Oak Mountain State Park Campground recently underwent extensive renovations, making it an appealing destination for traditional and yurt camping near Birmingham, Alabama. The campground sits within Alabama's largest state park, spanning nearly 10,000 acres at elevations ranging from 600 to 1,200 feet. With the combination of nearby attractions and amenities, campers can experience comfort while still enjoying the natural beauty of central Alabama.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Oak Mountain features over 50 miles of dedicated trails ranging from beginner to advanced difficulty. A camper noted, "This place has everything, mtn bike, gravel bike, trail running, road running, road biking, golf, equestrian, sailing and fishing."
Wildlife viewing: Visit the Oak Mountain State Park Campground rehabilitation center where you can observe rescued birds of prey. "Very neat trail with rescued owls, turkeys and red hawks, and more," shares one visitor who appreciated this educational opportunity.
Water activities: Multiple lakes within the park offer swimming, fishing, and boating options from April through October. "Our site on the lake was beautiful and had ducks came right up to our site," mentions one camper about their lakefront experience.
Hiking options: Explore well-marked trails with varying difficulty levels. Deerlick Creek offers "a fun hiking trail and also a paved bike trail" according to one reviewer who enjoyed the recreational variety.
What campers like
Renovated facilities: The recent upgrades have significantly improved camper experience. "They put a massive amount of money into updating this place. This is the #1 best state park campground I have ever been at," shares an enthusiastic visitor.
Privacy between sites: Campsites at Corinth Recreation Area provide adequate separation from neighbors. "Large well maintained sites" that offer "peace and quite" even when the campground is full, according to reviewers.
Full hookup options: Many sites offer water, electric, and sewer connections. "Remodeled spaces with adequate space for a newbie to back her travel trailer in with no problems. What an Ego booster!" reports one camper about their experience.
Connectivity: Unlike many rural campgrounds, Oak Mountain offers reliable communications. "It has wifi throughout and almost everywhere in the park has cell reception," which makes it suitable for those needing to stay connected.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. For Clear Creek Recreation Area, one visitor advises, "They are only keeping open one bathroom at a time, so you have to pick and choose your site when you don't have a built in bathroom."
Campground layouts: Sites vary considerably in size and features across different loops. "The sites were close enough to see your neighbors but far enough away to not hear them!" explains a camper about their experience.
Weather considerations: Central Alabama experiences hot, humid summers and mild winters. Pack accordingly for your chosen season. "We spent two relaxed nights around a doctor's visit in Northport. The sites were level and private, and the staff was friendly and helpful," shares a winter visitor.
Multiple camping styles: Options range from rustic tent sites to yurt camping. Birmingham, Alabama offers several campgrounds with alternative accommodation types. "Some of the non-5star reviews are people before the updates or people that really should just be at a KOA resort," notes one camper.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Weogufka State Forest Flagg Mtn provides accessible camping experiences. "Simple and enjoyable. Caretaker and author Sunny Eberhart (Nimblewill Nomad) is wonderful to talk to," mentions a visitor who appreciated the welcoming atmosphere.
Swimming areas: Several campgrounds feature designated swimming areas ideal for children. "White sand around swimming area. Pavilion is rentable for gatherings," explains a visitor about Clear Creek's amenities.
Educational opportunities: Wildlife centers and nature programs offer learning experiences for children. "We watched deer almost tamely walking around the campground," shares a visitor about the wildlife viewing opportunities.
Safety considerations: Most campgrounds have regular ranger patrols. "Regularly saw ranger driving through campground" and "They ride around to keep watch so no worries about anything," note campers about their security experience.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose carefully based on rig size and access needs. Bohamia offers "several hiking trails, but also roads to allow those who prefer to ride" and features "great showers and bathhouse with filtered drinking water option."
Leveling challenges: Some sites require significant leveling due to the region's hilly terrain. "Our site was level and nearly full shade coverage," reports a satisfied RVer about their experience.
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat requires adequate cooling capabilities. "Some cabins and tents having ACs, but primitive camping allowed as well," notes a camper about the yurt camping in Birmingham, Alabama area that provides climate control options.
Hookup details: Verify exact hookup specifications before booking. "Sites are a great size. Really nice swim area on Smith Lake. Some of the cleanest and clearest water around," shares an experienced RVer about their site amenities.
