Oak Mountain State Park provides equestrian facilities 20 miles southeast of Hoover, Alabama in neighboring Pelham. The park encompasses 9,940 acres of wooded terrain with elevation changes offering varied trail experiences for horseback riding. The equestrian campground provides dedicated accommodations for riders and their horses throughout all seasons, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 85-95°F.
What to do
Trail riding experiences: Oak Mountain's extensive bridle trail system winds through diverse landscapes with dedicated routes separate from hiking and mountain biking trails. Riders can explore forested hills, cross streams, and reach scenic overlooks. As one visitor notes, "The bridle trails at Oak Mountain connect riders to various scenic points throughout the park, including lakes, forests, and mountain vistas."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Visit the Oak Mountain State Park Campground wildlife center featuring rescued animals. "Don't miss the TREE TOP NATURE TRAIL!" advises one camper who appreciates the rescue center's owls, hawks and other wildlife.
Water activities: The park's lakes provide fishing and boating opportunities when not riding. "Big lakes for fishing, swimming or canoeing," notes Scott C., making Oak Mountain ideal for multi-day equestrian camping trips with varied activities.
Archery and farm visits: Take a break from riding to visit the archery station or petting farm. "There's an archery station within the park and a petting farm," shares a regular visitor to Backcountry Site — Oak Mountain State Park.
What campers like
Renovated facilities: The equestrian campground features recently updated amenities. "They put a massive amount of money into updating this place. This is the #1 best state park campground I have ever been at," reports Soren B., highlighting the significant improvements.
Clean accommodations: Visitors consistently mention facility cleanliness. "Shower house and bathrooms clean and big. Gorgeous views. Lots of things to do in the park," writes maureen L., emphasizing the well-maintained facilities that enhance the equestrian camping experience.
Spacious sites: The pull-through sites accommodate rigs with horse trailers. "A great State Park. I stayed one night in the Equestrian campground. They are all pull thru with a remodeled bathhouse. It was extremely clean," shares Melinda S.
Connectivity: Unlike many remote equestrian camps, Oak Mountain provides reliable communications. "It has wifi throughout and almost everywhere in the park has cell reception," notes a regular visitor, which helps when coordinating multi-day trail rides or checking weather conditions.
What you should know
Reservation recommendations: Secure sites in advance, especially during weekends and peak seasons. Equestrian sites book quickly due to limited availability and popularity. "Reserved 363 days prior to arriving," mentions one camper at Chilton County Minooka Park, highlighting the importance of advance planning.
Trail regulations: Horses are restricted to designated bridle trails only. All trails are well-marked with color-coded signs, and riders must stay on authorized routes to protect natural resources and ensure safety.
Entrance logistics: Navigation can be challenging with horse trailers. "Poor signage upon entering Park... recommend North entrance/exit until construction is completed," advises one visitor, noting the south entrance has tight roundabout construction.
Alternative equestrian options: For additional riding opportunities, "Minooka is a really fun place. They just added several tv hookups and have an almost new bath house with large showers," according to Chris B., making it another option for horse enthusiasts.
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Oak Mountain offers wildlife education programs for children. "I've been going here since I was a kid and it's one of my favorite places in the world. You'll never run out of things to do between the endless hiking trails, the museum of wildlife, and the wildlife rescue center," shares a visitor named Cat.
Accessibility considerations: Some equestrian trails are suitable for beginning riders while others require experience. Choose routes appropriate for your family's skill level and consider scheduling guided rides for novices.
Multi-activity planning: Schedule non-riding activities between trail rides. "Great camping area for RV's or tents. Big lakes for fishing, swimming or canoeing," notes Scott C. at Faye Whittemore Farms Inc, suggesting how to balance riding with other recreation.
Proximity to amenities: Equestrian camping provides wilderness experience with convenient access to services. "All major shopping and eateries just beyond the park boundaries in Pelham, Hoover and Birmingham," mentions one reviewer, making it easy to restock supplies during extended stays.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Request shaded equestrian sites during summer months. "A30 level site and nearly full shade coverage," reports one RVer, noting the importance of shade for both horses and humans during hot Alabama summers.
Hookup considerations: Equestrian sites include full hookups with 50-amp service, but some report occasional electrical issues during peak usage. Bring surge protectors and prepare for potential fluctuations.
Parking logistics: Horse trailer parking requires planning. "Limited and very tight rig parking at campground gate check-in," notes one RVer at Bama RV Station, advising arrivals during daylight hours. "Definitely a parking lot, without trees. We are in site 9, pretty level gravel site, electric and water hookup only."
Dump station access: The equestrian area provides access to sanitary dump stations, but they can get congested during busy checkout times. Plan accordingly or use facilities during off-peak hours.
