Best Dispersed Camping near Pinson, AL

The outskirts of Pinson, Alabama feature a mix of dispersed camping opportunities within driving distance, particularly along waterways and forested areas. Blue Creek Public Use Area in Northport offers year-round camping with both tent and RV accommodation, situated along bluffs overlooking the river with boat ramp access. Several backcountry sites are available along the Skyway Loop and Chinnabee Silent Trail systems, providing more primitive camping experiences for hikers. These dispersed sites typically include established fire rings and flat areas for tents, with many positioned near creeks or rivers for water access and natural ambiance.

Road conditions vary significantly across camping areas near Pinson, with some requiring preparation for rough terrain. As one camper noted, Blue Creek has "rough road there, but overall easy access and nice view." Most backcountry sites require hiking in, while areas like Hollins Hunting Camp accommodate drive-in access for tents and small trailers. Weather considerations are important, as summer months bring high temperatures and humidity. According to experienced visitors, "the best time to visit is either late spring or early summer when the flowers are blooming and the weather is warm enough to swim. But be aware it can get pretty hot and muggy late in the summer." Many sites lack facilities, with limited or no drinking water, toilets, or trash service, requiring self-sufficiency.

Waterfront locations consistently receive positive reviews from campers visiting the Pinson region. Blue Creek Public Use Area features "large area overlooking the river that gives you a slight breeze for 85 degrees in mid June," making it popular during hot weather. Privacy levels vary by location, with some campers reporting "ample room and privacy" at Blue Creek, while backcountry sites along trails may experience through-hikers passing nearby. Trail intersections are common camping locations, with one visitor noting a site "sits at the intersection of multiple trails," providing convenient access to hiking routes. Star-gazing opportunities are highlighted at several locations, particularly at Hollins Hunting Camp which is "open to sky" and allows for "awesome star pics." Most sites accommodate fires with established rings, though seasonal fire restrictions may apply.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Pinson, Alabama (7)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Pinson, AL

3 Photos of 7 Pinson Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Pinson, AL

14 Reviews of 7 Pinson Campgrounds


  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 23, 2023

    Blue Creek Public Use Area

    Great private spot

    About a handful of spots, all with ample room and privacy. Rough road there, but overall easy access and nice view.

  • Asher K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2023

    Skyway Loop Backcountry Site Near Chinnabee

    Improved since last visit

    This site has been cleaned up and expanded since I last stayed here. The space is in a really beautiful area near the parking area for Lake Chinnabee and a few minutes down the trail from Devil's Den Falls. It has an established fire pit and several clear flat areas for tents. The creek runs right alongside so there is easy access to water and it provides a peaceful background sound during the night. Another nice feature of this campground is that it sits at the intersection of multiple trails.

  • Weather Warrior Media -.
    Jul. 2, 2024

    Hollins Hunting Camp

    Average but good

    This has a good road and decent open spots to set-up. Overlanders (w/rtt) will be the most happy. Open areas have tall grass a but, but some have enough pine trees the pine needles make for better ground camping. Small camper trailers could probably make it too. Just be mindful of turn around spots.

    I arrived late so harder to find spots. Mid-week so no one else here.

    -Lacked good signage on the last turn. -No facilities (as expected) -Open to sky (took awesome star pics here)

  • Michael P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 6, 2025

    Blue Creek Public Use Area

    Totally Relaxing

    I have camped here several times, alway relaxing and restful. Has a latrine, no water or electric. Has boat ramp and camping areas are near pacer park roads. Local traffic is mostly folks going to boat ramp. Camping area is along bluff over looking the River. Second area is in a grove at the end of the paved road and turn around. Ample space, some folks also pull RV down to an area near the boat ramp. Other that the latrine self-contained rustic camping.

  • Peyton P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Hollins Hunting Camp

    Open and quiet

    Best for overlanding/camper/tents. No marked sites, just pull in and find a spot. I got in around 8 and there were only a couple people here, lots of space and easy to find a private spot. Hardly any bugs, no amenities

  • Asher K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 30, 2021

    Riverside Skyway Loop Backcountry Site

    Small with water access

    This site is another of the small backcountry sites along the river between Cheaha Falls and Lake Chinnabee. Make sure to check out my review of Cheaha Falls Campground where I discuss the entire loop and the best times of year to visit. Although this campground isn’t as nice as others in the area it has easy access to water and is small and private so you won't have anyone else crowding your space. It is also a great option when the other spots can fill up during busy times such as holiday weekends in the spring or fall. This campground also has easy access to the many waterfalls that are up the trail and is not too far from the parking at Lake Chinnabee. This campground has a level area for either 1 or 2 tents, a fire ring, and access to flowing water. The best time to visit is either late spring or early summer when the flowers are blooming and the weather is warm enough to swim. But be aware it can get pretty hot and muggy late in the summer.

  • Asher K.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 28, 2018

    Skyway Loop Backcountry Site Near Chinnabee

    Fork in the trail

    This campground is located at a point where the trail splits and either goes to the Lake Chinnabee recreation area or turns and continues on the skyway loop south. This is an important point because if you miss the turn you will get lost and not make it around the loop. Make sure to first read my review of the entire loop here. This site is really wonderful because of how easy it is to access, its location on the water, and its large level areas for setting up tents. You can get to the site from any of the 2 skyway loop starting points or you can park at Lake Chinnabee and walk a short distance to get to the campsite. It is still a backcountry site but could theoretically be used by groups who want to just hike in the short distance with more gear. If you are a backpacker completing the loop this is a great place to rest and have lunch or this would be a good night option if you do the loop over 3-4 days. (For a 2 day loop I suggest starting at the southern point and camping at either Turnipseed or Cheaha Falls). This is a great place to visit in Spring or early summer before it gets too hot and while the water levels are still high. You can see some amazing wildflowers and if you make the hike to the top of the ridge nearby the views are spectacular.

  • Asher K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 18, 2020

    Chinnabee Silent Trail Backcountry Site 7

    Easy water access

    This is a nice sized campsite alongside the river right off of the Chinnabee Silent Trail. Check out my video below for my take on this site. It is definitely one of the larger and more developed backcountry sites along the trail and is far enough back from the river to not have to worry about flooding. I also liked how close it is to the waterfall so you could set up camp and go for a nice evening swim before cooking dinner. It's probably not the best option if you only have a hammock to sleep in but for a tent it is perfect. If you are not an early riser be aware that this site is right alongside the trail so you may hear people who get out on the trail in the morning. Overall, there are many sites to choose from along this trail and most of the year you will have your pick. If you are backpacking in the busy season though this is a great site if you can get it early.

  • Asher K.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 28, 2018

    Skyway Loop Backcountry

    Little campground on the water

    This is a nice little campground right along the river that is one of the few of its size at this point in the loop. I would suggest starting by reading my review from Cheaha Falls Campground which gives a good synopsis of the backpacking loop. This site has a large campfire ring with level space for a couple of tents and plenty of trees for hammocks. There is water here year round though that also means it can get buggy in the summer. We were here in the really early spring and it was amazing! Water levels were high and everything was just starting to bloom. The signage along these trails is also good and they are well traveled though there are a few stream crossings that can get confusing so keep an eye out for turns in the trail, especially in the fall or winter when there are leaves on the ground. If you plan to camp in this site but it is full there are other options in the area so just travel a little further down the trail.


Guide to Pinson

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Pinson, Alabama, where nature meets tranquility. With a variety of sites offering unique experiences, outdoor enthusiasts can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Scenic Overlooks for Dispersed Campers

  • The Blue Creek Public Use Area features a stunning river bluff overlook, providing a refreshing breeze and breathtaking views, especially during the warmer months.
  • This area offers ample space for tents and overlanding rigs, making it a great choice for those seeking privacy while enjoying the natural beauty of the surroundings.
  • With easy access to the river and a concrete overlook, campers can enjoy both relaxation and adventure in a picturesque setting.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Pinson

  • Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity of the Skyway Loop Backcountry Site Near Chinnabee, which is located near multiple trails and offers a peaceful creek for a refreshing dip after a long hike.
  • The site is perfect for those looking to explore the area, as it sits at a key intersection of trails leading to scenic spots like Devil's Den Falls.
  • Campers can enjoy the tranquility of nature while having easy access to water, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and exploration.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Pinson, Alabama

  • When visiting the Chinnabee Silent Trail Backcountry Site 7, be prepared for a peaceful experience, as it's located away from the hustle and bustle, allowing for a true escape into nature.
  • This site offers easy water access and is close to a waterfall, making it a great choice for those who enjoy swimming and fishing.
  • Keep in mind that some sites, like the Riverside Skyway Loop Backcountry Site, can fill up quickly during peak seasons, so arriving early is advisable to secure your spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Pinson, AL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Pinson, AL is Blue Creek Public Use Area with a 4.4-star rating from 5 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Pinson, AL?

TheDyrt.com has all 7 dispersed camping locations near Pinson, AL, with real photos and reviews from campers.