Best Campgrounds near Brent, AL
Public lands around Brent, Alabama feature several developed campground options within a short drive. The area includes established camping at Payne Lake with both east and west sides offering different experiences, from primitive sites to full hookups for RVs. Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park Campground, located near McCalla, provides year-round camping with tent sites, RV spots, and cabin accommodations. Brierfield Ironworks Historical Park also offers mixed-use campsites with tent, RV, and cabin options approximately 20 miles from Brent.
Access to these camping areas varies by season, with most campgrounds remaining open year-round but offering different amenities depending on weather conditions. One camper noted that "the lake was down to the mud and stumps and they had just done a prescribed burn on the forest" during a March visit to Payne Lake. The east side of Payne Lake occasionally has water shut off during winter months, though water remains available at the dump station. Both historical parks (Tannehill and Brierfield) maintain consistent access and services throughout the year. Most camping areas feature developed facilities with electrical hookups, drinking water, and sanitary systems, though primitive options exist particularly on Payne Lake's east side.
Campers frequently mention the peaceful atmosphere at these camping areas, particularly at Payne Lake. "Very quiet and secluded, there is a beach area for swimming and bathhouses are large and clean. Plenty of shade and picnic areas," reports one visitor to Payne Lake West Side. The east side offers more rustic experiences with pit toilets and primitive sites for $6 per night, while the west side provides more amenities including showers and full hookups. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with several reviewers mentioning bird watching, though alligators are occasionally present in the lake areas. Historical sites add educational value to camping trips at both Tannehill and Brierfield, where visitors can explore ironworks facilities and historical buildings between camping activities.
