Camping spots near Bessemer, Alabama include several sites within a 40-mile radius, ranging from primitive backcountry locations to full-service RV parks. The area sits at the southern edge of the Appalachian foothills with elevations between 400-650 feet, creating varied terrain for camping experiences. Summer temperatures often exceed 90°F from June through August, making spring and fall the most comfortable seasons for tent camping.
What to do
Paddle the waterways: At Burchfield Branch Park, campers can launch kayaks directly from waterfront sites. "It was wonderful to be able to kayak directly from our site. The camp and facilities were clean and the hosts could not have been nicer," notes one visitor who stayed at site #3.
Explore mountain biking trails: Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park offers well-maintained bike trails for various skill levels. "The Mountain Bike trails are a blast and well maintained. Definitely worth the trip for that alone," reports a visitor who stayed with family.
Visit historical attractions: Tannehill features restored historical buildings that showcase the region's industrial past. "The park is full of historical buildings like an old mill, furnace, blacksmith shop, and restored cabins," explains a camper who visited during a weekend getaway.
Attend Trade Days events: Monthly weekend markets at Tannehill draw hundreds of vendors selling crafts and antiques. "We're craft vendors at Tannehill Trade Days March-November and we've started camping out there every month. My grandkids absolutely love it," shares a regular visitor.
What campers like
Creek access: Multiple campgrounds feature water access that visitors appreciate. "The sites are all gravel with picnic tables (a little worn) and since it wasn't full, we had empty sites in front of and behind us, which made it feel even more open," notes a camper who stayed at Tannehill's Campground 1.
Privacy between sites: Oak Mountain Backcountry Site offers more secluded experiences. "I've been going here since I was a kid and it's one of my favorite places in the world. You'll never run out of things to do between the endless hiking trails, the museum of wildlife, and the wildlife rescue center," explains a regular visitor.
Clean facilities: Deerlick Creek maintains high cleanliness standards. "Nice level concrete pads with awesome shade. Bath house stayed clean. Nice 1/2 mile asphalt bike/walking trail. Hiking trail with hills and valleys skirting the lake," reports a satisfied camper.
Variety of recreational options: Oak Mountain State Park provides diverse activities. "This place has everything, mtn bike, gravel bike, trail running, road running, road biking, golf, equestrian, sailing and fishing. It has wifi throughout and almost everywhere in the park has cell reception," shares a recent visitor.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds require advance booking while others operate first-come, first-served. "After having a great experience at this campground we decided to go back for a second visit with a larger group. The people who work at the entrance are always super friendly and the tent only sites are all very large and private," explains a repeat visitor to Deerlick Creek.
Cell service limitations: Several campgrounds have limited connectivity. "This campground has zero cell service, so if you can't do without that read no further. It's a four star only because of cell service. My mom fell while we were there and my children couldn't get in touch with us," warns a camper who stayed at Burchfield Branch Park.
Site positioning considerations: Some waterfront sites offer stunning views but less privacy. "Sites 2-8 are on the river. The location was beautiful but there is no privacy. The sites are small and very close together with no trees or brush separating them," notes a visitor to Burchfield Branch.
Seasonal closures: Several campgrounds operate on limited schedules. "Most of the campgrounds in the area are open during spring through fall, with a few like Hoover Met Complex RV Park and Birmingham South remaining open year-round," explains a regular regional camper.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly water features: Multiple campgrounds offer creek access perfect for children. "We had a blast. The beach was closed when we went but we still enjoyed all the trails and basketball goal! We stayed right on the river in the perfect spot," shares a parent who visited Deerlick Creek with kids.
Choose sites with play amenities: Oak Mountain State Park Campground offers extensive family recreation. "Big lakes for fishing, swimming or canoeing. Great camping area for RV's or tents," notes a visitor who appreciated the family-friendly atmosphere.
Pack for no-service areas: When camping at more remote locations like Burchfield Branch, bring offline entertainment. "It is deep in the wilderness so do not expect Wi-Fi or cell signal. It's nearly an hour to town come well-stocked!" advises a visitor who appreciated the disconnected experience.
Consider educational opportunities: Tannehill's historical features provide learning experiences. "The park is also full of historical buildings including an old mill, furnace, blacksmith shop, and restored cabins," reports a family who enjoyed the educational aspects of their visit.
Tips from RVers
Assess site sizes carefully: Not all sites accommodate larger rigs. "This place is really nice; be sure to check your spot to make sure you can park easily- some sites are difficult for large pull trailers," advises an RVer who stayed at Deerlick Creek.
Consider urban options for convenience: When proximity to Birmingham is important, Hoover Met Complex offers good access. "Clean, Easy, and Huge Campground. Huge campground. Haven't ever found a time when it is completely full. Really clean and maintained by the city (trash, water, etc). So always taken care of," reports a visitor, though they note "Everything is concrete. This isn't for the 'view' campground, it is convenient."
Look for full hookup availability: Not all campgrounds offer sewer connections. "Full water and electrical hook ups but no sewer. There is a dump station as you exit the park," explains a camper who stayed at Burchfield Branch Park.
Check for level sites: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain. "The pads are very uneven and there are just not many amenities. Very close to sports fields though," notes a visitor to Hoover Met Complex who was traveling with an RV.
