For a truly unique, primitive camping experience, escape to the wilderness of picturesque Alabama. Across the state, you’ll find secluded campsites tucked away in the stunning scenic beauty of the state’s forests and parks. Sleep under the stars at these five beautiful backpack camping spots in Alabama.
Though this state park is well known for its traditional campsites and cabin rentals, they also feature two campsites in a more rustic setting. The CCC Quarry campsite is just over a mile’s trek from the country store within the park, right off the White Trail. The Never-Never-Land campsite is tucked along a stream just three-quarters of a mile from the Lost Falls Trailhead. Look for the man-made trailside shelter and you’ll know you’ve reached the right place. Each of these campsites take you straight into the heart of nature, away from the noise of the park and highway so you can enjoy a serene experience.
This unique camping experience takes quite a bit of effort to get there, as most of the hike is uphill. However, once you get there you’ll be welcomed by natural vistas and peace and quiet. If you do choose to venture away from the tent, head back to the main part of the park to visit the namesake caverns, a truly stunning sight. The cave is a cool 60 degrees year-round and features some of the most beautiful natural formations you’ll see anywhere. Best of all, since most of your hike was a strenuous upward climb to the campsite, getting back down won’t be nearly as difficult.
This locale doesn’t offer as much solitude since the camping here is trailside (and the trails are quite popular). However, if you’re looking for experience over peace and quiet, you need to see the scenic wonders here. Throughout the area you’ll find lush rivers, canyons, waterfalls, and forests, not to mention a multitude of overlooks for panoramic views. The area is full of prime hiking trails ranging in difficulty, but since retaining the natural splendor is high priority here, the trails aren’t always well-marked. Trail 209 offers a few primitive campsites with amazing views, taking you several miles deep into the area for a scenic experience.
Nothing quite tops Alabama’s largest state park for some good old backpack camping. At a sprawling 9,940 acres, you’ll find endless scenic beauty to absorb. For the best, up close and personal views of the surrounding wildlife, opt to stay over in one of the state park’s designated backcountry sites. At these sites, you’ll find more than 50 miles of trails and loops that all levels of backpackers can enjoy. Keep in mind: Open fires are not allowed, but campers are welcome to use camp stoves for food.
A backpacker’s paradise, there’s something for level of skill to enjoy at Conecuh National Forest. The Conecuh Trail meanders through 20 miles of the eastern section of the forest. Backpackers can take in the incredible wealth of wildlife diversity throughout this forest. Winter hiking is actually very enjoyable here, as its less buggy and hot.
Alli Hill is a freelance content writer and mom of two. She spends most of her free time exploring the great outdoors by trail or by kayak. She is also the founder and director of FreelanceSpeak, a blog to support other freelance creatives.
