Best Dispersed Camping near Moody, AL

Dispersed camping opportunities near Moody, Alabama are concentrated in the Talladega National Forest, primarily along the Chinnabee Silent Trail and Skyway Loop areas. These primitive sites require hike-in access and offer no facilities. The Skyway Loop Backcountry Site Near Chinnabee serves as a popular starting point, situated at a trail junction with established fire rings and flat tent areas. According to recent reviews, this site "has been cleaned up and expanded" and features "easy access to water" with "the creek running right alongside."

Most backcountry sites in this region are free with no permits required. Fires are permitted at established rings, but water availability varies seasonally. Campers report that "water levels can be low in winter or mid-summer," making it essential to fill containers when crossing streams. Several sites along Chinnabee Silent Trail provide reliable water access, with one reviewer noting a site that is "right next to a creek for an easy water source and about 50 yards down a side trail so it's nice and private."

The optimal camping seasons are spring and early summer when wildflowers bloom and water levels remain high. Summer brings hot, humid conditions with increased insect activity. Many sites accommodate both tent and hammock camping, with varying capacities from solo spots to group areas. The Chinnabee Silent Trail Backcountry Site 2 is particularly spacious, described as "a large site with two established firepits and multiple cleared areas for tents." Practice Leave No Trace principles in all backcountry areas, pack out all trash, and use only established fire rings. Water from natural sources should be treated before consumption.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Moody, Alabama (18)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Moody, AL

3 Photos of 18 Moody Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Moody, AL

20 Reviews of 18 Moody Campgrounds


  • Asher K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2020

    Chinnabee Silent Trail Backcountry Site 5

    Large secluded site

    As I noted in several of my other reviews check out my review of the Sipsey falls campground for a comprehensive account of my favorite hiking and camping in the area. 

    This campsite in particular is located on a small ridge after passing the Sipsey falls area. It is fairly large with two established firepits and multiple cleared areas for tents. It also has plenty of trees for setting up hammocks. I like this site in particular since it is one of the less crowded spots. I only give it 4 stars however since if available some of the best sites are right next to Sipsey falls a little further along where you have access to water for pumping and swimming when the weather is right. 

    As always make sure to leave no trace and make the site cleaner than when you found it.

  • Asher K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2020

    Chinnabee Silent Trail Backcountry Site 4

    Parking Lot Site

    Check out my other reviews of this trail to get a better picture of the backpacking options in the area. Talladega national forest has some amazing trails and campsites available. 

    This particular site is located a short way into the woods from the parking area for the Chinnabee silent trailhead and not far from the Turnipseed campground. It is at the intersection of two trails leading down from the main road. It could work for several tents in the dry season but we somewhat waterlogged when we were there in the spring. Not the worst last-minute place to set up camp but there are much better sites further along the trail.

  • Asher K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2023

    Skyway Loop Backcountry Site Near Chinnabee

    Improved since last visit

    This site has been cleaned up and expanded since I last stayed here. The space is in a really beautiful area near the parking area for Lake Chinnabee and a few minutes down the trail from Devil's Den Falls. It has an established fire pit and several clear flat areas for tents. The creek runs right alongside so there is easy access to water and it provides a peaceful background sound during the night. Another nice feature of this campground is that it sits at the intersection of multiple trails.

  • Weather Warrior Media -.
    Jul. 2, 2024

    Hollins Hunting Camp

    Average but good

    This has a good road and decent open spots to set-up. Overlanders (w/rtt) will be the most happy. Open areas have tall grass a but, but some have enough pine trees the pine needles make for better ground camping. Small camper trailers could probably make it too. Just be mindful of turn around spots.

    I arrived late so harder to find spots. Mid-week so no one else here.

    -Lacked good signage on the last turn. -No facilities (as expected) -Open to sky (took awesome star pics here)

  • Peyton P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Hollins Hunting Camp

    Open and quiet

    Best for overlanding/camper/tents. No marked sites, just pull in and find a spot. I got in around 8 and there were only a couple people here, lots of space and easy to find a private spot. Hardly any bugs, no amenities

  • Asher K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 12, 2021

    Weogufka State Forest Backcountry Site 1

    Platform on old building site

    This site appears to have a platform that was built to set up a tent on where an old building used to stand. The fireplace is the only part that is still in place which would actually be kind of nice to use on a cold night. There are even metal rings installed on the platform that you could use to attach a rain fly. Overall this is very near to the Pinhoti southern terminus so you won't get much distance covered if you camp here but it could work for a late start. There is also a nearby shelter which is my preference but this could be a backup if that gets a little crowded. The other downside to this site is that there is not any water right here so you will either have to carry it in or hike down to one of the nearby streams to fill up. However, it is a pretty cool looking area and deffinitely worth checking out even if you don't stay the night.

  • Asher K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 30, 2021

    Riverside Skyway Loop Backcountry Site

    Small with water access

    This site is another of the small backcountry sites along the river between Cheaha Falls and Lake Chinnabee. Make sure to check out my review of Cheaha Falls Campground where I discuss the entire loop and the best times of year to visit. Although this campground isn’t as nice as others in the area it has easy access to water and is small and private so you won't have anyone else crowding your space. It is also a great option when the other spots can fill up during busy times such as holiday weekends in the spring or fall. This campground also has easy access to the many waterfalls that are up the trail and is not too far from the parking at Lake Chinnabee. This campground has a level area for either 1 or 2 tents, a fire ring, and access to flowing water. The best time to visit is either late spring or early summer when the flowers are blooming and the weather is warm enough to swim. But be aware it can get pretty hot and muggy late in the summer.

  • Asher K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 30, 2020

    Chinnabee Silent Trail Backcountry Site 3

    On the way to the falls

    Check out the video included to get a full review of the site. In summary, this is a nice backcountry campsite a short walk in from the chinnabee silent parking area. It has a nice large flat area for setting up several tents. The only negative is that it doesn't have as easy water access as some of the other sites in the area.

  • Asher K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 1, 2018

    Group Camp near Blue Mountain Shelter — Cheaha State Park

    Group Backpacking Site

    This is a backcountry site right along the trail that you pass a minute or two before you get to the Blue Mountain Shelter. I have linked to that review and I highly suggest checking it out first since it covers some of the directions for hiking into this area. This specific site is more suited for groups however since it has multiple flat areas for lots of tents and several fire pits if you want to spread out. You can set up camp here and hike further on to get to some of the nearby viewpoints which are well worth the trek. This site isn’t that special but practical if you need the space and want to have a nice jumping off point to see some of the other sites in the area.


Guide to Moody

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Moody, Alabama, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities. With several options available, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with nature.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Moody, Alabama

  • When visiting the Riverside Skyway Loop Backcountry Site, be prepared for a small, private area that offers easy access to flowing water, making it a great choice for those looking to escape the crowds.
  • The Hollins Hunting Camp provides open spots suitable for overlanders and tent campers alike, with a good road for access and plenty of space for setting up.
  • If you're looking for a secluded experience, the Chinnabee Silent Trail Backcountry Site 5 features a large area with multiple firepits, perfect for larger groups wanting to spread out.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out the Chinnabee Trail

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Moody, AL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Moody, AL is Skyway Loop Backcountry Site Near Chinnabee with a 4.5-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Moody, AL?

TheDyrt.com has all 18 dispersed camping locations near Moody, AL, with real photos and reviews from campers.