1 / 51

Bates Farm

Hosted by Mary · Decatur, Alabama

38 sites · RV, Tent · 45 acres

99%

113 reviews

Best Hipcamps in Alabama

Named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2026.

Family-friendly

Recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp is great for families and kids.

Best in Alabama: Finalist

Named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2024.

Mary is a Star Host

Star Hosts are highly rated, responsive, and committed to providing incredible experiences.

Bates Farm: Primitive Camping & 45-Acre Wildlife Haven Welcome to Bates Farm - a magical, nature-forward escape where outdoor adventure meets habitat conservation. Our 45-acre property invites car campers, tent campers, and small groups to unplug and reconnect with nature in a quiet, pristine setting surrounded by thriving ecosystems. Whether you’re here to watch the seasonal wildflowers bloom, practice your aim on our archery range, or stargaze under open skies, Bates Farm offers a peaceful basecamp for responsible outdoor lovers. Wildlife & Habitat Highlights • 45 acres of native plant corridors supporting diverse bird species, pollinators, and local wildlife • Official Monarch Waystation zones dedicated to supporting butterfly migration • Firefly habitats help summer nights come alive with glowing firefly displays • Over 30,000 sq. ft. of native wildflower meadows offering stunning views and pollinator habitats • Habitat zones woven naturally throughout the property for sustainable enjoyment Activities & On-Site Amenities • Common area with seating, guest Wi-Fi, a shared fridge/freezer, and makerspace activities for kids • Bathhouse on-site with washer and dryer access for guest convenience • Kid-friendly outdoor playground right on the property • 3D archery range tucked into the woods, suitable for all skill levels • Scenic wild landscapes available for intimate weddings, group retreats, and small gatherings • Nature education and field programs hosted in partnership with local wildlife groups Camping Experience • Designed primarily for off-grid, primitive camping • We have 2 premium sites with electrical hookups available for those who need power • Most primitive sites are easily RV-accessible, giving you room to park off-grid • Peaceful, secluded sites allow for open skies, quiet nights, and nature listening • Simple, family-friendly outdoor living with a low footprint on the land Host Rules & Booking Notes • Off-grid sites have no water or electric hookups, so plan your supplies accordingly • Check in with your hosts upon arrival for archery safety guidelines and seasonal wildlife viewing tips • Help us preserve these habitats by staying on designated paths and respecting plant corridors

Select a site

Filter by

Tent-only sites (dispersed)

1 site

New

The Woods Tent Only Site

Tent site · Sleeps 10

Unplug and reconnect deep within nature at The Woods Tent Only Sites, where towering trees and untouched forest create an enchanting wilderness haven. Situated about 0.2 miles into the back property, this secluded canopy retreat offers the ultimate quiet escape - tailored specifically for tent campers seeking peaceful nights under the stars surrounded by the sights and sounds of the wild. Upon arrival, you will be assigned a site from any available in this category or you can request a specific one when you get here. Each campsite is placed with privacy in mind, offering peaceful seclusion among the trees. Fire pits can be filled with fallen wood found in the forest (please only chop trees that are already dead) or by purchasing fresh firewood at the farm. Pets are welcome - to respect others, please keep them on a leash when wandering around the property. Our main bathhouse features private bathrooms equipped with flush toilets, hot showers, a washer and dryer for guest use, and a free ice machine. Just nearby, the indoor common area offers comfortable seating, a TV, Wi-Fi, a shared guest refrigerator, Keurig and drip coffee makers, plus fun off-grid STEM, physics, and nature-makerspace activities for kids. Our campground also features an outdoor 3D Archery Range set up throughout parts of the property. Active range areas will be clearly marked - please take care and do not hike in those zones. If you’d like to shoot on the indoor or outdoor range during your stay, check out our website for range details and pricing! Please note that these are primitive, tent-only sites with no electrical, water, or sewer hookups (no RVs or travel trailers). Sites are easily accessible on foot, by ATV, or by truck (with parking nearby). If you're looking for a place to relax and enjoy everything nature has to offer, Bates Farm is the perfect spot. Come enjoy the great outdoors with us!

Short walk to site

Campfires allowed

Toilet

Potable water

Pets allowed

Showers

RV/tent sites (dispersed)

5 sites

Shop Spot

100%

(10)

RV/tent site · Sleeps 6 · Vehicles under 45 ft

Nestled in the heart of natural beauty near the main house, our Shop Spot offers the perfect blend of modern comfort and outdoor exploration. Designed for guests seeking full hookup convenience, this premier powered site lets you enjoy invigorating farm hikes and great outdoor relaxation with all the comforts of electricity, water, and Wi-Fi right at your site. Fire pits can be filled with fallen wood found in the forest (please only chop trees that are already dead) or by purchasing fresh firewood at the farm. Pets are welcome - to respect others, please keep pets on a leash when wandering around the property. Our main bathhouse features private bathrooms equipped with flush toilets, hot showers, a washer and dryer for guest use, and a free ice machine. Just nearby, the indoor common area offers comfortable seating, a TV, Wi-Fi, a shared guest refrigerator, Keurig and drip coffee makers, plus fun off-grid STEM, physics, and nature-makerspace activities for kids. Our campground also features an outdoor 3D Archery Range set up throughout parts of the property. Active range areas will be clearly marked - please take care and do not hike in those zones. If you’d like to shoot on the indoor or outdoor range during your stay, check out our website for range details and pricing! The Shop Spot is our premium powered RV site, accommodating large rigs up to 45 feet (back-in on loose gravel). It features 30/50-amp electrical hookups, dedicated water hookups, and direct site Wi-Fi access, conveniently located in the front area within 200 yards of the bathhouse. If you're looking for a place to relax and enjoy everything nature has to offer, Bates Farm is the perfect spot. Come enjoy the great outdoors with us!

Campfires allowed

Toilet

Potable water

Pets allowed

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Playground Spot

100%

(5)

RV/tent site · Sleeps 10 · Vehicles under 30 ft

Step into the enchantment of our Playground Spot, where nature offers a peaceful, shaded retreat with just a touch of woodland charm. Located right next to our camp playground and less than 200 yards from the farm entrance, this site combines easy access with a cozy, secluded feel - perfect for families pitching a tent or setting up a camper after a day of outdoor fun and play. Our playground campsite is placed with privacy in mind, offering peaceful seclusion among the trees. Fire pits can be filled with fallen wood found in the forest (please only chop trees that are already dead) or by purchasing fresh firewood at the farm. Pets are welcome - to respect others, please keep pets on a leash when wandering around the property. Our main bathhouse features private bathrooms equipped with flush toilets, hot showers, a washer and dryer for guest use, and a free ice machine. Just nearby, the indoor common area offers comfortable seating, a TV, Wi-Fi, a shared guest refrigerator, Keurig and drip coffee makers, plus fun off-grid STEM, physics, and nature-makerspace activities for kids. Our campground also features an outdoor 3D Archery Range set up throughout parts of the property. Active range areas will be clearly marked - please take care and do not hike in those zones. If you’d like to shoot on the indoor or outdoor range during your stay, check out our website for range details and pricing! While RVs up to 30 feet are welcome, please keep in mind that this is a primitive, non-powered back-in site with no electrical, water, or sewer hookups. If you're looking for a place to relax and enjoy everything nature has to offer, Bates Farm is the perfect spot. Come enjoy the great outdoors with us!

Campfires allowed

Toilet

Potable water

Pets allowed

No electrical hookup

No water hookup

Garage Camp

100%

(4)

RV/tent site · Sleeps 8 · Vehicles under 30 ft

Step into the comfortable convenience of our Garage Camp, where easy access meets outdoor relaxation near the heart of the farm. Featuring dedicated 20-amp power and water hookups, this site gives you the comfort of basic utilities while keeping you close to all the central amenities and natural beauty Bates Farm has to offer. Fire pits can be filled with fallen wood found in the forest (please only chop trees that are already dead) or by purchasing fresh firewood at the farm. Pets are welcome - to respect others, please keep pets on a leash when wandering around the property. Our main bathhouse features private bathrooms equipped with flush toilets, hot showers, a washer and dryer for guest use, and a free ice machine. Just nearby, the indoor common area offers comfortable seating, a TV, Wi-Fi, a shared guest refrigerator, Keurig and drip coffee makers, plus fun off-grid STEM, physics, and nature-makerspace activities for kids. Our campground also features an outdoor 3D Archery Range set up throughout parts of the property. Active range areas will be clearly marked - please take care and do not hike in those zones. If you’d like to shoot on the indoor or outdoor range during your stay, check out our website for range details and pricing! The Garage Camp is a powered site equipped with a 20-amp electrical hookup and water access. It accommodates RVs and travel trailers up to 30 feet (back-in access on loose gravel) and is located in the front area within 200 yards of the bathhouse. If you're looking for a place to relax and enjoy everything nature has to offer, Bates Farm is the perfect spot. Come enjoy the great outdoors with us!

Moderate walk to site

Campfires allowed

Toilet

Potable water

Pets allowed

Electrical hookup

New

Bathhouse Site

RV/tent site · Sleeps 10 · Vehicles under 60 ft

Step into a serene woodland sanctuary at one of our Bathhouse Sites, where pristine nature meets ultimate camping convenience. Tucked into the lush tree canopy less than 200 yards from our bathhouse and venue common area, these sites offer a peaceful, shaded retreat with effortless access to all farm facilities - perfect for settling in by the campfire after a day of outdoor adventures. Upon arrival you will be assigned a site from any available in this category or you can request a specific one when you get here. Each campsite is placed with privacy in mind, offering peaceful seclusion among the trees. Fire pits can be filled with fallen wood found in the forest (please only chop trees that are already dead) or by purchasing fresh firewood at the farm. Pets are welcome - to respect others, please keep pets on a leash when wandering around the property. Our main bathhouse features private bathrooms equipped with flush toilets, hot showers, a washer and dryer for guest use, and a free ice machine. Just nearby, the indoor common area offers comfortable seating, a TV, Wi-Fi, a shared guest refrigerator, Keurig and drip coffee makers, plus fun off-grid STEM, physics, and nature-makerspace activities for kids. Our campground also features an outdoor 3D Archery Range set up throughout parts of the property. Active range areas will be clearly marked - please take care and do not hike in those zones. If you’d like to shoot on the indoor or outdoor range during your stay, check out our website for range details and pricing! While RVs are welcome, please keep in mind that these are primitive, non-powered sites with no electrical, water, or sewer hookups. Maximum RV lengths vary by individual spot (ranging from 20 to 60 feet), so please check the specific site specs upon arrival. If you're looking for a place to relax and enjoy everything nature has to offer, Bates Farm is the perfect spot. Come enjoy the great outdoors with us!

Campfires allowed

Toilet

Potable water

Pets allowed

No electrical hookup

No water hookup

New

The Woods RV/Tent Site

RV/tent site · Sleeps 15 · Vehicles under 20 ft

Step into the deep tranquility of The Woods RV/Tent Sites, where the beauty of wild nature creates a truly secluded forest escape. Tucked approximately 0.2 miles into the property, these quiet, shaded sites offer a genuine back-to-nature retreat under a dense canopy of ancient trees - perfect for campers looking to escape the hustle and bustle and immerse themselves in the quiet magic of the woods. Upon arrival, you will be assigned a site from any available in this category or you can request a specific one when you get here. Each campsite is placed with privacy in mind, offering peaceful seclusion among the trees. Fire pits can be filled with fallen wood found in the forest (please only chop trees that are already dead) or by purchasing fresh firewood at the farm. Pets are welcome - to respect others, please keep them on a leash when wandering around the property. Our main bathhouse features private bathrooms equipped with flush toilets, hot showers, a washer and dryer for guest use, and a free ice machine. Just nearby, the indoor common area offers comfortable seating, a TV, Wi-Fi, a shared guest refrigerator, Keurig and drip coffee makers, plus fun off-grid STEM, physics, and nature-makerspace activities for kids. Our campground also features an outdoor 3D Archery Range set up throughout parts of the property. Active range areas will be clearly marked - please take care and do not hike in those zones. If you’d like to shoot on the indoor or outdoor range during your stay, check out our website for range details and pricing! While RVs up to 20 feet are welcome, please keep in mind that these are primitive, non-powered sites with no electrical, water, or sewer hookups. All sites are easily accessible by car, truck, ATV, or on foot. If you're looking for a place to relax and enjoy everything nature has to offer, Bates Farm is the perfect spot. Come enjoy the great outdoors with us!

Campfires allowed

Toilet

Potable water

Pets allowed

No electrical hookup

No water hookup

Reviews

99% Recommend140 ratings · 113 reviews

Recommends

· August 2026

Tent · With pets ·

Jessie's Forest Hideaway

We loved our stay here. Such a great place and great people.

Recommends

· August 2026

5 STARS!!

Tent ·

Jessie's Forest Hideaway

What a fun & relaxing place to be. We loved our second stay & hope to be back soon for some of their farm events! 5 stars all the way!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Recommends

· August 2026

Fun & Accommodating

Tent ·

Jessie's Forest Hideaway

We’ve had an amazing stay at Bates Farm! They’re very accommodating & have everything you need to make your visit easier.

Recommends

· August 2026

Tent ·

John's Dragon Hollow

It was easy to get to the site, the firewood was plenty for the one night we stayed, and all the amenities were clean.

Recommends

· August 2026

Short stop, very nice option.

25 ft travel trailer ·

Shop Spot

Overnight stay but hosts were very accommodating and pleasant to talk to. Had the 30amp service/water needed and a nice view while staying. Shower/restroom facilities were clean and they offer some snacks and drinks in their secure bldg. If your into archery they have a nice extensive range w/numerous 3d targets throughout. I would stop by again if my travels took me though that area again. Thanks Mary...hope you got your canning done!

Recommends

· August 2026

Tent · With kids ·

Oliver's Secret Fairy Garden Forest

Mary was a lovely host and the facilities were just what we needed.

Recommends

· July 2026

16 ft car ·

Eregion

2nd time staying here. Would do it again and again

Recommends

· July 2026

Amazing Set-up and Beautiful Area

Tent · With pets ·

Sarah's Enchanted Tent Site

Amazing spot for our dog, completely surrounded by shade but also very open. Great spot for a large group or just open area. The owens are amazing and extremely nice and helpful. We will be coming back soon im sure 10/10

Recommends

· July 2026

Peaceful and great amenities

16 ft car ·

Rohan's Forest Site

Exactly what I was hoping for. An easy and peaceful place to stay. You can be close to the bathouses or go all the way out for a fully primitive experience.

Recommends

· June 2026

Two thumbs UP

Tent ·

Jessie's Forest Hideaway

Excellent stay, beautiful scenery. Bathrooms and showers are clean and spacious. Free larndry and dryer. Hosts are great 👍👍

Recommends

· June 2026

The best

Tent ·

Barn Wilderness

Kindest folks around. Best place to camp in alabama.

Recommends

· May 2026

Sweet Mercies

Shop Spot

My car broke down and I actually was not able to make it there because it was a holiday and car shops were closed to fix my car when my check engine light came on. The host were kind enough to reimburse my money. I plan on making another reservation with them once I am back on the road. I really appreciated their understanding and kindness.

Recommends

· May 2026

Tent ·

Garage Camp

Camping on the Bates farm was a good time. Clean bathhouse, quiet area. It rained basically the whole time we were there, but their commons area was available to hang out in the dry. Overall good time.

Recommends

· May 2026

16 ft car ·

Barn Wilderness

Great place to camp. Excellent facilities if you need to shower and have access to clean bathrooms. Host was very accommodating. I will make this a regular stop for sure. Great value.

Recommends

· May 2026

Tent · With pets ·

Barn Wilderness

Tent Camping on Bates Farm was an awesome change from the everyday hustle and hustle.Wayne and Mary were great hosts,10 out of 10 would recommend

Recommends

· May 2026

Tent · With kids ·

Jessie's Forest Hideaway

Very clean sites and hospitable hosts. I will definitely stay again.

Recommends

· May 2026

Awesome Nights

Tent · With pets ·

Barn Wilderness

Great Hosts on a Truly Great Property,With marvelous views and a truly serene experience.Will definitely be back!

Recommends

· May 2026

You have to stay at Bates Farm

33 ft travel trailer · With pets ·

Helm's Deep

When I'm in the Decatur, AL area, I love staying at Bates Farm. It's peaceful and serene. Mary and Wayne are phenomenal hosts. They bent over backwards to make sure my stay was comfortable and enjoyable.

Recommends

· May 2026

16 ft car ·

Buckland Site

I loved car camping on Mary’s property! They have thought of all the little things one could need, and are always very easy and fast to get ahold of. They drove me around and let me pick my camp, which was within walking distance to the bathrooms, but felt private at the same time 10/10 would def recommend. Will def be back!

Recommends

· May 2026

Perfect Getaway Weekend!

Tent ·

Garage Camp

This place is a hidden gem!! My fiancé and I had a kid-free weekend and were looking for some tent camping that was a little more secluded but still had some amenities so we weren't totally roughing it😅 Mary and her husband were so friendly and accommodating! We stayed at the Shop spot and had everything we needed! Their farm is beautiful and had all sorts of hiking paths! We ventered down to the creek on the property and had a picnic and it was absolutely perfect! We will definitely be coming back and with the kids next time!

Recommends

· May 2026

Cute place with kind hosts

Tent · Group trip ·

Jessie's Forest Hideaway

This was such a cute place and the hosts were so kind and nice. Mary told us all about the kind of foods and flowers she was growing and her husband helped us out when our tent broke. The bath house was very nice and clean. It was a good place to just hang out for a night with some friends.

Recommends

· April 2026

Tent ·

Jessie's Forest Hideaway

Very peaceful and beautiful. Great for when you need to get away for a day or two.

Recommends

· April 2026

16 ft rooftop tent · With kids ·

Maddie's Wildflower Field

Second stay here. Mary is so cool to talk to is very knowledgeable. She has so many awesome projects that she’s working on from monarch butterflies to beautiful flowers and gardens. Plus archery!

Recommends

· April 2026

Tent ·

Endor

Stayed one night to try out a new tent setup. Grounds are clean. I did not get a chance to checkout the amenities. I would stay here again.

Recommends

· April 2026

Tent ·

Buckland Site

Amazing people very friendly, knowledgeable accommodating. Beautiful place , well kept , very peaceful and spacious. The sites are not on top of each other . A great archery set up , showers , laundry no extra charge for them. Just all around the best campsite I've been too would highly recommend.

Recommends

· April 2026

Tent ·

Endor

I very much enjoyed my stay here at the Endor campsite. Very friendly and hospitable host with great accommodations. Great if you have kids as well.

Recommends

· April 2026

16 ft rooftop tent · With kids ·

Non-powered Adventure Camping

Host was so nice. She showed us around the property and let us pick a site that worked best with our rooftop tent and set up. She showed us all of the amenities and gave us access to everything. The camp spots are spaced out from each other and are very peaceful. We had two adults and two small kids and they all enjoyed as well. The host was nice enough to educate us on some of the local critters, trees, and plants too. Forgot to take a picture of our setup while it was up, but here’s post camp pictures.

Recommends

· March 2026

Tent ·

Playground Spot

Great place to bring family! We really enjoyed the thought put into the campground. Very well maintained.

Recommends

· March 2026

Let's camp

24 ft Class C · With pets ·

Lothlorien

It was a real nice place to stay would come back again

Recommends

· March 2026

16 ft car ·

Barn Wilderness

Best Hipcamp spot I’ve experienced yet. Very nice hosts, you can tell they put in the work here! Will be coming back!

Location

Decatur, Morgan, Alabama, United StatesTo respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking

Bates Farm

Select a site

Tent-only sites (dispersed)

The Woods Tent Only Site

RV/tent sites (dispersed)

Shop Spot

Playground Spot

Garage Camp

Bathhouse Site

The Woods RV/Tent Site

Reviews

Location

Hosted by Mary B.

Things to do nearby

Similar campgrounds nearby

Popular searches in Alabama