Coleman Lake Recreation Area offers equestrian camping near Lindale, Georgia, within the Talladega National Forest. Located approximately 55 miles west of Lindale, this area sits at 1,200 feet elevation and features mixed hardwood forests surrounding a 21-acre lake. Weather varies seasonally with summer temperatures averaging 85°F and winter lows dropping to the 30s, affecting camping conditions and trail access.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: The equestrian area at Coleman Lake Rec Area connects to extensive trail systems. "The Pinhoti Trail that extends from south Alabama to north Georgia goes right beside the lake and is a great section hike," notes camper Amanda D.
Rock climbing: Cherokee Rock Village offers multiple climbing options. "There's so many climbing routes that I love. There's near by water falls and cliff jumping called High Falls," shares Jess C., who camps there regularly throughout the year.
Fishing opportunities: Lakes throughout the region provide good fishing. At Coleman Lake, one camper reports: "Caught 3 bass in the lake. You can't beat the price," according to Jason G., highlighting the accessible fishing available even for novice anglers.
Cave exploration: The mountains near Sawmill Lake Campsite contain natural caves. "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," writes Lisa.
What campers like
Seclusion and disconnect: Many equestrian campers appreciate the remote nature of these areas. "Coleman Lake is in the Talladega National Forest and very remote. There is no cell phone service at all," states Amanda D., highlighting the opportunity for true disconnection.
Affordable camping options: Sites throughout the region offer budget-friendly stays. "Little Tallapoosa Park provides "Great price for full hookup at $30 per night and senior discount is offered," notes Swain K., making it cost-effective for longer stays.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses are consistently mentioned in reviews. "The bath house is very clean and up to date. Sites are level and well spaced," reports Micheal S. about Coleman Lake, noting the comfort this adds to the camping experience.
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting creates opportunities to observe local fauna. Cherokee Rock Village camper Asher K. notes: "We did some hiking in the rocks and they were impressive to see even without having climbing gear," highlighting the accessible nature viewing options.
What you should know
Access routes matter: GPS directions can lead horse trailers down unsuitable roads. "Make sure you use Highway 78 to enter. Google Maps will send you on a 11.5 mile mountain trail (Dugger Mountain Road) that is a dirt 2 track over the mountain...an interesting trip with a camper," warns Micheal S. about reaching Coleman Lake.
Reservation systems vary: Most equestrian campsites operate on first-come, first-served basis. For Mountain Cove Resort, a camper warns: "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."
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts trail conditions significantly. Mitchell M. notes about primitive sites: "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," suggesting summer brings higher occupancy rates.
Permit requirements: Some areas require permits for legal camping. At Sawmill Lake, "You do need a land pass to be here, the website is on the sign coming in and it was around $60," reports Sierra Y., emphasizing the importance of checking requirements before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. Little Tallapoosa Park camper Andy M. reports: "Splash park was fun and clean for the kids as well as really nice walking trails we enjoyed," making it suitable for families with young children.
Multi-use trails: Paths suitable for different activities benefit families. "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," shares Sarah F. about the family-friendly layout at Little Tallapoosa Park.
Special events: Some campgrounds organize activities for children. "I camped there on Halloween with my grandkids. My Frankies dressed in costume for me but the camp host saw them and made a point of inviting them for campground trick or treating. Almost every camp site gave candy," reports Evan S. about Coleman Lake.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing: RV campers should check site dimensions before arrival. Cherokee Rock Village offers "quite a few places to park a small RV. I chose the tent area because it seemed a bit better for level parking," notes Kent H., highlighting the importance of selecting appropriate sites.
Hookup availability: Water and electric options vary between campgrounds. At Coleman Lake, campers note: "Plenty of dispersed throughout the area though," when referring to non-hookup sites as an alternative when the limited number of hookup sites are taken.
Road conditions: Mountain access roads can challenge larger rigs. "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," warns Abigail P. about roads to Sawmill Lake Campsite.
Traveler
