Burchfield Branch Park

Met up with a friend of mine from Birmingham, having driven from Mississippi, for a weekend camping trip. No stores super close, but several places in Brookwood where we can get provisions. Nice drive in with spotty phone service that gives a small tour of the local coal mines and some small streams. Cell service cuts out around Lock 17 Grocery going in and comes back slowly when crossing back to Jefferson from Tuscaloosa County. Camp host met us as we drove in to give us the gate code, directions to our site, and to welcome us to the campground. Site was easy to find and in great shape. Clean with electricity, water, fire ring, table, bear-bag hook, and all else advertised with plenty of room to park. The stream running through the campground provides nice background noise in the evening and a place to cool off or have some fun. The beach and playground along the river provide stunning views during the day and for some magnificent pictures at sunset. Bathrooms were clean with soap, warm water, and well-lit courtyard outside to wait for anyone else. A lot of land owned in the area by the COE means that there is plenty of area to go exploring and climbing. Obviously winter means that swimming is a no go but the beach looked like it would be nice in warmer weather.

No one at gate house to check us in. These was a sign directing check-ins to call a number, however there is NO CELL SERVICE in the area. Did not receive the gate codes , or instructions on how to enter camping area in my reservation email . A gentleman stopped on the road and advised that we try one of the camp hosts by the gate. The lady at one of the host sites gave us the code to enter the camping area. The site we had was BEAUTIFUL ! Right on the water, nice site with a deck and fire ring. Water supply, however was off in the morning . My hose was not frozen so have no idea as to why there was no water. Another issue is that there appears to be several "camp hosts" staying in the park. Looks like these people have lived here for a long time. A lot of equipment, boats, furniture, tents, and other miscellaneous items. It looks like a HUD subsidized trailer park, a total eye sore and very attractive for an USACE site . Would have been much more enjoyable of a stay if the park were managed better.

Another great stay at Burchfield. Very quiet and peaceful. So many different types of wildlife, Cranes, Warblers, Hawks, Otters, and Racoons. Looking forward to our next visit.

One of the best places I have ever been camping. Peaceful, clean, and a lot to do. You will not be disappointed going here.

Beautiful, well kept campground. Spots look tight but very easy to get into, even with a fifth wheel. We only stayed as a stop-over but we’ll definitely be back.

Staff keeps the place in great shape. Always willing to help with our stay. Really Friendly People!

Enjoyed our stay. Clean restrooms and showers with plenty of hot water. Our site was on the water where we could sit and watch barges going by. Camp host were helpful with any questions or concerns. There is NO cell service at the campground. However, we are definitely planning to return.

Just a great place to go for my interest.

Corps of Engineers need to get cell phone service.
I was actively involved in trying to save a man from an accidental drowning and could not dial 911.

The park itself was fantastic:)

Nice clean please but NO CELL service, satellite wouldn’t pick up and antenna would only pick up 1 channel. Would be fine if it were warmer for the grand critters to romp and play outside. I’ll camp there again but in the warmer months!