Dispersed camping near Owens Cross Roads, Alabama provides backcountry options in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains at elevations ranging from 600-1,200 feet. The region features limestone karst topography with natural springs and creeks throughout the woodland areas. Weather conditions can shift dramatically with summer temperatures averaging 85-95°F and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing.
What to do
Trail exploration: The Walls of Jericho area offers multiple hiking opportunities beyond just the main falls 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 Steve V. about the Walls of Jericho Trailhead Campsite.
Stream access: Primitive camping along the trail provides water access opportunities for filtering drinking water. "The Walls of Jericho 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," explains Blake C.
Parking lot proximity: Some campsites allow for easier access from vehicles. "This site is 3 separate clearings near the trailhead and parking with small fire pits," notes Asher K. This setup works well for those wanting to establish a base camp without hiking far from their vehicle.
What campers like
Convenient basecamp: The parking area campsites provide strategic advantages for some campers. "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," reports a camper at Walls of Jericho Trailhead Camp.
Cellular connectivity: Some areas maintain surprising connectivity despite the rural setting. "We found good cell phone service with Verizon at this site," mentions Steve V., which can be important for emergency planning when primitive camping near Owens Cross Roads.
Quiet environment: The remote location offers peaceful nighttime conditions. "Quite at night, but the primitive camping area is overgrown," reports dolphmike, highlighting the tranquility while noting maintenance concerns.
What you should know
Limited amenities: Facilities are minimal throughout the area. "This is primitive camping so no bathhouse, but there is a porta-john in the trailhead parking lot," explains a reviewer at the trailhead site. Visitors should plan accordingly for primitive conditions.
Supply planning: The remote location requires thorough preparation. "The site is a good distance from any convenient stores or grocery stores so plan accordingly," advises Steve V. about Lentzville Road dispersed camping areas.
Water access challenges: Water sources vary by campsite location. "This site is OK if you need to be near the parking lot or don't want to hike your gear in and out. Otherwise, you're way better off going down to one of the other sites," recommends William Andrew C. regarding water accessibility from the trailhead.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose camping locations based on your group's hiking abilities. "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," notes Asher K. about the Walls of Jericho Trailhead Campsite options.
Waste management: Teach proper outdoor ethics regarding trash disposal. "Trash cans are located in the trailhead parking lot. Please pack out your trash from the campsite," advises a camper at the trailhead site.
Emergency preparations: Cell service is inconsistent throughout the area. "There is also no cell service so make sure you plan accordingly and have an emergency system in place," warns Blake C., emphasizing the need for safety planning with families.
Tips from RVers
Limited space considerations: The parking areas are not designed for large 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 Kevin C., indicating the constrained nature of the parking area.
Hammock limitations: Alternative sleeping arrangements have specific challenges. "The only decent spot for hammocks is the little campsite that is right in front of the parking lot. We went over to the clearing just north of the parking lot, but there were no good spots," explains William Andrew C. about Walls of Jericho Trailhead Campsite.
Site evaluation: Some areas may not meet expectations for vehicle-based camping. "I was not tempted to stay. There was nothing here but a place to park when you go hiking. The only thing here was disappointment and the realization that I needed to go somewhere else," cautions Kevin C. about expectations for drive-up camping sites.
