Bankhead National Forest

The Bankhead National Forest, which spans more than 181,000 acres in northwest Alabama, has six recreation areas, each of which offers a unique experience and a variety of activities. Bankhead National Forest has an activity for everyone, whether you're a casual visitor looking to soak in the sights and sounds of nature or a seasoned park visitor looking to bring home a hunting trophy.

Visitors to the park who want to spend the day by the water are spoiled for choice. Several lakes and creeks provide plenty of space for both motorized and nonmotorized boating, swimming, and fishing. The forest includes the Sipsey Wilderness, the state's largest wilderness area and one of Alabama's top attractions for those looking to get away from city life. The Sipsey Fork of the Black Warrior River flows through the wilderness; the Sipsey Fork is Alabama's only designated National Wild and Scenic River.

A plethora of hiking, biking, and horseback-riding trails wind past waterfalls, gorges, sandstone cliffs, and wildflowers. With so many different landscapes to explore, it's no surprise that many visitors choose to camp overnight. Primitive campgrounds and cabins are available as lodging options. RV campsites and horse camps are also available. This is one of the best places to visit Alabama you should know.

Location: in northwestern Alabama, around the town of Double Springs.

Tripadvisor rating: 4.5/5

Best times to visit: March 13 – October 31