Camping spots near Hollins, Alabama span the foothills of the Talladega Mountains with elevation ranges from 500 to 2,400 feet. The region's pine forests create natural windbreaks at many campsites, and the red clay soil drains quickly after rain. Summer nights typically remain above 65°F while winter camping often sees temperatures dropping below freezing at higher elevations.
What to do
Explore lake activities: Wind Creek State Park Campground offers extensive water recreation on Lake Martin with boat rentals available for day use. "The marina for motorized jon boats and pontoon boats. You can rent these for 4-48 hours. If you're renting one of their boats then you need a vessel license," notes Romeo M. The park includes two separate boat rental locations with different watercraft options.
Hike mountain trails: Turnipseed Campground provides direct access to the Pinhoti Trail system for day hiking or backpacking. "There is a ton of diversity in this area, including lovely plants, geology, animals, and deep almost completely undisturbed wilderness," reports Lynn G. The trailheads are accessible directly from the campground with routes ranging from moderate to difficult.
Family activities: Oak Mountain State Park Campground features multiple recreation options beyond typical camping. "They have a zip line and tree line adventure course, mini-golf, a beach area for swimming, and plenty of fishing spots. They also offer church services on Sunday morning," according to Romeo M. Most activities operate year-round with reduced winter hours.
What campers like
Privacy at primitive sites: Hollins Hunting Camp offers quiet, secluded camping with minimal infrastructure. "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," explains Peyton P. The pine-covered ground reduces tent stake issues common in rocky areas.
Water access: Wind Creek State Park Campground provides multiple waterfront camping options with lake views. "We stayed in site 100 it was an excellent site right on the water next to us was like a private beach. This is the only public access to Lake Martin," shares Rachel G. Sites near the water typically book first, especially during summer weekends.
Seasonal advantages: Winter camping offers unique benefits at some locations. "We were the only trailer in loop D. It was quiet and very enjoyable! Being right on the lake and having the ducks swim up really thrilled our dogs," reports Erin L. about Wind Creek State Park. Lower-elevation sites warm up by mid-morning even during winter months.
What you should know
Accessibility challenges: Many primitive sites require appropriate vehicles. "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," notes Weather Warrior Media about Hollins Hunting Camp.
Connectivity limitations: Cell service varies dramatically across the region. "No wifi or cell service; but we loved being disconnected," reports Emily C. about Upper Improved Campground at Cheaha State Park. Highest elevations often have better reception, while valleys may have none.
Weather considerations: Mountain areas experience different conditions than valleys. At Cheaha, "some of the pull-though sites have the road in front of your camper (as opposed to behind) leaving no room to use your awning," notes Jeffrey S. Spring brings frequent thunderstorms while fall generally offers the most stable weather patterns.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Bohamia provides recreation options suited for multiple age groups. "Several hiking trails, but also roads to allow those who prefer to ride. They do offer ice, drink and snack delivery service with QR codes in each area," explains Michael C. The property maintains improved trails accessible to younger hikers.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds maintain dedicated play areas. "The kids love the lake and the pool, and there is an easy walk on a boardwalk with amazing views at the end on days when the kids don't feel like hiking," shares Bethany M. about Cheaha State Park. Most playgrounds remain open year-round.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer structured learning activities. "The staff hosted several educational activities and were extremely helpful and informative," notes Jeffrey S. about Cheaha State Park. Program schedules typically appear on park websites or bulletin boards at campground offices.
Tips for RVers
Site selection strategy: Oak Mountain State Park offers varying site configurations. "We stayed at site A30 level site and nearly full shade coverage," explains Napunani, who recommends reserving early for the best spots. Most campgrounds post site maps online showing dimensions and access angles.
Full hookup availability: Wind Creek State Park provides complete services at many sites. "Premium campsites that have 50 amp service, water, sewer, cable and waterfront access," states Rachel G. RV sites typically cost $5-15 more than tent-only sites at most area campgrounds.
Access considerations: Some roads leading to campgrounds present challenges for larger rigs. "You are pretty much going either up hill or downhill while here, not much level ground," warns Shelly S. about Cheaha Falls Campground. Mountain roads often feature switchbacks and limited shoulder space for turning.
