Dispersed camping near New Hope, Alabama primarily centers on the Jackson County section of the Walls of Jericho wilderness area, situated at approximately 1,800 feet elevation. The region features karst topography with limestone formations and seasonal water access varying significantly between wet spring conditions and drier summer months. The primitive sites require self-sufficiency as the nearest supply points are over 20 miles away in Scottsboro or Huntsville.
What to do
Hiking opportunities: The primitive camping areas serve as staging points for exploring the 6-mile Walls of Jericho trail. "The site is on the edge of an overlook of the canyon and has multiple fire rings if there are multiple groups there. This site and trailhead serves both the Walls of Jericho trail and the Bear Den Point Loop Trail," notes a visitor at Walls of Jericho - Trailhead Campsite.
Backpacking practice: The terrain provides an excellent opportunity for testing gear loads. "The Walls of Jehrico trail offers a handful of first-come/first-serve primitive campsites set adjacent to two separate water sources (streams). Any equipment must be carried in and out which makes for a perfect backpacking experience," reports one camper who stayed at Walls of Jericho.
Wildlife observation: Dawn and dusk offer opportunities to spot native wildlife including white-tailed deer and various bird species. Be aware that black bears occasionally roam the area, so proper food storage is essential.
What campers like
Solitude and quiet: Despite some drawbacks, the remote location ensures a peaceful experience. "Quite at night, but the primitive camping area is overgrown, and I have seen a lot of trash in the woods. Stayed one night just to hike the trail the next morning," writes one visitor to Walls of Jericho Trailhead Campsite.
Trail-adjacent camping: Several primitive sites are positioned along water sources deeper on the trail. "Your campsite offers little privacy due to trail proximity but that should not distract from a wonderful experience," notes a camper who gave the area four stars.
Convenience for early starts: The trailhead location provides strategic access for early morning hiking. "This site is 3 separate clearings near the trailhead and parking with small fire pits. They work in a pinch if you get here late and don't want to hike in or if you want to car camp and hike to the falls without gear," explains one visitor to the area.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Camping at the trailhead is extremely basic with minimal infrastructure. "This is primitive camping so no bathhouse, but there is a porta-john in the trailhead parking lot. The site is a good distance from any convenient stores or grocery stores so plan accordingly," explains a reviewer at Lentzville Road.
Overgrown conditions: Maintenance is minimal at many sites. One camper notes that "the clearing was extremely overgrown, as was the tree line all around the clearing," which affects site selection and comfort.
Water planning: No potable water is available at the trailhead. "Be aware that you will have to go a little ways down the trail to find water," advises a camper, highlighting the importance of bringing sufficient water or water treatment supplies.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection considerations: When camping with children, the trailhead sites offer the simplest option. "The trailhead campsite is a short walk from the parking lot, but makes for a great basecamp for exploring the area. The campsite is level and large enough to accommodate many tents," explains a visitor to Walls of Jericho Trailhead Camp.
Emergency preparation: The remote location requires additional safety planning. "There is also no cell service so make sure you plan accordingly and have an emergency system in place," advises one camper.
Trash management: Teaching leave-no-trace principles is essential in this area. A reviewer mentions "trash cans are located in the trailhead parking lot. Please pack out your trash from the campsite," highlighting the importance of proper waste disposal.
Tips from RVers
Limited parking options: The trailhead area is not designed for recreational vehicles. "Upon arrival, we found a parking lot with a fence all around it. There were a few fire rings in the parking lot," reports a visitor to Walls of Jericho Trailhead Campsite, indicating the site is better suited for tent camping than RVs.
Alternative camping options: RVers seeking dispersed camping near New Hope may need to look beyond the immediate Walls of Jericho area to Forest Service roads in nearby national forest sections.
Access challenges: Large vehicles face difficulties on the narrow access roads leading to the trailhead. The final approach involves steep grades and tight turns unsuitable for larger rigs.
