Tent camping near Danville, Alabama focuses primarily on the Bankhead National Forest, an area with deep sandstone gorges, cascading waterfalls, and limestone features at elevations ranging from 500-800 feet. During summer months, temperatures frequently exceed 90°F with high humidity, while spring brings regular rainfall that can cause flash flooding in low-lying campsites. Winter camping is possible but uncommon, with overnight temperatures sometimes dropping below freezing.
What to do
Creek exploration and swimming: Thompson Creek offers clear turquoise waters perfect for cooling off during hot Alabama summers. At Thompson Creek Trail Campsites, camper Jimmy R. notes, "Me and my 6 year old daughter hiked the trail this past Saturday, July 27, 2019. Had a great time. Definitely be back." The creek's shallow areas make it ideal for families with children.
Horseback riding: The trail system at Owl Creek Horse Camp connects to over 22 miles of equestrian trails. Gregg G. explains, "From here you can link together 22 miles worth of trail. We rode our bikes, the trails are more geared for the equestrian rider, but was friendly enough for bikes." The camp serves as a central access point for exploring the broader trail network.
Boulder climbing and rock exploration: Throughout the wilderness area, massive moss-covered boulders create natural playgrounds. Aaron S. describes the Thompson Creek area: "Most of the campsites have giant moss covered boulders all around, and cliffs in the background opposite the river." These natural features provide opportunities for scrambling and exploration without specialized equipment.
What campers like
Sandy tent sites: Many campsites along Trail 200 feature natural sand that creates comfortable sleeping surfaces. At Sipsey Wilderness - Trail 200 Campsites, Asher K. reports, "Most of the site is pretty sandy but level which was wonderful for sleeping on." These sandy areas drain well after rain and provide cushioning for tent floors.
Cell service accessibility: Unlike many wilderness areas, some campgrounds maintain connectivity. Gregg G. mentions that at Owl Creek Horse Camp, you can find "2 bars of Verizon 4G LTE," making it useful for coordinating with other campers or checking weather forecasts. This connectivity allows campers to "catch up and coordinate our next destination" between periods of being off-grid.
Year-round water sources: Sipsey Wilderness Backcountry Site (Trail 207 Site B) offers reliable water access even during drier seasons. Asher K. notes this site "is right along the water without the need to climb down any steep banks," making water collection easier than at other locations. The site's position at the intersection of several streams ensures consistent water availability.
What you should know
Primitive facilities only: Most sites require complete self-sufficiency. Trinity W. explains that at Thompson Creek Trail Campsites, "Don't expect bathrooms or drinking water to be nearby, but if you're looking to really get away from it all and do some primitive camping, this is a great place to go." Bring all necessary supplies including toilet paper and water filtration systems.
Seasonal water levels: River conditions vary dramatically by season, affecting both recreation and accessibility. Campers report that kayaking is typically only possible "in the winter or fall for a couple of days after a major rainfall" when gauge heights exceed 4 feet. During summer months, many streams may run low or dry completely.
Trailhead changes: Some access points have been relocated in recent years. At Sipsey Wilderness Backcountry Site (Trail 203 Site C), Asher K. notes, "The Borden Creek Trailhead where we started our hike used to be down at the bottom of the hill but several years ago they moved the parking to a quarter mile away." These changes mean older maps may not show current parking areas or access points.
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: For younger children, stay within a mile of trailheads. Miranda C. from Thompson Creek Trail Campsites shares, "The hike in is not difficult. You do have to cross a stream, which was not as difficult for my 6'2 husband as it was for me at 5'2. The water was clear. The waterfall was beautiful and we found a quiet spot up the creek to camp."
Scout out shallow water play areas: Sipsey Wilderness Backcountry Site (Trail 200 Site G) provides space for larger family groups. Asher K. describes it as "by far the best site if you have a group of 3 or more tents" with "enough privacy while still providing group areas to congregate." The site's proximity to water makes it ideal for families wanting creek access.
Consider alternative developed campgrounds: For families who prefer more amenities, look beyond the wilderness area. Trinity W. suggests, "If you want a good campground in Bankhead National Forest near Sipsey that is more modern with a bathhouse, picnic tables, etc, try Brushy Lake." These facilities make camping with small children more manageable.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options exist: Only a few sites in the area accommodate recreational vehicles. Crispin S. warns that Thompson Creek "is not for Camper's... This area is great for tent camping that you are willing to hike into. We fortunately found one clearing near the trail head that was enough space for our teardrop and two tents."
Consider small trailers only: Standard-sized RVs won't fit at most locations, but teardrop trailers can sometimes work at trailhead clearings. Crispin S. notes that even with a small teardrop trailer, privacy was an issue: "The spot is directly on the road but we were able to angel our truck to offer a little privacy."
Alternative base camps: The McDougle Hunt Camp offers more basic facilities but better vehicle access than wilderness sites. Asher K. describes it as "another basic campground in the Sipsey wilderness area. The amenities are very limited but it gives you easy access to lots of amazing hiking in the area."
