Coleman Lake Recreation Area in the Talladega National Forest offers exceptional equestrian camping with trail access directly to the Pinhoti Trail. The horse campground area is separated from the main camping loops to maintain appropriate spacing between equestrian and non-equestrian campers. The campground closes during winter months, typically reopening in March, and maintains a strict first-come, first-served policy with no advance reservations available.
What to do
Fishing in local lakes: Coleman Lake Recreation Area provides fishing opportunities in a well-stocked lake. "Caught 3 bass in the lake. You can't beat the price," reports Jason G. at Coleman Lake Rec Area.
Explore rock formations: Cherokee Rock Village offers unique geological features for climbing and exploration. "There's so many climbing routes that I love. There's near by water falls and cliff jumping called High Falls. I love going to the drive-in movie theatre near by only $15 per vehicle to watch 2 movies!" writes Jess C. at Cherokee Rock Village.
Cave exploration: The region offers spelunking opportunities near Sawmill Lake Campsite. "This is a nice primitive camp site just a 2 min walk from Petty John Cave and a 5 min drive to Rock Town Trailhead. Come here to try your hand at rock climbing and spelunking," says Lisa at Sawmill Lake.
What campers like
Trail connectivity: The equestrian trails in Talladega National Forest connect to larger trail systems. "Coleman Lake is in the Talladega National Forest and very remote. There is no cell phone service at all. The Pinhoti Trail that extends from south Alabama to north Georgia goes right beside the lake and is a great section hike," notes Amanda D.
Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities at Little Tallapoosa Park. "Everything is well maintained from the roads, campsites, unpaved trails, and bathrooms. I was impressed with how clean everything was despite being a campground," writes Zachary N.
Quiet atmosphere: Many horse campgrounds near Cave Spring offer peaceful settings. "Very nice and open area to camp at. If you come in summer when it's busy, I would recommend going to the first open field when you enter which is to the right," suggests Mitchell M. about Sawmill Lake Campsite.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Many equestrian campgrounds near Cave Spring have limited or no cellular connectivity. "It is absolutely beautiful! The most beautiful I've stayed. There are not a lot of amenities but the beautiful site of those mountains. Be warned... There is no cell service and no Wi-Fi. Off the grid," reports Nathan T. about Mountain Cove Resort.
Seasonal considerations: Some campgrounds close during winter months. "This is a family-friendly campground. The quiet is nice, however all lights were out by 9, which was a little early for me and my group," writes Jess N. about Coleman Lake Recreation Area.
Access road challenges: Many horse-friendly areas have rough access roads. "The road leading up to the campsite is extremely rough and washed out. We were in a Subaru Outback, and it was a very slow-going, bumpy ride — we bottomed out several times," cautions Abigail P. about Sawmill Lake Campsite.
Tips for camping with families
Look for family activities: Some campgrounds offer kid-specific amenities. "Just got home from a great weekend at LTP. Sites are nice we were at site 11 pull thru with full hook up. Splash park was fun and clean for the kids as well as really nice walking trails we enjoyed," shares Andy M. about Little Tallapoosa Park.
Choose campgrounds with play areas: Find sites with built-in entertainment for children. "This is an incredibly family forward campground. I camped there on Halloween with my grandkids. My Frankie's dressed in costume for me but the camp host saw them and made a point of inviting them for campground trick or treating," explains Evan S. about Coleman Lake.
Consider seasonal programming: Some campgrounds host special events. "My kids enjoyed biking around the camping loop and we did some geocaching. For the price ($15/night), this is a pretty great place to camp," notes Sarah F. about Little Tallapoosa Park.
Tips from RVers
Check site specifications: Not all equestrian campgrounds near Cave Spring accommodate larger RVs. "I came from the west and had no problems getting my 23ft camper up the mountain. There were a few people that stayed in a tent for a night or two here and there, but I didn't see any other RV/Campers so every spot was open," shares Sierra Y. about Sawmill Lake Campsite.
Verify hookup availability: Confirm what utilities are available. "Popular campground with 39 sites, water & electric, flush toilets and shower. $16/nt. Overflow area has no hookups. Lake is pretty and fish are accommodating. We had site #30, and did not feel crowded at all despite the campground being full," reports David M. about Coleman Lake Recreation Area.
Consider campground layout: Look for suitable parking areas for horse trailers. "They have 3 camping areas. Section 1 is for tents and pop ups. Section 2 is full hookups for campers, 5th wheels and motor homes. Site 3 is for equine camping," explains Shirley D. about Little Tallapoosa Park.
Traveler
