Pine Glen Recreation Area
4.5536 reviewsPine Glen Recreation Area
$3.00 - $3.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$3.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping is priced at $3 per day, making this a very affordable option for visitors. According to one user review: "A bargain at $3/night." Another user mentioned, "If they raise the price from 3 dollars to 10, I think solar lights or sky lights should be added to outhouses."
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About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Talladega National Forest, Pine Glen Recreation Area beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience. This intimate 23-site campground embraces the spirit of primitive camping, where the sounds of Shoal Creek replace city noise and star-filled skies serve as your evening entertainment. Each thoughtfully placed campsite comes equipped with essential amenities—cooking grills, tent pads, fire rings, and picnic tables—creating the perfect basecamp for your outdoor adventures. As part of the Choccolocco Wildlife Management Area, Pine Glen draws outdoor enthusiasts year-round, from hikers exploring the renowned Pinhoti Trail to hunters tracking game through ancient hardwood forests. Here, you'll trade modern conveniences for something far more valuable: a genuine connection with nature. Note that this rustic retreat operates without potable water or flush toilets, and maintains an alcohol-free environment to preserve its peaceful atmosphere.
Pine Glen Recreation Area is a primitive campground ideal for tents, car campers, and slide-in campers. RV camping is not supported due to a lack of hookups.
Historical SignificanceThe very ground beneath your tent at Pine Glen whispers stories of the past. "Talladega," borrowed from the Creek Nation language meaning "border town," hints at the rich Native American heritage that shaped these lands long before they became a national forest. Today's visitors can explore this cultural tapestry through meaningful day trips to nearby historical sites. The weathered headstones of Cole Cemetery and the enduring walls of Shoal Creek Church stand as silent witnesses to the generations who called these mountains home, adding layers of human history to your wilderness adventure.
Weather and SeasonsPine Glen's year-round accessibility means each season paints the campground in dramatically different hues. Winter brings crisp mornings hovering around 34°F, warming to comfortable 54°F afternoons—perfect for campfire gatherings and brisk hikes. Summer transforms the forest canopy into a natural air conditioner, though temperatures can climb to the upper 80s, making those creek-side sites especially coveted. Spring and fall offer perhaps the most magical camping conditions, though seasoned visitors know to check road conditions after heavy rains, as the remote access roads can become challenging. The ever-changing weather adds to the adventure, reminding campers they're truly immersed in the wilderness.
ElevationPerched at 1,100 feet above sea level, Pine Glen occupies a sweet spot in Alabama's topography where mountain air meets creek valley serenity. This moderate elevation creates a unique microclimate where hardwood forests thrive and Shoal Creek carves its timeless path through the landscape. The altitude provides just enough lift to escape the heaviest summer heat while remaining accessible year-round, making it an ideal basecamp for exploring the vertical diversity of the surrounding Talladega National Forest.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into Pine Glen and find yourself enveloped by a cathedral of hardwood trees that transform with the seasons—from the tender greens of spring to summer's dense canopy, autumn's fiery display, and winter's architectural branches. The campground's unique forest structure, with its grassy understory and open middle story, creates an airy, park-like atmosphere that floods the sites with dappled sunlight. This openness fosters a sense of community among campers while the melodic soundtrack of Shoal Creek provides constant companionship. As one enchanted visitor shared, this is truly a "beautiful hidden gem" where "a mountain stream runs right through the campground," creating countless spots for quiet reflection, creek exploration, or simply listening to the water's ancient song. The surrounding forest bursts with life, offering endless opportunities for wildlife watching and nature photography.
Geological RegionPine Glen Recreation Area occupies a fascinating geological crossroads within Talladega National Forest, where ancient mountain building processes created the diverse landscape campers enjoy today. The campground's position along Shoal Creek showcases the region's water-carved valleys and resistant ridges, telling a millions-year-old story written in stone and stream. This unique setting within the greater Choccolocco Wildlife Management Area creates a developed-dispersed camping experience—civilized enough for comfort yet wild enough for adventure. The surrounding hardwood forests grow from mineral-rich soils deposited over millennia, supporting a complex ecosystem that changes dramatically with elevation and exposure, making every hike a journey through different natural communities.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground features wheelchair-friendly vault toilets. Specific details about other accessibility features are not provided.
Sites SizeThe 21 campsites are described as spacious and level, though specific measurements are not available.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy between campsites is noted as poor due to the lack of a middlestory and the campground's open layout.
Total Campsites23 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites near Shoal Creek are recommended for proximity to water. User review: "A creek/small river runs by the right side of the campground."
Best CampsitesNo specific campsites are identified as best-rated.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
The exact number of guests per site is unspecified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutCampsites are dispersed with tent pads, fire rings, and picnic tables. Privacy between sites is limited due to the lack of middle story vegetation.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not available as the campground operates on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are available for walk-up, first-come, first-serve usage. User review: "First come first serve but had our pick."
Cancellation PolicyNo advance reservations are accepted, so cancellation policies are not applicable.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Pine Glen Recreation Area offers several outdoor recreational opportunities suited to its primitive and natural setting. Activities include hiking, fishing, and picnicking. The Pinhoti Trail is a major highlight, providing access to long-distance hiking and scenic views. The adjacent Shoal Creek enhances the experience through fishing and peaceful surroundings. The site is particularly popular with hunters due to its location within the Choccolocco Wildlife Management Area.
Hiking
The campground provides direct access to the Pinhoti Trail, which spans 102 miles. Notable portions include a 6-mile trail to Coleman Lake and a 2.5-mile trail to Sweetwater Lake. These trails accommodate hikers, equestrians, and mountain bikers.Fishing
Fishing is available at the adjacent Shoal Creek, with red-eye bass and red-ear sunfish being common catches. Some reviewers also reference remote fishing lakes nearby.Biking
The Pinhoti Trail supports mountain biking, providing a rugged and scenic experience for biking enthusiasts.Wildlife viewing
The campground's location in the Choccolocco Wildlife Management Area offers opportunities for wildlife viewing. Specific details on fauna are not provided, but the area is popular with hunters.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned, though the campground is open year-round, allowing for potential hiking or wildlife viewing in cooler seasons.Water Sports
Kayaking, canoeing, and other non-motorized water sports are not mentioned, and the adjacent creek is not described as suitable for such activities.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include poor road conditions during rain, proximity to wildlife (common in national forests), and lack of potable water.
Active alertsNo active alerts are mentioned.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 63%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 2.7 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are closest in Heflin, including police stations and health services.
Good to know
Peak season datesThere are no specified peak season date ranges.
Trash and recyclingNo specific trash and recycling facilities are mentioned. Visitors are likely expected to pack out their trash given the campground's primitive nature.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Shoal Creek, and user reviews consistently highlight the creek as a feature: "Loved the scenery and water streams ponds and ravines."
Common complaintsComplaints include proximity of campsites to one another, lack of potable water, and poor restroom maintenance. One user states: "Camp sites are too close to each other... bathrooms were filthy." Another mentions: "No water or cell service."
HostNo campground host information is provided.
Campground Map
Driving directionsIn Heflin, AL, at the intersection of State Rt. 46 and US Rt. 78, take Rt. 78 east 0.3 miles to Pine Glen Recreation Area sign. Turn left at the sign onto Old Edwardsville Rd., cross the railroad tracks, and immediately turn right onto Oxford St. Go 2.4 miles to another Pine Glen sign. Turn left at this sign, onto Forest Rt 548 (dirt) and go 1.9 miles to another Pine Glen sign at a "Y" intersection. Bear left on to Forest Rt. 531 (dirt) and go 2.0 miles to another sign. Turn right at sign, onto Forest Rt. 500 (gravel) and go 0.5 miles to campground on left.
The campground is accessible via gravel and dirt forestry roads, which may be challenging during rainfall. User review: "The gravel/dirt road to it is pretty sketch in the rain." However, normal cars and SUVs should be fine under dry conditions. Another user stated, "Accessible via a good dirt road. Normal cars and suv/pickups should be ok."Nearby places
Heflin - 5 miles
Nearby supplies
Supplies are closest in Heflin, offering groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.6
36 reviews
Pine Glen Recreation Area is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight Pine Glen as an excellent spot for primitive camping, offering a peaceful environment and access to outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. The absence of modern amenities, such as potable water and electricity, is seen as both a charm and a limitation. Vault toilets receive mixed reviews, and the site's maintenance could be improved according to some visitors.
Review Summaries
Based on 36 reviews
What Campers Love
- Affordable rate of $3 per night
- Access to the Pinhoti Trail and Shoal Creek
- Peaceful and remote setting, ideal for disconnecting from technology
- Spacious and shaded campsites
- Proximity to...
Based on 36 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
- Poor maintenance of vault toilets
- Lack of potable water and showers
- Limited privacy between campsites
- Roads leading to the campground can be difficult to navigate in poor weather conditions
Based on 36 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring your own water and supplies, as none are available on-site.
- Prepare for limited privacy due to the open layout of the campground.
- Consider visiting during fall for vibrant foliage or...
Based on 36 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Fall is praised for its colorful foliage and ideal weather conditions, while summer provides ample shade from hardwood trees. Winter visits may appeal to those seeking solitude, but amenities remain...
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Camper Quotes
"Nice flat grounds. Our site had a picnic table, tent area, fire ring with a creek about 50 yards away." - Chip Hurst
"Vault toilets could use some maintenance, but they were cleaner than expected."...
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Site-Specific Reviews
- Site 22: Includes a picnic table and is close to Shoal Creek.
- General observation: Sites are spacious but lack defined boundaries.
Based on 36 reviewsAccessibility Features
Vault toilets are wheelchair accessible, but other accessibility features are not detailed.
Based on 36 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific mentions of pet policies or experiences with pets are noted in the reviews.
Based on 36 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025