Tent camping options near Pelham, Alabama include several established sites within a 40-mile radius. Most locations are situated in the forested highlands that form part of the southern Appalachian foothills, with elevations ranging from 500-1,200 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with overnight temperatures between 45-65°F.
What to do
Hiking the Pinhoti Trail: For backpackers seeking challenging terrain, the Pinhoti Trail offers ridge-top camping opportunities. "Perched along the ridge of the Pinhoti Trail, just south of Adam's Gap, this backcountry campsite promises a rewarding wilderness experience," notes a camper at Pinhoti Campsite near Clairmont Gap. Plan carefully as "there are no reliable water sources nearby for refilling."
Fishing at local waterways: Big Canoe Creek provides excellent fishing opportunities for various species. A visitor at Big Canoe Creek Outfitters reports, "Did some tent camping brought my inflatable fishing boat fish the river caught about eight bluegill and a couple Bass." Most fishing spots are accessible within a short walk from designated camping areas.
Historical exploration: The Civilian Conservation Corps structures at Weogufka State Forest offer historical interest. One camper mentioned, "Access to southern terminus of the Pinhoti Trail. CCC tower and cabins from 1930's." These Depression-era structures stand as reminders of public works projects from the 1930s.
What campers like
Privacy and open spaces: The dispersed camping areas provide ample room to spread out. At Hollins Hunting Camp, a camper noted, "Best for overlanding/camper/tents. No marked sites, just pull in and find a spot... lots of space and easy to find a private spot."
Star viewing opportunities: The limited light pollution in the region creates excellent night sky viewing. According to one camper at Hollins Hunting Camp, the site is "Open to sky (took awesome star pics here)." The elevated ridge locations provide particularly good viewing platforms on clear nights.
Accessible facilities: Some campgrounds provide surprising amenities despite their rustic setting. At Bohamia, one visitor appreciated the "Great showers and bathhouse with filtered drinking water option that I used daily. Several hiking trails, but also roads to allow those who prefer to ride."
What you should know
Water availability varies significantly: Many sites require carrying in all water. For Weogufka State Forest's shelter, a camper noted, "There is also incredibly easy water access since the shelter sits alongside the creek," while most other sites have no reliable water sources.
Access road conditions: Road quality affects vehicle types that can reach certain campsites. A camper at Weogufka State Forest Flagg Mtn mentioned, "You might need four-wheel-drive to get up to the ruins, but maybe not. Mary the caretaker of the area could easily tell you and is a great communicator and very helpful."
Limited signage: Navigation to some sites requires preparation. One camper at Hollins Hunting Camp mentioned it "Lacked good signage on the last turn," making GPS coordinates or detailed directions essential for first-time visitors.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access for kids: Families with children might prefer sites with swimming areas. At Holt Lake, "we usually hang out at the small man made beach or hop in the boat or kayaks. The beach can be pretty crowded during the summer but it's a decent size and the bathrooms are nearby."
Tent site selection: When camping with children, consider space requirements. One visitor mentioned the tent sites at Holt Lake "are very nice and groomed and have a wonderful view of the lake. They have individual water pumps at each site and room for several cars to pull up and park."
Booking larger sites: Family groups need more space. A camper at Bohamia shared, "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
Turnaround space considerations: When bringing campers or trailers, check accessibility first. A reviewer at Hollins Hunting Camp advised, "Small camper trailers could probably make it too. Just be mindful of turn around spots."
Group camping options: For multiple RVs traveling together, certain sites offer better accommodation. A visitor to Bohamia mentioned it's a "Great option for multiple families or couples" with facilities that support different camping styles.
Seasonal road conditions: After heavy rain, access can become problematic at some sites. Following a hurricane, one camper found at Weogufka State Forest that "there were a ton of trees down... this made it hard to find the trail at points so come prepared with a map."
