Coleman Lake Recreation Area offers equestrian camping near Leesburg, Alabama in the Talladega National Forest. The dedicated horse camping section sits separate from the main camping area, with specific amenities for riders and their horses. The equestrian section remains open from March through December, providing access to the Pinhoti Trail system that connects south Alabama to north Georgia.
What to do
Explore Pettyjohn Cave: Located near Sawmill Lake Campsite, this cave system attracts spelunkers and adventure seekers. "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," notes Lisa.
Fishing at Coleman Lake: The recreation area features a lake stocked with fish for anglers of all skill levels. "Caught 3 bass in the lake. You can't beat the price," reports Jason G. about his experience at Coleman Lake.
Rock climbing at Cherokee Rock Village: Located within driving distance of Leesburg, this area offers numerous climbing routes. "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 frequently visits Cherokee Rock Village.
What campers like
Complete digital disconnect: The remote setting of Coleman Lake provides a true break from technology. "There is absolutely no cell service at all. The nearest reliable service is literally 6 miles down the road. This can certainly be seen as a positive," explains Evan S. who camped at Coleman Lake Rec Area.
Clean facilities: The maintained bathhouses and campground areas receive consistent praise. "The bath house is very clean and up to date. Sites are level and well spaced," reports Micheal S. about Coleman Lake Recreation Area.
Horse-friendly environment: The equestrian campground accommodates riders with dedicated space for trailers and direct trail access. "A campground for equestrians is near the main campground. 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.
What you should know
Road access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads that require careful navigation. "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 approaching Coleman Lake.
Water availability: While some campsites offer water hookups, others require bringing your own supply. "There are no water hookups, so make sure to pack plenty of water with you," advises Abigail P. about staying at Sawmill Lake Campsite.
Reservation systems: Coleman Lake operates on a first-come, first-served basis, making advance planning essential during busy periods. "Sites are first come, first serve, water and electric. There is a campground host on duty," explains AMANDA D.
Tips for camping with families
Seasonal activities: Many campgrounds offer special events for children during holidays. "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. Almost every camp site gave candy and the kid turn out was impressive," shares Evan S. about Lake Guntersville State Park Campground.
Recreation options: Look for campgrounds with amenities specifically for children. "Has a Beach area and playground in the day use area," notes Lisa W. about Coleman Lake Recreation Area.
Trail difficulty assessment: When horseback riding with children, evaluate trail difficulty beforehand. The Pinhoti Trail sections vary in difficulty, with some sections better suited for experienced riders and others appropriate for beginners.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At some campgrounds, certain areas offer better accommodation for RVs than others. "I would recommend going to the first open field when you enter which is to the right. I decided to go all the way back down the gravel road to the back and every spot was taken so I wasted about 30 minutes," advises Mitchell M. about Mountain Cove Resort.
Hookup availability: Confirm utility connections before arrival as they vary by campground. "$16/nt. Overflow area has no hookups," notes David M. about Coleman Lake Recreation Area's facilities.
Road condition awareness: RV drivers should research road conditions, especially when accessing more remote horse camping locations. "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.
Traveler
