Tent camping in the Talladega National Forest near Choccolocco, Alabama provides access to diverse terrain ranging from 600 to 2,400 feet in elevation. The forest encompasses over 392,000 acres across the southern Appalachian Mountains, with seasonal temperatures ranging from 30°F in winter to 90°F in summer. Most primitive campsites in this region receive moderate use during weekdays but can fill quickly on weekends, especially in spring and fall.
What to do
Swimming at waterfalls: Cheaha Falls offers natural swimming holes perfect for cooling off during hot months. "We took the Chinnabee silent trail from the parking lot along Cheaha rd and camped out in one of the secluded sites next to the falls... make sure to continue along the trail for a couple more miles to see the larger falls where you can climb down and get a much-needed swim in the hotter months," notes a camper at Cheaha Falls Private Backcountry Campsite.
Exploring historic structures: Visit the 1930s-era buildings throughout the area. "This is a cute car camping site that we have stayed at several times. It provides great access to hiking in Cheaha and is perfect as a home base for adventures in the area," explains a visitor to Turnipseed Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Spring and early summer offer peak wildlife observation opportunities. "We saw and heard a lot of birds and wildlife here! Explore as many trails as you can, especially the Pinhoti trail. There is a ton of diversity in this area, including lovely plants, geology, animals, and deep almost completely undisturbed wilderness," remarks a camper at Turnipseed Campground.
What campers like
Affordability: Most tent camping options in the area are very budget-friendly. "Beautiful camp sites well maintained and only 5$ a night," notes a visitor to Turnipseed Campground, while another adds it's "a whopping $5 a night the best bang for your buck I've seen yet!!!"
Privacy between sites: Campsites are typically well-spaced for a more secluded experience. "Each site is spaced a good distance from the other. It's very nice to just drop five dollars in a box and go camp there are no attendants here," explains a camper at Turnipseed. At Sky Mtwy Dispersed, a visitor notes: "The pull offs for van camping are limited and extremely dispersed off the multiple dirt roads. Some going very deep in the Forrest... Completely quiet. Maybe 3 cars pulled past all day."
Sunset viewing opportunities: Several sites offer exceptional views of sunsets over the mountains. A visitor to McDill Point Backcountry describes: "After building a fire, making dinner and roasting marshmallows, we sat to enjoy the most beautiful sunset and then the stars emerging into a brilliant light show."
What you should know
Water planning essential: Most sites lack reliable water sources. "No water but up the mountain, at the Cheaha State Forest campground, you can refill when necessary," advises a camper at Turnipseed Campground.
Road conditions vary: Forest roads can be challenging in some weather conditions. At Sky Mtwy Dispersed, a visitor notes: "It's a nice ride up on a very steep at times dirt road," while another recommends, "Stay on Campbell rd until you are in the park on a gravel/dirt road and then keep driving. For being a gravel dirt road it's pretty well maintained."
Weather extremes: Prepare for rapid weather changes, especially at higher elevations. At Cheaha Falls Shelter, a visitor warns that "the shelter is like most you will find along these kinds of trails with a raised platform and a roof that is closed in on three sides...it can really be a lifesaver if bad weather or heavy rain is in the forecast."
Limited cell service: Connectivity is sparse throughout the region. "There is no running water or showers but there is an outhouse. Nice place to disconnect from everything," mentions a Turnipseed camper.
Tips for camping with families
Start with shorter hikes: Some backcountry sites are more accessible than others. "We love Chinnabee! The short hike to the gorgeous falls is perfect for the kids. While you can continue on for miles if you wish, we prefer to stay at the water and climb the little falls," explains a visitor to Talladega National Forest Lake Chinnabee Recreation Area.
Plan first backpacking trips carefully: Select routes with manageable distances for young hikers. "I wanted an amazing place to take my 12-year-old grandson for his first backpacking trip. I hoped he would fall in love with it. This site delivered. The trail to McDill Point was rocky, but clear, well marked, offering several scenic miles," shares a visitor to McDill Point Backcountry.
Pack extra layers: Temperature drops can be significant after sunset. "The wind was howling, so after the fire burned out, we hit the hay. Overnight, the clouds, fog and gentle misting rain rolled in, obscuring the view," reports a McDill Point Backcountry camper.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most tent camping areas near Choccolocco cannot accommodate larger RVs. "There are about 10 spots maybe less or more...I would not recommend this campground to anyone in a large RV," notes a visitor to Turnipseed Campground. Another camper adds, "Each site is positioned well and decent for tent or something like a motorcycle camper."
Consider nearby alternatives: When designated campgrounds are full, check dispersed options. "This is a tiny densely wooded primitive camp. There are outhouses but no water, some sites have old picnic tables and/or a fire pit. The fee is very small," explains a camper at Turnipseed, adding "I would not go here in an RV."
