Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Bankhead National Forest
★4.7(2,579 reviews)FreeAdventure
🕑 Half-day to full-day, depending on activities (3 to 6 hours for hiking and picnicking)👶 Best for ages 5 and up. Older elementary and teen kids will love the longer hiking trails and swimming spots, while younger children can enjoy shorter nature walks and picnic areas. Toddlers can explore with carriers or strollers on the easier, flatter trails.🧡 Saved by 400+ families
About
Bankhead National Forest offers families over 180,000 acres of outdoor adventure in northwest Alabama, featuring kid-friendly hiking trails, sparkling waterfalls, and excellent picnic spots. This free natural playground provides the perfect setting for introducing children to camping, wildlife watching, and exploring Alabama's unique rock formations and swimming holes.
Highlights
- ✓Caney Creek Falls and other scenic waterfalls perfect for family photos
- ✓Natural rock formations and small caves that kids love to explore
- ✓Swimming holes for cooling off during summer hikes
- ✓Wildlife spotting including deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species
- ✓Family camping under the stars at developed campgrounds
Pro Tips
- 1.Download trail maps before you arrive as cell service can be spotty throughout the forest.
- 2.Visit the Sipsey Wilderness area for the most family-friendly waterfalls, including Caney Creek Falls which has a relatively easy access trail.
- 3.Bring plenty of water and snacks as there are no stores or facilities once you enter the forest trails.
- 4.Stop at the District Ranger Office (open weekdays 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM) first to get current trail conditions, maps, and kid-friendly recommendations.
- 5.Wear closed-toe shoes with good grip as trails can be rocky and slippery near water features.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) offer the most comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery with wildflowers or fall foliage. Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds, and start morning hikes early to beat afternoon heat and have the trails more to yourselves.
What to Know
Admission is completely free. Pack all food, water, and supplies as there are no concessions. Restroom facilities are limited to certain trailheads and campgrounds, so plan accordingly with young children.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round, but summer can be hot and humid for longer hikes. Winter offers fewer crowds but some trails may be muddy or icy. Spring brings wildflowers and flowing waterfalls, while fall features stunning leaf colors. Always check for seasonal hunting dates when planning your visit.
Nearby Eats
Head to nearby Jasper (about 30 minutes away) for family-friendly options like Sunrise Family Restaurant for classic American fare or grab pizza at Marco's Pizza before your adventure.
More Activities Near Double Springs
Adventure
Sipsey River Picnic Area
★4.7$$❤️15
Sipsey River Picnic Area offers guided canoe and kayak adventures through pristine Alabama wetlands, perfect for families wanting to introduce kids to paddling in a safe, guided environment. With nearly perfect ratings from hundreds of visitors, this peaceful outdoor destination combines wildlife observation with gentle water adventure, making it an ideal spot for creating memorable family experiences in nature.
Ice Cream
Double Springs Elementary
$
This charming old-school ice cream shop serves up homemade flavors and classic sundaes in a nostalgic, family-friendly setting. Housed in a former elementary school building, it offers a sweet treat experience that kids love while parents appreciate the affordable prices and relaxed atmosphere perfect for a casual family outing.
Museum
Winston County Archives
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Winston County Archives offers families a wonderful opportunity to explore local Alabama history through engaging artifacts, photographs, and stories of the region's pioneers. This small, intimate museum is perfect for sparking children's curiosity about how people lived in the past, with exhibits that bring regional heritage to life in an accessible way.
Park
Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park
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Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park offers an exceptional blend of history, nature, and outdoor adventure that keeps kids engaged for hours. With over 1,500 acres to explore, families can hike scenic trails, discover fascinating Civil War-era ironworks ruins, and participate in hands-on history programs that bring Alabama's industrial past to life in ways children can understand and enjoy.