The Bankhead National Forest area offers multiple equestrian camping options near Double Springs, Alabama. This region features dense woodlands, sandstone cliffs, and deep gorges with elevations ranging from 500 to 1,100 feet. The forest contains over 180 miles of streams and several wilderness areas where equestrians can experience varied terrain year-round.
What to do
Trail riding through Bankhead National Forest: Access extensive trail networks directly from Owl Creek Horse Camp, where riders can link together approximately 22 miles of trails. "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," notes visitor Gregg G.
Waterfalls and wilderness exploration: The Sipsey Wilderness area contains numerous waterfalls accessible by horseback and hiking trails. Sipsey Wilderness Backcountry Site provides access to these natural features. One camper explains, "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 riding opportunities: The region offers different experiences throughout the year. As one visitor to Sipsey Wilderness describes, "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."
What campers like
Proximity to trail systems: Equestrian campers appreciate locations with direct trail access. "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," explains a visitor to Owl Creek Horse Camp.
Paddock facilities: At Faye Whittemore Farms Inc, equestrians value the secure facilities for their horses. As Belinda H. notes, "They have nice paddocks for your horses. The multiple trails are so beautiful. I have been here many times."
Level and accessible campsites: Backcountry campers appreciate practical site features. One camper at Sipsey Wilderness reports, "This site is nice because it is level and removed from the water enough that there is no concern of flooding. This site does have less privacy though so take that into account."
What you should know
Water conditions vary seasonally: River levels fluctuate significantly throughout the year, affecting water crossings and trail conditions. At Sipsey Wilderness, one visitor learned: "We had planned to kayak down the river from the Sipsey River Trailhead to the Highway 33 Bridge take out but were thwarted by a recent lack of heavy rain and unusually low river levels for the season."
Cell service availability: Unlike many remote locations, some equestrian camping areas maintain connectivity. At Owl Creek Horse Camp, "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."
Fees and facilities: Camping costs and amenities vary across locations. Owl Creek Horse Camp charges "$5 a night or $3 for day use" and provides "potable water from the spickets all year long" plus pit toilets.
Tips for camping with families
Easy access trails: For families with younger riders, look for beginner-friendly trails. A visitor to Faye Whittemore Farms Inc reports, "Lots to do and amazing trails. Helpful and friendly farmers. Clean washrooms and near campsite. Not too far from town."
Seasonal planning: Consider weather conditions when planning family trips. A Sipsey Wilderness visitor advises, "My favorite is either fall or spring since the summer can be particularly hot and buggy. Just make sure to always do your research and plan ahead since it can change so drastically depending on when you go."
Trail connections: Families can plan routes with multiple access points. One Owl Creek visitor notes, "It is in a wonderful part of Bankhead and close to so many trail access points. 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."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric and water hookups are available at select equestrian campgrounds. Belinda H. confirms at Faye Whittemore Farms Inc: "The campground is very nice and woodsy. The campsites have water and electric hookups."
Nighttime conditions: The open areas at equestrian camps offer excellent stargazing. One camper at Owl Creek Horse Camp describes, "It is essentially a large field with some very large loblolly pines. The nights sky is wonderful."
Distance to services: While camping in these forests feels remote, some locations provide reasonable access to nearby towns. A Faye Whittemore Farms visitor notes they are "Not too far from town," making resupply runs feasible during extended stays.
