Camping sites near Hodges, Alabama center around several reservoirs and waterways created by the Bear Creek Development Authority. The region sits within a forested section of northwest Alabama at elevations averaging 600-700 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically reach the 90s with high humidity, making waterfront camping locations particularly desirable during peak season.
What to do
Water activities on Bear Creek: The interconnected waterway system requires permits for access ($3 daily or $10 for three days). Visitors at Twin Forks Campground enjoy multiple water access points. "This is a nice clean and quiet campground. It offers both RV and primitive camping. The campground is right on the water," notes a camper.
Hiking at Dismals Canyon: The unique geological formations host rare bioluminescent creatures visible during guided night tours. A visitor at Dismals Canyon Cabins and Primitive Campsites shared, "We got there pretty late (after dark) for setting up camp, and I do not recommend doing that. It's about a quarter of a mile walk to the campsite, but the site is absolutely gorgeous!"
Fishing opportunities: Bay Springs Lake provides excellent fishing conditions throughout the camping season. A visitor at Piney Grove Campground remarked, "Nice sites. I enjoy fishing Bay Springs," highlighting the accessible fishing spots available to campers.
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Many camping areas feature direct lake or creek access with ample space between campsites. At Piney Grove Campground, a camper noted, "We chose a waterfront spot and we literally had our own beach in front of our RV. So beautiful!"
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the region maintain well-kept amenities despite rural locations. A visitor at Tishomingo State Park Campground reported, "Showers were very hot and the bathrooms were very clean! The best part was the price. I showed up without a reservation and got two nights with water and electric service for real cheap compared to everywhere else."
Kid-friendly areas: Several campgrounds include designated play spaces for children. At Twin Forks, a reviewer observed, "There was a huge open grass area where all the kids would gather and play," making it suitable for family camping trips.
What you should know
Reservation policies vary: While some campgrounds require advance booking, others operate first-come, first-served. A camper at Twin Forks noted, "This campground is a first come first serve and do not take reservations, but if you call the day of you can pay over the phone to ensure you have a spot."
Site levelness challenges: Some campgrounds feature uneven terrain requiring preparation. At Dismals Canyon, a visitor warned, "Totally eroded with no level spot for a tent. Not an enjoyable camping experience for a really cool place."
Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds in the region operate from March through October or November. As indicated by a camper at Whitten Park Campground, "We came on a Wednesday and were pretty much by ourselves. Both Thursday and Friday campers started coming in around 11:30 AM filling up the CG."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Select sites near recreational facilities for convenience with children. A camper at Piney Grove advised, "We stayed on site 90. Pull through. Decently level. Good site for those with children."
Swimming areas: Natural water features provide swimming opportunities during hot months. One visitor at Elliot Branch - Bear Creek Dev Auth shared, "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!"
Avoid basketball court sites: Noise levels can disrupt family camping experiences. A reviewer at Piney Grove recommended, "I would recommend avoiding sites that back up to the basketball courts unless you have younger kids and are fine with the noise level."
Tips from RVers
Electrical service information: Most campgrounds offer 30-amp service, with some providing 50-amp hookups. An RVer at Whitten Park mentioned, "Site 9 with water and electric(50/30/20 AMP). This was our third time camping at Whitten and we were delighted to find that they had combined site 8 and 9 into one long site."
Site levelness concerns: Some RV sites require leveling equipment. A visitor at Twin Forks noted, "We reserved a waterfront spot, but our rig wouldn't fit despite the website saying so, no biggy though. Was able to swap spots and enjoyed our stay."
Cell connectivity: Service varies significantly throughout the area. One RVer reported, "I have AT&T cell phones and T-mobile cellular modem. Both have 4g lte with 3bars of signal strength. TV and Computer on T-mobile with minimal buffering on TV in site 50."
