Backcountry camping options near Hackleburg, Alabama center around the 25,000-acre Sipsey Wilderness within Bankhead National Forest. The wilderness area features sandstone gorges with elevations ranging from 700-1,000 feet and contains Alabama's only federally designated Wild and Scenic River. Water levels in the region fluctuate significantly between seasons, with spring bringing abundant water flow while late summer often sees dry creek beds.
What to do
Explore hidden waterfalls: Trail 206 at Thompson Creek Trail Campsites leads to several cascades within the first mile of hiking. One visitor noted, "The hike in is not difficult. You do have to cross a stream, which was not as difficult for my 6'2 husband as it was for me at 5'2."
Watch for wildlife: Many campers report seeing diverse wildlife throughout the Sipsey Wilderness trails. A camper at Trail 206 observed, "The water is a beautiful turquoise. We found a quiet spot up the creek to camp."
Visit Dismals Canyon: The canyon at Dismals Canyon Cabins and Primitive Campsites features rare bioluminescent creatures called Dismalites. "When we got everything set up and got all the lights out, we noticed the glowing dismalites along the Canyon wall behind our tent!! It was super cool," reported one visitor who camped at the Sleeping Waters site.
What campers like
Sandy camping surfaces: Multiple Sipsey Wilderness - Trail 200 Campsites feature sandy tent pads that provide comfortable sleeping surfaces. A camper noted, "Most of the site is pretty sandy but level which was wonderful for sleeping on."
Privacy between sites: The backcountry sites along the trails offer seclusion. A visitor to Sipsey Wilderness Backcountry Site (Trail 207 Site B) shared, "Because it is actually slightly removed from the trail that most people take it has an incredible amount of privacy while not being cramped or crowded."
Natural swimming areas: Many campsites sit near natural water features good for cooling off. "There is a nice fairly deep reservoir to swim in, as well as creeks and streams throughout," reported a camper at Dismals Canyon, though they cautioned about the relatively high fees.
What you should know
Multiple access points: Trails in Sipsey Wilderness can be reached from various trailheads. A camper at Sipsey Wilderness Backcountry Site (Trail 203 Site C) explained, "The Borden Creek Trailhead where we started our hike used to be down at the bottom of the hill but several years ago they moved the parking to a quarter mile away."
Fees and regulations: Camping in Dismals Canyon comes with additional costs. One camper reported, "Sites are anywhere from $27/night to $48/night. But then they also charge you a $5 cleaning fee (for a campsite????) and a 'one time admission fee' of $30."
Firewood restrictions: At Dismals Canyon, outside firewood cannot be brought in. A visitor noted, "They DO NOT let you bring in firewood, but you can get firewood there."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites away from flood zones: For camping with children, look for higher-ground options. A camper at Sipsey Wilderness Backcountry Site (Trail 207 Site D) recommended, "This site is one of the furthest along this section of trail and is nice since it is one of the larger spaces in this area."
Plan for creek crossings: When hiking with children, prepare for water obstacles. One family group noted, "You'll find fire pits at most of the sites that previous campers have made, but that's about it. Most of the time, except during dry spells, there are LOTS of waterfalls."
Consider guided tours: Families visiting Dismals Canyon can participate in night tours to see the bioluminescent Dismalites. "Night tours are guided. The day tours are self guided, but the night tours to see the dismalites are guided," explained a repeat visitor.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV camping options: Most tent camping near Hackleburg exists in primitive backcountry settings not suitable for RVs. A camper at Sipsey Wilderness Backcountry Site (Trail 200 Site F) noted, "This site is a nice flat well-established campsite off of the main 200 trail," highlighting the backcountry nature of most sites.
Road conditions: Access roads to trailheads can be challenging. A visitor mentioned, "The roads aren't the best but my van made it despite the muddy potholes."
Consider cabin alternatives: For those seeking RV amenities without hauling an RV, Dismals Canyon offers cabins. A visitor described, "These cabins feature a generously sized kitchen, a warm and inviting living room complete with a fireplace, and two comfortable bedrooms."
