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Best Dispersed Camping near Cropwell, AL

23 Reviews

The backcountry trails of Talladega National Forest near Cropwell, Alabama offer several free dispersed camping options along the Pinhoti and Chinnabee Silent trails. Most sites are hike-in only, requiring backpacking gear and preparation. The Skyway Loop contains numerous primitive sites with varying water access—some directly alongside creeks while others sit atop ridges with panoramic views. According to one visitor, "The signage along these trails is also good and they are well traveled though there are a few stream crossings that can get confusing."

Water availability varies seasonally throughout the forest. Sites near Chinnabee Silent Trail provide more reliable water sources, while ridge campsites require carrying supplies from lower elevations. Most camping areas feature established fire rings and flat spaces for 1-3 tents, though some larger group sites exist. A review noted that "if you have any younger campers joining along it is not such a far trek in from where you park so they will have an easier time hauling gear." Fire restrictions may apply during dry seasons, and all sites operate on leave-no-trace principles with no facilities, toilets or trash removal.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Cropwell, Alabama (19)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Cropwell, AL

3 Photos of 19 Cropwell Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Cropwell, AL

23 Reviews of 19 Cropwell Campgrounds

  • Zoey T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 2, 2025

    Sky Mtwy Dispersed

    Beautiful remote place to set up for the night

    It took us a bit to get here. Google maps tries to send you a way that doesn’t exist. 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. The pull offs for van camping are limited and extremely dispersed off the multiple dirt roads. Some going very deep in the Forrest. We found a great pull through one on the left across from the fire watch tower. Limited to no trash. Beautiful piney woods. Plenty of wood. Completely quiet. Maybe 3 cars pulled past all day. Some cell service. Plenty of trails to hike.

  • Asher K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2020

    Chinnabee Silent Trail Backcountry Site 5

    Large secluded site

    As I noted in several of my other reviews check out my review of the Sipsey falls campground for a comprehensive account of my favorite hiking and camping in the area. 

    This campsite in particular is located on a small ridge after passing the Sipsey falls area. It is fairly large with two established firepits and multiple cleared areas for tents. It also has plenty of trees for setting up hammocks. I like this site in particular since it is one of the less crowded spots. I only give it 4 stars however since if available some of the best sites are right next to Sipsey falls a little further along where you have access to water for pumping and swimming when the weather is right. 

    As always make sure to leave no trace and make the site cleaner than when you found it.

  • Asher K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2020

    Chinnabee Silent Trail Backcountry Site 4

    Parking Lot Site

    Check out my other reviews of this trail to get a better picture of the backpacking options in the area. Talladega national forest has some amazing trails and campsites available. 

    This particular site is located a short way into the woods from the parking area for the Chinnabee silent trailhead and not far from the Turnipseed campground. It is at the intersection of two trails leading down from the main road. It could work for several tents in the dry season but we somewhat waterlogged when we were there in the spring. Not the worst last-minute place to set up camp but there are much better sites further along the trail.

  • Asher K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2023

    Skyway Loop Backcountry Site Near Chinnabee

    Improved since last visit

    This site has been cleaned up and expanded since I last stayed here. The space is in a really beautiful area near the parking area for Lake Chinnabee and a few minutes down the trail from Devil's Den Falls. It has an established fire pit and several clear flat areas for tents. The creek runs right alongside so there is easy access to water and it provides a peaceful background sound during the night. Another nice feature of this campground is that it sits at the intersection of multiple trails.

  • Weather Warrior Media -.
    Jul. 2, 2024

    Hollins Hunting Camp

    Average but good

    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. Small camper trailers could probably make it too. Just be mindful of turn around spots.

    I arrived late so harder to find spots. Mid-week so no one else here.

    -Lacked good signage on the last turn. -No facilities (as expected) -Open to sky (took awesome star pics here)

  • cheyenne T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 21, 2025

    Sky Mtwy Dispersed

    Nice for a night

    We got here an hour before sun down. It’s a nice ride up on a very steep at times dirt road. It’s private but there’s a ton of houses in the area with people driving up and down the road. Once the sun went down there was too many outside noises for us to feel comfortable so we packed up. Very strange noises. Very buggy as well

  • Peyton P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Hollins Hunting Camp

    Open and quiet

    Best for overlanding/camper/tents. 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. Hardly any bugs, no amenities

  • Asher K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 12, 2021

    Weogufka State Forest Backcountry Site 1

    Platform on old building site

    This site appears to have a platform that was built to set up a tent on where an old building used to stand. The fireplace is the only part that is still in place which would actually be kind of nice to use on a cold night. There are even metal rings installed on the platform that you could use to attach a rain fly. Overall this is very near to the Pinhoti southern terminus so you won't get much distance covered if you camp here but it could work for a late start. There is also a nearby shelter which is my preference but this could be a backup if that gets a little crowded. The other downside to this site is that there is not any water right here so you will either have to carry it in or hike down to one of the nearby streams to fill up. However, it is a pretty cool looking area and deffinitely worth checking out even if you don't stay the night.

  • Asher K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 30, 2021

    Riverside Skyway Loop Backcountry Site

    Small with water access

    This site is another of the small backcountry sites along the river between Cheaha Falls and Lake Chinnabee. Make sure to check out my review of Cheaha Falls Campground where I discuss the entire loop and the best times of year to visit. Although this campground isn’t as nice as others in the area it has easy access to water and is small and private so you won't have anyone else crowding your space. It is also a great option when the other spots can fill up during busy times such as holiday weekends in the spring or fall. This campground also has easy access to the many waterfalls that are up the trail and is not too far from the parking at Lake Chinnabee. This campground has a level area for either 1 or 2 tents, a fire ring, and access to flowing water. The best time to visit is either late spring or early summer when the flowers are blooming and the weather is warm enough to swim. But be aware it can get pretty hot and muggy late in the summer.

Guide to Cropwell

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Cropwell, Alabama, where nature enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the serene wilderness. With a variety of sites offering unique experiences, this area is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Dispersed campers should check out Skyway Loop Backcountry

  • The Skyway Loop Backcountry offers stunning views from the ridge, making it an ideal spot for sunset watchers and stargazers alike.
  • This site features ample space for multiple tents and has a firepit, perfect for gathering around after a day of hiking.
  • Keep in mind that water access is limited, so plan ahead to fill up at nearby sources before settling in.

Top activities while free camping near Cropwell

  • Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity of the Skyway Loop Backcountry Site Near Chinnabee, which is located near several popular trails and scenic waterfalls.
  • The area is known for its diverse wildlife, making it a great spot for birdwatching and nature photography, especially in the spring when wildflowers bloom.
  • Campers can enjoy fishing in the nearby creek, providing a peaceful way to spend the afternoon while soaking in the natural surroundings.

Chinnabee Silent Trail for dispersed campers

  • The Chinnabee Silent Trail Backcountry Site 7 is a spacious site with easy access to a creek, perfect for those who enjoy the sound of flowing water while camping.
  • This site is strategically located at a trail intersection, allowing for easy exploration of multiple hiking routes in the area.
  • Campers can take advantage of the established fire pit and flat areas for tents, making it a comfortable choice for both solo adventurers and small groups.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Cropwell, AL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Cropwell, AL is Skyway Loop Backcountry Site Near Chinnabee with a 4.5-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Cropwell, AL?

TheDyrt.com has all 19 dispersed camping locations near Cropwell, AL, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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