Best Campgrounds near Bessemer, AL

Several good camping spots dot the area around Bessemer, Alabama. Oak Mountain State Park Campground sits about 15 miles away and has clean shower houses, roomy sites, and nice views. The park's trails make it a hit with hikers who want to wander through the woods. About 10 miles from Bessemer, Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park Campground combines camping with local history. You can check out the old ironworks while staying at sites with electric hookups and a bathhouse with showers. This campground doesn't take reservations, so it's smart to arrive early. Both parks allow dogs as long as they stay leashed. You can buy firewood at the campgrounds for evening fires. Weather around Bessemer stays mild enough for year-round camping, though summers get pretty hot - bring extra water and sunscreen. When you need a break from camping, the Alabama Adventure & Splash Adventure park and Birmingham Zoo aren't far. The area has good fishing in nearby lakes and rivers. During dry spells, watch for fire restrictions and follow all posted rules. If you're planning to visit during busy times, book ahead at Oak Mountain to guarantee a spot. The campgrounds near Bessemer work well for both quiet getaways and more active trips.

Best Camping Sites Near Bessemer, Alabama (73)

    1. Oak Mountain State Park Campground

    94 Reviews
    Hoover, AL
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (205) 620-2520

    "It is located only about 20-40 min outside downtown. Oak Mountain has several of options of things to do away from just camping and hiking (which of course are also great to do here)."

    "Oak Mountain State Park is Alabama’s largest state park. Located just outside of Birmingham, it’s easy to escape to nature without being too far off the beaten path. This park is HUGE!"

    2. Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park Campground

    28 Reviews
    Green Pond, AL
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (205) 477-5711

    $20 - $30 / night

    "Situated on a beautiful mountain side just minute from university of alabama. Camp beside a churning creek and listen to nature."

    "The park is in a great part of Alabama and is located close to a lot of the best hiking in the state. Additionally, the park is set up on an old ironworks plant where many people lived and worked."

    3. Birmingham South RV Park

    16 Reviews
    Pelham, AL
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (205) 664-8832

    $35 - $65 / night

    "They put us in a pull though site which was awesome for being easy to make quiet exit. Never I’m hooked the truck."

    "Easy access to highway, very spacious and new bathrooms and showers. Very much enjoyed our stay."

    4. Hoover Met Complex RV Park

    11 Reviews
    Helena, AL
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (205) 739-7400

    "On the outskirts of a parking lot of a stadium!"

    "In addition to the Hoover Met sports complex and sports arena there is a new brewery within walking distance of the campground."

    5. Cherokee Campground

    1 Review
    Helena, AL
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (205) 428-8339

    6. Deerlick Creek

    26 Reviews
    Peterson, AL
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (205) 759-1591

    $20 - $30 / night

    "My campsite was near the bathroom/shower which was convenient.  Enjoyed the hillside view I had and the walks in the woods surrounding the campground."

    "Greta place to camp in the fall for Alabama football games, only about 15-16 miles from campus, yet very secluded. Really a great place to camp, whether with RV or tent camping!"

    7. Backcountry Site — Oak Mountain State Park

    1 Review
    Pelham, AL
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (205) 620-2520

    $6 - $18 / night

    "You’ll never run out of things to do between the endless hiking trails, the museum of wildlife, and the wildlife rescue center. There’s an archery station within the park and a petting farm."

    8. Burchfield Branch Park

    11 Reviews
    Tuscaloosa, AL
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (205) 497-9828

    $20 - $40 / night

    "Most of the campsites are tucked away beneath a canopy of trees with nice shade. The bath houses are always clean, as well as the entire campground. It is great for a relaxing weekend getaway."

    "The location was beautiful but there is no privacy.  The sites are small and very close together with no trees or brush separating them. "

    9. M and J RV Park

    1 Review
    Midfield, AL
    6 miles
    +1 (205) 788-2605

    10. Brookside Greenway Park

    3 Reviews
    Birmingham, AL
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (205) 209-2824

    "Grassy area behind some ball fields in a small town. They have hookups but I just parked in the grass. I also understand there are bathrooms and showers but I didn't use them. Wifi works."

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Showing results 1-10 of 73 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Bessemer, AL

387 Reviews of 73 Bessemer Campgrounds



Guide to Bessemer

Camping near Bessemer, Alabama, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor lovers. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a place with plenty of activities, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Hiking and Biking: Many campgrounds, like Oak Mountain State Park Campground, have extensive trails. One visitor mentioned, “The park has so many different activities including hiking and BMX trails.”
  • Water Sports: If you enjoy water activities, check out Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park Campground. A reviewer said, “Trails to hike, water to play in, fishing, history places to see and go through.”
  • Wildlife Watching: Campgrounds like Burchfield Branch Park are great for spotting local wildlife. One camper noted, “This is a quiet campground with well spaced sites, many of which are either on the water or close to a small stream.”

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Birmingham South RV Park said, “The bathrooms and showers were consistently clean and the hot water was great.”
  • Friendly Staff: Many reviews highlight the helpfulness of campground staff. One camper at Brierfield Ironworks Historical Park mentioned, “Great staff. Clean restrooms. Easy in and out.”
  • Level Campsites: Campers enjoy the level sites at places like Oak Mountain State Park Campground. A reviewer stated, “The pads are super level (at least in A16).”

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Blue Creek Public Use Area, lack certain amenities. A camper noted, “There are some wooded spots across the street, but I prefer the overlook area.”
  • Cell Service: Expect little to no cell service in some areas. One visitor at Burchfield Branch Park said, “This campground has zero cell service, so if you can’t do without that, read no further.”
  • Weather Considerations: Be prepared for rain, as some sites may not drain well. A camper at Oak Mountain State Park Campground mentioned, “Not all drain very well when it rains.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and swimming areas. A reviewer at Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park Campground said, “The newly remodeled campground is spectacular.”
  • Safety First: Be cautious of poison ivy and other hazards. One camper at Birmingham South RV Park warned, “Be aware of poison ivy. It was EVERYWHERE.”
  • Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or snacks. A visitor at Burchfield Branch Park suggested, “We enjoyed being waterfront at site #5.”

Tips from RVers

  • Check Hookups: Make sure to verify the type of hookups available. A camper at Birmingham South RV Park mentioned, “The power stations are the worst.”
  • Space for Big Rigs: Many campgrounds are big rig friendly. A reviewer at Hoover Met Complex RV Park said, “This campground is in the parking lot of the Hoover Met Complex. Easy to navigate in and out of each site.”
  • Stay Connected: If Wi-Fi is important, check reviews beforehand. One camper at Hoover Met Complex RV Park noted, “WIFI is meh. Would expect more from a city campground.”

Camping around Bessemer, Alabama, has something for everyone, from families to seasoned RVers. Just be prepared for the unique quirks of each campground!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Bessemer, AL?

According to TheDyrt.com, Bessemer, AL offers a wide range of camping options, with 73 campgrounds and RV parks near Bessemer, AL and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Bessemer, AL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Bessemer, AL is Oak Mountain State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 94 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Bessemer, AL?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Bessemer, AL.

What parks are near Bessemer, AL?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 11 parks near Bessemer, AL that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.