6 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Owl Creek Horse Camp in northern Alabama provides horse camping specifically designed for equestrians with direct trail access to 22 miles of connected riding systems. The primitive campground includes potable water available year-round from spigots and is set in a large field with loblolly pine trees. Multiple horse trails connect directly to the campground, allowing riders to link together 22 miles of trail systems without trailering to different locations. The trails are primarily designed for equestrian use but accommodate other activities. Despite being off the beaten path, Verizon users report 2 bars of 4G LTE coverage. Basic amenities include pit toilets, a handful of picnic tables, and a $5 per night camping fee or $3 for day use. The camping area is spacious with good views of the night sky.
The extensive trail network surrounding Owl Creek Horse Camp connects riders to various parts of Bankhead National Forest and Sipsey Wilderness. Located near the heart of Sipsey Wilderness, the campground serves as an ideal base for exploring the scenic forest terrain by horseback. Faye Whittemore Farms offers another horse camping option in the region with electric and water hookups in a wooded setting. Their facilities include horse paddocks where riders can safely contain their animals overnight. The multiple riding trails on the property are noted for their beauty and accessibility. Both locations provide convenient access to water sources for horses. The campgrounds maintain a rustic atmosphere while offering the essential facilities needed for comfortable horse camping experiences.
"Lake Guntersville State Park, Guntersville, Al We visited Lake Guntersville State Park for, you guessed it, a Trail Run event! This is an old school state park with a lodge and campground."
"The campground is right on the banks of Lake Guntersville and it has a beach area so it's great if you want to play in the water."
"While staying in the area we stopped by and checked out this campground and associated trails. It is in a wonderful part of Bankhead and close to so many trail access points."
"A beautiful large creek runs through it, with miles of walking paths, a horse barn, and spaces to play and relax."
"This park is tucked away in a private neighborhood on about 80 acres. There are a lot of RV sites as well as primitive camping in the back."
from $17 - $50 / night
Check Availability"Small but secluded backcountry site with easy access to the river for pumping water. This site is nice because it is level and removed from the water enough that there is no concern of flooding."
"The park is about 200 acres and the RV sites are located through gate one. There are three rows of sites and the best ones in my opinion are the ones located against the treeline/creek. "
"They have nice paddocks for your horses. The multiple trails are so beautiful . I have been here many times."
"Lots to do and amazing trails. Helpful and friendly farmers. Clean washrooms and near campsite. No too far from town."
from $10 - $30 / night
ScoutI really appreciated the customer service, they really made check-in easy. I enjoyed everything about this place. It is a great value for the price, and I liked the newly developed facilities too.
TravelerThis park is tucked away in a private neighborhood on about 80 acres. There are a lot of RV sites as well as primitive camping in the back. We really enjoyed all of the trees and being able to take the kids to play in the small creek in the back of the property. They have a nice playground and a koi pond with a little deck to sit on. The only negative is I feel like they “nickle and dimed” us to death.
TravelerWe went to Guntersville State Park campground for our first camping trip and really enjoyed it. We went on Labor Day weekend so it was pretty full. Even though nearly every campsite was booked, there was plenty of room for kids to roam, ride bikes, and play. I was really surprised how quiet it was despite the number of people there. No noise issues (other than my own kids). We spent alot of time at the playground and also a morning on the beach area. We’ll definitely be back one day.
TravelerSomewhat crowded, but it was a holiday weekend. Very clean bathrooms and campground. Employees were extremely friendly, inviting, and knowledgeable!
LegendVisited Lake Guntersville State Park, for the day. After taking our granddaughter to Screaming Eagle Zip-line Adventures, located at the gorgeous Lodge, we visited the Campground…and it’s amazing! At the office, we were helped by Rocky, who was friendly and knowledgeable! We received CG info and a map, as well as rates. We are already planning our next trip to visit! The general store was stocked with necessities, as well as souvenirs. Of course we had to get some ice cream! There are several types of sites, monthly, cabins and tent camping. There are boat slips (local rentals) and a Pavilion on the water, basketball and tennis courts, playground, shady dog park, splash pad, and clean bathhouses. Firewood and ice can be purchased at the store. There are also many trails to hike and bike . It is easy to see that this SP is well maintained! The SP Lodge is worth visiting, which has a nice restaurant. LGSP has a golf course, and the quaint town is close by and has shopping and several restaurants.
TravelerWe stayed three nights in primitive camping and it was fantastic. Our site was right on the water and far away from any other campers. The RV camping is not as secluded. Bath houses were very clean and tons of fun things for kids to do around the park.
ScoutThe campground is very nice and woodsy. The campsites have water and electric hookups. They have nice paddocks for your horses. The multiple trails are so beautiful . I have been here many times.
TravelerLots to do and amazing trails. Helpful and friendly farmers. Clean washrooms and near campsite. No too far from town.
TravelerGreat place for the kids our neck of the woods was very quite and right next to where the deer like to graze, nothing like seeing Bambi and friends in the mornings and nights. Come prepared very few items at the camp store
Owl Creek Horse Camp serves as a premier base for equestrian camping near Decatur, Alabama. Located within Bankhead National Forest, the primitive campsite sits approximately 50 miles southwest of Decatur. The area experiences moderate seasonal temperature variations with summer highs averaging 88°F and winter lows near 40°F. Most riders visit between March and November when trail conditions are optimal.
Trail exploration on horseback: Multiple connecting trails allow riders to access 22 miles of equestrian-friendly paths without relocating vehicles. According to Asher K., "It is in a wonderful part of Bankhead and close to so many trail access points. Additionally the campground is located directly on the horse trail so you can stay here with your animals and get up and go trekking the next day."
Hiking alternatives: Non-equestrians can access nearby hiking routes in Sipsey Wilderness. "For people like me who are more hikers than riders you just drive 15 min down the road and you are right in the heart of Sipsey wilderness," notes Asher K. from Owl Creek Horse Camp.
Mountain biking: While primarily designed for horses, some trails accommodate cyclists. Gregg G. reports, "We rode our bikes, the trails are more geared for the equestrian rider, but was friendly enough for bikes."
Stargazing: The minimal light pollution provides excellent night sky viewing opportunities. Gregg G. mentions, "The nights sky is wonderful," making it ideal for astronomy enthusiasts.
Water availability: Owl Creek Horse Camp maintains reliable water sources. "Here you can find potable water from the spickets all year long," notes Gregg G., providing essential convenience for both campers and horses.
Spacious camping areas: The open field layout with mature pine trees offers ample room between sites. Gregg describes it as "essentially a large field with some very large loblolly pines," providing space for horse trailers and camping setups.
Cell service accessibility: Unlike other wilderness campgrounds, Owl Creek maintains reasonable connectivity. Gregg G. reports, "We enjoyed staying here after being out of cell service for a few days at brushy lake, so we were able to catch up and coordinate our next destination... 2 bars of Verizon 4G LTE."
Natural water features: The Sipsey Wilderness area adjacent to Owl Creek contains numerous streams and waterfalls. Asher K. describes, "Sipsey Wilderness is a protected but unmaintained area in Northwest Alabama that is well known for its intersecting creeks, streams, and rivers that play together with the many waterfalls and magical rock faces."
Seasonal considerations: Water levels and trail conditions vary dramatically by season. Asher K. advises, "Different times of year provide completely different experiences whether its the exciting and boundless blooms of spring, the overgrown wild of summer, the bold and expansive colors of fall, or the high river levels and easy boating access of winter."
Primitive facilities: Basic amenities include pit toilets and limited picnic tables. Gregg G. notes, "As far as campground amenities outside of whats already been covered there are a had full of picnic tables and a pit toilet."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Decatur, AL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Decatur, AL is Lake Guntersville State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 44 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Decatur, AL?
TheDyrt.com has all 6 equestrian camping locations near Decatur, AL, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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