The Walls of Jericho primitive camping area sits in northeastern Alabama near the Tennessee state line, where elevations range from 1,200 to 1,800 feet within the 21,453-acre Forever Wild tract. The region's karst topography forms unique limestone formations, underground springs, and the characteristic rock amphitheater. Summer temperatures typically reach highs in the 80s while winter nights can drop below freezing, making spring and fall the most popular camping seasons.
What to Do
Swimming and cooling off: During warm months, the cave spring area provides natural swimming opportunities with cold water flowing year-round. "When its hot out, there are places to go for a swim and wash/cool off," notes Ethan K. about the Walls of Jericho Primitive Campsite.
Fishing at nearby lakes: Tim's Ford Lake offers excellent bass and crappie fishing opportunities within 30 minutes of Estillfork. "Great campground on the water and spacious sites. Water access at your campsite to swim or kayak," shares Clinton N. about Fairview Campground.
Fossil hunting: Some creeks in the area contain ancient marine fossils. "Did I mention fossils? All over the place some of the oldest creatures to crawl the earth are there for you to find! I'm not kidding we saw trilobites everywhere along the creek," writes Bruce G. about their experience at Red Coach Resort.
What Campers Like
Natural water features: The creeks and springs maintain water flow even during drier periods. "There is a spring that runs out of a cave on a cliff to the left of the amphitheater, so water is not an issue," says Aaron S. about the Walls of Jericho Primitive Campsite.
Spacious campsites: Many sites provide ample room for group camping with multiple tents. "We stayed in a rather primitive site that was very large and perfect for our big group. We were able to spread out so that each tent comfortably has their own space, but close enough to share a large central campfire," reports Ethan K.
Horse-friendly trails: The wider region offers multiple horse camping options beyond the Walls of Jericho. "This 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," explains M&P M. about Sharon Johnston Park, another option for equestrian camping near Estillfork, Alabama.
What You Should Know
Water source considerations: Seasonal variations affect creek water levels significantly. "Water can be sourced from Turkey Creek if it is flowing, but should be treated/filtered (on this visit Turkey Creek was pretty dry after a very dry summer, but Hurricane Creek is just a short walk away)," advises Steve V.
No cell service: Many campsites in this rural area have limited or no connectivity. "We found no cell phone service with Verizon at this site," reports Steve V. about the Clark Cemetery campsite.
Trail difficulty: The hike out requires significantly more effort than the hike in. "The hike out is much tougher than the way in, so pack light," cautions Aaron S. from his experience at the Walls of Jericho.
Road conditions: Some access roads can be challenging for certain vehicles. "The road leading up to the campsite is extremely rough and washed out. We were in a Subaru Outback, and it was a very slow-going, bumpy ride — we bottomed out several times," shares Abigail P. about Sawmill Lake Campsite.
Tips for Camping with Families
Start with established campgrounds: For families new to horse camping near Estillfork, Alabama, consider sites with more amenities. "It's a great site to bring the kids. In the summer the pool is open which is great for the hot days. There's also a track, a baseball field, and soccer fields so I've seen many athletic events held there," recommends M&P M. about Sharon Johnston Park.
Pack light for backcountry sites: When hiking to remote sites with children, minimize gear. "Easy hike in, Down hill the entire way. Hard hike out, DUH! Up hill the entire way," explains Kevin M. about the Walls of Jericho trail.
Consider hammock camping: Many sites have suitable trees for hammocks, which kids often enjoy. "There are also many trees that would be suitable for hammock camping. You can choose from a shaded space to a sunny space depending on which side of the site you set up on," notes Steve V.
Tips from RVers
Check road access before arrival: Not all camping areas near Estillfork accommodate large rigs. "The east way had 180 degree sharp turns up the mountain, so may be difficult. Views were very nice going up that way though," warns Mitchell M. about Tennessee Wall Camp.
Consider water access points: For RVers with horses, look for sites with easy water access. "Great for hammocks and tents," notes Brian W. about Tennessee Wall Camp, indicating the more primitive nature of some sites that might not accommodate larger rigs.
Look for level sites: Many campgrounds in this mountainous area have limited level spaces for larger vehicles. "This campground is side by side hook ups. Not a tree one in the site area. Beautiful view of the mountain," reports Sarah H. about Mountain Cove Resort.
