Camping opportunities near Millerville, Alabama center around the ridges and valleys of the Talladega National Forest at elevations from 800 to over 2,000 feet. The region experiences mild winters with occasional freezes and hot, humid summers with afternoon thunderstorms. Most backcountry campsites lack reliable water sources in late summer through early winter, requiring hikers to carry additional water supplies during these periods.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Explore the Chinnabee Silent Trail system with access to multiple waterfalls. "We recently did a one night backpacking trip with 2 close friends where we started at the Lake Chinnabee Recreation Area and hiked to join the Pinhoti trail then headed south before looping back around. There are so many amazing campgrounds along the way," notes a Cheaha State Park visitor.
Mountain biking: Oak Mountain State Park offers extensive trail systems for riders of all abilities. A camper reports, "This place has everything, mtn bike, gravel bike, trail running, road running, road biking, golf, equestrian, sailing and fishing" with "wifi throughout and almost everywhere in the park has cell reception."
Swimming in natural settings: Lake Martin at Wind Creek provides multiple swimming areas. "Tent camping with family during Hurricane evacuation. Beautiful park, numerous bath houses, laundry, camp store, playgrounds, mini golf, and so much more. Secluded campground with RV and tent sites right on Lake Martin," shares one Wind Creek State Park Campground camper.
What campers like
Affordability of primitive sites: Many dispersed camping areas offer extremely budget-friendly options. One Turnipseed Campground visitor commented, "Beautiful camp sites well maintained and only 5$ a night" making it one of the most economical camping destinations in the region.
Secluded backcountry spots: Many campers appreciate the isolation found along the Pinhoti Trail. "Perched along the ridge of the Pinhoti Trail, just south of Adam's Gap, this backcountry campsite promises a rewarding wilderness experience... The campsite itself, while relatively small, provides enough space for 1-2 tents and boasts an abundance of trees for those who prefer hammocks," notes a camper at Pinhoti Campsite near Clairmont Gap.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The forest areas provide chances to see native wildlife. A camper at Hollins Hunting Camp shares, "Best for overlanding/camper/tents. No marked sites, just pull in and find a spot. I got in around 8 and there were only a couple people here, lots of space and easy to find a private spot. Hardly any bugs, no amenities."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies dramatically by location and carrier. At McDill Point Backcountry, a visitor advises, "Make sure to put the coordinates in your phone and that should help you figure out which trail to take." This suggests preparation for limited navigation assistance once on the trail.
Water planning essential: Many sites lack reliable water sources. "If you stay here, be sure to carry in water though since there are no good streams nearby to get water from. If it has rained heavy recently there is a small stream that you hit if you continue down the trail another half mile but it is often dried up."
Bathroom facilities vary widely: From primitive to modern facilities, expectations should align with location. At Cheaha Falls Campground, visitors note, "This area near the waterfall encompasses several sites of varying sizes. They each have their own space but are still visible from each other. They all have easy access to the waterfall and are in such a beautiful area."
Tips for camping with families
Best swimming spots for kids: Wind Creek State Park offers family-friendly water access. A visitor reports, "Tent camping with family during Hurricane evacuation. Beautiful park, numerous bath houses, laundry, camp store, playgrounds, mini golf, and so much more. Secluded campground with RV and tent sites right on Lake Martin."
Educational wildlife opportunities: Some areas provide wildlife learning experiences. A Cheaha Falls Campground camper shared, "We are local to Cheaha and go often, year round. The kids love the lake and the pool, and there is an easy walk on a boardwalk with amazing views at the end on days when the kids don't feel like hiking... they have a gem mining area that is also great fun for the children."
Child-friendly hiking routes: Several shorter trails accommodate younger hikers. "Our first excursion was the lake. Very nice! Beach was clean with plenty of space. Park was there too. My kids loved the diving platform. Bathrooms were nice. It was super refreshing and awesome view! We cooked Chili for supper. Canopy of trees was pleasant and shady for Summer."
Tips from RVers
Campground site selection: Choose locations based on shade and amenities. At Bohamia, campers note, "Came with a group of friends from town to relax and disconnect. Services are great some cabins and tents having ACs, but primitive camping allowed as well. Great showers and bathhouse with filtered drinking water option that I used daily."
Power requirements: Confirm electrical hookup specifications before arrival. "Campground was great. Our site on the lake was beautiful and had ducks came right up to our site. Clean and staff were friendly," reports an Oak Mountain visitor, while another advises checking for "premium campsites that have 50 amp service, water, sewer, cable and waterfront access."
Off-season benefits: Consider camping outside peak summer months. A Wind Creek camper shared, "We were the only trailer in loop D. It was quiet and very enjoyable! Being right on the lake and having the ducks swim up really thrilled our dogs. The bathrooms were very clean. I imagine that summer is a very different experience, but we enjoyed it!"
