Brushy Lake Recreation Area

4.42

145 reviews

Summer Destination

Quick Facts

700 ft

Price

$5/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

12 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Bankhead Ranger District site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

700 ft

Price

$5/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

12 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Bankhead Ranger District site

Official Website

Get Directions

Brushy Lake Recreation Area

$5.00 - $5.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Brushy Lake Recreation Area charges $5 per day for camping. Payment is self-pay via cash-only drop box with provided envelopes.

Standard Site Fee$5.00

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

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What Campers Say

4.42

Recommended

Based on 145 reviews

135 Google reviews

Most mentioned

quietpeaceful

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noise

"User reviews highlight the campground's tranquility, affordable rates, and well-equipped but rustic campsites. The proximity to a lake and the natural scenery are frequently praised, although some complaints about inconsistent amenities (e.g., showers and flush toilets) are noted."

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Campground Map

Brushy Lake Recreation Area

34.2963, -87.2701

Driving directionsIn Wren, AL, at the intersection of State Rts. 36 and 33, take Rt. 33 south 5.3 miles to Pine Torch Church Historic Site and County Rt. 70 signs. Turn left onto Rt. 70 and go 5.2 miles to Brushy Lake sign. Turn left after the sign, onto Forest Rt. 245, and go 1.7 miles to campground on right.

Road access includes gravel parking aprons, seasonal erosion on interior roads, and low-hanging branches. Travel trailers are not recommended due to lack of turnaround and challenging terrain. Motorhomes over 30' should detach towed vehicles.

Nearby places

Wren: approximately 12 miles.

Nearby supplies

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Best Time to Camp at Brushy Lake Recreation Area

Experience four distinct seasons at Brushy Lake, where each brings its own magic to the forest. Spring awakens the woods with wildflowers and gentle breezes, while summer offers warm days perfect for lake activities. Autumn transforms the campground into a painter's palette of golds, crimsons, and burnt oranges that draw photographers and nature lovers from across the region. Winter brings peaceful solitude and crisp air, though water services take a seasonal rest from December through February. The sweet spots for camping fall during the spectacular autumn foliage season and the mild, flower-filled days of spring.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

Warm days suit boating but reviews note bugs and occasional facility/maintenance complaints in summer.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall is highlighted as ideal for pleasant weather and vibrant scenery.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring brings wildflowers and pleasant weather; reviewers recommend spring camping.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

2.5 / 5

Open year-round but water/flushing limited Nov-Mar; colder, quieter season with reduced services.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: March-November (water availability).. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round; however, water and flushing are only available March-November.
Current Alerts: No active alerts reported.

About Brushy Lake Recreation Area

Tucked away in a cathedral of towering hardwoods and whispering pines, Brushy Lake Recreation Area offers an intimate escape into nature's embrace. This peaceful retreat features 12 thoughtfully placed campsites that nestle along the shores of pristine Brushy Lake, where morning mist dances across the water and evening light filters through the forest canopy. Perfect for tent camping and smaller RVs, each site provides a front-row seat to nature's daily performance. While the campground maintains its rustic charm, modern conveniences await in the nearby day-use area, where flush toilets and hot showers ensure comfort after a day of fishing, boating, or simply soaking in the serenity of this woodland sanctuary.

Brushy Lake Recreation Area primarily supports primitive camping for tents and small RVs. The sites are well-shaded and offer a rustic experience near the 33-acre lake.

Historical SignificanceYour basecamp at Brushy Lake opens doors to Alabama's rich tapestry of history and culture. Venture out to discover the natural wonder of Bankhead's Little Natural Bridge, where ancient geology tells its own story. Step back in time at the Houston Civil War Jail, or find inspiration at the Florence home of Helen Keller. The historic Pine Torch Church stands as a testament to the region's heritage, while the Alabama Space and Rocket Center offers a glimpse into humanity's reach for the stars. Each destination weaves another thread into your Alabama adventure story.

Weather and SeasonsExperience four distinct seasons at Brushy Lake, where each brings its own magic to the forest. Spring awakens the woods with wildflowers and gentle breezes, while summer offers warm days perfect for lake activities. Autumn transforms the campground into a painter's palette of golds, crimsons, and burnt oranges that draw photographers and nature lovers from across the region. Winter brings peaceful solitude and crisp air, though water services take a seasonal rest from December through February. The sweet spots for camping fall during the spectacular autumn foliage season and the mild, flower-filled days of spring.

ElevationPerched at a comfortable 700 feet above sea level, Brushy Lake Recreation Area enjoys the perfect elevation for year-round camping. This gentle height provides relief from summer's intensity while remaining accessible throughout the seasons, creating an ideal microclimate where hardwoods and pines thrive in harmonious abundance.

Natural Features and SceneryNature has crafted a masterpiece at Brushy Lake, where ancient hardwoods stand sentinel alongside stately pines, their branches creating a living canopy that filters sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The centerpiece 33-acre lake mirrors the sky and surrounding forest, offering endless moments of tranquility and reflection. Privacy comes naturally here, as mature trees create secluded alcoves for each campsite. When autumn arrives, the forest explodes in a symphony of color that transforms the entire landscape into one of Alabama's most photographed natural showcases.

Geological RegionDeep within the legendary Bankhead National Forest, Brushy Lake Recreation Area showcases the best of Alabama's natural heritage. This 33-acre watershed lake, cradled by ancient hills and surrounded by a diverse ecosystem of mature hardwoods and towering pines, represents the timeless beauty of the Southern Appalachian foothills. The forest's rich biodiversity and dramatic topography create a landscape that has captivated visitors for generations, offering both solitude and adventure in one of Alabama's most treasured wild places.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

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Stay Limit

Maximum stay limit is 14 days.

Guests Allowed Per Site

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Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutCampground includes 12 numbered sites with tent pads boxed in with railroad ties, a picnic table, grill fire pit, and a pole with a hook for hanging garbage bags.

Reservation PlatformsNot applicable; reservations not offered.

Walk-in AvailabilityCamping is first-come, first-serve only. No reservations are offered and availability trends are busiest during weekends.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations are not applicable as reservations are not offered.

AccessibilityA paved trail links the campground to the day-use area. The fishing pier is wheelchair-friendly, though no specific campsite accessibility features are mentioned.

Site SizeBest suited for tents and small recreational vehicles up to 30 feet. Parking aprons are gravel, and low hanging branches may limit access for larger vehicles.

PrivacyThe campsites are nestled within mature hardwoods and pines, offering ample shade and a sense of privacy. Most sites are adjacent to the lake, enhancing the natural ambiance.

Total Campsites12 campsites

Recommended SitesSites closer to Brushy Lake are recommended for scenic views and proximity to water activities. Visitors should aim for mid-week stays to avoid weekend crowds.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Brushy Lake Recreation Area is ideal for nature enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, fishing, enjoying wildlife, and other forms of outdoor recreation. The lake and surrounding forest make it a peaceful retreat.

HikingThe Brushy Lake Trail is a paved, 0.25-mile path that connects the campground to the day-use area and a fishing pier. Unpaved trails leading to rock formations and waterfalls provide additional exploration opportunities.

FishingFishing is permitted in Brushy Lake, with bream being a common catch. A wheelchair-accessible fishing pier enhances the experience for anglers.

BoatingOnly non-motorized boats or boats with electric motors are allowed on the 33-acre lake. Canoeing and kayaking are popular activities.

Wildlife viewingThe dense forest and tranquil setting attract a variety of wildlife, making it a good spot for observing birds and other animals.

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsWildlife hazards may include ticks, snakes (specifically water moccasins), and poison ivy. Low-hanging branches pose challenges for larger vehicles.

Active AlertsNo active alerts reported.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Fire PolicyFires are allowed in designated grill fire pits provided at each campsite.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are enforced but no specific time is mentioned.

Emergency Servicesnull

Trash & RecyclingCommunal critter-proof garbage cans are available for trash disposal. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.

Water FeaturesMost campsites are adjacent to Brushy Lake, and a paved trail leads to a wheelchair-friendly fishing pier. Activities include fishing (bream), canoeing, and kayaking along Brushy Creek.

Camp Hostnull

Weather at Brushy Lake Recreation Area

Reviews

4.4

145 reviews

Recommended

Brushy Lake Recreation Area is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the campground's tranquility, affordable rates, and well-equipped but rustic campsites. The proximity to a lake and the natural scenery are frequently praised, although some complaints about inconsistent amenities (e.g., showers and flush toilets) are noted.

Review Summaries

Based on 145 reviews

What Campers Love

Users appreciate the campground's peaceful atmosphere, natural beauty, and affordability. Direct quotes include: 'The sounds of nature were very peaceful,' and 'Great quiet place for the whole family!

Based on 145 reviews

Common Concerns

Common issues include the lack of cell service, seasonal closure of water facilities, and uneven maintenance of amenities like showers. One user noted, 'The water didn't work for the first week we...

Based on 145 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend arriving on weekdays to secure a site, bringing plenty of water and hand sanitizer due to limited facilities, and exploring the nearby hiking trails and fishing pier.

Based on 145 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and Fall are highlighted as ideal camping seasons for their pleasant weather and vibrant scenery. Winter is quieter but colder, with limited water facilities. Summer reviews mention bugs and...

Based on 145 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Only $5 to camp and located along a watershed so plan for bugs.' 2. 'The road to camp was twisty turny not unlike a roller coaster!' 3. 'Great week of camping and lots to see around the...

Based on 145 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site reviews often praise the proximity of sites to the lake and their privacy. Specific site numbers were not mentioned.

Based on 145 reviews

Accessibility Features

The paved trail to the day-use area and fishing pier is noted as wheelchair-friendly, but no specific campsite accessibility reviews were provided.

Based on 145 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No detailed reviews addressing pet policies or experiences were mentioned.

Based on 145 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026

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