Dispersed camping is available near Oak Grove, Alabama at Hollins Hunting Camp with open spaces suitable for tent or overlanding setups. The area sits at approximately 600 feet above sea level in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, creating rolling terrain with mixed pine and hardwood forests. Summer temperatures regularly reach the 90s with high humidity, while winter camping requires preparation for overnight temperatures that can drop below freezing.
What to do
Explore underground caves: DeSoto Caverns Family Fun Park & Campground offers cave tours featuring impressive rock formations and a light show. The campground also includes activities beyond the natural cavern system. "The kids had a blast, a small amusement park with a maze and scanning for gemstones. There was also deep caverns to tour with a light show," notes Cat R.
Hiking on marked trails: Oak Mountain State Park Campground features numerous well-maintained hiking trails for all skill levels. "Great camping area for RV's or tents. Big lakes for fishing, swimming or canoeing," explains Scott C., who appreciated the accessibility of recreational options.
Star photography: The open sky at Hollins Hunting Camp provides exceptional stargazing opportunities. "Open to sky (took awesome star pics here)," reports one camper who enjoyed the minimal light pollution at the site.
Mountain summit views: Cheaha State Park offers views from Alabama's highest point with accessible lookouts. "Hiking in the area is amazing! The campground is nice... a lot pull through spots. No wifi or cell service; but we loved being disconnected," shares Emily C.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Bohamia campground receives praise for its maintained shower facilities. "Great showers and bathhouse with filtered drinking water option that I used daily," mentions Michael C., highlighting an amenity particularly valuable when traveling with pets.
Quiet weekday camping: Hollins Hunting Camp offers solitude during weekdays. "Mid-week so no one else here," notes one camper who appreciated the tranquility of the dispersed camping area.
Lake access: Wind Creek State Park Campground features direct water access popular with pet owners. "We were the only trailer in loop D. It was quiet and very enjoyable! Being right on the lake and having the ducks swim up really thrilled our dogs," writes Erin L.
Historic structures: Weogufka State Forest contains preserved Civilian Conservation Corps structures. "Access to southern terminus of the Pinhoti Trail. CCC tower and cabins from 1930's," points out Ro J., highlighting the historical elements alongside natural features.
What you should know
Limited signage: Hollins Hunting Camp can be difficult to locate at night. "Lacked good signage on the last turn," explains a visitor who recommends arriving during daylight hours.
Water availability varies: Weogufka State Forest sites may have limited water access depending on season. "Check ahead by calling the ranger station if you will be backpacking and they can let you know if there will be water in the streams. This is particularly a problem in the late winter months," advises Asher K.
Cell coverage inconsistent: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds near Oak Grove. "No wifi or cell service; but we loved being disconnected," reports one camper at Cheaha State Park.
Vehicle access considerations: Roads to dispersed camping areas may require appropriate vehicles. "You might need four-wheel-drive to get up to the ruins, but maybe not," suggests a visitor to Weogufka State Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife education opportunities: Clear Creek Cove RV Resort provides lake access where kids can observe water birds and aquatic life. "The whole place is set up to have easy access to the water and it does this really well. There are multiple docks and plenty of spaces to tie up your boat," explains Asher K.
Swimming spots for hot days: Oak Mountain State Park offers designated swimming areas appropriate for children. "Big lakes for fishing, swimming or canoeing," notes Scott C., highlighting the family-friendly recreation options.
Easy-access camping sites: Some campgrounds offer sites specifically designed for easier family camping. "Sites vary. There is adequate space between them. Some have electric some don't. Some have rock beds, some have grass beds," explains Jenni O. about Cheaha State Park.
Kid-friendly hiking options: Several parks feature short trails suitable for young hikers. "We hiked 3 trails with excellent views. All easy and enjoyable for all 3 of my kiddos, ages 6, 11 and 12. High Falls was my personal favorite," shares a family camper.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Bohamia offers electrical hookups and water connections for RVs. "Services are great some cabins and tents having ACs, but primitive camping allowed as well," notes Michael C.
Seasonal considerations: Wind Creek State Park experiences significant seasonal variation in visitation. "This campground is a better place for the summer not much to do in the winter. It's a place for swimming, fishing, and boat riding," advises Ginger S.
Site selection for pet owners: When seeking pet friendly camping near Oak Grove, Alabama, choosing the right site matters. "We stayed at site 100 it was an excellent site right on the water next to us was like a private beach," shares Rachel G. about Wind Creek State Park, noting the additional space beneficial for pets.
Check-in timing: Most campgrounds have specific check-in windows. "Check in is at 4 pm and check out is at 2 pm. Spots are close together but I've seen worse," explains a camper at Wind Creek State Park.
