Tent camping near Stanton, Alabama offers opportunities for backcountry solitude on the Pinhoti Trail and sites along various waterways in the region. The area sits within the Alabama piedmont, characterized by rolling hills with elevations between 600-1,100 feet and a humid subtropical climate with approximately 54 inches of annual rainfall. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F while winter nights can drop below freezing, affecting water availability at primitive sites.
What to do
Hike the Pinhoti Trail: The southern terminus of this long-distance trail begins near Weogufka State Forest Flagg Mtn, where campers can access a well-maintained backpacking shelter. As reviewer Asher K. notes, "The shelter sits alongside the creek" providing "incredibly easy water access" for hikers. Be prepared with maps as fallen trees sometimes obscure trail markers.
Explore CCC history: The Civilian Conservation Corps structures at Flagg Mountain provide historical interest for campers. According to Ro J., the area offers "access to southern terminus of the Pinhoti Trail. CCC tower and cabins from 1930's." The caretaker is often available to share information about the site's history.
Water recreation: Holt Lake offers multiple water activities near tent sites. "The lake is huge, great for towing, skiing, fishing and cruising," reports Missy W. The recreation area includes a small man-made beach for swimming, though it "can be pretty crowded during the summer."
What campers like
Privacy at primitive sites: The backcountry camping in Weogufka State Forest Campsite 2 provides seclusion with reasonable access. Asher K. describes it as "a small area for backcountry camping" where "you can park fairly close to the site and there is enough space for a couple of hammocks or a single tent."
Historical atmosphere: Campers appreciate the historical significance of certain camping areas. Marty E. recommends the Flagg Mountain area, noting it's "a great campsite" with ruins accessible by four-wheel-drive vehicles in some cases. The reviewer adds that "Mary the caretaker of the area could easily tell you and is a great communicator and very helpful."
Waterfront camping: The tent sites at Deerlick Creek campground near Holt Lake receive high praise for their setting. One camper mentions the sites are "very large and private" with room for multiple tents and vehicles, making them suitable for group camping excursions.
What you should know
Weather impacts: Recent storm activity can significantly affect trail conditions and site accessibility. After a hurricane, one camper reported "a ton of trees down" but noted "there was already maintenance in process to clear the area out." Always check trail conditions before backcountry camping trips.
Facility variations: Amenities vary widely between sites. At Payne Lake Spillway, Hannah C. notes the area has "a pavilion with four picnic tables underneath it and then there are isolated picnic tables around the area. They have fire pits and grills nearby for cooking. There are also bathrooms across from the pavilion." However, camping is not permitted in all areas of certain recreation sites.
Vehicle requirements: Some camping areas require four-wheel drive for access. When visiting Weogufka State Forest, consider vehicle capabilities as one reviewer mentioned potential need for four-wheel-drive "to get up to the ruins."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access for children: Holt Lake features a beach area ideal for families with children. The bathrooms are conveniently located nearby, though one reviewer cautions to "keep an eye out" for debris as they were uncertain "how often the beach is cleaned."
Group-friendly sites: For family gatherings, look for the larger tent pads. One camper at Deerlick Creek noted they "set up our site with 3 tents and brought 8 people along" without issues, indicating good accommodation for family groups.
Picnic facilities: Jones Bluff provides day-use areas for family activities. Sarah C. explains it's "a large parcel of land owned and operated by the Army Corps of Engineers. Also known as Bob Woodruff Park, located right on the Alabama River, there's access to swimming, hiking, fishing and of course boating."
Tips from RVers
Nearby alternatives: While Jones Bluff itself doesn't offer camping facilities, RVers can find options in the vicinity. According to a reviewer, "you can camp just down the road at either the Prairie Creek Park Campgrounds or back toward Montgomery a bit at Gunter Hill Park (also run by the Army Corps of Engineers)."
Day-use combined with camping: RVers often use recreation areas for day activities while camping nearby. For Payne Lake visitors, the spillway recreation area serves as a convenient picnic spot with "fire pits and grills nearby for cooking" while the "boat ramp for the lake is right down the road from the spillway parking area."
