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Best Dispersed Camping near Gurley, AL

14 Reviews

Several primitive backcountry sites exist along the Skyway Loop and Chinnabee Silent Trail near Gurley, Alabama. These free dispersed camping areas require hiking in, with no vehicle access. Most sites feature established fire rings and flat areas for tents, situated alongside creeks that provide drinking water. The sites vary significantly in size and privacy, from small single-tent clearings to larger areas that can accommodate multiple tents or hammocks.

The backcountry sites near Lake Chinnabee offer the most accessible options, located at trail intersections with easy water access. According to one visitor, "This site has been cleaned up and expanded... It has an established fire pit and several clear flat areas for tents." Campers should be prepared for complete self-sufficiency as no facilities exist. Sites located directly on trails may experience daytime hiker traffic. For those seeking river access, Blue Creek Public Use Area offers boat-in and drive-in dispersed camping with views overlooking the river and dam, though it lacks drinking water.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Gurley, Alabama (6)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Gurley, AL

5 Photos of 6 Gurley Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Gurley, AL

14 Reviews of 6 Gurley Campgrounds

  • Asher K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 1, 2021

    Painted Bluff Dispersed Campground - PERMANENTLY CLOSED

    Unique Experience!!!

    Camping here is a very unique experience and completely different than most other campgrounds so I will try and make sure to include enough details to repeat our trip. This"campsite" is really just a large embankment along the Tennessee River on land owned by the TVA. They have a policy that on certain parts of their land along the Tenessee River you are allowed to camp following leave no trace rules. Make sure to follow the link for the campsite to learn more. Although you can use any of their lands there are limited areas that are flat or large enough to comfortably set up a tent. This particular site(GPS coordinates above) is a great space and was perfect for a night along the river. We parked our car on the southern side of the Guntersville dam and put in our boats at the loading ramp. we then kayaked with our gear in dry bags up the river past the amazing views of the painted bluff. We parked our boats for a quick swim(with life vests, the current was really strong) and hiked around the shore where there is a cave. We continued on upriver and finally found this particular site where we set up for the night. The banks of the river are pretty steep so finding a large enough site can be challenging. Be prepared to have extra time to search for another site if the river level is high. On the whole, this was one of the most amazing camping experiences I have ever had and I highly recommend it.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 23, 2023

    Blue Creek Public Use Area

    Great private spot

    About a handful of spots, all with ample room and privacy. Rough road there, but overall easy access and nice view.

  • Asher K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2023

    Skyway Loop Backcountry Site Near Chinnabee

    Improved since last visit

    This site has been cleaned up and expanded since I last stayed here. The space is in a really beautiful area near the parking area for Lake Chinnabee and a few minutes down the trail from Devil's Den Falls. It has an established fire pit and several clear flat areas for tents. The creek runs right alongside so there is easy access to water and it provides a peaceful background sound during the night. Another nice feature of this campground is that it sits at the intersection of multiple trails.

  • Michael P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 6, 2025

    Blue Creek Public Use Area

    Totally Relaxing

    I have camped here several times, alway relaxing and restful. Has a latrine, no water or electric. Has boat ramp and camping areas are near pacer park roads. Local traffic is mostly folks going to boat ramp. Camping area is along bluff over looking the River. Second area is in a grove at the end of the paved road and turn around. Ample space, some folks also pull RV down to an area near the boat ramp. Other that the latrine self-contained rustic camping.

  • Asher K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 30, 2021

    Riverside Skyway Loop Backcountry Site

    Small with water access

    This site is another of the small backcountry sites along the river between Cheaha Falls and Lake Chinnabee. Make sure to check out my review of Cheaha Falls Campground where I discuss the entire loop and the best times of year to visit. Although this campground isn’t as nice as others in the area it has easy access to water and is small and private so you won't have anyone else crowding your space. It is also a great option when the other spots can fill up during busy times such as holiday weekends in the spring or fall. This campground also has easy access to the many waterfalls that are up the trail and is not too far from the parking at Lake Chinnabee. This campground has a level area for either 1 or 2 tents, a fire ring, and access to flowing water. The best time to visit is either late spring or early summer when the flowers are blooming and the weather is warm enough to swim. But be aware it can get pretty hot and muggy late in the summer.

  • Asher K.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 28, 2018

    Skyway Loop Backcountry Site Near Chinnabee

    Fork in the trail

    This campground is located at a point where the trail splits and either goes to the Lake Chinnabee recreation area or turns and continues on the skyway loop south. This is an important point because if you miss the turn you will get lost and not make it around the loop. Make sure to first read my review of the entire loop here. This site is really wonderful because of how easy it is to access, its location on the water, and its large level areas for setting up tents. You can get to the site from any of the 2 skyway loop starting points or you can park at Lake Chinnabee and walk a short distance to get to the campsite. It is still a backcountry site but could theoretically be used by groups who want to just hike in the short distance with more gear. If you are a backpacker completing the loop this is a great place to rest and have lunch or this would be a good night option if you do the loop over 3-4 days. (For a 2 day loop I suggest starting at the southern point and camping at either Turnipseed or Cheaha Falls). This is a great place to visit in Spring or early summer before it gets too hot and while the water levels are still high. You can see some amazing wildflowers and if you make the hike to the top of the ridge nearby the views are spectacular.

  • Asher K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 18, 2020

    Chinnabee Silent Trail Backcountry Site 7

    Easy water access

    This is a nice sized campsite alongside the river right off of the Chinnabee Silent Trail. Check out my video below for my take on this site. It is definitely one of the larger and more developed backcountry sites along the trail and is far enough back from the river to not have to worry about flooding. I also liked how close it is to the waterfall so you could set up camp and go for a nice evening swim before cooking dinner. It's probably not the best option if you only have a hammock to sleep in but for a tent it is perfect. If you are not an early riser be aware that this site is right alongside the trail so you may hear people who get out on the trail in the morning. Overall, there are many sites to choose from along this trail and most of the year you will have your pick. If you are backpacking in the busy season though this is a great site if you can get it early.

  • Asher K.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 28, 2018

    Skyway Loop Backcountry

    Little campground on the water

    This is a nice little campground right along the river that is one of the few of its size at this point in the loop. I would suggest starting by reading my review from Cheaha Falls Campground which gives a good synopsis of the backpacking loop. This site has a large campfire ring with level space for a couple of tents and plenty of trees for hammocks. There is water here year round though that also means it can get buggy in the summer. We were here in the really early spring and it was amazing! Water levels were high and everything was just starting to bloom. The signage along these trails is also good and they are well traveled though there are a few stream crossings that can get confusing so keep an eye out for turns in the trail, especially in the fall or winter when there are leaves on the ground. If you plan to camp in this site but it is full there are other options in the area so just travel a little further down the trail.

Guide to Gurley

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Gurley, Alabama, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, you can enjoy the great outdoors while soaking in the stunning landscapes.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Gurley, Alabama

  • Always check for water access before setting up camp; for instance, the Skyway Loop Backcountry Site Near Chinnabee offers a creek nearby, ensuring you have a reliable water source.
  • Be prepared for varying conditions; the Riverside Skyway Loop Backcountry Site is small and private, making it a great option during busy weekends when other spots fill up quickly.
  • Familiarize yourself with Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty of the area, especially at unique spots like the Painted Bluff Dispersed Campground, where camping is allowed along the Tennessee River.

Dispersed campers should check out Blue Creek Public Use Area

  • Blue Creek Public Use Area features a large overlook of the river, providing a refreshing breeze during hot summer days, making it a popular choice for campers seeking comfort and scenic views.
  • With no permit required and the ability to have fires, this spot allows for a relaxed camping experience, perfect for those looking to unwind in nature.
  • The site is big rig friendly, accommodating larger vehicles, which is a plus for campers traveling with RVs or trailers.

Enjoy hiking and stunning views while free camping near Gurley

  • The Skyway Loop Backcountry is ideal for hikers, offering breathtaking views from the ridge and easy access to multiple trails.
  • Campers can enjoy the tranquility of nature while being surrounded by wildflowers in the spring, making it a picturesque spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • The area is known for its starry nights, so be sure to spend some time outside after dark to take in the stunning night sky.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Gurley, AL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Gurley, AL is Blue Creek Public Use Area with a 4.4-star rating from 5 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Gurley, AL?

TheDyrt.com has all 6 dispersed camping locations near Gurley, AL, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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