6 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Faye Whittemore Farms Inc maintains water and electric hookups at wooded campsites that accommodate horse owners. The farm features multiple beautiful trails for riding and provides paddocks for horses near the camping areas. Clean washrooms sit close to the campsites, offering convenient facilities for equestrians after trail rides. The wooded nature of the campground creates a natural setting while still providing necessary amenities. Campers can choose between tent, RV and cabin options while enjoying the farm's trail system. The trails are well-maintained and showcase the natural beauty of the area, making this location popular with experienced riders. The campground remains accessible to nearby towns for supply runs when needed.
Owl Creek Horse Camp provides primitive camping with toilet facilities and trash service for equestrians exploring the William B. Bankhead National Forest. The camp connects directly to forest riding trails, allowing riders immediate access to extensive trail networks. The campground accommodates both tents and RVs, though without hookups, creating a more rustic experience focused on trail riding. Multiple trails wind through the beautiful forest terrain, offering varied riding experiences from easy paths to more challenging routes. The Sipsey Wilderness area nearby provides additional trails for equestrians seeking longer rides. The multiple trails showcase beautiful forest scenery and diverse terrain. Horse owners should bring their own water for animals since hookups are not available at this more primitive camping location.
"But regular RV campers are allowed at the Equestrian center. We are close to the farm/petting zoo. Also the horses are next to the campground. Very quiet and reasonably priced."
"It's the largest state park in Alabama."
"They have nice paddocks for your horses. The multiple trails are so beautiful . I have been here many times."
"Lots to do and amazing trails. Helpful and friendly farmers. Clean washrooms and near campsite. No too far from town."
from $10 - $30 / night
"The campground is right on the banks of Lake Guntersville and it has a beach area so it's great if you want to play in the water."
"This is a nice state park in a small town in north Alabama. The lake is really pretty and the campground has a nice view of it."
"While staying in the area we stopped by and checked out this campground and associated trails. It is in a wonderful part of Bankhead and close to so many trail access points."
"You’ll never run out of things to do between the endless hiking trails, the museum of wildlife, and the wildlife rescue center. There’s an archery station within the park and a petting farm."
from $6 - $18 / night
Check Availability"Small but secluded backcountry site with easy access to the river for pumping water. This site is nice because it is level and removed from the water enough that there is no concern of flooding."
GuideVery happy at this campground. But there aren't many campers here. I think they are at the main campground. But regular RV campers are allowed at the Equestrian center. We are close to the farm/petting zoo. Also the horses are next to the campground. Very quiet and reasonably priced.
ScoutOak mountain state park has been a favorite of mine since I was a child. There's so much to do; and its always growing. It's the largest state park in Alabama. Theres lakes, waterfalls, nature trails, basket ball court, volley ball, a petting zoo, horses back riding, water sports, dirt bikes trails, BMX course, archery, cabins, primitive camping and rv's , a beach, a wildlife rescue center and so much more. If you're in the area do yourself a favor and check it out.
LegendWhile staying in the area we stopped by and checked out this campground and associated trails. It is in a wonderful part of Bankhead and close to so many trail access points. Additionally the campground is located directly on the horse trail so you can stay here with your animals and get up and go trekking the next day. For people like me who are more hikers than riders you just drive 15 min down the road and you are right in the heart of Sipsey wilderness. The campground doesn't have much in terms of amenities but if you prefer a little more you can stay at Brushy lake nearby. The major advantage to this site is its access to the horseback riding trails.
GuideWhat an amazing campground! Alabama knocked this one out of the park. From the first time you enter the park, which isn’t too far from BHam or the interstate, you’re transported to a different place where things move much more slowly just the way we like it. The campground is a 5 mile ride from the main entrance. A beautiful winding road takes you all the way, deep into the property. If you’re lucky, you will see plenty of wildlife (we saw 7 deer and one rabbit). The campsites are very spacious, we stayed in site A30 which was great! But if you want a view, try A26 which overlooks the lake. There is a general store on property that even has propane. If you’re active, they offer bike and hiking trails, horse riding, kayak and paddle boat rentals, and a couple of beaches. Don’t wait, book your stay here ASAP!
ScoutI've been wanting to visit Oak mountain and we booked last minute May 1st-3rd. They were booked completely except for an equestrian pull through site. I had already made plans with my family and another (both first timers with our own young families). I asked about pitching tents on the gravel and they said people do it. We had two tents on complete gravel and had enough tarp and mats that it really didn't bother us. The stables were right in front of our eyes, and we could hear the peacock next door, which was lovely actually. Their horses on their farm were roaming around and it was beautiful! Bathrooms were absolutely perfect and cleaned what seemed twice a day from the cleaning logs. They were maybe 300 feet from us and since the RVs all have hook ups we seemed to be the only ones using them, really. Everything else was basically closed down, but when we went to hike the water fall trail, it seemed so crowded that I wasn't surprised when we saw the ranger show up to send people out of the falls, so we didn't waste our time. I'd go back to enjoy the beach and trails, with a bike definitely!
GuideWe needed a one night stopover Campground. Aesthetics are important, so we chose Oak Mountain State Park for its mountain beauty. We thought we’d reserve the campsite (B36) based on its being at the end of the area and near the shower/restroom. Major pros to the campground would be an apparent lot of things to do: what looked like a zip line water skiing place, lots of major inflatable stuff in the beach swimming area, equestrian trails and stalls for horses, hiking trails... and our site was near one of the playgrounds in the campground. The staff in the office and host folks were wonderful and friendly. But, our site was an asphalt pad ( perfectly level) with no grass around it. While the campground is surrounded by forest, There were some trees, and some shade, but not enough space around us to sit back ( on our asphalt) to enjoy them. The shower was perfectly hot and adequate water pressure, but there is one shower in each shower house/restroom, and it was right inside the restroom door with a bend in the wall and one plastic shower curtain. My daughter felt exposed, but there weren’t so many people using the showerhouse to be problematic. The two toilet stalls were also enough for the number of people that needed to use them. (There are other similarly sized showerhouse/restrooms not too far away.) This campground met our needs well, but we weren’t overwhelmed and didn’t rush to book a return overnight after our trip. There are many reasons to love this place ( and the tent camp spaces looked fantastic!!!) but for what we needed I’d have to say it was just perfectly adequate.
LegendThis state campground in the Birmingham AL metro area is a quick getaway for city and suburban dwellers. We were looking for continued warm fall weather on a slow trip north; this met the warmth and fall criteria in late October. The proximity to the city made it a good choice for exploring Birmingham.
Campground as Hotel
We left in the morning and came back in the evening. Using the campground strictly for accommodations worked out well; it wasn't a place where we would have wanted to hang around the campground all day. The large RVs crammed on sites that weren't very large gave us a closed in feeling. We pulled down the shade in our teardrop to avoid the light pollution from the campers who leave ground lights and other decorative lights on all night. (Do they leave their outdoor holiday lights on all night at home?)
Tent Only Sites
The tent only sites are the best feature of this park. You can pitch your tent among the trees away from the RVs packed together in the rest of the park.
There's no power or water at these sites.
These sites are listed as tent only, but the park office attendant told us there were a few where we could fit our vehicle and teardrop. We declined because we thought we'd be too close to the road although we later saw several that would have been fine
Site 42B is the BEST SITE IN THE PARK! You walk down to the site from the parking area, and then there's a great view of the water. I took a photo looking back at the site from the beach area.
Other Sites
All sites not designated tent only have electricity and water. There are some sites with sewer hookup as well as 50 amp power. See site map photo.
Loop A's sites are more spread out than sites in Loop B.
Loop B: B33 was ok. I recommend sticking to the outside of this loop because there are two roads down the center where you'll have sites on both sides, across the road and behind you. Inside the loop seemed crowded because there were large RVs.
Restrooms
Several restrooms are spread throughout the park. They each have a couple toilets and a shower along with hot and cold water in the sinks. Restrooms are clean and a checklist indicates they're inspected 2 or 3 times per day. Everything works fine, but they could use an update inside. If the usage at the end of October is any indication of overall usage, this park is heavily used. It's close to Birmingham which has over a million people, one-fourth of Alabama's population. The state of Alabama should step up and do some renovation.
Site Taxes are HIGH
Be prepared for a significant jump to the cost when taxes are applied. Our campsite fee was a reasonable $22.65/night which included a 15% senior discount. Regular price is $26.65. Taxes and a $4.50 one-time fee were added for a grand total of $85.62 for 3 nights. If you're counting, that's 20+% in taxes.
Things To Do In The Park: boating, fishing, swimming, hiking. You can purchase a detailed hiking map for $1. If you aren't from the area and want to take in some Birmingham history, there are options.
Red Mountain Park has hiking trails along with old iron ore mines. There's an adventure park with zip lining, climbing, etc.
The base of Vulcan, Alabama's entry in the 1904 World's Fair, is the best place to see Birmingham. The museum next to the statue was well done; it provides a history of this steel city.
The park across from the 16th Street Baptist Church (site of the bombing on 9/15/1963 that killed 4 young girls) is a window into the sad part of Birmingham's history. There's also a civil rights museum nearby.
The craft breweries (Good People and Avondale) were good. And great barbecue at Saw. Pizza was good at Post Office Pies but they need to put more basil on a pizza advertised as a white basil pizza, not 5 little scraps.
RangerThis is off the beaten path a bit, but it has its perks. Here you can find potable water from the spickets all year long. It is essentially a large field with some very large loblolly pines. The nights sky is wonderful. Also, from here you can link together 22 miles worth of trail. We rode our bikes, the trails are more geared for the equestrian rider, but was friendly enough for bikes. We enjoyed staying here after being out of cell service for a few days at brushy lake, so we were able to catch up and coordinate our next destination. As far as campground amenties outside of whats already been covered there are a had full of picnic tables and a pit toilet.
Cost is $5 a night or $3 for day use. 2 bars of Verizon 4G LTE.
GuideWe stayed at the equestrian campground at Oak Mountain. It was very nice and quiet. Once you go through the gate take your first left and keep driving. We only stayed 2 nights and didn't get to see everything they have at the park. We want to go back!
Equestrian camping near Hayden, Alabama offers trail access across varied terrains within Bankhead National Forest and surrounding areas. The region features hardwood forests at elevations ranging from 500-1,000 feet with humidity levels averaging 70-80% during summer months. Campsites typically require advance booking during peak spring and fall seasons when temperatures range from 65-85°F.
Trail riding through Bankhead National Forest: Connect directly to extensive trail networks from Owl Creek Horse Camp where riders can access 22 miles of interconnected paths. "We rode our bikes, the trails are more geared for the equestrian rider, but was friendly enough for bikes," notes camper Gregg G., who appreciated that "from here you can link together 22 miles worth of trail."
Water activities at Lake Guntersville: The 69,000-acre reservoir offers fishing, boating and swimming opportunities just 45 minutes from Hayden. Lake Guntersville State Park Campground provides waterfront access. According to Alanna R., "Can't beat Lake Guntersville for beauty and nature," while another visitor mentions "great fishing and watersports" available directly from the park.
Explore Oak Mountain State Park: Located approximately 35 miles from Hayden, this park features multiple recreational options beyond just horseback riding. "Oak Mountain is a big state park with lots to do (golf, biking, archery, lots of trails that are very well marked, petting zoo, very neat trail with rescued owls, turkeys and red hawks, and more)," reports Scott C.
Clean facilities at farms and state parks: Horseback riders appreciate well-maintained amenities. At Faye Whittemore Farms Inc, visitors note the "clean washrooms and near campsite" according to Adrienne D., while others appreciate that "the campground is very nice and woodsy" with proper utility hookups for comfort.
Multiple trail difficulty levels: The region offers paths for various skill levels. In Sipsey Wilderness, trails follow "intersecting creeks, streams, and rivers that play together with the many waterfalls and magical rock faces," according to Asher K., who recommends visiting in "either fall or spring since the summer can be particularly hot and buggy."
Year-round water sources: Several campgrounds maintain reliable water access regardless of season. At Sipsey Wilderness Backcountry Site, there's "easy access to the river for pumping water" and sites are "removed from the water enough that there is no concern of flooding" even during seasonal changes.
Seasonal considerations affect trail conditions: River levels fluctuate dramatically throughout the year. In Sipsey Wilderness, kayaking requires timing: "we were told the only time that it was really navigable was in the winter or fall for a couple of days after a major rainfall," reports one visitor who found summer water levels too low.
Cell service varies by location: If connectivity matters, plan accordingly. At Owl Creek Horse Camp, campers report "2 bars of Verizon 4G LTE" while some backcountry areas have no service. One camper valued "staying here after being out of cell service for a few days at brushy lake, so we were able to catch up and coordinate our next destination."
Facility variations between campgrounds: Backcountry Site — Oak Mountain State Park offers more developed amenities than wilderness sites. The park features "multiple bathhouses per campground so you'll always have one nearby" according to Cat, who appreciates how "the campground is easily navigated" despite its size.
Explore wildlife education centers: Oak Mountain State Park includes family-friendly wildlife areas. "You'll never run out of things to do between the endless hiking trails, the museum of wildlife, and the wildlife rescue center," notes Cat, adding that "there's an archery station within the park and a petting farm."
Reserve campsites months ahead for peak seasons: Popular horse camping areas fill quickly, especially during spring and fall. At Lake Guntersville State Park, visitors recommend reserving early and note that "there are several types of sites, monthly, cabins and tent camping" to accommodate different family needs.
Look for multi-activity campgrounds: The best family-friendly options offer alternatives to horseback riding. "There are boat slips (local rentals) and a Pavilion on the water, basketball and tennis courts, playground, shady dog park, splash pad," reports one Lake Guntersville visitor, ensuring family members of all ages find activities.
Check hookup specifications before arrival: Oak Mountain State Park Campground offers extensive options for equestrian camping with full utilities. A visitor details: "I stayed one night in the Equestrian campground. They are all pull thru with a remodeled bathhouse. It was extremely clean."
Confirm campground terrain for larger rigs: Some equestrian campgrounds have limited space for larger setups. While Oak Mountain accommodates larger rigs, Owl Creek Horse Camp is described as "essentially a large field with some very large loblolly pines" that may present challenges for positioning larger vehicles without designated parking areas.
Prepare for limited amenities at horse-focused sites: Many equestrian campgrounds prioritize trail access over RV conveniences. At Owl Creek, "campground amenities outside of what's already been covered there are a handful of picnic tables and a pit toilet" with basic facilities costing "$5 a night or $3 for day use."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Hayden, AL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Hayden, AL is Oak Mountain State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 101 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Hayden, AL?
TheDyrt.com has all 6 equestrian camping locations near Hayden, AL, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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