Dispersed camping near Hollins, Alabama centers around the Talladega National Forest where elevation ranges from 600 to 2,400 feet above sea level. The forest encompasses over 392,000 acres with mixed pine and hardwood forests providing natural wind protection at many backcountry sites. Winter temperatures typically range from 30-50°F while summer temperatures consistently reach above 85°F with high humidity.
What to do
Backcountry hiking with overnight stays: The Pinhoti Trail offers multiple primitive camping options near Hollins. At Pinhoti Backcountry Campground near Odum Intersection, campers will find "a nice protected area a short way off the trail near the intersection of the Pinhoti and the Odum trail" with "several large boulders that work well to block the wind."
Waterfall exploration: Devils Den Falls is accessible from several primitive sites. Campers at Chinnabee Silent Trail Backcountry Site 7 appreciate how "close it is to the waterfall so you could set up camp and go for a nice evening swim before cooking dinner."
Ridge hiking with panoramic views: For those willing to climb, the ridge trails offer exceptional views. One camper at Skyways Loop Campground with view notes it's "by far my favorite campground to stay at if you are planning on spending the night on the ridge while doing the Skyway loop trail" with "really great spots right near the edge that you could set up a hammock and enjoy the view while you fall asleep."
What campers like
Large group accommodations: Several backcountry sites can handle bigger groups. The Pinhoti Backcountry Campground near Odum Trail is described as "a large site with a nice fire pit perfect for a large group. Someone also conveniently set up logs for sitting on."
Private, secluded options: Many campers seek sites away from main trails. At Chinnabee Silent Trail Backcountry Site 2, you'll find "a giant tree standing in front of a small creek" and if you "turn right and wander into the woods a short distance you come across an enormous clearing under the tree canopy perfect for a large group to set up camp."
Trail intersections for multi-day options: Campers appreciate sites that connect multiple trails. The Skyway Loop Backcountry Site Near Chinnabee "sits at the intersection of multiple trails" and has been "cleaned up and expanded" with "an established fire pit and several clear flat areas for tents."
What you should know
Water availability varies seasonally: Many water sources can dry up. At Pinhoti Backcountry Campground, water is "seasonal and can be very low in winter. Be prepared to not have water for pumping and bring extra in dry times."
Ridge camping requires preparation: Water access becomes difficult on ridges. For Skyways Loop Campground, "the only downside I would have to say to staying at this campground is that it has almost no option for filling up water."
Parking logistics: Many dispersed sites require careful consideration of parking and access. At Hollins Hunting Camp, "small camper trailers could probably make it too. Just be mindful of turn around spots."
Trail markers and navigation: Some trail junctions can be confusing. The Skyway Loop Backcountry Site Near Chinnabee is "located at a point where the trail splits and either goes to the Lake Chinnabee recreation area or turns and continues on the skyway loop south. This is an important point because if you miss the turn you will get lost."
Tips for camping with families
Consider shorter approach trails: For younger hikers, choose sites with easier access. Chinnabee Silent Trail Backcountry Site 2 "is not such a far trek in from where you park so they will have an easier time hauling gear."
Protection from elements: Look for sites with natural windbreaks for more comfortable family camping. Pinhoti Backcountry Campground near Odum Intersection offers a "protected area" with "large boulders that work well to block the wind and make this a more comfortable space in bad weather."
Multiple tent options: Families need space to spread out. Chinnabee Silent Trail Backcountry Site 2 is "a nice open area in a pine thicket" that "has 2 fire rings and is big enough for even large groups to spread out."
Trail difficulty considerations: Assess the approach trail before bringing children. While the Skyway Loop offers beautiful sites, remember that you'll need to "do some serious climbing to get up to the ridge."
Tips from RVers
Vehicle clearance concerns: Most primitive sites near Hollins are not suitable for RVs. At Hollins Hunting Camp, one camper noted it's "best for overlanding/camper/tents" with "no marked sites, just pull in and find a spot."
Better for specific vehicle types: Consider your vehicle capabilities carefully. Hollins Hunting Camp has "a good road and decent open spots to set-up" where "overlanders (w/rtt) will be the most happy" while "small camper trailers could probably make it too."
Space for maneuvering: Sites often have limited turn-around space. Be prepared for "open areas [with] tall grass" at Hollins Hunting Camp, and remember that sites lack facilities so prepare accordingly.
