Oak Mountain State Park provides equestrian camping near Brent, Alabama with recently renovated facilities. The park includes both an equestrian campground with pull-through sites and a traditional camping area. Located within 30-60 minutes of Brent, the park covers over 9,000 acres with more than 50 miles of interconnected trails through varied terrain. Winter temperatures typically range from 30-55°F while summer can reach 85-95°F with high humidity.
What to do
Trail riding with horses: Oak Mountain State Park offers an extensive network of trails suitable for equestrians staying at the Equestrian campground. "I stayed one night in the Equestrian campground. They are all pull thru with as remodeled bathhouse. It was extremely clean," notes Melinda S.
Mountain biking: The park features some of Alabama's best mountain biking terrain for all skill levels. "This place has everything, mtn bike, gravel bike, trail running, road running, road biking, golf, equestrian, sailing and fishing," reports Soren B., highlighting the diverse activity options.
Water activities: Multiple lakes within the park boundaries provide opportunities for fishing, swimming, and boating. "Big lakes for fishing, swimming or canoeing," mentions Scott C. Boats can be rented at the marina for those without their own equipment.
Visit wildlife facilities: The park houses rehabilitation facilities for injured wildlife. "Don't miss the TREE TOP NATURE TRAIL!" recommends Napunani at the Backcountry Site, referring to the elevated boardwalk where visitors can observe rehabilitating birds of prey.
Backcountry camping: For more seclusion, hike-in backcountry sites offer a more remote experience. "The site we stayed at was only a short walk, maybe 15 min from the road but it felt like a totally different world," shares Asher K.
What campers like
Renovated facilities: Recent investments have significantly improved the camping experience at Oak Mountain State Park Campground. "They put a massive amount of money into updating this place. This is the #1 best state park campground I have ever been at," states Soren B.
Clean facilities: Multiple campers note the cleanliness of bathhouses and common areas. "So clean. Shower house and bathrooms clean and big. Gorgeous views," reports maureen L.
Diverse camping options: The park offers everything from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV spaces. "I love that you can choose what type of camping you want- RV, car camping, or even backcountry!" explains Elyssa M.
Trail connectivity: Campers appreciate that many sites connect directly to the trail system. "Another major advantage to this site is that it is located along one of the trails in the park so you could set up camp and go on a hike straight from there," shares Asher K.
Multiple recreation opportunities: The variety of activities keeps families entertained. "Oak Mountain is a big state park with lots to do (golf, biking, archery, lots of trails that are very well marked, petting zoo, very neat trail with rescued owls, turkeys and red hawks, and more)," notes Scott C.
What you should know
Senior discounts available: Those 62 and older can receive reduced rates on camping fees. "Senior discount" is listed among the pros by Napunani.
Reservation requirements: The most popular sites fill quickly, especially during weekends and peak season. "Reserved 363 days prior to arriving," mentions Napunani, indicating the need to plan ahead for prime spots.
Campground lighting: Unlike more primitive settings, this campground has street lighting throughout. "Street lights throughout campground" is noted by Napunani, which may affect those seeking a dark sky experience.
Varying cell reception: Connectivity has improved in recent years. "It has wifi throughout and almost everywhere in the park has cell reception," reports Soren B.
Alternative camping options: For those seeking different experiences, Minooka Park in Jemison offers additional equestrian-friendly trails. "Lots of trails to hit on the dirt bikes or ATVs. We go for day riding trips once a month or so," mentions Chris B.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife education programs: The park offers educational opportunities for children. "A family tradition... You'll never run out of things to do between the endless hiking trails, the museum of wildlife, and the wildlife rescue center," shares Cat at the backcountry site.
Petting farm access: Children can interact with farm animals at the park's dedicated facility. "There's... a petting farm. The campground is easily navigated with multiple bathhouses per campground so you'll always have one nearby," continues Cat.
Lake swimming areas: Designated swimming sections provide safe water recreation for families with children. "Gorgeous views. Lots of things to do in the park," notes maureen L.
Primitive sites for families: For a more natural experience, consider the walk-in sites. "My campground was great for true car campers. The campsite was only a few strides from my car and there was a water spigot 5 steps away," explains Elyssa M. at Oak Mountain.
Multiple bathhouse access: Families appreciate the convenient distribution of facilities. "Remodeled bathhouses as well and kept clean even on a busy July 4th weekend. Gets morning sun but shade in the afternoon," adds Melinda S.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for shade: Consider the sun exposure when booking sites. "A30 level site and nearly full shade coverage," recommends Napunani at Oak Mountain.
Entrance navigation: Large rigs should be aware of construction and entrance limitations. "Limited and very tight rig parking at campground gate check-in... recommend North entrance/exit until construction is completed," advises Napunani.
Alternative RV options: For overnight stops near Tuscaloosa, Bama RV Station provides convenient highway access. "Literally right off the interstate at Tuscaloosa. Much lower noise level than I expected. Definitely a parking lot, without trees," reports Cat R.
Hookup variations: Research site amenities before booking as they vary throughout the park. "Campsite was great. Our site on the lake was beautiful and had ducks came right up to our site," shares maureen L.
Dump station locations: Plan accordingly as some campgrounds have limited dump facilities. "Campground trash dumpsters are beyond the campground gate... not walkable," notes Napunani.
