Corinth Recreation Area provides access to the Bankhead National Forest and Sipsey Wilderness in Alabama, with elevations ranging from 500-1,200 feet throughout the region. The area experiences humid subtropical climate with hot summers reaching 90°F and mild winters rarely dropping below 30°F. Camping options range from primitive sites with no amenities to full-hookup RV locations, with most campgrounds open March through October.
What to do
Hike to waterfalls: The Bankhead National Forest offers multiple waterfall hikes accessible from nearby campgrounds. Thomas H. notes that near Corinth Recreation Area, "Nature trails were extremely well kept with great views on the water." The Thompson Creek Trail is particularly notable for waterfall access.
Fish at Smith Lake: The 21,000-acre Lewis Smith Lake offers bass, crappie, and catfish fishing. A reviewer at Smith Lake Park mentioned, "There are tons of things to do here especially if you like to fish!" The lake is known for its clear water and numerous coves.
Mountain bike on forest roads: Several forest service roads provide mountain biking opportunities. According to Terry J., Corinth Recreation Area offers "Plenty of biking and hiking opportunities. Just a short drive to Natural Bridge park, restaurants, groceries and more."
Stargaze from primitive sites: The remote location allows for excellent stargazing. A visitor to Boondock Dispersed Camping noted, "The stars were incredible after the moon went down a bit. Lots of bird sounds especially in the morning."
What campers like
Large, private campsites: Many campgrounds feature spacious sites. At Clear Creek Recreation Area, Katrina G. observed, "Large spacious sites, quite, and clean. You can find a site to satisfy almost anyone. Lots of sites on the water. If you prefer seclusion, try the upper grounds."
Proximity to trails: The short distances to trailheads from campgrounds is appreciated. Kristi C. stated about Corinth Recreation Area, "This is a great campground which puts you near all the magic of the Sipsey Wilderness Area in the Bankhead National Forest."
Pet-friendly environment: Most campgrounds welcome dogs with standard leash requirements. According to Dwight L., Boondock Dispersed Camping Alabama is a "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."
Swimming areas: Several campgrounds include lake access for swimming. Kelly S. mentioned that Clear Creek has a "White sand around swimming area. Pavilion is rentable for gatherings."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Cell coverage is spotty throughout the forest. Mara S. at Hidden Cove RV Resort reported, "I had no reception with Verizon but my AT&T hotspot had good reception."
Bathhouse availability: Some campgrounds have reduced bathroom facilities. Genie C. noted at Corinth Recreation Area, "We made the mistake of booking the Firefly loop, the bathhouse was closed due to COVID. The camp host was very nice and helped us move to Yellowhammer where the bathhouse was open."
Gravel sites: Many sites have gravel pads that may be challenging for tent camping. One camper complained, "The gravel is like concrete. There is very little area to set up and they don't tell you ahead of time but you can't set up on the grass unless you are in the tent camping area."
Distance from supplies: Most campgrounds are remote. A reviewer at Hidden Cove noted, "The management and office personnel were very friendly. Sadly every spot you might be able to see the lake from was already taken by what seems to be someone living there full time."
Tips for camping with families
Pack water shoes: Rocky lake bottoms can be hard on feet. A reviewer at Smith Lake Park warned, "The beach area had a lot of rocks! Probably due to water level low had to go buy some water shoes, but then it was all good."
Consider group campsites: For larger family gatherings, specific sites work better. Nikki W. at Thompson Creek Trail Campsites stated, "Really enjoyed the group camp site. Very spacious with a huge fire pit. Easy walking distance to bathhouse. Great hiking as well."
Visit recreation facilities: Many campgrounds offer family-friendly amenities. Paul G. from Smith Lake Park shared, "Awesome place with a beautiful lake! Lots of playgrounds for the kids and some very nice camping spots!"
Check trail difficulty: Some trails have challenging terrain for children. Miranda C. noted about Thompson Creek Trail, "The hike in is not difficult. You do have to cross a stream, which was not as difficult for my 6'2 husband as it was for me at 5'2."
Tips from RVers
Plan for leveling: Most sites require some leveling work. Jeff C. from Clear Creek mentioned, "The majority of sites are pretty level and the comfort stations were clean."
Access considerations: Some forest roads may not accommodate larger rigs. At Wolf Pen Hunters Camp, a reviewer noted, "This was basically a forest road with dispersed camping. If there are toilets and water we never saw them."
Reserve lakefront sites early: Waterfront spots fill quickly. One camper at Clear Creek observed, "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."
Download maps: GPS and cell service is unreliable in many areas. A visitor recommended, "Make sure you have AllTrails with a downloadable trail map before you leave the campsite, because there is not great cell service on most trails."
