Owl Creek Horse Camp provides equestrian-focused camping in Bankhead National Forest with direct access to over 22 miles of riding trails. The large field site features loblolly pines and year-round potable water from spigots. Located at 34.32 degrees latitude and 87.24 degrees longitude, the campground serves as a connection point to the broader Sipsey Wilderness trail network. Nightly rates are $5 per night or $3 for day use, with Verizon cellular coverage available across the grounds.
What to do
Trail riding access: Riders at Owl Creek can link together approximately 22 miles of paths designed primarily for horses but also suitable for mountain bikes. As one visitor noted, "We rode our bikes, the trails are more geared for the equestrian rider, but was friendly enough for bikes."
Night sky observation: The campground offers exceptional stargazing opportunities away from city lights. According to a camper at Owl Creek Horse Camp, "The nights sky is wonderful" with minimal light pollution allowing clear views of stars and constellations.
Visit Sipsey Wilderness: Non-riders staying at horse campgrounds near Mount Hope, Alabama can explore nearby hiking options. One visitor explained, "For people like me who are more hikers than riders you just drive 15 min down the road and you are right in the heart of Sipsey Wilderness."
What campers like
Reliable connectivity: Unlike more remote camping spots, Owl Creek provides cell service for those needing to stay connected. One reviewer appreciated that "We enjoyed staying here after being out of cell service for a few days at brushy lake, so we were able to catch up and coordinate our next destination."
Wooded privacy with town access: Faye Whittemore Farms offers an alternative equestrian camping option with more amenities. A regular visitor noted, "The campground is very nice and woodsy. The campsites have water and electric hookups. They have nice paddocks for your horses."
Convenient facilities: Basic amenities make extended stays more comfortable. A camper mentioned, "As far as campground amenities outside of what's already been covered there are a handful of picnic tables and a pit toilet."
What you should know
Seasonal water levels: The Sipsey Wilderness area experiences significant water level changes throughout the year affecting activities. A visitor to Sipsey Wilderness Backcountry shared, "With that plan out the window, we decided instead to throw some packs in the car and move our gear around to make it a semi backpacking/hiking trip."
Multiple entry points: The Bankhead National Forest trail system can be accessed from various trailheads. One experienced camper advised, "The wilderness area is contained within the larger Bankhead National Forest and is accessible from a variety of different trailheads many of which are only reachable on dirt roads."
Limited amenities: Expect basic facilities at wilderness horse campgrounds. A reviewer clarified, "The campground doesn't have much in terms of amenities but if you prefer a little more you can stay at Brushy lake nearby."
Tips for camping with families
Alternative camping options: Backcountry Site — Oak Mountain State Park offers family-friendly alternatives to horse-focused campgrounds. A frequent visitor shared, "I've been going here since I was a kid and it's one of my favorite places in the world. You'll never run out of things to do between the endless hiking trails, the museum of wildlife, and the wildlife rescue center."
Educational opportunities: Several nearby parks include wildlife education centers. As one camper noted, "There's an archery station within the park and a petting farm."
Bathroom accessibility: For families with young children, knowing bathroom locations is crucial. A parent mentioned, "The campground is easily navigated with multiple bathhouses per campground so you'll always have one nearby."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Bama RV Station provides utility options for those wanting more amenities than wilderness horse camps. A camper described, "Quiet campground with 3 dog parks level lots. Numerous sewer as well as non sewer lots."
Budget options: Different pricing tiers exist for various RV camping experiences. One visitor pointed out, "Economy camping option in the economy storage area."
Limited space at primitive sites: Horse campgrounds typically have fewer amenities and space for large rigs. A camper at Owl Creek noted it is "essentially a large field with some very large loblolly pines," which may not accommodate all RV sizes comfortably.
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