Bankhead National Forest surrounds Haleyville, Alabama, creating a diverse landscape of sandstone bluffs, dense woodlands, and clear water bodies at elevations ranging from 500-1,200 feet. The area receives around 55 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush surroundings for glamping accommodations. Water features include Smith Lake and Bear Creek with multiple access points for water-based recreation.
What to do
Frisbee golf near water access: McFarland Park Campground offers disc golf courses alongside Tennessee River access. "This is a beautiful setting along the Tennessee River (Pickwick Lake). Boat launches, picnic pavilions, frisbee golf, fishing pier and a beach in the same park. Wonderful place to watch sunsets and Sun Rises on the River," notes one visitor to McFarland Park Campground.
Waterfall hiking opportunities: Several trails lead to unique waterfall formations throughout the region. "The canyon was pretty cool! The waterfalls were awesome and I loved all the spur trails," reports a camper at Dismals Canyon Cabins and Primitive Campsites. Trails range from moderate to difficult with varying distances.
Kayaking Bear Creek: The waterway provides calm paddling opportunities with rentals available seasonally. "We stayed at two cabins at Elliot Branch in August with some friends. It is a short drive to Bear Creek if you want to kayak or canoe, but the cabins are on lakefront property and you can just jump in!" shares a reviewer from Elliot Branch.
What campers like
Spacious campsite layouts: Many sites provide ample room between neighbors for privacy. "The sites had plenty of space, level, and easy to back into. There is a nice overlook and plenty of hiking trails. We were on the yellow loop," explains a visitor to Corinth Recreation Area.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early mornings and evenings offer prime wildlife spotting. "You will see deer in the morning and are likely to have a visitor, raccoons, during the night," reports a camper at Clear Creek Recreation Area. Multiple hiking paths provide wildlife corridors throughout the camping areas.
Water-based recreation options: Sites along Smith Lake and Bear Creek offer direct water access. "Each site has amazing scenery" and "Nature trails were extremely well kept with great views on the water," notes a Corinth Recreation Area camper. Multiple boat launches provide easy water entry points.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many sites require advance booking, especially during peak seasons (April-October). "We made the mistake of booking the FlyerFly loop, the bathhouse was closed due to COVID. The camp host was very nice and helped us move to Yellowhammer where the bathhouse was open," shares a Corinth Recreation Area visitor.
Varying amenities between sites: Facility availability differs significantly between locations. "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 (good for up to 4 people, additional people = additional money)," reports a camper at Dismals Canyon Cabins and Primitive Campsites.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely throughout the region. "Cellphone coverage is not good here for Verizon or AT&T. Better at front of camp," notes a visitor to Tishomingo State Park Campground. Download maps and information before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming beach accessibility: Several locations offer designated swimming areas with varying facilities. "Swimming area has shaded picnic areas but is down a steep hill a good way from your car. Also small pebbles in swim area are very painful. It's a nice place but definitely not so friendly on your feet," advises a Corinth Recreation Area visitor.
Playground proximity: Families benefit from camping near recreational facilities. "This campground is in my hometown of Florence, AL... There is a marina, RV and tent campsites, a playground near the campground, and on the other side of the marina is another playground," explains a McFarland Park Campground reviewer.
Educational opportunities: Ranger programs and nature activities enhance glamping experiences in Haleyville. "There is also a pretty nice waterfall down a 'road' (limited to foot traffic and officials)," mentions a visitor to Wilson Dam. Several locations offer seasonal programming focused on local ecology.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Some locations require careful positioning due to terrain. "The spaces were a little bit tight & close but they were angled nicely. We had to maneuver the trailer around the trees but not complaining about the shade," notes a Point Mallard City Campground visitor.
Utility hookup locations: Position your rig strategically for easiest access. "The camp host was very nice and helped us move to Yellowhammer where the bathhouse was open. So if you are looking for a spot near an open bathhouse, Yellowhammer is where it is at," advises a Corinth Recreation Area camper.
Loop-specific recommendations: Certain camping loops offer better RV accommodations. "We last camped here in May 2020 on Yellowhammer 21 and there was a bit of a sewer smell in that area when it's hot, so beware of that, but otherwise the campground is great," reports a visitor to Corinth Recreation Area who recommends specific loops for better RV access.
