The Bankhead National Forest and Sipsey Wilderness offer some of Alabama's most rugged tent camping opportunities. Located in the Cumberland Plateau region, the area features elevations ranging from 500 to 1,100 feet with deeply cut canyons and sandstone cliffs. Most backcountry campsites sit on sandy river banks within dense hardwood forests that provide natural shelter during summer months when temperatures often exceed 90°F.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: The Sipsey Wilderness contains multiple cascades accessible via interconnected trails. At Thompson Creek Trail Campsites, visitors find numerous water features along the route. "The water is a beautiful turquoise. Most of the campsites have giant moss covered boulders all around, and cliffs in the background opposite the river," notes Aaron S.
Swimming in natural pools: Summer visitors often cool off in the clear waters throughout the forest. "We have been camping here for years good spot for fishing kayaking and just good family time," shares Jake W. about Second Creek Rec Area, which provides easier water access than more remote sites.
Night hiking to see glowworms: The region's unique biodiversity includes bioluminescent insects. "After we got everything set up and got all the lights out, we noticed the glowing dismalites along the Canyon wall behind our tent!! It was super cool," reports Rebekah C., who stayed at Dismals Canyon Cabins and Primitive Campsites.
What campers like
Sandy campsites: The soil composition at many sites creates comfortable tent platforms. "Most of the campsites have fire pits, and a few have some hand-made benches, usually from woven branches," explains Aaron S. about the established camping areas along Thompson Creek Trail.
Privacy between sites: The forest configuration creates natural separation between camping areas. At Sipsey Wilderness - Trail 200 Campsites, "This site has space for around 2 tents though you could possibly squeeze in a 3rd and it has a nice sized firepit with a large dead log that was perfect for sitting on," according to Asher K.
Easy water access: Many campsites feature convenient water sources for filtering. "It has several firepits and is spread out over a large area. Each individual site has enough privacy while still providing group areas to congregate. On top of that, it is close to several water sources," notes a reviewer about Sipsey Wilderness backcountry sites.
What you should know
Weather variability: Flash flooding poses risks during rainy periods. At Sipsey Wilderness Backcountry Site (Trail 207 Site D), Asher K. notes this campsite is "one of the furthest along this section of trail... nice since it is one of the larger spaces in this area... and is relatively private but still close to the trail."
Campsite competition: Popular areas fill quickly during peak seasons. "The only downside to this campsite is that you need to get there early if you want to claim it for yourself. It is often full of people when I arrive," warns Asher K. about larger group sites.
Facility limitations: Most sites lack amenities requiring self-sufficiency. "Lots of mosquitoes at night. Quiet pretty spot to camp. Trees for hammocking. Portopotty for your bathroom needs," explains Summer A. about Second Creek Rec Area's minimal facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: Younger children do better at locations closer to trailheads. "We camp here regularly on the weekends. Good location and easy to get to," shares Jake W. about Second Creek Rec Area, making it suitable for families wanting shorter hikes.
Pack insect protection: The humid environment supports active insect populations. "Bring bug spray," advises Trinity W., noting that the Thompson Creek area has "LOTS of waterfalls. Also lots of shallow places for the kids to play in the water. Watch for snakes."
Consider seasonal timing: Spring and fall offer more comfortable conditions for young campers. "Different times of year provide completely different experiences whether its the exciting and boundless blooms of spring, the overgrown wild of summer, the bold and expansive colors of fall," explains one experienced camper about Sipsey Wilderness Backcountry Site (Trail 200 Site H).
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most roads leading to campsites have clearance limitations. "Started 3 May 2023, looks like a few permanent residents... Three areas to get too, pull offs on left coming in on Hwy 1," explains Michael W. about Second Creek Rec Area, one of the few places accommodating smaller RVs.
Limited hookup options: Expect primitive conditions without utilities. "Primitive. The roads aren't the best but my van made it despite the muddy potholes," reports Dani K. about accessing Thompson Creek Trail Campsites in a conversion van.
Consider adjacent developed options: Nearby campgrounds offer more RV amenities. "The Canyon and campsite were pet friendly. Dogs were even welcome in the country store!!" notes Rebekah C. about the more developed Dismals Canyon facilities that accommodate RVs while providing access to hiking.
