Camping near National Forests in Alabama

Looking for the best campgrounds near National Forests in Alabama, AL? National Forests in Alabama is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Find the best campgrounds near National Forests in Alabama, AL. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Best Camping Sites Near National Forests in Alabama (90)

    1. Corinth Recreation Area

    26 Reviews
    Houston, AL
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (205) 300-1513

    $18 - $50 / night

    "**Corinth Recreation Area– USFS **

    Corinth Recreation area is located near the town of Double Springs, Alabama."

    "Well designed campground in the hills of Northern Alabama. Sites are well spaced. Well maintained. The lake is pretty. Each site has fire pit and table."

    2. Clear Creek Recreation Area

    25 Reviews
    Arley, AL
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (205) 300-1463

    $24 - $75 / night

    "While many reviews say the lakeside sites are first come, first serve, under the new management they are all booked in advance online."

    "The perimeter lake lots in the Hoot Owl Loop all had steps or path access from the site to the shore. This would be especially nice in the summer."

    3. Thousand Trails Hidden Cove

    13 Reviews
    Arley, AL
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "Spot are very bigs and a good distance between them. Full hookup sites. Amenitied are very cleans, kids play grounds. Park for walking, biking, use your boat and kayak, boat ramp access."

    "This RV park is right on a lake, but a bit away from anything else. If you have any sort of boat, kayak, paddle board, bring it! There is hiking about an hour away at the Bankhead National Forest."

    4. Brushy Lake Recreation Area

    15 Reviews
    Addison, AL
    12 miles
    Website

    "Campground Review:

    Located right outside of the core part of Sipsey wilderness (William Bankhead) this campground is a great place for people who want to be around other tent campers and want something"

    "Close to Sipsey Wilderness and several waterfalls. Clean and quiet. Short paved walking trail, fishing pier, restrooms/showers."

    5. Houston Recreation Area

    5 Reviews
    Houston, AL
    1 mile
    Website

    "During my time in Alabama, I kept hearing wonderful things about Sipsey Wilderness, and its many waterfalls, rocky landscapes, and great hikes."

    "Close to waterways. The campground is medium sized, dense forests surround the campsites. The amenities are pretty standard."

    6. Thompson Creek Trail Campsites

    10 Reviews
    Bankhead National Forest, AL
    17 miles
    Website

    "This is my favorite place in Alabama. Best hiking in Alabama, possibly the southeast."

    "Campground Review:

    Sipsey is one of the real jewels of Alabama for backpacking and you really feel like you are in another world while wandering though these woods."

    7. Bama Campground & RV Park

    3 Reviews
    Bankhead National Forest, AL
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (844) 922-6746

    $45 - $79 / night

    "This is a great little campground tucked away on the edge of Bankhead National Forest. The location of the campground makes it an excellent location to enjoy the numerous waterfall hikes in the area."

    "Stayed here on an overnight while driving through the state. Great site tucked in the woods, very private area. Huge field with little light pollution to stargaze. Very friendly host. Would Recommend."

    8. Boondock Dispersed Camping Alabama

    4 Reviews
    Bankhead National Forest, AL
    13 miles

    "Great spot, close to stores and a lot of trails and such. Nice level clear spot, able to accommodate an overland or few tents setup. Close to the main road."

    "A previous camper had left behind some kindling, which was cool. Ended up having a little cell reception with T Mobile."

    9. Wolf Pen Hunters Camp

    5 Reviews
    Bankhead National Forest, AL
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (205) 489-5111

    "if you can get there quick enough there are some pretty good spots to camp and it's free not to mention right down the road from some of the best hiking trails I have ever seen open year round"

    10. Hidden Cove Thousand Trails

    2 Reviews
    Arley, AL
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (205) 221-7042

    "Great little campground with awesome access to the lake. Great for Starlink and good AT&T reception."

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Recent Reviews near National Forests in Alabama

294 Reviews of 90 National Forests in Alabama Campgrounds


  • Rae W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Boondock Dispersed Camping Alabama

    Simple & Peaceful

    Nice little spot out in the forest. Spotted the gravel road and went down a little to the first opening. Pretty decent sized clearing. You can hear cars on the road, but it didn’t bother us. Pretty warm, humid, and buggy this time of year, but cooled off through the night.

    The stars were incredible after the moon went down a bit. Lots of bird sounds especially in the morning. A previous camper had left behind some kindling, which was cool. Ended up having a little cell reception with T Mobile.

  • Bobbie S.
    Aug. 29, 2025

    Jay Landings Marina & RV Park

    Beautiful Sunsets

    Absolutely beautiful place to stay with all the needed amenities plus extra! I felt very safe here every day while my husband was at work. They have a shower house, laundry room, several common areas to sit, docs, boat ramp, salt water pool & basketball hoop. But for the noise, this would be a five star place to stay. There is a scrap metal recycling plant beside the campground, a train not too far away (whistle blows at night 😫) and across the river is a nuclear power plant and a refinery. The grounds are very well kept with lovey landscaping, paved roads and level sites with crushed rock and grass. Jessica at the front desk was pleasant and easy to work with. I would absolutely stay here again.

  • Michael C.
    Aug. 28, 2025

    Joe Wheeler State Park Campground

    beautiful RV/Tent sites

    Stayed in A25 RV/Tent spot and had a beautiful view of the lake. Great little hiking trails near by. We ended up in this spot because the dispersed camping area had tornado destruction from years ago. So it was a bit pricey for just tent camping ($46)

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 30, 2025

    Thousand Trails Hidden Cove

    Very nice, quiet campground

    Great campground & people! Only reason for 4 instead of 5 stars is the lack of things to do. No fenced in dog park but plenty of space to have one. Right on the lake but unaware of any kind of rentals available nearby— closest rentals are 40 mins away on the opposite side of the lake. Nearest Walmart is Cullman which is 45 mins away. Wouldn’t recommend staying here if you prefer to be closer to the city but perfect if you want to be in the middle of the woods and have no reason to leave. Very hot, humid and rainy time of year! Would be back in the fall perhaps.

  • Nick E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 23, 2025

    Hidden Cove Thousand Trails

    Clean, Quiet, and Spacious

    Great little campground with awesome access to the lake. Great for Starlink and good AT&T reception.

  • Dave  K.
    May. 10, 2025

    Palomino RV Resort

    Palomino

    Nice concrete pads, park is ran very well by the city...clean and organized campground

  • Anna M.
    Apr. 20, 2025

    Corinth Recreation Area

    It's commercial camping with tons of kids.

    Very expensive, crowded and noisy but what do you expect. The hot water was out in the bath house so no showers. $10/day to enter if you have more than 2 vehicles. Everyone wants to be outside and camping most in large RV's with all the amenities and a dozen loud kids per. This is typical if you are looking for something else you will have to keep looking. Night time quiet hours are not enforced. Spaces are a little closer and tighter than other campgrounds.

  • Michael P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 6, 2025

    Blue Creek Public Use Area

    Totally Relaxing

    I have camped here several times, alway relaxing and restful. Has a latrine, no water or electric. Has boat ramp and camping areas are near pacer park roads. Local traffic is mostly folks going to boat ramp. Camping area is along bluff over looking the River. Second area is in a grove at the end of the paved road and turn around. Ample space, some folks also pull RV down to an area near the boat ramp. Other that the latrine self-contained rustic camping.

  • Jennifer H.
    Mar. 19, 2025

    Bama Campground & RV Park

    Great campground to hike Bankhead National Forest

    This is a great little campground tucked away on the edge of Bankhead National Forest. The location of the campground makes it an excellent location to enjoy the numerous waterfall hikes in the area. The campground was laid out well with spacious gravel sites and full hookups. Sites 2-4 had good views of the pond/field, sites 10-15 backed up to the tree line to provide a little shade all other sites had full sun. The camp host was super friendly and helpful. They have a general store, laundry, bathhouse, and small dog park. The campground has hiking trails on the property if you don’t have time to visit Bankhead NF. If you’re in the area or wanting to spend time in Bankhead NF I’d recommend checking this campground out.


Guide to National Forests in Alabama

Camping near National Forests in Alabama offers a fantastic way to connect with nature while enjoying various outdoor activities. With beautiful landscapes and well-maintained campgrounds, there's something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the scenic trails at Clear Creek Recreation Area. One visitor mentioned, "There’s a great paved trail for biking or walking," making it perfect for families and fitness enthusiasts alike.
  • Fishing and Boating: At Corinth Recreation Area, you can enjoy fishing and boating. A camper shared, "Great trails for kids and we took the canoes out for lots of fun!"
  • Cave Tours: Visit the unique Rickwood Caverns State Park Campground for a cave tour. One reviewer noted, "The caverns have steep stairs...lots and lots of steps," so be prepared for a bit of a workout!

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Brushy Lake Recreation Area. A visitor said, "The bathhouses were spotless and smelled good," which is always a plus when camping.
  • Friendly Staff: Many campers rave about the helpful staff at Hidden Cove RV Resort. One reviewer mentioned, "The management and office personnel were very friendly," making for a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Peaceful Environment: The tranquility at Togetherness Works RV Park is a big draw. A camper noted, "Secluded, peaceful w/ full hookups," perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

What you should know:

  • Limited Cell Service: Be prepared for spotty cell service in many areas. At Smith Lake Park, one camper mentioned, "The tent sites are nicely tucked inside of wooded areas," but noted that the RV sites are tightly packed with little shade.
  • Primitive Camping Options: If you're looking for a more rugged experience, check out Thompson Creek Trail Campsites. A reviewer said, "Don't expect bathrooms or drinking water to be nearby," so come prepared.
  • Tight Campsites: Some campgrounds, like Rickwood Caverns, have smaller sites. One camper complained, "These are the tiniest campsites I've ever seen in a State Park," so be mindful of your space.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and trails. At Point Mallard City Campground, a reviewer said, "Family friendly with 2 playgrounds," making it a great choice for families.
  • Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or snacks. One camper at Cullman Campground mentioned, "The showers are really clean," which is a bonus after a day of outdoor fun.
  • Pack Games: Bring outdoor games to keep the kids entertained. A visitor at Corinth Recreation Area noted, "Great trails for kids," so there's plenty of space to run around.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Before booking, check the size of the RV sites. A camper at Hidden Cove RV Resort mentioned, "The pull-through spots were great and level," which is essential for a smooth stay.
  • Be Mindful of Amenities: Some campgrounds may lack certain amenities. A reviewer at Rickwood Caverns pointed out, "The campground is small," so plan accordingly.
  • Explore Nearby Attractions: Take advantage of local attractions. One camper at Smith Lake Park said, "There are tons of things to do here especially if you like to fish!"

Camping near National Forests in Alabama offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, making it a great choice for your next outdoor getaway.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near National Forests in Alabama?

According to TheDyrt.com, National Forests in Alabama offers a wide range of camping options, with 90 campgrounds and RV parks near National Forests in Alabama and 6 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near National Forests in Alabama?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near National Forests in Alabama is Corinth Recreation Area with a 4.2-star rating from 26 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near National Forests in Alabama?