Bessemer-area camping offers diverse accommodations on terrain that transitions from the southern foothills of the Appalachians to rolling plateaus. Elevations range from 420 to 730 feet throughout the region, creating varied camping microclimates. Winter temperatures typically remain above freezing, allowing for comfortable year-round camping at most locations with proper preparation.
What to do
Hiking trail exploration: Oak Mountain State Park features numerous well-marked trails for all ability levels. According to visitor Scott C., the park offers "lots of trails that are very well marked" with "lots to do (golf, biking, archery, lots of trails, petting zoo, very neat trail with rescued owls, turkeys and red hawks, and more)."
Backcountry camping: For those seeking more seclusion when glamping near Bessemer, Alabama, Oak Mountain State Park offers backcountry sites that provide a completely different experience from the main campgrounds. As Asher K. notes, "The site we stayed at was only a short walk, maybe 15 min from the road but it felt like a totally different world. We had a huge area to set up our tents and there was a small stream that we could pump water from."
Mountain biking: The trail systems at The Ridge Outdoor Resort cater specifically to dirt bike enthusiasts with varied terrain. Joseph K. shares, "Most of the camp is for dirt bike riding but the park was almost empty at the end of the night! If it's in the off season bring a table!"
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many Bessemer-area glamping sites offer good separation between campsites. At Deerlick Creek, Steve V. notes, "Love the large sites that are nicely separated from neighboring sites and overlook the water. Friendly staff and clean bathhouse."
Lakeside camping: Several campgrounds provide direct water access. At Clear Creek Recreation Area, M&P M. reports, "The perimeter lake lots in the Hoot Owl Loop all had steps or path access from the site to the shore. This would be especially nice in the summer."
Wildlife viewing: Luxury glamping in Bessemer, Alabama area provides opportunities to observe local wildlife. Don K. mentions at Deerlick Creek, "We watched deer almost tamely walking around the campground."
What you should know
Bathroom availability: Facilities can be limited at certain campgrounds or during specific seasons. At Clear Creek Recreation Area, Rebekah C. notes, "My only complaint was that, at the time of our visit, the closest bath house was closed 'due to Covid', which is silly. Having ALL guests on the loop use ONE bathhouse would make sure everyone caught the germ if anyone brought it."
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak season. As Quinton H. mentions, "Found the staff to be very helpful and the environment to be remote and quiet without being isolated. Just what our family was looking for."
Water access considerations: Clear Creek Cove RV Resort is designed primarily for water activities. Asher K. shares, "The whole place is set up to have easy access to the water and it does this really well. There are multiple docks and plenty of spaces to tie up your boat. Additionally, the lake is really enormous so you can be out on the water all day."
Tips for camping with families
Basketball facilities: Several campgrounds offer sports facilities for family recreation. At Deerlick Creek, Meredith M. states, "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."
Group camping options: For larger family outings, Weogufka State Forest Flagg Mtn offers simple but enjoyable facilities. Ro J. notes, "Simple and enjoyable. Caretaker and author Sunny Eberhart (Nimblewill Nomad) is wonderful to talk to."
Kid-friendly trails: Several campgrounds feature easier trails appropriate for children. Nikki W. mentions about Clear Creek, "Really enjoyed the group camp site. Very spacious with a huge fire pit. Easy walking distance to bathhouse. Great hiking as well."
Tips from RVers
Dump station access: Check for onsite dump stations before booking. At Deerlick Creek, Eric H. shares, "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."
Site levelness: When glamping near Bessemer in an RV, site selection matters. At Rolling Hills RV Park, David S. notes, "Gravel site was fairly level despite being in a hilly area. There's quite a bit of space between most of the sites (particularly the back in sites)."
Hookup types: Electric and water hookups vary by site. According to Sue V. at Clear Creek Cove RV Resort, "The power is not included but the prices are very reasonable. Our lot is spacious, gravel pad with a cement patio."
