- Riverside Camping
The best river, stream, or creek camping near McCalla
94% (59) • 308 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near McCalla
Bug Tussle Creek Bend
1. Bug Tussle Creek Bend
100%
(55)
40mi from McCalla · 1 site · Tent, RV
Please search Bug Tussle Creek Bend on Youtube to see the site and details on the drive into the campsite. Thank you!
300 acres of family land since 2000. This area was called Boot's Bottoms growing up and the name stuck. There is a rock wall close to the campsite that was a old grist mill site. Plenty of wildlife, bird watching, wildflowers and creek walking. Some old ATV trails for hiking as well. Very remote and quite!
Learn more about this land:
Setup camp on the banks of Dorsey creek in Bug Tussle. Wooded area with shade in the warm season. Flat ground for tents or plenty of trees for hammocks. Easy access for vehicles directly to the campsite. Fire ring with grill grates present for cowboy cooking. Peaceful with plenty of opportunity to see wildlife. Primitive toilet present. Rock dam in creek is great to entertain kids, old grist mill site couple hundred yards downstream. Logging and ATV present for hiking and wildlife viewing. Deeper sections in creek present for cooling off in warm weather.
Pets
Campfires
from
$52
/ night
The Perfect 6
2. The Perfect 6
89%
(9)
23mi from McCalla · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
✨ The Perfect Six – Nature, Comfort, and a Touch of Magic ✨
Tucked away on six thoughtfully cared‑for acres, The Perfect Six is a place where nature and comfort meet. Our property borders a peaceful tributary that flows straight into the legendary Cahaba River—home to rare lilies, rich wildlife, and endless quiet moments. A short five‑minute stroll along a gentle trail takes you right to the river’s edge.
On site, you’ll find a stocked pond perfect for casting a line at sunrise or simply watching the water ripple at dusk. In season, you can wander through our blueberry bushes and enjoy picking a handful of fresh berries right from the land.
Evenings are made for gathering around our large communal fire pit—a centerpiece for stargazing, storytelling, and making s’mores under the Alabama night sky.
We’ve carved out shaded campsites and a dedicated RV parking area with full hookups, so whether you’re in a tent or a rig, you’ll have a comfortable home base. Wake up to birdsong, explore our private walking paths, and experience a little Alabama magic—just minutes from the Cahaba but a world away from the noise.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from
$28
/ night
Cabin Retreat, Private River Views
3. Cabin Retreat, Private River Views
100%
(1)
27mi from McCalla · 1 site
Peaceful Cahaba River Cabin Retreat with Fire Pit — Linger Longer II
Welcome to Linger Longer II, a secluded riverfront cabin perfect for families, nature lovers, and weekend adventurers. Tucked away on the banks of the Cahaba River, this peaceful stilted cabin offers privacy, comfort, and beautiful water views—only minutes from Centreville’s historic square, local shops, and eateries.
Nestled down a long dirt driveway, the cabin features a wraparound porch and an open-concept interior filled with natural light, warm wood finishes, and vintage charm. Inside, enjoy an airy A-frame living space with exposed beams, a reclining couch, glider chair, movies, and a fully stocked kitchen (minus groceries). The dining nook overlooks the river, making every meal scenic. Sleeping arrangements include a master bedroom with a queen bed and porch access, plus a loft with two twin beds. The bathroom offers double sinks and a standing shower.
Outside, relax by the fire pit in Adirondack chairs or stroll down a gentle slope to the riverbank. Whether you're sipping coffee on the porch or birdwatching by the pond, the property offers a peaceful connection to nature. Expect visits from deer, turtles, eagles, and more. Just remember—please don’t feed the wildlife!
You’ll be close to outdoor attractions like Brierfield and Tannehill State Parks, Bibb County Lake, and Talladega National Forest. Montevallo University and American Village are \~25 mins away, and Tuscaloosa is under 45 mins—perfect for catching an Alabama game at Bryant-Denny Stadium without the crowds.
**Important Notes:**
* No food, condiments, or coffee provided—bring your own!
* BYOB (Bring Your Own Boat)—no watercraft provided.
* Swimming/diving discouraged due to river rocks and current.
* Hunting and deer skinning are not allowed.
* Shared driveway—please be courteous to neighbors.
* Barns and fenced areas are off-limits.
This is a quiet, natural escape with the comforts of home—ideal for a serene getaway with plenty to explore nearby.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$81
/ night
Oak Mountain State Park
4. Oak Mountain State Park
100%
(8)
State park 17mi from McCalla · 167 sites
Alabama’s largest state park offers scenic landscapes, and an impressive array of ways to play.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Talladega National Forest
5. Talladega National Forest
100%
(7)
National forest 33mi from McCalla · 126 sites
High speed, Nascar style outdoor adventure is so abundant at Talladega National Forest, we’re pretty sure Ricky Bobby spends his days here. Feel the wind in your hair on the Kentuck OHV or Sylaward Mountain Bike Trails. If you’re wanting more solitude, try hiking the challenging Odum Point where dwarf trees dot the landscape. Stunning laurels and huckleberry bushes will greet trail riders in the spring, and camping is as perfect as it gets with fall foliage greeting you in the autumn. Waterfalls, rugged ridgetops, and shady hollers ensure there’s no need to get hopped up on mountain dew; Talladega will have you hopped on adventure before you can say “shake and bake”!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lake Tuscaloosa "glamping"
6. Lake Tuscaloosa "glamping"
33mi from McCalla · 1 site
Cost is related to accommodations for both the destination spot AND the on-site "glamping" experience (2019 Newmar Dutch Star- one can also see images on RVshare or we are happy to send them). However, standard rates for this area would apply should we approve your request to bring your own accommodations such as small trailer/pop-up/small camper van or even tent for FAMILY related getaway..
The property is spacious and former home site on beautiful Lake Tuscaloosa. There are full hookups (50 and 30 amp), sewer and water, and Wifi. There is lakefront access via your own personal boat dock, fire pits, and various seating areas. We recently added an outdoor building with washer and dryer, bathroom/changing room, outdoor shower AND a hot tub that overlooks the lake. There is a public boat launch just down the road along with lakefront restaurants and boat rental establishments nearby. There are multiple convenient stores, grocery stores, a Dollar General and even a hardware store just down the road.
At this time, we are allowing guests to camp in our RV on-site (what we call "transient occupancy").
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$250
/ night
The Shoals Retreats at Lay Landing
7. The Shoals Retreats at Lay Landing
37mi from McCalla · 1 site
🚗 Arrival & Access Info
• The gravel driveway is about one mile long and winds through the woods to the cabin.
• Cars can access the driveway, and many guests have arrived in standard vehicles. However, for a smoother ride— especially in wet conditions— we recommend a medium to high clearance vehicle.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Stay
Well-behaved dogs are welcome&mdash- up to 2 max. Please clean up after pets and keep them off the furniture unless using the provided covers. A small pet fee applies. Let us know ahead of time if you’re bringing furry friends!
🐾 Please leash your pets outdoors. The cabin is in the middle of the woods, and there is abundant wildlife on the property. Unleashed pets may chase animals or become difficult to locate.
⚡ Modern Off-Grid Living
This home runs fully off-grid with solar power and battery storage, while offering all the comforts of a modern home:
• Mini split system for heating and cooling
• High-speed Wi-Fi + Smart TV
• Full kitchen with dishwasher, oven, and fridge
• Clean, pressurized running water
🛶 Lake & Outdoor Enjoyment
• The property has direct access to Lay Lake&mdash- perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding (bring your own gear).
• The nearest public boat launch is just 2.5 miles away for those bringing boats.
✈️ Private Airstrip + Paramotor Flying (By Request Only)
🪂 The property includes a private airstrip occasionally used for paramotor flying and small aircraft takeoffs or landings. While not visible from the cabin, you may hear or spot aircraft activity&mdash- an exciting bonus for aviation lovers.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$120
/ night
A Place To Land
8. A Place To Land
88%
(4)
37mi from McCalla · 7 sites
We have a small campground on our rural, 12 acre property located near Lake Logan Martin, a recreational lake outside Birmingham, AL. We have a total of 8 RV spots with 30 and 50 amp hooks ups, septic, water, trash and wifi. 1 spot is currently reserved for short-term guests. All lots face a small wood and get afternoon shade. We have a small pond, seasonal creek, a fire ring, and gas grill available for guests. Owner lives onsite.
Pets
Full hookups
from
$30
/ night
Out Beyond the Creek
9. Out Beyond the Creek
45mi from McCalla · 30 sites
68 acres to play with. Plenty of hiking available with elevation to 800ft. Or just kick back with the scenery. Year-round Breastworks Creek runs thru property. Wildlife includes deer, wild turkeys and more. Feeders are placed to draw them in.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
$30
/ night
Bankhead National Forest
10. Bankhead National Forest
91%
(17)
National forest 56mi from McCalla · 195 sites
Find your sweet home in Alabama’s Bankhead National Forest where skies really are so blue! With 16 wilderness areas to explore, places like the Sipsey Wilderness offer adventure and solitude out on the trails. Horseback riding and bike trails are a rad way to get miles under your feet, while spotting wildflowers and quail galore. Looking to cool off? There’s plenty of fishing and swimming for water lovers, or take shade under Bee Branch, a 500 year old poplar tree that stand majestically in the park. Over 150 miles of hiking trails are a show in all seasons and with sick campgrounds that have all the hook-ups you’re sure to return to Bankhead time and time again.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
94% (59) • 308 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near McCalla
Bug Tussle Creek Bend
1. Bug Tussle Creek Bend
100%
(55)
40mi from McCalla · 1 site · Tent, RV
Please search Bug Tussle Creek Bend on Youtube to see the site and details on the drive into the campsite. Thank you!
300 acres of family land since 2000. This area was called Boot's Bottoms growing up and the name stuck. There is a rock wall close to the campsite that was a old grist mill site. Plenty of wildlife, bird watching, wildflowers and creek walking. Some old ATV trails for hiking as well. Very remote and quite!
Learn more about this land:
Setup camp on the banks of Dorsey creek in Bug Tussle. Wooded area with shade in the warm season. Flat ground for tents or plenty of trees for hammocks. Easy access for vehicles directly to the campsite. Fire ring with grill grates present for cowboy cooking. Peaceful with plenty of opportunity to see wildlife. Primitive toilet present. Rock dam in creek is great to entertain kids, old grist mill site couple hundred yards downstream. Logging and ATV present for hiking and wildlife viewing. Deeper sections in creek present for cooling off in warm weather.
Pets
Campfires
from
$52
/ night
The Perfect 6
2. The Perfect 6
89%
(9)
23mi from McCalla · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
✨ The Perfect Six – Nature, Comfort, and a Touch of Magic ✨
Tucked away on six thoughtfully cared‑for acres, The Perfect Six is a place where nature and comfort meet. Our property borders a peaceful tributary that flows straight into the legendary Cahaba River—home to rare lilies, rich wildlife, and endless quiet moments. A short five‑minute stroll along a gentle trail takes you right to the river’s edge.
On site, you’ll find a stocked pond perfect for casting a line at sunrise or simply watching the water ripple at dusk. In season, you can wander through our blueberry bushes and enjoy picking a handful of fresh berries right from the land.
Evenings are made for gathering around our large communal fire pit—a centerpiece for stargazing, storytelling, and making s’mores under the Alabama night sky.
We’ve carved out shaded campsites and a dedicated RV parking area with full hookups, so whether you’re in a tent or a rig, you’ll have a comfortable home base. Wake up to birdsong, explore our private walking paths, and experience a little Alabama magic—just minutes from the Cahaba but a world away from the noise.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from
$28
/ night
Cabin Retreat, Private River Views
3. Cabin Retreat, Private River Views
100%
(1)
27mi from McCalla · 1 site
Peaceful Cahaba River Cabin Retreat with Fire Pit — Linger Longer II
Welcome to Linger Longer II, a secluded riverfront cabin perfect for families, nature lovers, and weekend adventurers. Tucked away on the banks of the Cahaba River, this peaceful stilted cabin offers privacy, comfort, and beautiful water views—only minutes from Centreville’s historic square, local shops, and eateries.
Nestled down a long dirt driveway, the cabin features a wraparound porch and an open-concept interior filled with natural light, warm wood finishes, and vintage charm. Inside, enjoy an airy A-frame living space with exposed beams, a reclining couch, glider chair, movies, and a fully stocked kitchen (minus groceries). The dining nook overlooks the river, making every meal scenic. Sleeping arrangements include a master bedroom with a queen bed and porch access, plus a loft with two twin beds. The bathroom offers double sinks and a standing shower.
Outside, relax by the fire pit in Adirondack chairs or stroll down a gentle slope to the riverbank. Whether you're sipping coffee on the porch or birdwatching by the pond, the property offers a peaceful connection to nature. Expect visits from deer, turtles, eagles, and more. Just remember—please don’t feed the wildlife!
You’ll be close to outdoor attractions like Brierfield and Tannehill State Parks, Bibb County Lake, and Talladega National Forest. Montevallo University and American Village are \~25 mins away, and Tuscaloosa is under 45 mins—perfect for catching an Alabama game at Bryant-Denny Stadium without the crowds.
**Important Notes:**
* No food, condiments, or coffee provided—bring your own!
* BYOB (Bring Your Own Boat)—no watercraft provided.
* Swimming/diving discouraged due to river rocks and current.
* Hunting and deer skinning are not allowed.
* Shared driveway—please be courteous to neighbors.
* Barns and fenced areas are off-limits.
This is a quiet, natural escape with the comforts of home—ideal for a serene getaway with plenty to explore nearby.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$81
/ night
Oak Mountain State Park
4. Oak Mountain State Park
100%
(8)
State park 17mi from McCalla · 167 sites
Alabama’s largest state park offers scenic landscapes, and an impressive array of ways to play.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Talladega National Forest
5. Talladega National Forest
100%
(7)
National forest 33mi from McCalla · 126 sites
High speed, Nascar style outdoor adventure is so abundant at Talladega National Forest, we’re pretty sure Ricky Bobby spends his days here. Feel the wind in your hair on the Kentuck OHV or Sylaward Mountain Bike Trails. If you’re wanting more solitude, try hiking the challenging Odum Point where dwarf trees dot the landscape. Stunning laurels and huckleberry bushes will greet trail riders in the spring, and camping is as perfect as it gets with fall foliage greeting you in the autumn. Waterfalls, rugged ridgetops, and shady hollers ensure there’s no need to get hopped up on mountain dew; Talladega will have you hopped on adventure before you can say “shake and bake”!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lake Tuscaloosa "glamping"
6. Lake Tuscaloosa "glamping"
33mi from McCalla · 1 site
Cost is related to accommodations for both the destination spot AND the on-site "glamping" experience (2019 Newmar Dutch Star- one can also see images on RVshare or we are happy to send them). However, standard rates for this area would apply should we approve your request to bring your own accommodations such as small trailer/pop-up/small camper van or even tent for FAMILY related getaway..
The property is spacious and former home site on beautiful Lake Tuscaloosa. There are full hookups (50 and 30 amp), sewer and water, and Wifi. There is lakefront access via your own personal boat dock, fire pits, and various seating areas. We recently added an outdoor building with washer and dryer, bathroom/changing room, outdoor shower AND a hot tub that overlooks the lake. There is a public boat launch just down the road along with lakefront restaurants and boat rental establishments nearby. There are multiple convenient stores, grocery stores, a Dollar General and even a hardware store just down the road.
At this time, we are allowing guests to camp in our RV on-site (what we call "transient occupancy").
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$250
/ night
The Shoals Retreats at Lay Landing
7. The Shoals Retreats at Lay Landing
37mi from McCalla · 1 site
🚗 Arrival & Access Info
• The gravel driveway is about one mile long and winds through the woods to the cabin.
• Cars can access the driveway, and many guests have arrived in standard vehicles. However, for a smoother ride— especially in wet conditions— we recommend a medium to high clearance vehicle.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Stay
Well-behaved dogs are welcome&mdash- up to 2 max. Please clean up after pets and keep them off the furniture unless using the provided covers. A small pet fee applies. Let us know ahead of time if you’re bringing furry friends!
🐾 Please leash your pets outdoors. The cabin is in the middle of the woods, and there is abundant wildlife on the property. Unleashed pets may chase animals or become difficult to locate.
⚡ Modern Off-Grid Living
This home runs fully off-grid with solar power and battery storage, while offering all the comforts of a modern home:
• Mini split system for heating and cooling
• High-speed Wi-Fi + Smart TV
• Full kitchen with dishwasher, oven, and fridge
• Clean, pressurized running water
🛶 Lake & Outdoor Enjoyment
• The property has direct access to Lay Lake&mdash- perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding (bring your own gear).
• The nearest public boat launch is just 2.5 miles away for those bringing boats.
✈️ Private Airstrip + Paramotor Flying (By Request Only)
🪂 The property includes a private airstrip occasionally used for paramotor flying and small aircraft takeoffs or landings. While not visible from the cabin, you may hear or spot aircraft activity&mdash- an exciting bonus for aviation lovers.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$120
/ night
A Place To Land
8. A Place To Land
88%
(4)
37mi from McCalla · 7 sites
We have a small campground on our rural, 12 acre property located near Lake Logan Martin, a recreational lake outside Birmingham, AL. We have a total of 8 RV spots with 30 and 50 amp hooks ups, septic, water, trash and wifi. 1 spot is currently reserved for short-term guests. All lots face a small wood and get afternoon shade. We have a small pond, seasonal creek, a fire ring, and gas grill available for guests. Owner lives onsite.
Pets
Full hookups
from
$30
/ night
Out Beyond the Creek
9. Out Beyond the Creek
45mi from McCalla · 30 sites
68 acres to play with. Plenty of hiking available with elevation to 800ft. Or just kick back with the scenery. Year-round Breastworks Creek runs thru property. Wildlife includes deer, wild turkeys and more. Feeders are placed to draw them in.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
$30
/ night
Bankhead National Forest
10. Bankhead National Forest
91%
(17)
National forest 56mi from McCalla · 195 sites
Find your sweet home in Alabama’s Bankhead National Forest where skies really are so blue! With 16 wilderness areas to explore, places like the Sipsey Wilderness offer adventure and solitude out on the trails. Horseback riding and bike trails are a rad way to get miles under your feet, while spotting wildflowers and quail galore. Looking to cool off? There’s plenty of fishing and swimming for water lovers, or take shade under Bee Branch, a 500 year old poplar tree that stand majestically in the park. Over 150 miles of hiking trails are a show in all seasons and with sick campgrounds that have all the hook-ups you’re sure to return to Bankhead time and time again.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
D
Deana
February 2026
Tent
With pets
Got to take advantage of a couple unseasonably warm Feb days so I headed up to Bug Tussell. What a great camp spot. Loved the drive down the gravel road. The side of the mountain was cool and saw a nice size buck. Then driving thru hay fields was fun. The hay field was wonderful to just go find a cleared spot and look up at the sky.
Even in the dead of winter, the trees & creek were beautiful.
Looking forward to booking in the Spring, Summer and Fall.
See more
J
Jacqueline
January 2026
20 ft pop-up camper
Brian's location is a perfect 10. I arrived in sub freezing temps. Brian insured that I had a hookup for small electric heater. Grounds are very relaxing and plenty of room for my dog to run. Hope to make this an annual stop as I travel.
See more
Berne
November 2025
21 ft campervan
With pets
Beautiful spot. Accommodating hosts. Quiet. Loved the pond. Loved the off leash dog policy. We had a great night!
See more
M
Matthew
November 2025
Tent
I really enjoyed this campsite. The drive in was very straightforward (especially if you watch the YouTube video). The creek was low since we haven't had any rain lately. It was extremely private- some occasional far off car noise and dogs barking but otherwise a wonderful spot in the woods. Plenty of room for multiple tents or vehicles. Thanks for sharing it with us.
See more
J
Jacque
November 2025
Tent
Another stop at a The Perfect 6. Nice peaceful spot. This time I had enough time to fish in the pond. What a way to spend the afternoon. I'll be back next time I'm coming through.
See more
J
Jacque
October 2025
Tent
Beautiful piece of property! Nice and peaceful. Brian responded quickly when I messaged him asking about the weather. He has a nice gravel pad beside their barn, so rain was no problem. I will stop here again on my way from Texas to Virginia.
See moreT
Todd
October 2025
38 ft travel trailer
With kids
This campsite is truly a hidden gem! From the moment we arrived, we were blown away by how clean, well-kept, and scenic everything was. The site are spacious with plenty of shade, and the natural surroundings are breathtaking — a mix of tall trees and a peaceful water view that makes you instantly relax.
The amenities were excellent —convenient hookups, a picnic table and fire pit. We loved how quiet it was at night; you could hear the crickets and the crackle of the fire instead of traffic or noise. Brian was so friendly and helpful, going above and beyond to make sure our stay was comfortable. You can really tell he cares about keeping the place beautiful and family-friendly. We will definitely come back when we are in the area. Highly recommend to anyone who loves camping, nature, and a little peace of mind.
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K
Kit
October 2025
Tent
This was a great hidden gem! We had a wonderful weekend! We will be back! Thanks for sharing this beautiful spot!
The creek was spectacular!!!
Our favorite part!
See more
C
Chris
October 2025
Tent
With pets
Awesome place, every time we go it gets better! We will definitely go back.
See more
Shawn
October 2025
15 ft travel trailer
It was a nice spot to spend the night, had a power hookup and nice view of the pond.
See more
K
Karen
October 2025
19 ft campervan
Location was quiet and beautiful. Brian stopped by to make sure all was well with us. I would highly recommend this location.
See more
Sukhjeevan
October 2025
45 ft travel trailer
With pets
Great spot with full hookups. As a solo female traveling with dogs I felt safe. Well located, Walmart is close by and Birmingham is about 25 miles away. The hosts were very helpful and accommodating. Great communication from both of them. Would definitely stay again if back in the area.
See morel
lanna
June 2025
20 ft campervan
With pets
Really great camp spot. Butterflies, beautiful creek and magical all around. Completely surrounded by nature. Spent the day in the water and the evening watching fireflies all throughout the trees.
See moreK
KayLee
June 2025
Tent
One of the best campsites my husband and I have stayed at for sure! Absolutely beautiful and private, and we’d defiantly stay there again. We did get flooded out though so if you are staying during the rainy season I’d keep an eye on the creek but other than that it was the perfect site.
See moreM
Megan
May 2025
35 ft fifth wheel
With pets
Beautiful sites! We really enjoyed our overnight stay and plan to stay again when traveling through the area.
See more
Bradley
May 2025
Tent
With kids
Super fun spot to camp, extremely private & tucked away. Be mindful of your tent placement if rain is in the forecast as half the campsite floods 2-3” of water (found out the hard way!) haha! Makes for a better story later on. The creek is amazing & the drive down into the site is so fun.
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G
Garrett
April 2025
Tent
With kids
Big Tussle Creek was a very fun experience for my family this Easter Weekend. Even our 4 year old had a blast on the creek walks and swimming. Definitely will be back!
See moreJ
Jason
March 2025
Tent
With pets
Matthew’s spot is awesome! Very private with plenty of room. The creek is amazing and the sound of the rolling water is great for sleeping. Matthew is a great host and we’ll definitely be back!
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Jordan
March 2025
Tent
Group trip
Amazing camp spot. Falling asleep to the sound of the running creek water was awesome.
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