Dispersed camping near Fort Payne, Alabama centers around remote sites within the Lookout Mountain region, where elevations range from 600 to 1,800 feet. The area falls within a humid subtropical climate zone with four distinct seasons, receiving approximately 54 inches of rainfall annually. Most primitive campsites lack cell service coverage and require campers to bring their own water supplies.
What to do
Swimming at natural pools: Blue Hole Dispersed Camping in Georgia's Crockford-Pigeon Mountain Wildlife Management Area offers access to swimming areas. "I loved it there. So peaceful! A couple of other people there and a little bit of trash, but I picked it up. Leave it better than you found it right?" reports camper Sav.
Hiking nearby trails: Walls of Jericho - Trailhead Campsite serves as a starting point for both the Walls of Jericho trail and Bear Den Point Loop Trail. According to Steve V., "The trailhead campsite is a short walk from the parking lot, but makes for a great basecamp for exploring the area."
Rock climbing access: Tennessee Wall Camp provides a base for climbing enthusiasts with proximity to various routes. "We really enjoyed our night tent camping here. There is a parking lot right off the road after a fun ~30 minute drive through residential roads right on the water," notes Suzie K.
What campers like
Secluded environment: Most dispersed sites around Fort Payne offer solitude away from crowds. At Hidden Creek Campground, Patrick R. found "very nice secluded and away from people very few people out here," making it ideal for those seeking privacy.
Free accommodations: Several sites have no fees. Ava R. describes Blue Hole Dispersed- Crockford-Pigeon Mountain WMA as a "Great FREE spot! We stayed 3 days 2 nights here in our 21' pop up camper with our generator. Road is pretty well maintained, spots are good size."
Natural features: Proximity to water sources appeals to many campers. Michael M. notes that Blue Hole Dispersed "has a blue hole an caves no electricity or running water but the camp sites are pretty good. An the do have a handicap access area for rvs to do disperse camping also an parking for the bluehole."
What you should know
Navigation challenges: GPS reliability is problematic throughout the region. Heidi H. warns about Hidden Creek Campground: "GPS isn't perfect. It will take u to someone's private property next door. Look for the big wooden sign that indicates that it is for public use."
Limited amenities: Most sites lack facilities. At the Walls of Jericho camping areas, Blake C. explains, "Any equipment must be carried in and out which makes for a perfect backpacking experience. Your campsite offers little privacy due to trail proximity but that should not distract from a wonderful experience."
Road conditions: Access to many sites requires appropriate vehicles. Robyn W. describes the road to Hidden Creek: "LOTS OF DEEP POTHOLES. The road then opens up to a four way, we kept going straight, followed the road down and then came to three sites all empty."
Tips for camping with families
Consider site layout: Some areas have limited space for group camping. At Walls of Jericho Trailhead Campsite, William Andrew C. notes, "The only decent spot for hammocks is the little campsite that is right in front of the parking lot... You can really only get two hammocks, unless you want to stack your hammocks vertically."
Plan for supplies: Stores are scarce in the region. Blake C. advises, "There are minimal places to stock up on necessities along the road so be sure and come prepared. There is also no cell service so make sure you plan accordingly and have an emergency system in place."
Know site conditions: Some trailhead camping areas have limitations. Kevin C. reports, "Read that there was a drive-in camp site at this location. Upon arrival, we found a parking lot with a fence all around it. There were a few fire rings in the parking lot."
Tips from RVers
Vehicle clearance matters: High-clearance vehicles perform better on access roads. According to Robyn W., "Our truck is pretty high and 4x4 so wasn't too bad for us but a low car may not fair as well" when accessing Hidden Creek Campground.
Site selection for larger rigs: Not all dispersed sites accommodate RVs. Ava R. successfully camped with "our 21' pop up camper with our generator" at Blue Hole, noting that "spots are good size, some only large enough for tent/car camping."
Bring all supplies: No hookups are available at most sites. Michael M. mentions that at Blue Hole Dispersed, they "have a handicap access area for rvs to do disperse camping also an parking for the bluehole... no one to bother you!"
