State Parks and National Parks

Bankhead National Forest

The Bankhead National Forest covers 180,000 acres in Franklin, Winston and Lawrence counties. Within the forest are the 25,000-acre Sipsey Wilderness and the Sipsey Wild and Scenic River, offering 61.4 miles of seasonal canoeing.

The forest features several scenic campgrounds including Houston and the newly-renovated Corinth and Clear Creek Campgrounds. These three campgrounds are open April through October. Two of the three campgrounds, Corinth and Clear Creek, offers camping units with electrical and water hookups.

The newly expanded trail system in the forest added 82 miles of recreational trails to the existing 71 miles. Visitors can now enjoy hiking, bicycle and horseback riding, and a trail for all-terrain vehicle.

Riders have a choice of horseback riding in the Sipsey Wilderness or the general forest area. There are 13.3 miles of trails in the wilderness that offer riders solitude and isolation as part of the wilderness experience. Hikers may also use these trails.

Take a leisurely day ride and explore the northeastern portion of the forest. The 25-mile Black Warrior Horse Trail provide an opportunity to see the beautiful waterfalls, sandstone cliffs, deep gorges, majestic hardwood trees, wildflowers and an abundance of birds and animals.

Sipsey is the largest wilderness area east of the Mississippi and offers outstanding opportunities for solitude. Hiking, camping, hunting, and fishing are permitted in the Sipsey Wilderness.

Horseback riding is allowed on trails specifically designated for horses. Motorized vehicles are not allowed inside the Sipsey Wilderness boundaries.

Photo credits in order: Courtesy of Bankhead National Forest. Courtesy of Bankhead National Forest. Courtesy of Bankhead National Forest.