Talladega National Forest near Lineville, Alabama contains Alabama's highest point at 2,413 feet in Cheaha State Park. The region features multiple interconnected trail systems across diverse terrain with elevations ranging from 600 to 2,400 feet. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing at higher elevations, requiring proper preparation for overnight stays.
What to do
Explore Cave Creek Trail: Short hikes from the Cave Creek Trail Backcountry Campground lead to impressive viewpoints. "If you are through hiking the Pinhoti or doing one of the many Loop hikes in the area it is definitely worth checking out this site. There is a great overlook only a short hike away and the site itself is very large, level, and built up from many previous campers," notes Asher K.
Visit Lake Recreation Areas: Lake Chinnabee Recreation Area offers swimming and short hiking opportunities during its March to December open season. "The short hike to the gorgeous falls is perfect for the kids. While you can continue on for miles if you wish, we prefer to stay at the water and climb the little falls," reports Bethany M. The lake has boat access and multiple picnic areas.
Search for historical sites: Hidden off-trail features include a 1972 plane crash site. "Just past McDill, there is a side trail that takes you to debris from a 1972 plane crash site," writes Nancy C. Other hikers confirm: "Be sure to check out the crashed plane on the way up which you find just off the trail about a quarter mile before the site."
What campers like
Ridge-top camping views: The Skyways Loop Campground with view earns praise for its panoramic vistas. "This is 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... There is ample room for multiple tents and the firepit is large with logs set around for sitting on," writes Asher K.
Waterfall proximity: Many campers prefer sites near water features. "This walk in campsite is right next to the waterfalls. Tons of exploring can be done around camp or you could extend the trails and explore Devils Den Falls as well! There is an established fire ring, lots of flat places for tents and lots of trees for hammocks," reports Shana D. about Cheaha Falls Campground.
Private backcountry options: For those seeking solitude, less-trafficked sites provide better privacy. "You can keep going further up the creek to find additional sites. Although the sites themselves are not so different from the ones right near the falls they are definitely more private and provide a little bit more space to spread out," notes Asher K. about the Cheaha Falls Private Backcountry Campsite.
What you should know
Water source planning: Many ridge-top sites lack reliable water access. "The only downside I would have to say to staying at this campground is that it has almost no option for filling up water. If you are coming from the north you should pass a few places to fill up after you climb up the mountain and hit the large group campsites."
Trail navigation challenges: Some campsites require careful navigation. "It can be a little challenging to find so make sure to put the coordinates in your phone and that should help you figure out which trail to take," advises Asher K. about reaching McDill Point Backcountry.
Seasonal closures: Check operating dates for recreation areas. "The one major caution is to check the seasons that the site is open since it was locked up when we were there. We ended up parking at the gate and walking down the road a mile where we met up with friends who had hiked in from a different area," warns a Lake Chinnabee visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Lake activities: "The kids love the lake and the pool, and there is an easy walk on a boardwalk with amazing views at the end on days when the kids don't feel like hiking. Right by the lake is a trailhead that leads up to more amazing views," shares Bethany M. about Upper Improved Campground — Cheaha State Park.
Kid-friendly amenities: "For tents: Sites vary. There is adequate space between them. Some have electric some don't. Some have rock beds, some have grass beds (but there are hidden big rocks in the grass making it hard to find a good smooth spot). Decent little slide for kids and some awesome rocks for kids to climb (5 yrs and up or good climbers)."
Group site options: Large groups with children should consider spacious sites. "Not far up the trail from the Turnipseed campground, you reach a giant tree standing in front of a small creek... if instead 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," describes Asher K. about Chinnabee Silent Trail Backcountry Site 2.
Tips from RVers
Campground elevation differences: RV campers note significant variations between upper and lower campgrounds. "We stayed at the lower improved campground and enjoyed it. The RV next to us said the upper improved campground is even nicer, but because they are gated, we couldn't drive through to see. Because they are gated, there is little traffic driving through."
Site layout considerations: Some RV sites have unusual configurations. "A few of the pull-though sites have the road in front of your camper (as opposed to behind) leaving no room to use your awning; the picnic table and fire ring are behind/beside your camper," notes Jeffrey S.
Connectivity limitations: Cell service varies significantly across dog friendly campgrounds near Lineville. "No wifi or cell service; but we loved being disconnected," reports Emily C., indicating that campers needing connectivity should plan accordingly when selecting sites.
