Best Dispersed Camping near Birmingham, AL

Dispersed camping near Birmingham, Alabama includes three main public use areas with varying terrain and amenities. Blue Creek Public Use Area in Northport allows tent and RV camping along bluffs overlooking the river and dam. Hollins Hunting Camp provides open camping spaces with no facilities, while Weogufka State Forest offers a more primitive backcountry site that features a platform built on an old building site with the original fireplace still intact.

Access to these sites ranges from drive-in locations to hike-in only areas. Blue Creek Public Use Area has paved roads leading to the boat ramp with camping areas nearby, though some reviews mention rough road conditions in sections. The area includes both riverside bluff sites and wooded spots across the street. Hollins Hunting Camp features decent roads accessible to overlanders with roof-top tents and potentially small camper trailers, though users should be mindful of limited turn-around areas. Weogufka State Forest requires hiking in and lacks immediately available water sources.

These primitive sites generally lack developed amenities. Blue Creek Public Use Area provides a latrine but no drinking water or electric hookups, though fires are permitted. Hollins Hunting Camp and Weogufka State Forest offer completely undeveloped camping with no facilities. Campers at Blue Creek appreciate the privacy despite occasional boat ramp traffic. "Large area overlooking the river that gives you a slight breeze for 85 degrees in mid June," notes one review. Another camper at Hollins Hunting Camp points out it's "Best for overlanding/camper/tents. No marked sites, just pull in and find a spot." The open sky at Hollins makes it particularly good for stargazing according to visitors.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Birmingham, Alabama (3)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Birmingham, AL

3 Photos of 3 Birmingham Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Birmingham, AL

8 Reviews of 3 Birmingham Campgrounds


  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 23, 2023

    Blue Creek Public Use Area

    Great private spot

    About a handful of spots, all with ample room and privacy. Rough road there, but overall easy access and nice view.

  • Weather Warrior Media -.
    Jul. 2, 2024

    Hollins Hunting Camp

    Average but good

    This has a good road and decent open spots to set-up. Overlanders (w/rtt) will be the most happy. Open areas have tall grass a but, but some have enough pine trees the pine needles make for better ground camping. Small camper trailers could probably make it too. Just be mindful of turn around spots.

    I arrived late so harder to find spots. Mid-week so no one else here.

    -Lacked good signage on the last turn. -No facilities (as expected) -Open to sky (took awesome star pics here)

  • Michael P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 6, 2025

    Blue Creek Public Use Area

    Totally Relaxing

    I have camped here several times, alway relaxing and restful. Has a latrine, no water or electric. Has boat ramp and camping areas are near pacer park roads. Local traffic is mostly folks going to boat ramp. Camping area is along bluff over looking the River. Second area is in a grove at the end of the paved road and turn around. Ample space, some folks also pull RV down to an area near the boat ramp. Other that the latrine self-contained rustic camping.

  • Peyton P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Hollins Hunting Camp

    Open and quiet

    Best for overlanding/camper/tents. No marked sites, just pull in and find a spot. I got in around 8 and there were only a couple people here, lots of space and easy to find a private spot. Hardly any bugs, no amenities

  • Asher K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 12, 2021

    Weogufka State Forest Backcountry Site 1

    Platform on old building site

    This site appears to have a platform that was built to set up a tent on where an old building used to stand. The fireplace is the only part that is still in place which would actually be kind of nice to use on a cold night. There are even metal rings installed on the platform that you could use to attach a rain fly. Overall this is very near to the Pinhoti southern terminus so you won't get much distance covered if you camp here but it could work for a late start. There is also a nearby shelter which is my preference but this could be a backup if that gets a little crowded. The other downside to this site is that there is not any water right here so you will either have to carry it in or hike down to one of the nearby streams to fill up. However, it is a pretty cool looking area and deffinitely worth checking out even if you don't stay the night.

  • Adam D.
    Jun. 7, 2024

    Blue Creek Public Use Area

    Relaxing spot for sure

    Fun spot. Very easy to get to. Nice big site felt very private only had 2 or 3 cars come by but everything was very low key.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 2, 2021

    Blue Creek Public Use Area

    Nice overlook of river and dam

    This camping spot is at the top of the bluff overlooking the river and dam. There are some wooded spots across the street, but I prefer the overlook area. Big enough for several overlanding rigs or tents. There is some traffic on this boat ramp road and the occasional ATV will come through. Still, I like this spot. There is also a large spot just a little further down. It’s more private, but view is not as nice.

  • kThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 19, 2024

    Blue Creek Public Use Area

    River Bluff overlook, Blue Creek public use area.

    Large area overlooking the river that gives you a slight breeze for 85 degrees in mid June. There are a few other sites in the woods, but no breeze and mosquitoes. Actually has a concrete overlook view area above the river


Guide to Birmingham

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Birmingham, Alabama, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, you're sure to enjoy the great outdoors.

Dispersed campers should check out Blue Creek Public Use Area

  • Blue Creek Public Use Area features a stunning river bluff overlook, providing a refreshing breeze and beautiful views, making it a perfect spot for relaxation.

Scenic views for dispersed campers at Weogufka State Forest Backcountry Site 1

  • Nestled near the Pinhoti southern terminus, Weogufka State Forest Backcountry Site 1 offers a unique platform where an old building once stood, ideal for setting up a tent while enjoying the surrounding nature.

Relaxing activities while free camping near Birmingham

  • Hollins Hunting Camp provides open areas with tall grass and pine trees, perfect for overlanders and those looking to enjoy a peaceful camping experience under the stars.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at primitive camping sites around Birmingham?

Primitive camping sites around Birmingham offer minimal amenities consistent with dispersed camping experiences. Weogufka State Forest Backcountry Site 1 features a unique platform built for tent setup and includes a standing fireplace that provides warmth during cold nights. The platform even has metal rings installed for securing equipment. Most dispersed sites in the area provide natural features rather than developed facilities – expect level ground for tents, existing fire rings in some locations, and scenic surroundings. None of these sites offer running water, electricity, or modern restroom facilities, so campers should pack in all necessary supplies and be prepared for true primitive camping.

Where can I find free dispersed camping areas near Birmingham, AL?

Several free dispersed camping options exist near Birmingham. Blue Creek Public Use Area is a popular choice featuring spacious sites with river views along a bluff overlooking the water. The area offers ample room and privacy with spots for multiple vehicles. Another option is Hollins Hunting Camp, which provides good access via maintained roads and open areas suitable for various camping setups. This site is particularly well-suited for overlanders with roof-top tents, though small camper trailers can also access the area. Both locations require no fees and operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

Are there any seasonal restrictions for free camping in the Birmingham area?

Free camping near Birmingham generally remains available year-round, though seasonal factors affect the camping experience. Summer months (June-August) can be quite hot and humid, with temperatures reaching 85°F or higher, making riverside locations like Blue Creek preferable for catching cooling breezes. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable camping conditions with moderate temperatures. Winter camping is possible but prepare for cold nights. Access can become challenging after heavy rains as many dispersed sites have dirt access roads that may become muddy or rutted. Always check local fire restrictions during dry summer and fall periods, as temporary bans may be implemented. No specific seasonal closures are mentioned for the Birmingham area's dispersed camping sites.