The area surrounding Bessemer, Alabama provides numerous tent camping options within the Talladega National Forest and nearby public lands. Camping opportunities range from 30 miles to 80 miles from Bessemer, with elevations between 300-1,152 feet. Summer temperatures typically exceed 90°F with high humidity, while winter nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing from November through March.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Big Canoe Creek Outfitters, campers can bring inflatable fishing boats to access both river and creek fishing spots. "Did some tent camping brought my inflatable fishing boat fish the river caught about eight bluegill and a couple Bass," notes Ryan T., highlighting the productive fishing available directly from the campsite.
Hiking trails: The backcountry areas of Weogufka State Forest connect to extensive trail networks including the Pinhoti Trail. According to Asher K., "The hiking in the area is amazing" with routes suitable for day hikes or multi-day backpacking trips connecting camping areas.
Picnicking: The spillway recreation area at Payne Lake offers dedicated picnic facilities with multiple tables and cooking options. "There is a pavilion with four picnic tables underneath it and then there are isolated picnic tables around the area. They have fire pits and grills nearby for cooking," explains Hannah C., making this an ideal spot for day-use activities.
What campers like
Historic features: Camping at Weogufka State Forest Flagg Mtn provides access to significant historical structures. "Simple and enjoyable. Access to southern terminus of the Pinhoti Trail. CCC tower and cabins from 1930's," reports Ro J., referencing the Civilian Conservation Corps structures that remain in the area.
Swimming access: Holt Lake includes designated swimming areas near the tent campsites. Missy W. notes, "We usually hang out at the small man made beach or hop in the boat or kayaks. The beach can be pretty crowded during the summer but it's a decent size and the bathrooms are nearby."
Shelter accommodations: Backpackers appreciate the well-maintained structures available along trails. "The shelter has a platform that goes around 3 walls on the inside which is enough space for about 3 people to stay comfortably. It is also very well maintained and has a logbook," describes Asher K. about the Pinhoti Trail shelter.
What you should know
Seasonal maintenance: Trail and facility conditions can vary significantly after weather events. "When we were here recently there had just been a hurricane that came through a couple of days earlier and there were a ton of trees down. But it seems like there was already maintenance in process to clear the area out," shares Asher K., recommending that hikers "come prepared with a map."
Vehicle requirements: Some camping areas in Weogufka State Forest have access limitations. Marty E. advises, "You might need four-wheel-drive to get up to the ruins, but maybe not," suggesting campers contact site caretakers before arrival to confirm current conditions.
Campsite size variations: Backcountry sites offer different accommodation capacities. One camper describes a specific site as "a small area for backcountry camping in the Weogufka State Forest. You can park fairly close to the site and there is enough space for a couple of hammocks or a single tent."
Tips for camping with families
Beach safety: Families using the swimming areas should maintain vigilance. One regular visitor to Holt Lake cautions, "Last time I went I found a needle in the sand, so keep an eye out. I'm not sure how often the beach is cleaned."
Bathroom accessibility: When tent camping with children, consider proximity to facilities. At Payne Lake Spillway, "There are also bathrooms across from the pavilion," which provides convenience for families spending the day at the recreation area.
Water sources: For families backpacking to more remote sites, the Pinhoti Trail shelter offers practical water access. "There is also incredibly easy water access since the shelter sits alongside the creek," notes a camper, though water treatment remains necessary.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: While tent camping dominates the Bessemer area, limited RV camping exists at locations like Big Canoe Creek Outfitters. RVers should note most sites lack hookups and have size restrictions unsuitable for larger rigs.
Dump station access: RVers using tent camping areas should note that sanitary dump facilities are extremely limited in the region. Payne Lake area provides one of the few sanitary dump options while most forest service and state forest locations offer no dump facilities.
