Within Talladega National Forest, Pine Glen Recreation Area operates as a primitive campground managed by the US Forest Service, charging just $3 per night for access to this remote location along Shoal Creek. The eight-mile drive to reach the campground follows an unpaved backcountry road through clay and gravel surfaces that can become challenging in wet conditions.
Campers find well-spaced sites equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and tent pads, with vault toilets available but no electrical hookups or potable water. The creek runs directly beside the campground, providing natural white noise and opportunities for wading or cooling off during warmer months. Bailey M. notes the campground "has a nice little creek you can walk over to," while several reviewers mention sites can flood during heavy rain periods.
The Pinhoti Trail passes through the campground, giving hikers direct access to forest trails without driving elsewhere. Sites remain relatively private despite the open layout under pine trees, and the remote location means minimal cell service for most carriers. Frank M. confirms "it is very secluded and quiet" even when the campground fills up on weekends.
Road conditions require higher-clearance vehicles, particularly after rain when the clay surface becomes slippery. The campground operates year-round with no reservation system, functioning on a first-come basis. Campers exploring camping spots around Talladega National Forest will find additional options, while Big Oak Gap Hunter Camp provides another Forest Service option 2.4 miles away.
Bring plenty of water, flashlights for the unlit campground, and check weather conditions before attempting the access road during wet periods.
Description
Pine Glen Recreation Area offers camping sites for 21 campsites, cooking grills, sanitary facilities, fishing, hiking, and access to the Pinhoti Trail. Use of Pine Glen Recreation Area is on a first come, first serve basis. Its a favorite with hunters because it is centrally located in the Choccolocco Wildlife Management Area.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundPine Glen Recreation Area is located in Alabama
Coordinates
33.72521825 N
85.60182112 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 10 users
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 10 users
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Phone Service
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
Drive Time
- 38 min from Anniston, AL
- 1 hr 4 min from Gadsden, AL
- 1 hr 18 min from Atlanta, GA
- 1 hr 19 min from Rome, GA












