Coleman Lake Recreation Area in the Talladega National Forest spans 6,700 acres at an elevation of about 1,300 feet. Located approximately 20 miles from Piedmont, this area offers equestrian camping with access to an extensive trail system through mixed pine and hardwood forests. The region receives around 50 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush vegetation and numerous water features for horses and riders.
What to do
Trail riding on Pinhoti Trail: Access multi-day trail rides directly from Coleman Lake Rec Area with trails extending through diverse terrain. "The Pinhoti Trail that extends from south Alabama to north Georgia goes right beside the lake and is a great section hike," notes reviewer Amanda D.
Rock climbing adventures: Visit Cherokee Rock Village for some of the best climbing in northeast Alabama. "The climbing seemed to go on and on and you would never run out of top rope, lead, and bouldering routes and the area is well maintained," reports Asher K.
Lakeside fishing: Fish at the designated areas within the equestrian camping sections. "Caught 3 bass in the lake. You can't beat the price," shares Jason G. about Coleman Lake, where trolling motors are permitted but not gas-powered boats.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Horse campgrounds near Piedmont maintain well-kept amenities despite their rural location. "The bath house is very clean and up to date. Sites are level and well spaced," reports Micheal S. at Coleman Lake Recreation Area.
Helpful camp hosts: Staff at equestrian campsites provide extra assistance to those with horses. "Hosts were great and even deliver firewood to your site. Clean bathrooms, showers, and overall campground," writes Wendy L.
Primitive camping options: For riders seeking a more rustic experience, there are backcountry sites available. "This is a great camping spot with a beautiful lake. The trail around the lake was perfect," notes Jason G. who enjoyed the combination of water access and trail options.
What you should know
Cell phone service limitations: Equestrian campgrounds in the Piedmont region typically have poor to no cellular reception. "There is absolutely no cell service at all. The nearest reliable service is literally 6 miles down the road," cautions Evan S. about Lake Guntersville State Park Campground.
Navigation challenges: Some horse camps have complicated access roads that may be difficult with trailers. "Make sure you use Highway 78 to enter. Google Maps will send you on a 11.5 mile mountain trail (Dugger Mountain Road) that is a dirt 2 track over the mountain...an interesting trip with a camper," warns Micheal S.
First-come, first-served policies: Most equestrian sites cannot be reserved in advance. "Sites are first come, first serve, water and electric. There is a campground host on duty," explains Amanda D.
Tips for camping with families
Halloween camping events: Equestrian campgrounds near Piedmont often host special holiday activities. "I camped there on Halloween with my grandkids. My Frankies dressed in costume for me but the camp host saw them and made a point of inviting them for campground trick or treating. Almost every camp site gave candy," shares Evan S. about Cherokee Rock Village.
Traveler
