Tuskegee National Forest Guide
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The Tuskegee National Forest is the smallest national forest in the United States—in fact, it's contained entirely within Alabama's Macon County—but it packs a big punch. The forest's 11,000 acres offer opportunities for camping, target shooting, horseback riding, and mountain biking. Hiking is the best way to experience the landscape; in fact, it's home to 8 miles of the famous Bartram National Recreation Trail. The forest is a stone's throw from some of Alabama's top cultural and historical sites, making it a convenient home base or an exciting day trip destination. Whether you're coming from inside Alabama or across state lines, you'll be greeted by hot summers, pleasant winters, and year-round camping opportunities.
Camping in Tuskegee National Forest
There are just 14 campsites in the Tuskegee National Forest, and each one is primitive. With an RV, you can experience the wilderness and still enjoy the comforts of home. Whether you're staying in the forest or at a developed campground in the surrounding area, it's a delight to return to a sheltered, luxurious place to sleep after a day of adventure. With RVshare, you can rent the rig that suits your group and your vacation preferences.
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Tuskegee National Forest Hunting Camps
If you're in search of an off-the-beaten-path camping trip, drive your RV straight to the Tuskegee National Forest Hunting Camps. Each of the 14 sites is designed for dispersed camping, so there are no services or amenities. In return, you'll get privacy, solitude, and spectacular forest views. Most spaces are appropriate for smaller RVs. Camping is free; call the Tuskegee Ranger District office in Tuskegee to secure a permit.
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Auburn RV Park
Enjoy all the features of your RV at Auburn RV Park, which sits 11 miles from the Tuskegee National Forest. Every site comes with full hookups, Wi-Fi service, telephone service, and cable TV. The park also offers hot showers, air-conditioned bathrooms, a laundry room, and a business center. A short walk from the campground, the Auburn Links Golf Course offers 18 holes. This is a popular spot for big rigs; it's right off I-85, and there are plenty of pull-through sites. Be sure to check the football schedule at Auburn University as sites fill up quickly on home-game weekends. Rates vary by site and season, but you can expect to pay at least $50 per night.
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Bar-W RV Park
Stay close to the comforts of Auburn and the wilderness of the Tuskegee National Forest at Bar-W RV Park. Spread across fields and surrounded by forests and working farmland, this lovely campground offers a peaceful, kid-friendly escape. Choose sites with partial and full hookups, and enjoy speedy Wi-Fi access throughout the park. While you're in camp, you can use the bathhouse, dump station, and recreation area. Rates start at $40 per night, with excellent discounts for monthly stays.
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University Station RV Resort
Located 12 miles north of the Tuskegee National Forest, University Station RV Resort is one of the most beautiful and comfortable camping destinations in the region. In fact, it's one of the top 10 campgrounds and RV parks in Alabama. Popular with tailgaters and Auburn football fans, this spot is packed with amenities. Inside the park, you'll find a convenience store, golf cart rentals, hiking and biking trails, RV maintenance and washing, luxury bathhouses, and a bakery. If you're staying during a game, don't worry about parking; you can hop on the campground shuttle to and from the field. Every game weekend, the campground hosts a food truck court and live entertainment. Rates range from $40-$65 per night, with higher prices for game weekends. Choose from sites with full or partial hookups.
RV Rentals Near Tuskegee National Forest
Tuskegee National Forest Hiking Trails
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Bartram National Recreation Trail
The full Bartram National Recreation Trail runs for 8.5 miles through the Tuskegee National Forest, taking you through thick stands of trees and past fields of wildflowers. While you hike, keep an eye out for the deer that live in the woods.
Length: 8.5 miles
Intensity: Moderate
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Pleasant Hill Trail
The multiuse Pleasant Hill Trail welcomes hikers and bikers. The trail travels through the forest and down forest roads, providing a mix of terrain. The elevation gain is minimal, and the hike is accessible for people of average fitness. Along the way, you can see the Hickory Grove Church and cemetery.
Length: 3.8 miles
Intensity: Moderate
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Bold Destiny/Bedford Cash Memorial Trail
If you're looking for a place to ride your horse, you'll want to take the Bold Destiny/Bedford Cash Memorial Trail. This trail takes you past old-growth trees and rolling sand hills.
Length: 15 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Activities in Tuskegee National Forest
Whether you want to relax or get active, there are plenty of ways to experience the Tuskegee National Forest. Bring a horse and head to the 15-mile Bold Destiny/Bedford Cash Memorial Horse Trail. If you love to fish, spend a peaceful day at the pond. Fish from the shore or bring a boat with paddles or an electric motor. For a change of pace, head to the Uchee Shooting Range for target practice.
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Nature Watching
The national forest is home to a variety of flora, including spectacular blooming magnolias and dogwoods. The best place to see the diverse plant species is on the Bartram Trail. If you want an introduction to the local plants and wildlife, pick up a brochure at the Taska Recreation Area; bring a lunch to enjoy the picnic area.
How to get to Tuskegee National Forest
Address: 125 National Forest Rd 949, Tuskegee, AL, 36083
Fee: Entry fee (child) $0
The Tuskegee National Forest might be the smallest in the country, but it offers plenty of hiking, biking, and nature-viewing opportunities. Since it's lightly trafficked, you'll often have trails to yourself. Whether you're camping in the rustic national forest sites or at one of the local campgrounds, an RV is a great way to enjoy the wilderness to the fullest.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tuskegee National Forest
What type of wildlife lives in Tuskegee National Forest?
Wildlife that lives in Tuskegee National Forest includes deer, wild turkey and black bear. Visitors may also spot coyotes, foxes, quail, rabbits, and a variety of birds.
How many hiking trails does Tuskegee National Forest have?
There are three hiking trails in Talladega National Forest, totaling 25 miles of trails. Most trails are at an intermediate level for hikers.
Do you need a permit to fish or hunt in Tuskegee National Forest?
You need a valid state hunting license to hunt in Tuskegee National Forest. Fishing licenses are required for Alabama residents between 16-64 who fish with a rod and reel or artificial bait. You also need a fishing license to fish with hook and line outside your county of legal residence. All non-residents 16 and older must have an Alabama fishing license for any public waters, regardless of the tackle used.
What is the best time to visit Tuskegee National Forest?
Spring and fall are the best times to visit Tuskegee National Forest. In spring, the forest is covered with blooming wildflowers and trees. In fall, the leaves change color for a spectacular show.
Can you kayak, canoe, or raft in Tuskegee National Forest?
There are creeks where you can kayak or canoe in Tuskegee National Forest. Chewacla Creek has a paddle route that is a great trip in a canoe.
