Dispersed camping options near Mentone, Alabama provide economical alternatives for outdoor recreation. Located in the Cumberland Plateau region with elevations around 1,700 feet, these areas experience cooler temperatures than surrounding lowlands. Seasonal road closures affect accessibility, with several sites closed between December and March due to hunting seasons or weather conditions.
What to do
Hiking near swimming holes: Blue Hole Dispersed in Crockford-Pigeon Mountain Wildlife Management Area provides access to natural water features. "It has a blue hole and caves no electricity or running water but the camp sites are pretty good," notes Michael M. about this Georgia location.
Fishing opportunities: Davis Pond at Prentice Cooper State Forest offers freshwater fishing without crowds. "My husband caught several large mouth bass in the pond too (catch and release)," reports Lori H. The small fishing pond provides a peaceful setting away from busier recreational areas.
Trail exploration: Multiple trails connect to camping areas for day hikes. At Walls of Jericho Trailhead Campsite, "This site and trailhead serves both the Walls of Jericho trail and the Bear Den Point Loop Trail," explains Steve V. The trailhead position creates convenient access for early morning starts.
What campers like
Solitude and privacy: Many dispersed sites offer isolation from crowds and urban noise. At Tennessee Wall Camp, campers find "Beautiful sites, close quarters with other campers" but still report that "With respectful campers nearby, this is a great spot to spend a relaxing night," according to Suzie K.
Free accommodations: No-cost camping remains a significant draw for budget travelers seeking rustic experiences near Mentone. "We stayed 3 days 2 nights here in our 21' pop up camper with our generator. Road is pretty well maintained, spots are good size," reports Ava R. about Blue Hole Dispersed.
Natural settings: Campsites positioned near water features provide both scenery and practical benefits. One camper at Prentice Cooper State Forest described it as "basically like having your own small park in the middle of the mountains on a small bass pond." The forest environments around these sites support wildlife viewing opportunities.
What you should know
Variable road conditions: Access roads deteriorate after rain or during winter months. At Hidden Creek Campground, "We went right which goes up, passed an open gate followed the road LOTS OF DEEP POTHOLES," warns Robyn W. Another visitor notes, "A little farther off the highway than I wanted to go, but definitely a solid free campsite. There are a few substantial pot holes, so wouldn't recommend for someone driving a super low vehicle."
Seasonal closures: Hunting seasons affect availability of some dispersed camping areas. "Very important reminder. This is a beautiful WMA area with tons of offshoots along a service road for camping, but please note, 99% of areas are closed between December and March," reports Raymond H. about Prentice Cooper.
Campsite variations: Quality and size of sites vary considerably. "Land pass required. No alcohol is permitted. This is a wildlife management area. The camp sites are first come, first serve. They are free. Only 2 sites with tables. If you like dispersed camping you'll probably enjoy it," explains Sarah H. about Blue Hole.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategies: Choose established sites with level ground for easier setup with children. "This site is 3 separate clearings near the trailhead and parking with small fire pits. They work in a pinch if you get here late and don't want to hike in or if you want to car camp and hike to the falls without gear," advises Asher K. about Walls of Jericho Trailhead.
Wildlife awareness: Prepare children for wildlife encounters common in these areas. Trailhead camping provides safer alternatives to deeper backcountry sites with younger family members.
Water planning: No potable water exists at most dispersed sites. "Be aware that you will have to go a little ways down the trail to find water," notes a camper at Walls of Jericho. Plan water usage carefully or bring sufficient supplies for your family's needs.
Tips from RVers
Generator considerations: Some sites permit generator use while others restrict it. "We stayed 3 days 2 nights here in our 21' pop up camper with our generator," notes one visitor to Blue Hole Dispersed, confirming electricity options for smaller trailers.
Size limitations: Larger RVs face challenges at most dispersed sites around Mentone. "Spots are good size, some only large enough for tent/car camping," reports a camper about Blue Hole Dispersed, indicating variable capacity for vehicles.
Parking logistics: Consider separating vehicles from camping setups at sites with limited space. "The only thing here was disappointment and the realization that I needed to go somewhere else," warns Kevin C. about attempting to camp directly in the Walls of Jericho parking area with a larger vehicle.
