Tent campsites near Mentone, Alabama offer varying terrain and camping experiences based on elevation and seasonal conditions. Positioned at approximately 1,700 feet above sea level on Lookout Mountain, the area's temperature often runs 5-10 degrees cooler than surrounding lowlands. Most campsites require advance planning as the primitive locations have limited amenities and water sources can be seasonal.
What to do
Swimming at natural pools: Blue Hole in Crockford-Pigeon Mountain Wildlife Management Area provides a natural swimming spot 30 miles from Mentone. One visitor noted, "It has a blue hole and caves, no electricity or running water but the camp sites are pretty good. An the do have a handicap access area for rvs to do disperse camping also an parking for the bluehole" according to Michael M.
Rock climbing access: Sawmill Lake Campsite serves as a base for climbers heading to Rocktown. A camper explained, "If you're looking for amazing scenery, this is not the place. It is, however, a free, primitive camping site just a short 5 min drive (or walk) from the Rocktown trailhead. The close proximity to the many wonders of Rocktown is a dream for climbers."
Waterfall exploration: Camping near Foster Falls Campground lets you access multiple waterfalls within South Cumberland State Park. "Foster Falls is right around the corner and you can even take a dip in the little waterfall pool when it isn't too hot out!" according to Jessica L., who camped there.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Campers appreciate the privacy at Little River Adventure Company, where Dakota F. reports, "It's completely different than any other campground we've been to in the sense that the campsites are secluded and private."
Spacious sites: Many campsites offer substantial room between neighbors. "Our site was flat, spacious, and easy to unload and set up on. The rest of the sites also looked very spacious and fairly flat," noted John S. at Little River Adventure Company.
Wilderness camping feel: At Hurricane Creek Campground with only two primitive sites, campers enjoy true disconnection from crowds. Jake C. describes it as "a great spot for those looking to disconnect and enjoy some time in the southeast."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many access roads to primitive sites near Mentone require high-clearance vehicles. At Hidden Creek Campground, one reviewer warned, "We went right which goes up, passed an open gate followed the road LOTS OF DEEP POTHOLES... Our truck is pretty high and 4x4 so wasn't too bad for us but a low car may not fair as well."
Permit requirements: Land permits are needed at some camping areas. For Blue Hole Dispersed camping, Sarah H. advises, "Land pass required. No alcohol is permitted. This is a wildlife management area. The camp sites are first come, first serve."
Bathroom facilities: Bathroom access varies dramatically between sites. A reviewer at Little River Adventure Company noted the "'Bathhouse' advertised was a freezing shed with a horse trough as a shower that was a quarter mile from all of the sites."
Legend
