Sipsey Wilderness offers primitive tent camping opportunities in Bankhead National Forest near Natural Bridge, Alabama, with an elevation range between 500-800 feet. The forest contains over 90 miles of hiking trails across approximately 25,000 acres of protected wilderness. Trail difficulty ranges from easy to challenging with variable terrain that includes sandstone bluffs, hemlock forests, and stream crossings that can become impassable after heavy rain.
What to do
Explore waterfalls along Thompson Creek Trail: The Thompson Creek Trail offers accessible waterfall viewing with multiple primitive campsites. "The entire Sipsey Wilderness is gorgeous, but if you want a trail with lots of great spots to camp, this trail is fantastic. Don't expect bathrooms or drinking water to be nearby, but if you're looking to really get away from it all and do some primitive camping, this is a great place to go," notes a camper at Thompson Creek Trail Campsites.
Day hike to connect campsites: Many campers create loop hikes connecting different backcountry sites. "When we reached back to the original car after about 3 miles we drove back to the same trailhead and packed our backpacks to get the gear down to the campsite we had chosen," reports a hiker who stayed at Sipsey Wilderness - Trail 200 Campsites.
Creek exploration with children: Multiple shallow creek areas provide safe water play areas for children during warmer months. "Most of the time, except during dry spells, there are LOTS of waterfalls. Also lots of shallow places for the kids to play in the water. Watch for snakes and bring bug spray," advises a visitor to Thompson Creek Trail Campsites.
What campers like
Privacy between established sites: Many backcountry sites provide sufficient distance between camping areas. "Because it is actually slightly removed from the trail that most people take it has an incredible amount of privacy while not being cramped or crowded," says a camper about Sipsey Wilderness Backcountry Site (Trail 207 Site B).
Boulder features at specific campsites: Some sites offer unique rock formations that enhance the camping experience. "This campground has about enough space for 2-3 tents or hammocks. Theres a beautiful large boulder rock that overlooks Thompson Creek you can relax on or have meals on," describes a camper at Thompson Creek Trail Campsites.
Sandy tent pads for comfort: Several backcountry sites provide naturally sandy areas that make for comfortable sleeping surfaces. "Finally, the flat tent areas at this site are mostly covered in sand which means you will have a very comfortable surface to sleep on," notes a review of Sipsey Wilderness Backcountry Site (Trail 207 Site B).
What you should know
Varying site capacities for different group sizes: Campsites range from small areas for single tents to larger group areas. "This site is by far the best site if you have a group of 3 or more tents. It has several firepits and is spread out over a large area. Each individual site has enough privacy while still providing group areas to congregate," explains a review of Sipsey Wilderness Backcountry Site (Trail 200 Site G).
Site locations relative to trailheads: Distance from parking areas varies significantly between sites. "It is also situated on the closer end to one of the parking lots making it a great spot to set up if you hit the trail a little later in the day or want to finish early the next day," notes a camper at Sipsey Wilderness Backcountry Site (Trail 200 Site I).
Trail access changes: Some access points have been relocated in recent years. "The Borden Creek Trailhead where we started our hike used to be down at the bottom of the hill but several years ago they moved the parking to a quarter mile away to help protect some of the areas down by the river," reports a camper at Sipsey Wilderness Backcountry Site (Trail 203 Site C).
Tips for camping with families
Stream crossing difficulty assessment: Families should carefully evaluate water crossings before attempting with children. "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. The water was clear," shares a parent who camped at Thompson Creek Trail Campsites with family.
Age-appropriate trail selection: Some shorter trails are particularly suitable for younger children. "Me and my 6 year old daughter hiked the trail this past Saturday, July 27, 2019. Had a great time. Definately be back," notes a parent who visited Thompson Creek Trail Campsites.
Guided night experiences: For families seeking structured activities, Dismals Canyon Cabins and Primitive Campsites offers unique night programs. "A standout experience during our stay was embarking on the night hike the first evening we arrived. This adventure allowed us to explore the canyon in the darkness before immersing ourselves in its beauty during daylight hours," reports a visitor.
Tips from RVers
Limited true RV accessibility: Most tent camping near Natural Bridge occurs in wilderness settings unsuitable for RVs. "Primitive. Trailhead is down from the campsites a ways, probably would drive it not walk it. The roads aren't the best but my van made it despite the muddy potholes," reports a van camper at Sipsey Wilderness Backcountry Site (Trail 200 Site J).
Road conditions for vehicle access: Access roads to the best tent camping near Natural Bridge, Alabama can present challenges. "The majority of tent camping areas require hikers to carry in all necessary supplies, as amenities are minimal," making vehicle-dependent camping difficult in most areas.
Alternative lodging options: For those wanting tent camping experiences with more amenities, cabin options exist. "These cabins feature a generously sized kitchen, a warm and inviting living room complete with a fireplace, and two comfortable bedrooms," notes a visitor to Dismals Canyon Cabins and Primitive Campsites, providing an alternative to primitive tent camping.
