Owl Creek Horse Camp provides equestrian access to the extensive trail systems within Bankhead National Forest. The campground features potable water available year-round from spigots throughout an open field area shaded by loblolly pines. Primitive facilities include pit toilets with minimal amenities focused primarily on trail access rather than comfort features. The campground charges $5 for overnight stays or $3 for day use. The location serves as a strategic base for both horse riding and hiking, situated approximately 15 minutes from Sipsey Wilderness trails.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Horse enthusiasts can access over 22 miles of connected trails directly from Owl Creek Horse Camp. "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. 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," notes camper Asher K.
Wilderness hiking: The surrounding Bankhead National Forest contains numerous hiking options beyond horseback routes. Sipsey Wilderness offers backcountry sites for overnight trekkers. "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," according to a review of Sipsey Wilderness Backcountry Site.
Water activities: Lake Guntersville State Park, located 40 miles east of Cullman, provides water recreation options. "We like a bit more trees, which they had until a tornado came through in 2011 or 12. There is not a lot of privacy; but we love to SUP, which was great there," writes Emily C. about her experience at the lake.
What campers like
Paddock access: Horse owners appreciate the dedicated facilities at Faye Whittemore Farms. "The 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," writes Belinda H.
Cell connectivity: Unlike more remote wilderness campsites, Owl Creek provides reliable telecommunications. "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," reports Gregg G.
Night sky viewing: The relative seclusion of equestrian camping near Cullman provides excellent stargazing opportunities. "It is essentially a large field with some very large loblolly pines. The nights sky is wonderful," notes a camper about Owl Creek Horse Camp.
What you should know
Seasonal trail conditions: Trail accessibility varies throughout the year with water crossings becoming more challenging after heavy rainfall. The Sipsey Wilderness area particularly transforms with the seasons. "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," explains a reviewer at Sipsey Wilderness.
Limited amenities: Most equestrian camping options prioritize trail access over facilities. "As far as campground amenties outside of whats already been covered there are a hand full of picnic tables and a pit toilet," states Gregg G. about Owl Creek Horse Camp.
Bring supplies: No on-site supply stores exist at most equestrian campgrounds. Horse owners should pack all necessary feed and equipment, and campers should bring potable water or filtration systems for backcountry sites.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible wilderness introduction: The Sipsey Wilderness provides manageable backcountry experiences for families. "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," notes a reviewer about Lake Guntersville State Park Campground.
Recreational alternatives: Some campgrounds offer diverse activities beyond trail riding. "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," writes L&A C. about Lake Guntersville State Park.
Weather considerations: Alabama's climate affects camping comfort significantly. Spring and fall provide milder temperatures for family camping. "My favorite is either fall or spring since the summer can be particularly hot and buggy," advises a Sipsey Wilderness camper.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV campers should research site specifications carefully. "We went to the state park for the weekend. Stayed in the A area which we were told had sewer (it does not but it's very close to the dump station). Spots were average for a state park," advises Alanna R. about her stay at Lake Guntersville.
Spacing awareness: Some campgrounds place sites close together. "Most spots are very close together so you don't get much privacy. Super crowded on the weekends," notes Scott M. about his RV experience.
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary widely between equestrian camping areas near Cullman. Some offer full hookups while others provide only basic amenities. "The campground is wooded with electric and water hookups. Very nice!" comments Adrienne D. about her stay at Faye Whittemore Farms.
