Best Dispersed Camping near Hayden, AL

Hayden, AL is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Hayden campgrounds just for you. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Alabama camping adventure.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Hayden, Alabama (4)

    1. Boondock Dispersed Camping Alabama

    4 Reviews
    Bankhead National Forest, AL
    42 miles

    "Easy drive on paved road until you reach the GPS coordinates (I wouldn’t have seen the little gravel road if I hadn’t been looking for it)."

    "Great spot, close to stores and a lot of trails and such. Nice level clear spot, able to accommodate an overland or few tents setup. Close to the main road."

    2. Wolf Pen Hunters Camp

    5 Reviews
    Bankhead National Forest, AL
    45 miles
    Website
    +1 (205) 489-5111

    "Overall a good free camp site."

    "if you can get there quick enough there are some pretty good spots to camp and it's free not to mention right down the road from some of the best hiking trails I have ever seen open year round"

    3. Blue Creek Public Use Area

    5 Reviews
    Tuscaloosa, AL
    47 miles
    Website

    "Rough road there, but overall easy access and nice view."

    "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."

    4. McDougal Hunt Camp

    Be the first to review!
    Bankhead National Forest, AL
    43 miles
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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Hayden, AL

16 Reviews of 4 Hayden 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.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 13, 2020

    Wolf Pen Hunters Camp

    Rustic

    I believe this campground is known as the Wolfpen Hunt Camp on the Bankhead National Forest website. This was basically a forest road with dispersed camping. If there are toilets and water we never saw them. Just off the main road there is a loop and people were camping in the clearing of the loop. We drove further down the forest road and found a clearing near the dead end and set up camp. It was lovely and peaceful but no amenities at all. It is free though and no issues with other people.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 21, 2024

    Wolf Pen Hunters Camp

    Good free camping

    Sites were level and clear. A little muddy but it had been raining. No utilities or restrooms but thats to be expected with a free site. Sites are spread out and pretty private. Overall a good free camp site.

  • C
    Jul. 4, 2022

    Boondock Dispersed Camping Alabama

    Remote spot, would recommend

    Easy drive on paved road until you reach the GPS coordinates (I wouldn’t have seen the little gravel road if I hadn’t been looking for it). Take the little road for a mile or so until you reach the circle at the end. We loved it because there was no chance of hearing any cars and the animal noises were fantastic. We were glad to have a bug net — probably a necessity for this site!

  • Asher K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 1, 2017

    Wolf Pen Hunters Camp

    Amazing hiking

    This is a free hunters campground located in Sipsey wilderness. The hiking in this area is incredible and makes you feel like you are in another world. We have taken several trips to this area and it is well worth it. The camping is rustic but the sights are worth it. This site is not heavily traveled but has restrooms and water which is nice. Be cautious though to check the hunting seasons if you are planning on hiking though since you want to make sure you can be seen. I would also come prepared with essentials in case the campground itself is closed down for the season and the amenities are not accessible.

  • Dwight  L.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 24, 2020

    Boondock Dispersed Camping Alabama

    Great boondock spot for free camping.

    Great spot, close to stores and a lot of trails and such. Nice level clear spot, able to accommodate an overland or few tents setup. Close to the main road. There’s 3 individual sites along this roadway. The first site is located approximately 1/10 mile down on the right and the second site is further at approximately 3/10 miles. The road follows a slow gradual decline leading another 2-300 yards where the graveling leads to the 3rd and final site which is nestled in a nice culdesac area.


Guide to Hayden

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Hayden, Alabama, where nature lovers can find serene spots to unwind and connect with the outdoors. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, you're sure to find the perfect place to set up camp.

Unique Experiences for Dispersed Campers

  • The Boondock Dispersed Camping Alabama offers a remote setting where you can enjoy the sounds of nature without the noise of traffic, making it an ideal escape for those seeking tranquility.
  • At the Painted Bluff Dispersed Campground, campers can set up along the Tennessee River, providing stunning views and opportunities for kayaking and hiking in the surrounding area.
  • For a unique riverside experience, the Blue Creek Public Use Area features a bluff overlooking the river, perfect for enjoying a breeze and watching the sunset.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Hayden, Alabama

  • Always check for accessibility and road conditions before heading to the Wolf Pen Hunters Camp, as some areas may become muddy after rain, affecting your camping experience.
  • Bring along a bug net when camping at the Boondock Dispersed Camping Alabama, as the area can have a significant number of insects, especially during warmer months.
  • Make sure to pack extra time for exploring when visiting the Painted Bluff Dispersed Campground, as the search for the perfect flat spot along the river can be part of the adventure.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Hayden

  • Enjoy hiking and exploring the trails around the Wolf Pen Hunters Camp, which is located near some of the best hiking spots in the Bankhead National Forest.
  • Kayaking along the Tennessee River from the Painted Bluff Dispersed Campground offers a thrilling way to experience the natural beauty of the area while keeping cool in the water.
  • Take advantage of the peaceful surroundings at the Blue Creek Public Use Area for birdwatching or simply relaxing by the river, making it a great spot for unwinding after a day of adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Hayden, AL is Boondock Dispersed Camping Alabama with a 5-star rating from 4 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 4 dispersed camping locations near Hayden, AL, with real photos and reviews from campers.