Camping areas near West Blocton sit at elevations between 200-500 feet above sea level in central Alabama's transition zone between the Ridge and Valley region and the Cumberland Plateau. The terrain features a mix of rolling hills, limestone outcroppings, and stream-fed waterways with predominantly oak-hickory forest cover. Summer temperatures average 90°F with high humidity, while winter lows rarely drop below 30°F, creating near year-round camping conditions.
What to do
Historical exploration: Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park offers extensive historical sites beyond its camping areas. "The museum there is very interesting and educational. We enjoyed our stay. It was Flea Market weekend, also," notes Leesha J. about the Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park Campground. Historical buildings include old mills, furnaces, blacksmith shops and restored cabins.
Mountain biking: Oak Mountain State Park provides extensive mountain biking trails for all skill levels. "This place has everything, mtn bike, gravel bike, trail running, road running, road biking, golf, equestrian, sailing and fishing," according to Soren B. at Oak Mountain State Park Campground. The park maintains designated biking paths separated from hiking trails.
Waterfront activities: Multiple lakes and waterways provide fishing and paddling opportunities. "The lake was full of lily pads in bloom when we arrived mid-morning," writes Mo F. about Payne Lake. "No motors are allowed on the water, which is great." Several sites at Burchfield Branch Park back directly to water access points where campers can launch kayaks from their sites.
Nature photography: Spring and fall offer prime photography conditions in the mixed hardwood forests. During October, Genie C. visited Burchfield Branch: "I see you, Fall," noting the seasonal colors. Wildflowers typically bloom March through May along most area hiking trails, particularly at Deerlick Creek.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Deerlick Creek earns praise for its well-designed camping areas. "Love the large sites that are nicely separated from neighboring sites and overlook the water," writes Steve V. The campground features concrete pads and many waterfront options. Many campsites have enough distance between them to maintain privacy while still accommodating larger camping setups.
Clean facilities: "Bathhouses at most campgrounds remained accessible to pet owners, though animals are not permitted inside these facilities," but cleanliness varies between parks. "Bath house was super clean. The camp host were active and extremely friendly," notes Genie C. about Burchfield Branch Park. Most campgrounds in the area provide shower facilities, though older bathhouses may have limited amenities.
Water access: Direct water access ranks high with campers. At Payne Lake, Christopher P. appreciated their site: "We camped in site 16 and had a good view and a little walk way to the water." LB C. notes about riverside sites at Burchfield: "it was wonderful to be able to kayak directly from our site."
Family-friendly amenities: Campgrounds near West Blocton typically include children's areas. "There is a nice playground for the kids," says Suzanne Z. Most locations feature designated swimming areas during summer months, though hours vary by season and staffing levels.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies dramatically between campgrounds. "There is no reception here...cell phones and aircards won't work...so if you want to disconnect it's an ideal place to do so," warns Linda G. about Burchfield Branch Park. At Payne Lake Westside Campground, Missy W. notes: "Unless you have Verizon you probably won't have cell service (which is why it's not crowded) but that can be a good thing."
Reservation systems vary: Some parks require advance booking while others operate first-come, first-served. "We arrived late on a Thursday night and appreciated that the ranger is on-site 24/7, since the campground doesn't take reservations," explains Randi P. about Tannehill. "The process is easy—you just pull in, find a site, and register/pay the next morning."
Weather considerations: Summer camping requires preparation for high humidity. "Bring lots of bug spray," advises Suzanne Z. After rain, Mo F. reports: "We got an afternoon rain shower and, afterward the bugs were gnarly. Eaten alive. Be prepared for biting things, for sure, not just mosquitos."
Supply planning: Remote locations require bringing necessities. For Payne Lake, Missy W. advises: "The closest store is a long drive away so it's best to bring everything that you need initially." Most campgrounds lack on-site stores or have limited supplies available.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Hoover Met Complex RV Park offers dedicated play facilities for children. "Playground and rock climbing area a plus," notes Chris G. The playground remains accessible to all campers staying at the RV park and provides a convenient activity option between other outings.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds feature designated swimming areas. At Payne Lake, Amber B. reports: "there is a beach area for swimming and bathhouses are large and clean." During summer months, swimming areas typically operate from 10am-6pm, though specific hours vary by location.
Educational opportunities: Historical sites provide learning experiences. Adam R. visited Tannehill with family and noted: "Several activities such as the Museum, Frontier Farm and Minature ridable train will keep you engaged." Most historical sites offer self-guided tours with interpretive signage.
Seasonal planning: Family camping works best in spring and fall. "We just spent some time at several of Alabama's state parks. This is by far the best state park that we went to," writes Erin L. about Oak Mountain State Park. Spring typically brings wildflowers while fall offers colorful foliage with fewer insects than summer months.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Brierfield Ironworks Historical Park provides full hookup options. "Clean well kept campground lady at campground store very nice will be going back," reports Donald J. Most RV sites in the area offer water and electric connections, with full hookups available at select locations.
Site dimensions: Many parks accommodate larger rigs but may have limitations. "It seems we went during a semi busy time. They have lots of spots and most are in the shade," notes Suzanne Z. Before booking, verify site dimensions match your specific RV requirements.
Access roads: Some campgrounds have challenging approaches. "Coming in from the north the roads were terrible, small and a long ways," cautions Gary P. about Burchfield Branch Park. RVers with larger vehicles should research specific route information before traveling to remote campgrounds.
Leveling requirements: Concrete pads provide stability at many locations. "We paid $25 that included electric hookup, bath house with showers, water on site, and a dump station," reports Nicole K. about Tannehill. "Pads were concrete and moderately level." Most RV sites offer either concrete or gravel pads, though leveling blocks remain recommended.
