Cindy S.
Scout
ScoutHidden Cove Thousand Trails
Nice
This is a very nice campground. Staff are very friendly
Camping near Bankhead National Forest
Bankhead National Forest in Alabama features multiple camping options ranging from established campgrounds to primitive dispersed sites. Clear Creek Recreation Area provides electric hookups, water access, and trash service for RVs and tent campers, while Wolf Pen Hunters Camp and Boondock Dispersed Camping offer free primitive camping with no amenities. The Sipsey Wilderness area within Bankhead contains numerous backcountry campsites along trails, particularly popular along Trail 200 and Trail 203, where hikers can find established fire rings and flat tent pads near water sources.
Seasonal conditions significantly impact camping experiences in the Bankhead region. Most developed campgrounds like Corinth Recreation Area operate from March through October, while primitive sites remain open year-round. The Sipsey Wilderness area experiences highly variable water levels depending on recent rainfall, affecting site selection and trail accessibility. Sites near water require careful selection to avoid potential flooding during heavy rain periods. Cell service is limited throughout much of the forest, particularly in the wilderness areas. "The water levels in Sipsey are highly variable since we get a lot of rain in Alabama and most of the levels are dependent on runoff. Overall, it may not be the best option depending on the time of year," noted one backpacker regarding campsites near waterways.
Hikers and backpackers particularly value the Sipsey Wilderness area for its network of intersecting creeks, waterfalls and secluded camping areas. Several visitors mentioned the magical quality of the rock formations and waterfalls, especially during spring when wildflowers bloom throughout the forest. Campers at Wolf Pen Hunters Camp appreciate the proximity to hiking trails and seclusion despite the lack of amenities. "If you can get there quick enough there are some pretty good spots to camp and it's free not to mention right down the road from some of the best hiking trails I have ever seen," reported one camper. The developed Bama Campground & RV Park receives consistently high ratings for its private wooded sites, full hookups, and convenient location for exploring the national forest. Visitors frequently note the stargazing opportunities from several camping areas due to minimal light pollution.
Campground Showdown near Bankhead National Forest, AL
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Best Camping Sites Near Bankhead National Forest (99)
1. Corinth Recreation Area
26 ReviewsHouston, AL10 milesWebsite+1 (205) 300-1513$22 - $58 / night
"Wonderful and huge site with easy access to the bathhouse. The bathhouse itself was extraordinarily clean. Our hosts were fantastic and helpful providing maps and reasonably priced ice and firewood."
"This is a great campground which puts you near all the magic of the Sipsey Wilderness Area in the Bankhead National Forest."
2. Brushy Lake Recreation Area
15 ReviewsAddison, AL7 milesWebsite"Brushy Lake is a lovely spot in the beautiful Bankhead National Forest. The 33 acre lake is perfect for canoeing or kayaking. The fishing is excellent."
"Campground Review: Located right outside of the core part of Sipsey wilderness (William Bankhead) this campground is a great place for people who want to be around other tent campers and want something"
3. Thompson Creek Trail Campsites
11 ReviewsBankhead National Forest, AL8 milesWebsite"I really enjoy backpacking Bankhead National Forest. We camped about 1 mile in at an existing fire ring. Beautiful water color!! Cool trees and rock formations."
"The entire Sipsey Wilderness is gorgeous, but if you want a trail with lots of great spots to camp, this trail is fantastic."
4. Clear Creek Recreation Area
26 ReviewsArley, AL16 milesWebsite+1 (205) 300-1463$32 - $85 / night
"As an adult, it's been fun to return and spend time actually camping in the Bankhead National Forest."
"Dont plan on playing in the lake unless you get the outer side of the loop. It's good that the waterfront sites are not reservable in that you have a chance at something."
5. Boondock Dispersed Camping Alabama
6 ReviewsBankhead National Forest, AL5 miles"Right away, I noticed how peaceful it felt, tucked a good distance from the main road. Even with the rain coming down, it wasn’t too hard to get to the camping areas."
"Behind the campsite there is a trail over a mound that leads down the hill to a small creek which was nice however there are 2 nice sized caves 1 to either side of this trail."
6. Wolf Pen Hunters Camp
5 ReviewsBankhead National Forest, AL4 milesWebsite+1 (205) 489-5111"if you can get there quick enough there are some pretty good spots to camp and it's free not to mention right down the road from some of the best hiking trails I have ever seen open year round"
7. Bama Campground & RV Park
3 ReviewsBankhead National Forest, AL3 milesWebsite+1 (844) 922-6746$45 - $79 / night
"This is a great little campground tucked away on the edge of Bankhead National Forest. The location of the campground makes it an excellent location to enjoy the numerous waterfall hikes in the area."
"Stayed here on an overnight while driving through the state. Great site tucked in the woods, very private area. Huge field with little light pollution to stargaze. Very friendly host. Would Recommend."
8. Houston Recreation Area
5 ReviewsHouston, AL10 milesWebsite"During my time in Alabama, I kept hearing wonderful things about Sipsey Wilderness, and its many waterfalls, rocky landscapes, and great hikes."
"Close to waterways. The campground is medium sized, dense forests surround the campsites. The amenities are pretty standard."
9. Thousand Trails Hidden Cove
13 ReviewsArley, AL19 milesWebsite+1 (888) 707-1477"This RV park is right on a lake, but a bit away from anything else. If you have any sort of boat, kayak, paddle board, bring it! There is hiking about an hour away at the Bankhead National Forest."
"Spot are very bigs and a good distance between them. Full hookup sites. Amenitied are very cleans, kids play grounds. Park for walking, biking, use your boat and kayak, boat ramp access."
10. Sipsey Wilderness Backcountry Site (Trail 200 Site H)
1 ReviewBankhead National Forest, AL4 milesWebsite"It has several waterfalls nearby, is close enough to the river for easy water access, and is secluded from many other sites."
Recent Camping Photos near Bankhead National Forest
111 Photos of 99 Bankhead National Forest Campgrounds
Steve T.
Bama Campground & RV Park
Asher K.
Sipsey Wilderness Backcountry Site (Trail 200 Site G)
Timothy K.
Wolf Pen Hunters Camp
Asher K.
Sipsey Wilderness - Trail 200 Campsites
Asher K.
Sipsey Wilderness Backcountry Site (Trail 203 Site B)
Asher K.
Sipsey Wilderness Backcountry Site (Trail 203 Site C)
Dwight L.
Boondock Dispersed Camping Alabama
Asher K.
McDougle Hunt Camp
Hayden E.
Brushy Lake Recreation Area
Terrell B.
Thompson Creek Trail Campsites
Asher K.
Houston Recreation Area
Genie C.
Corinth Recreation Area
Recent Reviews near Bankhead National Forest
318 Reviews of 99 Bankhead National Forest Campgrounds
MickandKarla W.
LegendValley Fort RV Park & Storage
Newer Campground
We called ahead the day of arrival and got a reservation for an overnight stay. We received an email with information and bath/laundry code along with instructions to proceed directly to pull-through site 36 with full hookups. There are various ways from I-65 to get to this campground (CG); we came in on I-565E to Mooresville Rd which provided straightforward big-rig friendly access with no tight turns. Our gravel pull-through site was mostly level, and other sites, especially those on the upper level, also appeared level. The park appears newer with functional gravel sites, some with small concrete patio areas, though sites can be somewhat close together and there is little shade. There was no picnic table nor fire pit at our site, which was fine for an overnighter. Water pressure was decent and we got 2 bars on Verizon and 2 bars on T-Mobile. Occupants were mainly full-timers and transient workers, but the park was quiet and decently maintained without appearing overly junky. A nice centrally located bathhouse and small but clean laundry facility are available. Highlights for us were the large fenced dog park, easy self-check-in process, convenient overnight layout for big rigs, and proximity to Buc-ee’s, making this a solid quick stop when traveling through the Athens area.
John S.ScoutBoondock Dispersed Camping Alabama
Pretty cool
Only one real campsite for anything more than a tent, I am in a camper van. The other small spot seems only suitable for tent camping. Site big enough for vehicle is all the way at the end of the dirt road. NO BIG RIGS I REPEAT NO BIG RIGS. Behind the campsite there is a trail over a mound that leads down the hill to a small creek which was nice however there are 2 nice sized caves 1 to either side of this trail. It does require some hiking down off path to get to the larger of the 2 pretty awesome
Rob G.
TravelerAppalachian Foothills RV Park and Service
It is okay if you just need a spot for the night.
It is an open parking lot with hookups. There are no amenities, or restrooms. There is a laundry room but the code on the door is a secret. The place was clean.
- MickandKarla W.Legend
StarStream Campground
Decent Overnighter
This review was written as a short-stay versus destination campground. Our RV Life navigation and Waze took us off I-65 and about a mile to the campground, though both GPS units announced the destination as being on the right when the new campground entrance was actually on the left. Prior to arrival, we received an email directing us to go straight to back-in site B-1 with full hookups. With only 10 utility sites currently in service, maneuvering was easy, and the wide roadway along with the generous site opening made it simple to swing our 40-foot fifth wheel and F450 into position. The gravel pad was fairly level, as were the other sites, and utilities were centered and functioned well with water pressure around 60 psi. Sites were comfortably spaced, and our site included a nice paver patio with a picnic table. A convenient touch was trash pickup directly from the patio area. One of the owners, Joan, stopped by to make sure everything was satisfactory and mentioned additional parking areas at the front and back of the campground if needed, though we were able to park crosswise on our site without issue. There was currently no Wi-Fi, but the open layout with no obstructions made satellite connectivity easy. We had 3 bars on both Verizon and T-Mobile. The owners live in one of the cabins a few hundred yards from the campground, where a few dry camping sites are also located. There was no bathhouse or laundry facility at the time of our stay, though the owners indicated those amenities are planned. A nearby shooting range was active on the Sunday we visited, creating some daytime noise. Overall, we enjoyed the stay and would return.
Ethan B.
GuideBoondock Dispersed Camping Alabama
Peace between the trees
I pulled into this spot on a rainy day, looking for a quiet place to camp. You will came across a dirt road off to the side not exactly where the pin said it would be, but close enough probably a good 1500ft difference . Right away, I noticed how peaceful it felt, tucked a good distance from the main road. Even with the rain coming down, it wasn’t too hard to get to the camping areas.
As I drove in, I passed three camping spots, each with its own little pocket of space that felt private and calm. Eventually, once I got to the where I camped, It looked like I might be able to go further down, but between the wet terrain and the late hour, I decided to park and stay put.
Even with the rain, it was a relaxing and easy spot to camp, quiet and tucked away from the hustle of the road.
Beth R.LegendCullman Campground
Ok for overnight stay but wouldn’t arrive after dark.
Ok for overnight stay, but difficult to setup in the dark.
Fulltime RV N.ScoutLove's RV Hookup-Good Hope AL 877
Easy Quick Spot
Recommend booking online before coming. Only 3 spots but very easy accessible.
Darby R.ScoutLove's RV Stop-Muscle Shoals AL 580
Perfect for a night
There's a fire pit, cornhole, showers are included, two dog parks and half a basketball court. There is a small trail that circles the whole campground.
Guide to Bankhead National Forest
Bankhead National Forest spans 181,230 acres across northern Alabama with elevations ranging from 700 to 1,200 feet. The forest includes diverse terrain from deep gorges to sandstone bluffs and is home to over 27 species of fern. During summer months, temperatures often reach 90°F with high humidity, while winter camping can experience occasional freezing temperatures and frost on tent surfaces.
What to do
**Paddling opportunities: Clear Creek Recreation Area offers lakefront campsites ideal for boaters. "The sites were beautifully wooded and spacing between each site was adequate... 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," reports one camper who appreciated the water access.
Hiking near waterfalls: Thompson Creek Trail Campsites provides direct access to numerous waterfalls. "The water was clear. The waterfall was beautiful and we found a quiet spot up the creek to camp," notes a hiker who camped about a mile from the trailhead. Many established primitive sites sit along the trail at regular intervals.
Stargazing: Light pollution is minimal at most Bankhead National Forest campgrounds. A camper at Brushy Lake Recreation Area noted: "Very relaxing atmosphere. Hiking is good!!! It is very quiet and very dark at night!!!!! Great family outing!!" Multiple cleared areas allow unobstructed views of the night sky, particularly during new moon phases.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Corinth Recreation Area receives high marks for site spacing. "This was by far one of the most quite COE campground we have been to... The camp was full but you would have thought the opposite based on how quite is was," noted one visitor who appreciated the peaceful atmosphere despite a fully booked campground.
Fishing access: Multiple campgrounds offer direct fishing opportunities, particularly at Brushy Lake Recreation Area. "The 33 acre lake is perfect for canoeing or kayaking. The fishing is excellent," reports one winter visitor. Many sites include direct shore access for easy casting without needing to transport gear.
Proximity to trails: Campers appreciate short drives to trailheads. "This is a great campground which puts you near all the magic of the Sipsey Wilderness Area in the Bankhead National Forest... The trails in the nearby Sipsey are just amazing," explains a Corinth camper, highlighting the advantage of established campgrounds as basecamps for wilderness exploration.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies dramatically across the forest. At Boondock Dispersed Camping, a camper noted: "Ended up having a little cell reception with T Mobile." Similarly, at Brushy Lake: "No phone service though," reported another camper, emphasizing the need to download offline maps before arrival.
Winter water access: Seasonal closures affect amenities. "The water spickets are not operational at brushy lake during the winter. But, just a short 3.5 miles down the dirt road water can be obtained from the Owl Creek Horse Camp area," explains one winter visitor. Always verify operating dates before arrival.
Bathhouse availability: Some facilities close seasonally or rotate closures. At Clear Creek, a camper noted: "There was 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." Check with rangers about current facility status.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Several campgrounds feature designated swimming spots. At Corinth Recreation Area, however, one visitor cautioned: "Swimming area has shaded picnic areas but is down a steep hill a good way from your car. Also small pebbles in swim area are very painful." Bring water shoes for comfort.
Playground conditions: Hidden Cove RV Resort offers children's facilities but maintenance varies. "The wood on the playground needs to be replaced and the grass really needed cut. There were no horse shoes to play and no golf stuff," mentioned one family. The clubhouse, however, was described as "very nice and had a lot for kids to do."
Level camping spots: For tent camping families, ground conditions matter. One visitor to Wolf Pen Hunters Camp reported: "Sites were level and clear. A little muddy but it had been raining." Bring extra tarps during rainy seasons, especially spring and late fall.
Tips from RVers
Loop selection: At Corinth Recreation Area, loop choice affects amenities. "We made the mistake of booking the FlyerFly loop, the bathhouse was closed due to COVID. The camp host was very nice and helped us move to Yellowhammer where the bathhouse was open," noted one RVer who appreciated the flexible management.
Site leveling: Many forest campgrounds have natural terrain variations. At Clear Creek, an RVer mentioned: "The sites were close enough to see your neighbors but far enough away to not hear them! We stayed in site 17 on the Fox loop. It's right on the water and couldn't have been more perfect!!" Bring leveling blocks for uneven sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need permits for camping in Bankhead National Forest?
Do I need permits for camping in Bankhead National Forest?
For developed campgrounds like Clear Creek Recreation Area, reservations are required and can be made through Recreation.gov. These sites typically include water and electric hookups and require payment of camping fees. For dispersed camping at places like Wolf Pen Hunters Camp, no formal permits are needed, but you should follow forest service dispersed camping regulations. Backcountry camping in the Sipsey Wilderness doesn't require permits, but campers should practice Leave No Trace principles and camp at established sites when possible.
What rustic campground amenities are available in Bankhead National Forest?
What rustic campground amenities are available in Bankhead National Forest?
Rustic campground amenities vary across Bankhead National Forest. Bama Campground & RV Park offers spacious gravel sites with full hookups, making it an excellent base for waterfall hikes despite its more developed nature. For truly rustic experiences, wilderness camping along backcountry trails provides no facilities beyond existing fire rings and nearby water sources. The more developed Brushy Lake Recreation Area balances rustic charm with basic amenities. Most developed campgrounds include potable water, vault toilets or bathhouses, and fire rings, while backcountry sites require self-sufficiency with no facilities.
Where are the best camping spots in William B. Bankhead National Forest?
Where are the best camping spots in William B. Bankhead National Forest?
Bankhead National Forest offers diverse camping opportunities. The Sipsey Wilderness Backcountry Site (Trail 207 Site D) provides spacious, private camping with easy water access for backpackers. For those seeking developed camping, Corinth Recreation Area features 52 well-maintained sites with clean bathhouses, helpful hosts, and strategic access to the Sipsey Wilderness Area. Backpackers will find excellent primitive camping along Thompson Creek Trail Campsites, known for beautiful water colors, unique rock formations, and numerous existing fire rings about a mile into the trail.
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