Tent camping near Delta, Alabama offers backcountry sites accessible via trails ranging from half-mile walks to multi-mile hikes. The Talladega National Forest sits at elevations between 600-2,400 feet, creating temperature variations that often run 5-10 degrees cooler at higher elevations than surrounding lowlands. Winter temperatures average 35-50°F while summer months typically reach 75-95°F with high humidity.
What to do
Hiking to plane wreckage: 1 mile hike from the Cheaha trailhead at highway 281. Take the right fork and follow the trail to McDill Point to discover remnants of a 1972 crash. "After building a fire, making dinner and roasting marshmallows, we sat to enjoy the most beautiful sunset and then the stars emerging into a brilliant light show," notes a camper at McDill Point Backcountry.
Bird watching: Spring migration provides excellent opportunities near Lake Chinnabee. "We saw so many birds and even found a nest that was built in a bush along the trail," reports a visitor at Cheaha Falls Shelter. Woodpeckers are common year-round while migratory species peak from March-May.
Swimming at multiple waterfall locations: Follow Chinnabee Silent Trail from the parking lot to reach cooling spots during hot months. A camper recommends, "Continue along the trail for a couple more miles to see the larger falls where you can climb down and get a much-needed swim in the hotter months." Access requires moderate hiking ability with some rock scrambling.
What campers like
Affordability: $5 per night at many primitive sites provides budget-friendly options. A camper at Turnipseed Campground noted, "It's a beautiful well maintained campsite with huge lots!!! Quite, serene and a ton of hiking trails all over. Absolutely loved it and will return every chance i get. Oh and it's a whopping $5 a night the best bang for your buck I've seen yet!!!"
Varied terrain for different skill levels: The intersection of multiple trails creates options for beginners and experienced backpackers. "This is by far one of the best sites in the area for large groups. If you are coming with a church or boy scout group you can't beat the space that this site provides," explains a visitor to Pinhoti and Skyway Loop Intersection Campground.
Shelter options for poor weather conditions: Some backcountry locations offer three-sided structures. A visitor explains, "The shelter is situated at the top of the hill after crossing the falls and it has a magnificent view of the surrounding mountains." These provide protection during unexpected storms without requiring tent setup.
What you should know
Water availability varies seasonally: Many sites lack reliable water sources outside spring months. At Blue Mountain Shelter, a hiker reports it has "a large area on the first floor where you could set up several sleeping bags and then there is an additional closed off area in the loft that is dark and dingy but very clean and perfect if the weather is ugly." Bring water treatment methods or carry extra supply.
Limited cell reception: Most backcountry areas have no service. "It's very nice to just drop five dollars in a box and go camp there are no attendants here. There is no running water or showers but there is an outhouse. Nice place to disconnect from everything," notes a Turnipseed Campground visitor.
Fire restrictions change seasonally: During dry periods, especially September-November, bans may be implemented. "We camped right by the enterance when you first come into the campsite, all other spots were full. I would say there are about 10 spots maybe less or more. Each site is spaced a good distance from the other," shares one camper, mentioning the importance of respecting site boundaries during busy periods.
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: For younger children, select areas with shorter hikes in. "This is a cute car camping site that we have stayed at several times. It provides great access to hiking in Cheaha and is perfect as a home base for adventures in the area," recommends a parent about Turnipseed.
Spring visits offer wildlife viewing: April-May provides educational nature opportunities. "Went to the ranger station and they recommended us to this campground and since we have been here it's been very peaceful and quite and relaxing... We are the only 1s up here for the time being but there's some good walking trails that we hiked on was easy to make a hot meal with the fire ring was able to eat in peace saw some wildlife."
Pack for temperature swings: Higher elevations can experience 15-20°F day-to-night variations. "We had a great trip. There were only a few other campers at the campground and we were all spread out from each other. Even when the campground is full you will not be on top of other campers," notes a visitor at Turnipseed, emphasizing the space available for families to spread out gear.
Tips from RVers
Stick to improved campgrounds: Most tent sites in the area are unsuitable for RVs. "This campsite is definitely one of the nicer options if you aren't staying up at the peak or if the peak campgrounds are full. The fire pit here is really nice for a big fire on a winter night," explains a camper at Cheaha Falls Private Backcountry Campsite, pointing out that dispersed sites are best for tents.
Consider alternative campgrounds: One RVer notes, "I chose an RV spot so we had electricity and water. There were a mix of RVs and tents so we weren't alone in our choice. The restrooms and bathhouse were nearby and clean." For those requiring hookups, nearby state parks offer better accommodation than forest service sites.
