Tent camping near Green Pond, Alabama offers options in a region characterized by rolling hills and mixed hardwood forests. Located within the central Alabama ecosystem, the area features moderate elevation changes and access to both wooded campsites and water-adjacent settings. Camping opportunities span from developed recreation areas to more remote forest locations with varying degrees of accessibility depending on seasonal conditions.
What to do
Boat access camping: Payne Lake Spillway in Moundville allows boat-in tent camping, creating opportunities for water-based exploration. The area features "a pavilion with four picnic tables underneath it and then there are isolated picnic tables around the area," according to Hannah C., who notes "fire pits and grills nearby for cooking."
Historical exploration: Weogufka State Forest Flagg Mtn preserves Civilian Conservation Corps structures from the 1930s. Reviewer Ro J. mentions the "CCC tower and cabins from 1930's" and recommends talking with the caretaker, describing him as "wonderful to talk to."
Hiking: The southern terminus of the Pinhoti Trail starts near camping options in Weogufka State Forest. According to Ro J., the area provides "access to southern terminus of the Pinhoti Trail" and describes the experience as "simple and enjoyable."
What campers like
Water amenities: Holt Lake in Cottondale features a small beach area for swimming and lake activities. Reviewer Missy W. notes, "The beach can be pretty crowded during the summer but it's a decent size and the bathrooms are nearby," adding that the "lake is huge, great for towing, skiiand m fishing and cruising."
Clean facilities: The maintained facilities at Deerlick Creek/Holt Lake earn positive reviews from campers. One reviewer states, "The campground also has a great bathroom facility that they clean daily" and describes staff as "always super friendly."
Trail shelter accommodations: Weogufka State Forest offers a maintained backcountry shelter for hikers. A reviewer describes it as having "a platform that goes around 3 walls on the inside which is enough space for about 3 people to stay comfortably," noting it is "very well maintained and has a logbook."
What you should know
Weather impacts: Recent storms can significantly affect trail conditions and campsite access in forest areas. One camper at Weogufka noted, "There had just been a hurricane that came through a couple of days earlier and there were a ton of trees down," though they observed "maintenance in process to clear the area out."
Beach conditions: At Holt Lake's swimming area, visitors should inspect the sand before setting up. A reviewer cautioned, "Last time I went I found a needle in the sand, so keep an eye out. I'm not sure how often the beach is cleaned."
Vehicle requirements: Payne Lake Spillway has specific camping restrictions visitors should note. Hannah C. points out that "No camping is allowed in this area of the campground," referring to the spillway recreation area, though camping is permitted elsewhere.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: For families with children, the tent-only sites at Holt Lake offer ample space and good lake views. A reviewer mentioned the "tent sites are very nice and groomed and have a wonderful view of the lake," adding that they had success "checking in and getting our site set up and we got some swimming in down at the beach area."
Group options: Larger family groups can utilize the more spacious tent sites at specific locations. One camper describes setting up "our site with 3 tents and brought 8 people along" and having "no issues checking in and getting our site set up."
Water access considerations: Weogufka State Forest Flagg Mtn offers reliable water sources for family camping needs. A reviewer notes "incredibly easy water access since the shelter sits alongside the creek," which can be convenient for families needing regular water access.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: The camping areas near Green Pond primarily accommodate tent camping rather than RVs. The Weogufka State Forest campsite is described as "a small area for backcountry camping" where "you can park fairly close to the site and there is enough space for a couple of hammocks or a single tent."
Access considerations: Access roads to some camping areas may require higher clearance vehicles. One camper at Flagg Mountain cautions, "You might need four-wheel-drive to get up to the ruins, but maybe not," suggesting contacting the caretaker who "is a great communicator and very helpful."
