Owl Creek Horse Camp serves as a central destination for equestrians exploring Bankhead National Forest. Located 40 miles west of Oneonta at an elevation of approximately 700 feet, this primitive campground maintains consistent temperatures several degrees cooler than surrounding lowlands. The area features rolling terrain with a mix of hardwoods and pines typical of north Alabama upland forests.
What to do
Trail riding connections: Owl Creek Horse Camp provides direct access to 22 miles of interconnected horse trails. As one camper noted, "We rode our bikes, the trails are more geared for the equestrian rider, but was friendly enough for bikes. We enjoyed staying here after being out of cell service for a few days at brushy lake."
Rock climbing adventures: Head to Cherokee Rock Village for climbing opportunities on unique rock formations. A visitor mentions, "There's so many climbing routes that I love. There's near by water falls and cliff jumping called High Falls. I love going to the drive-in movie theatre near by only $15 per vehicle to watch 2 movies!"
Water activities: Lakes throughout the region offer fishing, boating and swimming options. At Lake Guntersville State Park Campground, "The park is one of the nicer parks. Great mountainous drive to get to the entrance of the park. Right on the banks of Guntersville lake which has great fishing and watersports."
What campers like
Night skies: The rural location of equestrian campgrounds near Oneonta provides excellent stargazing opportunities. At Owl Creek Horse Camp, one camper observed, "It is essentially a large field with some very large loblolly pines. The nights sky is wonderful."
Year-round water access: Unlike some primitive sites, Owl Creek maintains reliable water sources. "This is off the beaten path a bit, but it has its perks. Here you can find potable water from the spickets all year long," notes one visitor.
Hiking alternatives: When not riding, Oak Mountain State Park Campground offers extensive trail networks. A reviewer states, "Oak Mountain is a big state park with lots to do (golf, biking, archery, lots of trails that are very well marked, petting zoo, very neat trail with rescued owls, turkeys and red hawks, and more)."
What you should know
Cell service variations: Coverage differs dramatically between horse camps in the region. At Owl Creek Horse Camp, "We were able to catch up and coordinate our next destination. As far as campground amenties outside of whats already been covered there are a had full of picnic tables and a pit toilet. Cost is $5 a night or $3 for day use. 2 bars of Verizon 4G LTE."
Limited amenities: Expect basic facilities at most horse campgrounds. Many require self-sufficiency with portable containment systems for horses.
Seasonal popularity: The trails become busy during spring and fall when temperatures moderate. At Faye Whittemore Farms Inc, visitors appreciate that "The campground is very nice and woodsy. The campsites have water and electric hookups. They have nice paddocks for your horses. The multiple trails are so beautiful."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: For families new to camping, start with developed campgrounds. As one camper at Backcountry Site — Oak Mountain State Park shared, "I've been going here since I was a kid and it's one of my favorite places in the world. You'll never run out of things to do between the endless hiking trails, the museum of wildlife, and the wildlife rescue center."
Pack extra water containers: While water is available at Owl Creek, bring containers to transport it back to your campsite.
Educational opportunities: Several parks near Oneonta offer wildlife viewing and educational programs. "There's an archery station within the park and a petting farm. The campground is easily navigated with multiple bathhouses per campground so you'll always have one nearby."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for trailers: Choose campsites with adequate space for both horse trailers and camping setups. At Faye Whittemore Farms, "Lots to do and amazing trails. Helpful and friendly farmers. Clean washrooms and near campsite."
Primitive RV considerations: Most equestrian campgrounds near Oneonta offer primitive camping without full hookups. Prepare accordingly with self-contained systems.
Dump station locations: Know where the nearest dump stations are located since many horse camps don't provide this service. At Cherokee Rock Village, one RVer noted, "This place has amazing views. We came after hours (self pay box), plenty of spots. We have a truck camper but you could come here in an RV. Super quiet, has a dump station, fire pits, showers and playgrounds."
