Coleman Lake Recreation Area offers designated camping for horse owners in Talladega National Forest, located 35 miles from Jacksonville, Alabama. This equestrian campground sits at an elevation of 1,200 feet, providing cooler temperatures in summer months. Camping spots accommodate trailers with space for horses, though campers should note that GPS directions often route through difficult mountain roads.
What to do
Trail riding on Pinhoti Trail: The Pinhoti Trail runs directly past Coleman Lake, offering excellent access for day rides. "We have been camping here all my life. It is one of my favorite campgrounds. Sites are first come, first serve, water and electric. There is a campground host on duty. A campground for equestrians is near the main campground. The Pinhoti Trail that extends from south Alabama to north Georgia goes right beside the lake and is a great section hike," notes Amanda D. at Coleman Lake Recreation Area.
Rock climbing adventures: Cherokee Rock Village provides excellent climbing opportunities for all skill levels. "This place is a hidden gem! We camped at one of the primitive sites under a huge boulder. Wonderful climbing and spectacular views! They also have clean bathrooms with a shower, covered picnic tables and a playground centrally located," shares Dori H. at Cherokee Rock Village.
Fishing at nearby lakes: Multiple water bodies near Jacksonville offer fishing opportunities. "Lake is pretty and fish are accommodating. We had site #30, and did not feel crowded at all despite the campground being full," reports David M. about Coleman Lake.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathhouses and common areas. "Great hike around the lake and boatramp for trolling motors only. Great camping option for first come. Glad to get plenty of options for sites. Long drive in. Hosts were great and even deliver firewood to your site. Clean bathrooms, showers, and overall campground," writes Wendy L. about Coleman Lake Recreation Area.
Family-friendly activities: Lake Guntersville State Park Campground offers numerous recreation options. "The general store was stocked with necessities, as well as souvenirs. There are several types of sites, monthly, cabins and tent camping. There are boat slips and a Pavilion on the water, basketball and tennis courts, playground, shady dog park, splash pad, and clean bathhouses," reports L&A C.
Quiet natural settings: Horse camps near Jacksonville provide peaceful environments. "This is a family-friendly campground. The quiet is nice, however all lights were out by 9, which was a little early for me and my group. Nice bathhouse and good amount of space for each site. It was also nice being right by the lake," notes Jess N. about Coleman Lake.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Prepare for disconnection in some areas. "This is an incredibly family forward campground. I camped there on Halloween with my grandkids. My Frankie's dressed in costume for me but the camp host saw them and made a point of inviting them for campground trick or treating. Almost every camp site gave candy and the kid turn out was impressive. The only negative is that there is absolutely no cell service at all. The nearest reliable service is literally 6 miles down the road," explains Evan S. about Coleman Lake.
Road access challenges: Some equestrian campgrounds have difficult access roads. "Great campground. Secluded with electrical and water hookups. Make sure you use Highway 78 to enter. Google Maps will send you on a 11.5 mile mountain trail (Dugger Mountain Road) that is a dirt 2 track over the mountain...an interesting trip with a camper," warns Micheal S.
Primitive equestrian sites: Horse camping areas typically offer basic amenities. "We stayed in the equine section. Total of 12 sites. Only 3 of us there. Nice and quiet," reports Shirley D. at Little Tallapoosa Park.
Tips for camping with families
Halloween events: Some horse campgrounds host seasonal activities. "This is an incredibly family forward campground. I camped there on Halloween with my grandkids. My Frankie's dressed in costume for me but the camp host saw them and made a point of inviting them for campground trick or treating. Almost every camp site gave candy and the kid turn out was impressive," shares Evan S. about Coleman Lake.
Splash parks for hot days: Water features provide relief during warmer months. "Just got home from a great weekend at LTP. Sites are nice we were at site 11 pull thru with full hook up. Splash park was fun and clean for the kids as well as really nice walking trails we enjoyed," notes Andy M. about Little Tallapoosa Park.
Kid-friendly fishing spots: Several lakes near Jacksonville offer accessible fishing. "This is a great camping spot with a beautiful lake. The trail around the lake was perfect. Caught 3 bass in the lake. You can't beat the price," writes Jason G. about Coleman Lake Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Level sites: Equestrian campgrounds often feature well-maintained RV spots. "Nice little lake to play on and around. Very family and pet friendly. Restrooms and showers exceptionally clean. Not alot of paid spots with water electricity and first come first serve so no reservations. Plenty of dispersed throughout the area though," Steven W. notes about Coleman Lake.
Full hookup options: Some parks offer complete amenities. "Great RV park that is owned and ran by the county. We stayed in the horse camp section because the RV area was full. They use the horse camp area as overflow. Plenty of space there with power and water. Sewer hookup is only available in the RV section. Tons of walking/horse trails to go along with a creek and a couple of lakes," explains Hollis K. about Little Tallapoosa Park.
Shade considerations: Some campgrounds have limited tree cover. "A few years ago a tornado took out a lot of the big pines so it's a bit hot with very little shade. But it's still the best place to camp around Guntersville!" advises Greg H. about Lake Guntersville State Park.
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