Talladega National Forest offers primitive camping experiences along the ridges and creek drainages of eastern Alabama. The forest contains a network of intersecting trails including the Pinhoti, Chinnabee Silent, and Skyway Loop trails that provide rustic camping near Delta, Alabama. Dispersed sites are positioned at various elevations ranging from creek-side locations at approximately 1,000 feet to ridge-top sites above 2,000 feet, creating temperature and seasonal access differences.
What to do
Hike to falls and swimming holes: Chinnabee Silent Trail features multiple water features accessible from backcountry sites. At Chinnabee Silent Trail Backcountry Site 3, you can set up base camp before exploring nearby. "This is a nice backcountry campsite a short walk in from the chinnabee silent parking area. It has a nice large flat area for setting up several tents," notes Asher K.
Follow trail intersections: The network of trails creates opportunities for customized hiking routes. The Skyway Loop Backcountry Site Near Chinnabee sits at a strategic junction. "This site 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. Another nice feature of this campground is that it sits at the intersection of multiple trails," explains Asher K.
Watch for seasonal water changes: Water sources vary dramatically by season, requiring planning. "If you are a backpacker completing the loop this is a great place to rest and have lunch or this would be a good night option if you do the loop over 3-4 days. This is a great place to visit in Spring or early summer before it gets too hot and while the water levels are still high," advises one camper.
What campers like
Protected campsites: Some sites offer natural windbreaks that enhance comfort in cold or inclement weather. The Pinhoti Backcountry Campground near Odum Intersection provides good shelter. "The site itself is well cleared and has an established fire pit. There are also several large boulders that work well to block the wind and make this a more comfortable space in bad weather or when it is cold out," reports a camper.
Multiple fire rings: Many group sites feature multiple established fire pits. At Chinnabee Silent Trail Backcountry Site 2, campers find extensive facilities. "Not only is it well protected and have an easy freshwater source but it has not one, not two, but three built of fire rings for all the bonfire fun," says Asher K.
Privacy from main trails: Several sites offer seclusion while maintaining accessibility. "It's also right next to a creek for an easy water source and about 50 yards down a side trail so it's nice and private. A few people walked down to see the site but nobody disturbed me," notes Ben W. about Chinnabee Silent Trail Backcountry Site 2.
What you should know
Water source reliability: Seasonal variations affect water availability significantly. "The water is seasonal and can be very low in winter. Be prepared to not have water for pumping and bring extra in dry times," warns a camper about one site.
Trail marking challenges: Some junctions require careful navigation. At Skyway Loop Backcountry, "this site is located right at the turning point of the trail so everyone who passes will actually loop around your site or pass right through it," notes Asher K. Another camper advises, "Keep an eye out for turns in the trail, especially in the fall or winter when there are leaves on the ground."
Best viewing seasons: Star visibility and sunset viewing vary by site location. "Make sure to spend some time out on the rocks at night since you can see every star in the sky," recommends a camper about ridge sites. "Sunset is amazing!" adds another review about Skyway Loop Backcountry.
Tips for camping with families
Consider hiking distances: Some sites are more accessible for younger hikers. "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," notes a reviewer about Chinnabee Silent Trail Backcountry Site 2.
Plan for stream crossings: Prepare for water crossings that can challenge younger hikers. "There are a few stream crossings that can get confusing," warns a camper about the Skyway Loop area trails.
Group-friendly clearing sizes: Group Camp near Blue Mountain Shelter provides room for multiple families. "This specific site is more suited for groups however since it has multiple flat areas for lots of tents and several fire pits if you want to spread out," explains Asher K.
Tips from RVers
No vehicle access sites: The backcountry sites require hiking in. Some campsites can be reached after moderate hikes from parking areas but none accommodate vehicles at the site itself.
Base camp options: Use designated campgrounds as starting points. "You can get to the site from any of the 2 skyway loop starting points or you can park at Lake Chinnabee and walk a short distance to get to the campsite," advises a camper about wilderness sites.
