The William B. Bankhead National Forest, located in northwestern Alabama, spans 181,200 acres and is one of the state’s four National Forests. Known for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes, the forest is home to Alabama’s only Wild and Scenic River, the Sipsey Fork, and the largest federally designated wilderness area in the state — the Sipsey Wilderness.
Where to Camp
Camping in William B. Bankhead National Forest
The William B. Bankhead National Forest offers excellent camping options, including two RV-friendly campgrounds: Clear Creek Recreation Area and Corinth Recreation Area. Clear Creek, the largest recreation area, sits on the shore of Lewis Smith Lake and provides access to boating, fishing, and hiking, while Corinth offers a serene setting for nature lovers. You can also explore private campgrounds in Alabama in nearby towns like Jasper. Additionally, several options for camping near the William B. Bankhead Forest and nearby dumping stations make it convenient for RV travelers.
Campgrounds in William B. Bankhead National Forest
Private Campgrounds Near William B. Bankhead National Forest
Check the top campgrounds in Alabama before planning your trip to the forest. You can look for campgrounds in nearby cities like Alexandria or Shreveport.
Corinth Recreation Area Campground
Corinth Recreation Area Campground offers 52 RV campsites. The campground is a modern, fully equipped facility that sits near Double Springs, AL, deep within the William B. Bankhead National Forest. It sits on the shores of Lake Lewis Smith, which offers amazing fishing opportunities. The campground has a modern boat ramp that is capable of handling boats of any size. An electrically operated gate increases campground security. All facilities are ADA accessible. Watersports such as skiing are allowed on the lake. Hunting, fishing, boating, kayaking, and canoeing are among the activities guests can enjoy. The campground is open from mid-March to mid-October.
Water Hookup: Yes
Electric Hookup: 50 amps
Sewer Hookup: Yes
Wi-Fi Available: Yes
Pet-friendly: Yes
Other amenities: Fire rings, warm showers, restrooms with flush toilets
Fee: $36 per night
Clear Creek Recreation Area Campground
The Clear Creek Recreation Area Campground offers 102 RV campsites. The campground provides a boat ramp for easy access to the lake and an extended pier that serves as a boat ramp with access to Lake Lewis Smith. The fishing pier is ADA accessible. A swimming beach lets guests play in the water on hot summer days. Paved hiking trails wander throughout the campground and change into bark dust-covered trails along the lakeshore.
Water Hookup: Yes
Electric Hookup: 50 amp
Sewer Hookup: Yes
Wi-Fi Available: Yes
Pet-friendly: Yes
Other amenities: Picnic tables, fire rings, lantern hooks, warm showers, restrooms with flush toilets
Fee: $30 per night
Houston Recreation Area Campground
Houston Recreation Area Campground offers 88 RV campsites. The campground sits on the Lake Lewis Smith shoreline. It has a fully operating boat ramp that allows easy access to the lake. Hiking trails run throughout the campground, through the forests surrounding them, and along the lakeshore. A swimming beach allows sunbathing and a swim during the hot summer months.
Water Hookup: Yes
Electric Hookup: 50 amps
Sewer Hookup: Yes
Wi-Fi Available: Yes
Pet-friendly: Yes
Other amenities: Restrooms with flush toilets, warm showers, fire rings, picnic tables, dump station
Fee: $13 to $26 per night
RV Rentals Near William B. Bankhead National Forest
The Thompson Creek Trail is a well-defined pathway that wanders through William B. Bankhead National Forest's woods. At the focus of the trail is Thompson Creek, which dashes through the forest's environs and out into clearings where hikers can swim in gentle pools during the spring, observe the intense tree colors in the fall, and fish during the entire angling season.
Length: 3.4 miles
Intensity: Intermediate
Sipsey Wild Hiking Trail
Wander beside the slow-moving Sipsey River on this untouched trail. Visitors find plant life that reflects the Cumberland area's highlands mixed with the bog plants characteristic of swampy areas.
Length: 7.5 miles
Intensity: Intermediate/Difficult
Randolph Wild Hiking Trail
Two-thirds of the Randolph Wild Hiking Trail is a two-lane pathway allowing hikers to pass each other comfortably. An old cemetery sits at the culmination of this first section of the trail. The final third of the trail is a single pathway that leads to an impressive waterfall.
Length: 3.1 miles
Intensity: Intermediate
Rippey Wild Hiking Trail
The Rippey Wild Hiking Trail connects the ends of the Sipsey Wild Hiking Trail and the Randolph Wild Hiking Trail. The trail is not marked, but the pathway is well worn and easy to follow. It wanders through the forest, and the sites at either end are worth the extra walk.
Length: 2.0 miles
Intensity: Intermediate
Mitchell Ridge Trail
The Mitchell Ridge Trail is a climb to the top of one of the ridges that interrupt the slow undulation of land inside the William B. Bankhead National Forest. At the ridge's summit, the trail switches back and forth following the ridgeline and presenting astounding views of the hillsides and valleys beneath.
Length: 6.9 miles
Intensity: Intermediate/Difficult
Things to Do
Activities in William B. Bankhead National Forest
Here are some of the things to do in William B. Bankhead National Forest during your camping trip.
For mountain biking enthusiasts, Bankhead National Forest offers thrilling trails to explore. The Flint Creek Multiple-Use Trail features intermediate to difficult terrain, providing an exciting challenge for riders. Another popular option is the Pine Torch Trail, which welcomes mountain bikers, horseback riders, and hikers alike. This trail is located close to the historic Pine Torch Church, adding a touch of cultural significance to your adventure.
Fishing is a favorite activity in Bankhead National Forest, with its waters brimming with crappie, bream, catfish, and bass. The Brushy Lake Recreation Area and popular spots like the Clear Creek, Corinth, and Houston Recreation Areas offer excellent lake and pond fishing opportunities. For those who prefer river and stream fishing, the Pine Glen Recreation Area provides a tranquil setting to cast your line.
Horseback riders will enjoy the Owl Creek Horse Camp and Trail System, which spans approximately 26 miles and offers primitive overnight campsites available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Riders can also explore the Flint Creek Multiple-Use Trail and Pine Torch Trail, both of which are well-suited for equestrian activities and provide scenic routes through the forest.
Water enthusiasts have plenty to enjoy in Bankhead National Forest. Boating, both motorized and non-motorized, is a popular activity while swimming areas are available at the Clear Creek, Corinth, and Houston Recreation Areas. The Clear Creek Recreation Area, the largest in the forest, is a favorite destination for many visitors. Located on the shore of Lewis Smith Lake, it offers direct access to the lake for boating, water skiing, personal watercraft use, and fishing.
Horseback Riding
Horseback riding trails let visitors enjoy the park's scenic views on separate tracks from hikers and bicyclists. One path is available for ATV enthusiasts. Altogether, there are over 90 miles of trails in this National Forest.
Fishing
Streams run everywhere in the park. Licensed anglers are welcome to try their luck wherever they find a convenient pool. The reservoir known as Lake Lewis Smith is full of trout, bass, crappie, catfish, and several other fish species.
Nature Watching
Bird watching and observing wildlife habitats is a major draw that brings guests to this National Forest in droves. With the diversity of wildlife that inhabits this forest's valleys and hills, lovers of nature flock to this area.
Stargazing
Sections of this National Forest are far from the glare of city lights, making it great for stargazing.
How to Get There
How to get to William B. Bankhead National Forest
Address: 1070 Highway 13, Double Springs, AL 35553
Fee: Entry fee $0
By Car
William B. Bankhead National Forest is a convenient road trip destination. Located less than a 40-minute drive from Decatur, Alabama, it offers a quick escape into nature. From Memphis, Tennessee, it’s under a three-hour drive, and from Atlanta, Georgia, it’s approximately four hours away. The main roads within the forest are paved, two-lane routes that are easy to navigate. However, some smaller roads may be gravel or one-lane, requiring extra caution. Additionally, since many roads pass through dense forests, keep an eye out for falling branches or trees while driving.
By Air
The closest airports to William B. Bankhead National Forest provide convenient options for those traveling by air before continuing their journey by car or shuttle.
Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM): 1.5-hour drive away.
Huntsville International Airport (HSV): 1.25-hour drive from Bankhead.
Seasonal Restrictions
While William B. Bankhead National Forest is accessible year-round, certain trails and roads may be closed due to weather conditions, maintenance, or other safety concerns. It’s essential to check the official website or contact the forest authorities for the latest updates and alerts before planning your visit. Visitors should also follow the safety precautions outlined for various activities such as water sports, hiking, and horseback riding.
Fees in the William B. Bankhead National Forest
Access to William B. Bankhead National Forest is generally free; however, specific activities and facilities may require fees. Some areas, such as Clear Creek Recreation Area and Brushy Lake Recreation Area, charge fees for day use, overnight camping, and certain amenities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions About William B. Bankhead National Forest
Does William B. Bankhead National Forest offer free camping sites?
Yes, there are free camping sites in William B. Bankhead National Forest. Dispersed camping is allowed in the general forest and wilderness. There are also several paid campgrounds including Corinth and Clear Creek Campgrounds. Those two campgrounds are open in summer and have electric and water hookups.
Is there a limit to how long you can camp in William B. Bankhead National Forest?
Yes, there is a limit to how long you can camp in William B. Bankhead National Forest. If you are camping in a developed recreation area, you may camp for up to 14 consecutive days, and there is a 24-hour waiting period before you can return.
Dispersed campers are limited to 21 consecutive days. You must then wait 10 days before returning to the same area again.
Is William B. Bankhead National Forest open all year round?
Yes, William B. Bankhead National Forest is open year-round. Developed campgrounds are only open from April - October, and dispersed camping is allowed during hunting season.
What is the closest town to William B. Bankhead National Forest?
Some of the closest towns to William B. Bankhead National Forest include Double Springs, Grayson, and Houston, Alabama.
What type of wildlife lives in William B. Bankhead National Forest?
The different types of wildlife that live in William B. Bankhead National Forest include white-tailed deer, turkeys, raccoons, rabbits, squirrels, and a variety of birds.
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