulders create distinct landscapes. One visitor to Sipsey Wilderness - Trail 200 Campsites remarked, "Sipsey Wilderness is a protected but unmaintained area in Northwest Alabama that is well known for its intersecting creeks, streams, and rivers that play together with the many waterfalls and magical rock faces."
What campers like
Boulder features: Many campsites include large rock formations that serve practical purposes. At Thompson Creek Trail Campsites, one reviewer shared, "About 3 miles from Thompson Trailhead is the exquisite campground number 4. This campground has about enough space for 2-3 tents or hammocks. Theres a beautiful large boulder rock that overlooks Thompson Creek you can relax on or have meals on."
Sandy tent pads: Unlike many forest camping areas, several Sipsey sites offer comfortable sandy surfaces. A camper at Sipsey Wilderness Backcountry Site (Trail 207 Site B) noted, "Finally, the flat tent areas at this site are mostly covered in sand which means you will have a very comfortable surface to sleep on."
Turquoise water: The streams in Bankhead have a distinctive color when water levels are right. As one camper at Thompson Creek observed, "In the Sipsey wilderness, specifically on Thompson's Creek Trail 206, there are several absolutely gorgeous campsites. As the trail follows Thompson's Creek, it is next to all of the campsites. Water levels tend to be higher during the winter. The water is a beautiful turquoise."
What you should know
Trail access changes: Some trailhead locations have been relocated. According to a camper at Sipsey Wilderness Backcountry Site (Trail 203 Site C), "The Borden Creek Trailhead where we started our hike used to be down at the bottom of the hill but several years ago they moved the parking to a quarter mile away to help protect some of the areas down by the river."
Seasonal water level fluctuations: Kayaking or canoeing requires careful timing. One visitor noted, "After talking to the Rangers we were told the only time that it was really navigable was in the winter or fall for a couple of days after a major rainfall."
Limited vehicle camping: Despite being wilderness tent camping, some visitors attempt to bring small trailers. A reviewer cautioned, "This area is great for tent camping that you are willing to hike into. We fortunately found one clearing near the trail head that was enough space for our teardrop and two tents. The spot is directly on the road but we were able to angel our truck to offer a little privacy."
Tips for camping with families
Easy access options: For families with young children, consider sites closer to trailheads. "Me and my 6 year old daughter hiked the trail this past Saturday, July 27, 2019. Had a great time. Definitely be back," shared one parent who visited Thompson Creek Trail.
Water play areas: Look for sites with safe water access for children. A camper at Sipsey Wilderness Backcountry Site (Trail 200 Site G) mentioned this site is "by far the best site if you have a group of 3 or more tents. It has several firepits and is spread out over a large area. Each individual site has enough privacy while still providing group areas to congregate."
Wildlife awareness: Prepare children for potential wildlife encounters. "Watch for snakes and bring bug spray," advised one camper about the Thompson Creek area, highlighting important safety considerations when tent camping with children in Bankhead National Forest.
Tips from RVers
Limited options: True RV camping is not supported in the wilderness areas. One RV owner shared, "Not for Camper's. It's been a while since last review so we took a chance hoping to find a spot for our teardrop and a couple of tents...Overall a decent spot but not for car, camper, teardrop camping."
Potential overflow spaces: Some trailhead areas may accommodate very small rigs. "The trail head was much busier than we imagined it would be and offered a nice hike with my teen daughter," noted the same RV camper, suggesting that while not ideal, some parking areas can serve as bases for exploration.
Alternative campgrounds: Consider established campgrounds outside the wilderness area. Several reviewers mentioned Brushy Lake as an alternative, with one camper advising, "If you want a good campground in Bankhead National Forest near Sipsey that is more modern with a bathhouse, picnic tables, etc, try Brushy Lake."
