Embark on an unforgettable camping adventure in Bankhead National Forest.
Over the years, we’ve explored different types of camping, including cabin camping in Scottsboro, luxury glamping in Hazel Green, RV camping at Lake Guntersville, and pitching a tent in our backyard. However, we have found that the ones that leave the most significant impact and have us longing for more combine camping with a one-of-a-kind adventure.
Sipsey Creek Farms offers all of that and more!
The beautiful Sipsey Creek Farms is just a 1.5-hour drive from Huntsville and offers breathtaking scenery. To reach the farm, you will drive through Bankhead National Forest, where a phone signal may be lost, so be prepared and download directions and a map ahead of time. If planning to do any hiking away from the property, be sure to research the area and familiarize yourself with the forest and trail(s) you wish to take.
As we approached the property, our middle son squealed with excitement at the site of animals. As a kid that loves all things outdoors, we knew this camping experience would be perfect for him. Personally, I was eager to see the chicken coop turned bathhouse. I had seen the transformation online and was curious to see if it lived up to the hype. Although camping isn’t typically associated with luxurious bathrooms, Sipsey Creek Farm has set a new standard by providing a beautiful place to bathe and relieve yourself while still enjoying the great outdoors. The bathhouse boasts a flushing toilet, deep soaking tub, and sink with hot, running water. I never thought I’d be able to enjoy a hot bath while camping away from home, but it was the perfect way to end a day of hiking and exploring.
After admiring the bathhouse, we checked out the barn, which serves as a community kitchen and additional restroom for guests. We dropped off our food and headed to our tent along a gravel road. On the way, we saw another family camping and a pond where guests could fish. We also saw a gang of ducks hanging out, enjoying the heat from the sun. One of the things we appreciated was the ample space between each tent, providing us with privacy and minimizing concerns about noise levels. Although we could see the other tent and barn from our site, they were far enough apart to ensure that guests who wanted to stay to themselves could easily do so.
We stayed in the family tent with 2 beds and an extra cot. It was plenty of space for our family of 5 and could’ve easily accommodated a few more. The tent had a table with 2 chairs, a first aid kit, a fire extinguisher, an extra toothbrush (for those who have forgotten), a bin with games, and a hammock. If you plan to bring electronics, you can rent a power station for an additional fee. Since we were camping in May, we opted to bring fans from home. The power station was perfect for helping cool the tent during the day.
After getting settled, we went hiking in Bankhead. However, it’s worth noting that you don’t have to leave the property to enjoy the woods. If you take the time to explore, you’ll come across a seasonal waterfall, caves, tree swing, and the same majestic scenery that attracts people to the national forest. It’s a convenient and safe way to enjoy hiking in Bankhead.
If hiking isn’t your cup of tea or you’d simply prefer to chill, there’s a playground and basketball court next to the barn, a large porch with rocking chairs, and an outdoor couch overlooking a fire pit that’s great for relaxing. Our boys had a great time playing on both while we prepared meals, and they also loved having the lamb and goat from the farm roam nearby while they played. For a more personal animal encounter, you can opt for a farm tour during your stay, which includes feeding and petting the animals and learning the story of how Sipsey Creek Farms came to be.
I could go and on about all the things, but why not book a stay at Sipsey Creek Farms and experience the fun firsthand!
