Coleman Lake Recreation Area in the Talladega National Forest sits at an elevation of approximately 1,200 feet with dense mixed hardwood forests surrounding a small fishing lake. Temperatures range from 30°F in winter to 90°F in summer, with moderate rainfall throughout the year. Beyond the established equestrian camping area, several additional camping options exist within 30-45 minutes of Choccolocco, Alabama for riders and non-riders alike.
What to do
Trail riding on the Pinhoti Trail: Access miles of horse-friendly trails from Cherokee Rock Village where riders can explore varied terrain. "We attended North Alabama trails and recreation's Rock and Rig event here. The park is beautiful with amazing views," shares Robert G.
Fish at various lakes: Coleman Lake Rec Area offers good fishing opportunities accessible from campsites. Jason G. reports: "This is a great camping spot with a beautiful lake. The trail around the lake was perfect. Caught 3 bass in the lake."
Hike well-maintained forest trails: Most parks have multiple hiking options for when you need a break from the saddle. At Little Tallapoosa Park, "There are nice paved trails for hiking. They have equestrian trails. Golf carts are also allowed. There is a creek and pond," notes Swain K.
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Campers appreciate the clean bathrooms at Coleman Lake. "The bath house is very clean and up to date. Sites are level and well spaced," writes Micheal S.
Affordability: Little Tallapoosa Park offers excellent value. "Great price for full hookup at $30 per night and senior discount is offered," mentions Swain K.
Privacy between sites: Many equestrian campers value space between sites. At Cherokee Rock Village, Dan C. found: "I'd never heard of this place but accompanied a friend here that was doing some climbing. I picked a site away from the bluff near the boulders. Nice and quiet."
Historical elements: McIntosh Reserve Park offers camping near historical sites. "Historical sites on the drive in. Great place for family, splash pad in the park," says Buddy G.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Many forest camping areas have limited connectivity. At Coleman Lake, Amanda D. notes: "Coleman Lake is in the Talladega National Forest and very remote. There is no cell phone service at all."
Road access considerations: Forest roads can be challenging for larger vehicles. Micheal S. advises: "Make sure you use Highway 78 to enter. Google Maps will send you on a 11.5 mile mountain trail (Dugger Mountain Road) that is a dirt 2 track over the mountain...an interesting trip with a camper."
First-come, first-served: Some equestrian camping areas don't take reservations. "Sites are first come, first serve, water and electric. There is a campground host on duty," explains Amanda D.
Additional activities nearby: When not riding, other recreation options exist. "There is a splash pad and a new looking playground that from a glance, might be ADA accessible," notes Sarah S. about McIntosh Reserve Park.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly events: Some campgrounds host special events. Evan S. shares about Coleman Lake: "This is an incredibly family forward campground. I camped there on Halloween with my grandkids. My Frankie's dressed in costume for me but the camp host saw them and made a point of inviting them for campground trick or treating."
Playgrounds and water features: Little Tallapoosa Park offers recreation options for children. "Nice grassy areas and swing set and bike and walking trails. Full hook ups are available," reports Laura M.
Family-centered amenities: Equestrian camping areas near Choccolocco often include facilities for the whole family. "We took the kids to the splash pad and enjoyed cooking out and hanging out over night. We live close by so for a night trip this is a perfect little getaway," says Ryan N. about McIntosh Reserve Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Campers with larger RVs should consider specific sites. At Cherokee Rock Village, Kent H. advises: "I stayed in the tent area, but there appeared to be quite a few places to park a small RV. I chose the tent area because it seemed a bit better for level parking."
Hookup availability: RVers seeking full hookups should note what's available. Hollis K. shares about Little Tallapoosa Park: "Great RV park that is owned and ran by the county. We stayed in the horse camp section because the RV area was full. They use the horse camp area as overflow. Plenty of space there with power and water. Sewer hookup is only available in the RV section."
Alternative RV camping: For equestrian camping with RVs, consider overflow areas. "We stayed in the equine section. Total of 12 sites. Only 3 of us there. Nice and quiet," notes Shirley D.
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