Oak Mountain State Park offers yurt accommodations with modern comforts while maintaining a rustic camping experience. Located within driving distance of Sumiton, Alabama, the park sits at approximately 1,000 feet elevation with terrain featuring wooded hills and multiple lakes. Water temperatures in Smith Lake near several campgrounds can reach the mid-80s during summer months, making it ideal for swimming activities.
What to do
Hiking trails at Oak Mountain: The park features well-marked paths for all skill levels. According to a visitor, "Oak Mountain is a big state park with lots to do (golf, biking, archery, lots of trails that are very well marked, petting zoo, very neat trail with rescued owls, turkeys and red hawks, and more)" (Oak Mountain State Park Campground).
Mountain biking opportunities: Trails accommodate various skill levels with both paved and unpaved options. One camper noted that Oak Mountain provides "everything, mtn bike, gravel bike, trail running, road running, road biking, golf, equestrian, sailing and fishing."
Water recreation on Smith Lake: Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating and fishing at Clear Creek Recreation Area. A camper shared, "There is a basketball and volleyball area in a nice green space area near the boat launch. We will definitely be back!"
Wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds offer opportunities to observe local animals in natural habitats. At Deerlick Creek, one camper reported, "We watched deer almost tamely walking around the campground."
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Campsites at many locations offer good separation between neighbors. At Deerlick Creek, a camper observed, "This campground was unique as each site was set into the hills. We had lots of privacy and peaceful quite."
Water access from campsites: Many sites offer direct access to the water. One visitor at Clear Creek Recreation Area noted, "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."
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention well-maintained bathhouses and grounds. According to a visitor at Corinth Recreation Area, "This campground is ran by good people. The restrooms and grounds are kept very clean. They ride around to keep watch so no worries about anything."
Yurt accommodations: Yurt camping near Sumiton, Alabama provides a comfortable glamping option. Oak Mountain State Park's yurts include basic amenities while maintaining a connection to nature.
What you should know
Seasonal availability varies: While some parks remain open year-round, others have limited seasons. Clear Creek Recreation Area operates from March through October.
Bathroom access considerations: Some campgrounds limit bathroom availability. As one camper at Clear Creek noted, "There was also a notice that stated only one of the restroom facilities for the entire campground was available so tent families beware and plan your site accordingly."
Cell service quality: Coverage varies significantly between locations. At Clear Creek Cove RV Resort, service is generally good near the water, while more remote sites may have limited connectivity.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. Sites with water views fill particularly quickly.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly recreation areas: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play spaces. A visitor to Corinth Recreation Area mentioned, "They had two play areas with balls and other toys for the kids. It was very clean and friendly."
Nature education opportunities: Oak Mountain State Park provides wildlife viewing areas with rescued animals. As one visitor described, there's a "very neat trail with rescued owls, turkeys and red hawks."
Swimming safety: Beach areas have varying conditions. A camper at The Ridge Outdoor Resort advised, "This is a motocross, zip line and paint ball camp. The people that checked us in were great."
Trail accessibility: Some campgrounds offer easy walking paths suitable for children. Corinth Recreation Area features "nature trails extremely well kept with great views on the water."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for easy access: Choose sites based on your rig size and maneuvering abilities. A camper at Deerlick Creek advised, "Be sure to check your spot to make sure you can park easily- some sites are difficult for large pull trailers."
Leveling considerations: Despite hilly terrain, many sites are engineered for RVs. One visitor at Corinth Recreation Area noted, "Gravel site was fairly level despite being in a hilly area."
Hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer various hookup options. A camper at Deerlick Creek mentioned, "Nice level concrete pads with awesome shade."
Road access challenges: Some campgrounds have entry roads that can be difficult for larger rigs. A visitor to Oak Mountain cautioned, "No notice by park on the south entrance roadwork and roundabout construction...horribly tight to maneuver... recommend North entrance/exit until construction is completed."
