Oak Mountain State Park's 10,000-acre natural woodland isn't just for glamping. The park sits at approximately 600-1,000 feet elevation with rolling terrain and encompasses multiple lakes. Primitive camping and specialized accommodation options like equestrian sites offer alternatives to the glamping experience near Pelham, Alabama. Recent renovations have transformed camping areas with modern facilities while preserving natural surroundings.
What to do
Mountain biking on dedicated trails: Oak Mountain State Park Campground offers extensive mountain biking paths beyond the hiking trails mentioned in existing descriptions. As reviewer Soren B. notes, "This place has everything, mtn bike, gravel bike, trail running, road running, road biking, golf, equestrian, sailing and fishing."
Wildlife viewing at backcountry sites: For a more secluded nature experience, Weogufka State Forest Flagg Mtn offers access to the southern terminus of the Pinhoti Trail. Reviewer Ro J. shares, "Simple and enjoyable. Caretaker and author Sunny Eberhart (Nimblewill Nomad) is wonderful to talk to. Access to southern terminus of the Pinhoti Trail. CCC tower and cabins from 1930's."
Water activities beyond swimming: Multiple water-based recreation options exist at Clear Creek Cove RV Resort, which specializes in lake access. According to Asher K., "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. Additionally, the lake is really enormous so you can be out on the water all day."
What campers like
Renovated campsites with modern amenities: The recent updates to Oak Mountain's facilities have impressed regular visitors. Melinda S. reports, "Remodeled spaces with adequate space for a newbie to back her travel trailer in with no problems. What an Ego booster! Remodeled bathhouses as well and kept clean even on a busy July 4th weekend."
Privacy between campsites: Deerlick Creek offers secluded camping with well-separated sites. Steve V. mentions, "Love the large sites that are nicely separated from neighboring sites and overlook the water. Friendly staff and clean bathhouse."
Long-term stay options: For those seeking extended glamping near Pelham, Alabama, Sue V. at Clear Creek Cove RV Resort notes, "This is a great campground that has ONLY long term camping so you really get to know your neighbors. The power is not included but the prices are very reasonable. Our lot is spacious, gravel pad with a cement patio."
What you should know
Seasonal shade variations: Oak Mountain camping areas receive different sun exposure throughout the day. According to Melinda S., sites in Section B "gets morning sun but shade in the afternoon," which affects temperature and comfort levels during summer stays.
Cellular connectivity: Rolling Hills RV Park provides good connectivity for those needing to stay connected. David S. confirms, "We just needed a stop with hookups for the night. But this place exceeded expectations. We had a pull through spot so we didn't have to disconnect our tow dolly."
Limited WiFi access: While cell reception varies by carrier, dedicated WiFi can be inconsistent. One reviewer at Oak Mountain mentions, "It has wifi throughout and almost everywhere in the park has cell reception," while a different camper notes, "No WiFi. 2 bars Verizon."
Bathhouse locations: At larger campgrounds, bathroom facilities may require planning. At Deerlick Creek, Steve V. points out, "Only one bathhouse that is centrally located and is a decent walk from some sites."
Tips for camping with families
Adventure activities for teens: The Ridge Outdoor Resort offers unique adventure options beyond standard camping. Megan M. explains, "There are dirt bike trails, a zip line, an air soft course, a pond, and stunning views of the valley below."
Multiple pet-friendly locations: Most area campgrounds welcome pets, with dedicated facilities at some locations. Joseph K. says about The Ridge, "We bring our dogs each year and they also have a great time!"
Varying difficulty levels for hiking: Trails range from easy to challenging across the region. At Deerlick Creek, Steve V. notes, "Only limited, easy hiking available in the park," making it suitable for families with younger children.
Diverse glamping accommodations: Bohamia offers specialized glamping options with amenities appropriate for groups. Michael C. shares, "Came with a group of friends from town to relax and disconnect. Services are great some cabins and tents having ACs, but primitive camping allowed as well."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: At some campgrounds, not all sites accommodate larger RVs equally. At Deerlick Creek, Mikki B. advises, "Be sure to check your spot to make sure you can park easily - some sites are difficult for large pull trailers."
Hook-up availability: Full-service sites vary by location. One RVer at Bama RV Station reports, "We are in site 9, pretty level gravel site, electric and water hookup only. 2 dump stations are available."
Reservation timing: For peak season glamping near Pelham, advance planning is essential. One camper noted successfully reserving a site at Oak Mountain "363 days prior to arriving."
