Tent campsites near Dadeville, Alabama consist mainly of primitive areas in the Talladega National Forest at elevations ranging from 600 to 2,400 feet. The region experiences mild winters with occasional frost and hot summers with average July temperatures around 89°F. Camping locations along the Pinhoti Trail system offer access to the forest's 392 square miles of pine-oak woodland with several sites situated near natural water features.
What to do
Hiking the Pinhoti Trail: Access multiple backcountry sites with varying difficulty levels. At Pinhoti Trail Backcountry Campground, campers find "backcountry camping sites and fire pits available along the trail and not comonly traversed." One visitor noted the trail is "well kept up. Not very rocky or mountainous."
Waterfall exploration: Several campsites provide direct access to local waterfalls. At Cheaha Falls Campground, "This walk in campsite is right next to the waterfalls. Tons of exploring can be done around camp or you could extend the trails and explore Devils Den Falls as well!"
Historical sites: Visit CCC-era structures and towers. Near Weogufka State Forest Flagg Mtn, campers can explore "CCC tower and cabins from 1930's." The area provides "Access to southern terminus of the Pinhoti Trail."
What campers like
Affordability: Most primitive camping options have minimal fees. Turnipseed Campground costs "$5 a night the best bang for your buck I've seen yet!!!" according to a reviewer who found it to be a "beautiful well maintained campsite with huge lots."
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer good spacing between sites. At McDill Point Backcountry, campers appreciate that "there are multiple places to camp along the 1/4 mile trail to the overlook. The best area is on the west side at the end of the trail."
Year-round accessibility: Different areas provide optimal camping conditions throughout seasons. One camper at Turnipseed Campground visited "April 25-28, 2019. During Thursday and Friday it was mostly empty. Saturday night it was half full. Peaceful, clean, nice hiking."
What you should know
Water availability varies: Natural water sources are not always reliable. At several backcountry sites like McDill Point, there are "no good streams nearby to get water from. If it has rained heavy recently there is a small stream that you hit if you continue down the trail another half mile but it is often dried up."
Primitive facilities only: Most tent sites have basic amenities. At Turnipseed, there are "outhouses but no water, some sites have old picnic tables and/or a fire pit. The fee is very small."
Weather considerations: The mountain terrain creates variable conditions. In Hollins Hunting Camp, one camper found it "Open to sky (took awesome star pics here)" but noted it "Lacked good signage on the last turn."
Reservation systems: Sites operate differently. Some like Turnipseed are "first come first serve tho but there's about 10 or so campsites too choose from." Others require advanced planning.
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: Some locations are more child-friendly. Cheaha Falls Campground has "several sites of varying sizes. They each have their own space but are still visible from each other."
Consider amenities: Look for sites with bathroom access. At Bohamia, "The bath house was just finished" and one camper mentions "Great showers and bathhouse with filtered drinking water option that I used daily."
Pack entertainment: Natural features provide activities. One visitor to Weogufka State Forest mentioned "lots of hiking trails" and "fun to be had," noting their "awesome spot right by the pond."
Plan for weather: Alabama's climate can be challenging. During summer months, prioritize sites with water access or shade. In winter, higher elevation sites can experience freezing temperatures.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most tent sites aren't suitable for larger vehicles. At Turnipseed Campground, a camper advised it's "Perfect for tent and van camping. Maybe a tiny RV," cautioning visitors not to "go here in an RV."
Road access challenges: Forest roads may be difficult. At Hollins Hunting Camp, one visitor noted it "has a good road and decent open spots to set-up. Overlanders (w/rtt) will be the most happy," but warned to "be mindful of turn around spots."
Consider alternative options: Some campgrounds offer hybrid solutions. Bohamia provides "Services are great some cabins and tents having ACs, but primitive camping allowed as well," making it "a great option for multiple families or couples."
