Dispersed camping sites surround Brierfield, Alabama with options for yurts and canvas accommodations within a short drive. The area sits at the southern edge of the Appalachian foothills with elevations ranging between 400-600 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 90°F with high humidity, while winter camping sees nighttime temperatures that can drop below freezing from December through February.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Oak Mountain State Park Campground offers multiple trail difficulty levels within its 9,940 acres. Peavine Falls Trail provides moderate hiking opportunities with forest and waterfall views. "Beautiful large park. 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," reports one Deerlick Creek visitor.
Mountain biking routes: Dedicated cycling paths for various skill levels can be found throughout the region. "This place has everything, mtn bike, gravel bike, trail running, road running, road biking, golf, equestrian, sailing and fishing," writes a camper at Oak Mountain State Park Campground.
Lake activities: Multiple water recreation opportunities exist within 30 minutes of Brierfield. "We got Oru Kayaks recently as a wedding gift and took them out on the water to test them out," shares a backcountry camper, who also notes that Oak Mountain has "a lake where you can swim or boat."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campgrounds in the region offer varying levels of site separation. "The sites were level and private, and the staff was friendly and helpful. We watched deer almost tamely walking around the campground," reports a Deerlick Creek camper.
Updated facilities: Recent renovations have improved camping infrastructure. "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 Oak Mountain visitor, while another notes "Remodeled spaces with adequate space for a newbie to back her travel trailer in with no problems."
Yurt accommodations: For those seeking yurt camping near Brierfield, Alabama, several options provide canvas and semi-permanent structures. At Weogufka State Forest Flagg Mtn, "Simple and enjoyable. Caretaker and author Sunny Eberhart (Nimblewill Nomad) is wonderful to talk to. Access to southern terminus of the Pinhoti Trail. CCC tower and cabins from 1930's."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak seasons from March through October. "When we made reservations, we were told to only take exit 179 off I-65 and follow the GPS directions, as any other way will take you on narrow roads, including gravel roads," advises a visitor to Kountry Air RV Park.
Cellular coverage: Service varies significantly between campgrounds and specific sites. "It has wifi throughout and almost everywhere in the park has cell reception," notes an Oak Mountain camper, while others report spotty coverage at more remote locations.
Site selection tips: Research site dimensions and layouts before booking. "Just be aware that this made it hard to find the trail at points so come prepared with a map," suggests a Weogufka State Forest visitor, while another camper advises, "be sure to check your spot to make sure you can park easily - some sites are difficult for large pull trailers."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds offer dedicated children's recreation areas. "This state park has 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)," reports an Oak Mountain visitor.
Swimming areas: Several locations feature designated swimming spots during summer months. "A place to swim, numerous hiking trails, playgrounds, etc.," notes an Oak Mountain camper, while a Clear Creek Cove RV Resort visitor mentions "The whole place is set up to have easy access to the water and it does this really well."
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing and nature programs available seasonally. "We took a hike to Pevine falls which I would highly suggest. There is a 5.5 mile roundtrip hike that starts near the beach area and ends at the falls," shares an Oak Mountain visitor, who adds that "On a hot summer day you can take a dip to cool off before you hike back out."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Gravel and concrete pads vary in quality between campgrounds. "Our site on the lake was beautiful and had ducks came right up to our site," notes an Oak Mountain camper, while a Kountry Air visitor appreciated that "The sites are well placed and spread out so you don't feel like you're right on top of the campers next to you."
Hookup positions: Utility connections may require additional equipment at some locations. "The utilities are in the middle of the pad. We were able to position so we could get to both black tanks with a 10' sewer hose," reports a Kountry Air camper.
Dump station access: Availability and locations vary between campgrounds. "Campground trash dumpsters are beyond the campground gate…not walkable," notes an Oak Mountain visitor, suggesting bringing disposal bags for temporary waste storage.