Oak Mountain State Park remains the largest Alabama state park with over 9,900 acres of wilderness and recreation areas located about 20 miles from Midfield. The park sits in the southernmost section of the Appalachian Mountains, with elevations reaching 1,260 feet at Double Oak Mountain. Midfield visitors often camp here during spring and fall months when temperatures average between 65-80°F during the day, creating comfortable conditions for outdoor activities.
What to do
Hiking trails for all abilities: Oak Mountain State Park features over 25 miles of trails ranging from easy lakeside paths to challenging mountain routes. A visitor noted, "There are tons of things to do at Oak Mountain - hiking trails, mountain biking trails, water sports like kayaking and swimming, plus the camping is great!"
Mountain biking on dedicated trails: The park maintains separate trail systems for mountain bikers, including technical sections and smoother routes for beginners. At Deerlick Creek, visitors appreciate the "nice 1/2 mile asphalt bike/walking trail. Hiking trail with hills and valleys skirting the lake" as mentioned by Eric H.
Fishing in multiple lakes: Clear Creek Recreation Area provides excellent fishing opportunities on Smith Lake. According to Rebekah C., "There are plenty of places to drive to in the area where you can catch plenty!" The park permits fishing with valid Alabama licenses.
Equestrian facilities: Oak Mountain offers dedicated equestrian camping areas with pull-through sites and newly renovated facilities. Melinda S. shared, "I stayed one night in the Equestrian campground. They are all pull thru with a remodeled bathhouse. It was extremely clean."
What campers like
Updated facilities: Oak Mountain State Park has invested significantly in renovations. Soren B. commented, "They put a massive amount of money into updating this place. This is the #1 best state park campground I have ever been at."
Waterfront camping spots: Many sites at Clear Creek Recreation Area offer direct lake access. M&P M. shared, "The perimeter lake lots in the Hoot Owl Loop all had steps or path access from the site to the shore. This would be especially nice in the summer."
Privacy between sites: Most campgrounds in the Midfield area provide adequate space between campsites. At Deerlick Creek, one camper noted, "Love the large sites that are nicely separated from neighboring sites and overlook the water."
Cellular connectivity: Unlike more remote camping areas, Oak Mountain offers reliable connections. According to Soren B., "It has wifi throughout and almost everywhere in the park has cell reception."
What you should know
Seasonal availability: While Oak Mountain operates year-round, some smaller campgrounds like Clear Creek have limited seasons, typically March through October.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds near Midfield require advance booking, especially during peak seasons and holidays. Rebekah C. noted about Clear Creek, "We stayed here for memorial day weekend and I don't believe there were any empty sites! It was packed."
Yurt camping options: For those interested in yurt camping near Midfield, Alabama, Bama RV Station offers yurt accommodations with modern amenities. These circular tent structures provide a comfortable alternative to traditional camping.
Bathroom availability: Some campgrounds limit which bathroom facilities remain open during certain periods. One camper at Clear Creek mentioned, "They are only keeping open one bathroom at a time, so you have to pick and choose your site when you don't have a built-in bathroom."
Tips for camping with families
Choose loops with playground access: Several Oak Mountain camping loops provide easy access to playground equipment. Deerlick Creek offers additional recreation options as Suzanne Z. points out: "They had two play areas with balls and other toys for the kids."
Look for swimming areas: Bohamia offers family-friendly water features. Michael C. shared, "Water areas are fun and safe, lots of privacy and plenty of room to explore."
Select sites based on bathroom proximity: When camping with children, choosing sites near facilities makes nighttime trips easier. At Clear Creek Recreation Area, one reviewer mentioned their site had "easy walking distance to bathhouse."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds around Midfield offer wildlife encounters. At Deerlick Creek, Don K. observed, "We watched deer almost tamely walking around the campground."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Check site details carefully before booking. At Deerlick Creek, Mikki B. advised, "Be sure to check your spot to make sure you can park easily- some sites are difficult for large pull trailers."
Consider recently renovated sections: Oak Mountain's updated campground sections offer improved amenities for RVers. Melinda S. described Section B as having "remodeled spaces with adequate space for a newbie to back her travel trailer in with no problems. What an Ego booster!"
Utility connection availability: For yurt camping near Midfield, Alabama and surrounding areas, Clear Creek Cove RV Resort provides full hookup sites alongside glamping options. Sue V. noted, "Our lot is spacious, gravel pad with a cement patio."
Check site leveling: Despite hilly terrain, many campgrounds offer relatively level sites. One reviewer at Clear Creek mentioned, "The sites are very nice and the majority of sites are pretty level."
