Cropwell, Alabama offers camping opportunities near the southern extension of the Appalachian Mountains, with elevations reaching up to 2,400 feet at nearby Cheaha Mountain. The region's mix of highland and lake environments creates diverse camping conditions with oak-pine forests and access to Logan Martin Lake. Most campgrounds remain open year-round, though fall brings increased demand during peak foliage season from mid-October through early November.
What to do
Hiking the Pinhoti Trail: The Pinhoti Trail system provides multiple access points near Cropwell for day hikes or backpacking trips. At Cheaha State Park, "I have hiked the back country here and lots of good sites with adequate water make it a good backpacking adventure for beginners. The lodge is good for a meal when you are done and some amazing north Alabama views," shares one Cheaha State Park visitor.
Fishing at Logan Martin Lake: Several campgrounds offer direct lake access for fishing. "The sites for tents are very close to the road (except for the ones near the bath house! I'm getting one of those next time! 5,6). Decent little slide for kids and some awesome rocks for kids to climb (5 yrs and up or good climbers)," notes a camper at Cheaha State Park.
Mountain biking at Oak Mountain: The extensive trail system at Oak Mountain State Park caters to cyclists of all skill levels. A visitor reports, "They put a massive amount of money into updating this place. This is the #1 best state park campground I have ever been at. This place has everything, mtn bike, gravel bike, trail running, road running, road biking, golf, equestrian, sailing and fishing."
Exploring local caves: The area features several accessible cave systems within driving distance of most campgrounds. Bring proper lighting and wear sturdy footwear for exploration. "Recommend starting at Cheaha Trailhead and catch Cave Creek Trail to Pinhoti back to the parking lot... views are amazing," advises one experienced hiker.
What campers like
Privacy between campsites: At Bohamia, campers appreciate the thoughtful site layout. As one visitor notes, "Came with a group of friends from town to relax and disconnect. Services are great some cabins and tents having ACs, but primitive camping allowed as well. Great showers and bathhouse with filtered drinking water option that I used daily."
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance receives consistent praise, particularly at Oak Mountain State Park. A camper reports, "So clean. Shower house and bathrooms clean and big. Gorgeous views. Lots of things to do in the park."
Yurt accommodations: Yurt camping near Cropwell, Alabama has become increasingly popular for those seeking a glamping experience. "Campground was great. Our site on the lake was beautiful and had ducks came right up to our site. Clean and staff were friendly," shares one Oak Mountain visitor who enjoyed their yurt stay.
Waterfront sites: Access to water is a major draw at River Rocks Landing. One camper shared, "Had to go there while on hurricane evacuation and turned it into a hurricane induced 5 day vacation, best choice ever. Will go there anytime I go through AL. Friendly staff, beautiful park, beautiful pools and splash pad. Right on the river."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds in the area have spotty coverage. At Pine Glen Recreation Area, a visitor reported, "Overall no cell service for AT&T & Verizon - For Verizon, I had 1 bar pop up twice for a few minutes. No lighting at night- be sure to bring plenty flashlights."
Reservation requirements: Most sites require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. At River Rocks Landing, one camper advised, "Great location sites on the water. Liked it so much we stayed going to Florida and booked a return visit. Family wants to book another week this summer."
Seasonal water availability: Water sources can be unreliable at primitive sites. A Pine Glen visitor noted, "First of all, a lot of sites were underwater. Not the campgrounds fault it had been rainy, just saying. However, the fact that all the water faucets were inoperable is another thing."
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds involves unpaved roads. At Pine Glen, one camper warned, "The drive in is 8 miles in on an unpaved, backcountry road with varying inclines on slippery mixture of clay and gravel through hunting recreation area. We were in a Ford Explorer. Everybody else was in trucks."
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly water features: River Rocks Landing offers multiple swimming options. "Very well maintained! But don't think 'camping' think RV resort, gorgeous pools and you can rent pontoon boats. Spots are very close together but everyone is friendly," observes one visitor.
Consider educational activities: Some parks offer nature programs for children. At Cheaha State Park, a regular visitor shares, "We are local to Cheaha and go often, year round. 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."
Choose sites with playground access: Several campgrounds feature play equipment for younger campers. A visitor at The Ridge Outdoor Resort reports, "My group goes to The Ridge the second weekend in November each year. There are dirt bike trails, a zip line, an air soft course, a pond, and stunning views of the valley below."
Select yurt options for family comfort: Yurt camping in Cropwell, Alabama provides a middle ground between tent camping and cabins. "Great, well marked trails and maps available at the ranger station. Handicap access all over the park and awesome amenities," notes a Cheaha State Park visitor about the overall family-friendly facilities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: At The Cove RV Resort, a visitor advises, "The view of the lake is beautiful if you are on a site that pulls up to the lake. There is a half sunk boat that floats around the lake and although I think it's funny, my wife is a little spooked by it!"
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts access and comfort at different times of year. A Cove visitor noted, "The negatives are when it rains the roads are a mess. The internet service is less than desirable unless you are close to the access point."
Hookup availability varies: Check for utilities that match your needs before booking. At The Cove, one RVer reported, "Definitely not a resort, but it's a good place to stop over for a night. This campground is literally 2 minutes off the I59 which makes it very convenient. There's a clean pool, a small lake, laundry, and bath house."
Level sites are available: Many campgrounds feature prepared pads. "We were looking for a spot to pull over for the night on the way back from a family vacation. This place is conveniently right off the interstate, but still tucked away enough that it's quiet... Very level, right by the pool, and still has a view of the lakes," shares a Cove RV Resort visitor.
