About CAMP
What is CAMP?
Central Alabama Mountain Pedalers (CAMP) is a 100% volunteer-run 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that builds, maintains, and advocates for sustainable multi-use trails across Central Alabama. CAMP promotes trail advocacy, health, wellness, and education by developing, maintaining, and riding sustainable trails for mountain bikers, hikers, runners, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Where does CAMP build and maintain trails?
CAMP currently supports trail systems at:
- Chewacla State Park (Auburn, AL) – 25+ miles of trail
- Tuskegee National Forest (Tuskegee, AL) – approximately 30 miles of trail
- Swayback Bridge Trail System (Wetumpka, AL) – approximately 12 miles of trail
CAMP volunteers work with land managers to build new trails, maintain existing routes, and improve outdoor access across the region.
Trails & Riding or Hiking
Are the trails only for mountain biking?
No. Most trails maintained by CAMP are multi-use, meaning they are shared by mountain bikers, hikers, runners, and other trail users. Tuskegee National Forest also has a horse trail. Please follow proper trail etiquette and yield appropriately.
Are the trails beginner friendly?
Yes. Chewacla State Park offers trails for all skill levels, including beginner-friendly routes like CAMP and CCC trails and more technical options such as the Rock Gym or advanced sections of the Rock Bottom Trail.
Tuskegee National Forest and Swayback Bridge are also very beginner friendly while still having sections to challenge more experienced riders.
How do I get to the Chewacla waterfall?
To reach the Chewacla waterfall, start from any of the main parking areas and follow the Lakeside Connector Trail, keeping the lake on your left. This scenic route leads directly to the dam and waterfall area, one of the park’s most popular destinations. The waterfall is easily accessible by bike or on foot and makes a great stop to take photos or enjoy the view.
Do I need to pay to ride or hike the trails?
At Chewacla State Park, visitors must pay the standard Alabama State Park entrance fee to enter the park.
Tuskegee National Forest and Swayback Bridge currently have free admission.
Are e-bikes allowed on the trails?
E-bike access varies by location. CAMP follows and supports the policies set by each land manager where we build and maintain trails.
- Chewacla State Park (Alabama State Parks): Pedal-assist (Class 1) e-bikes are allowed where traditional bikes are permitted. E-bikes with a throttle are not allowed. See Alabama State Parks Rules and Regulations for more information.
- Tuskegee National Forest (U.S. Forest Service): E-bike use follows U.S. Forest Service policy and may vary by trail designation.
- Swayback Bridge: Pedal-assist (Class 1) e-bikes are allowed. E-bikes with a throttle are not permitted.
Because CAMP trails are multi-use, riders should expect to encounter hikers and other trail users. Please ride in control, yield appropriately, and be respectful of everyone on the trail.
Trail Conditions & Closures
Are the trails open after rain?
At Chewacla State Park, trails may close after significant rainfall to prevent damage. Riding wet trails can cause erosion and long-term trail damage.
Trail status is typically posted on CAMP’s website and social media pages.
If trails are posted closed, please respect the closure.
Why do trails close when wet?
Wet trails are vulnerable to rutting and erosion. Riding during muddy conditions can damage the trail surface and require extensive volunteer work to repair.
Respecting closures helps keep the trails sustainable for everyone.
Volunteering
Can I help maintain the trails?
Yes! CAMP is entirely volunteer-run and welcomes anyone interested in helping maintain or build trails.
Volunteer opportunities include:
- Trail maintenance days
- New trail construction
- Bridge and feature repair
- Event support
No experience is required—just bring a good attitude and willingness to help.
How do I find upcoming workdays?
Volunteer workdays are typically announced through:
- CAMP’s Events calendar
- CAMP social media channels
Do I need to sign a waiver to volunteer?
Yes. All volunteers participating in trail workdays must complete the CAMP volunteer waiver.
Volunteer Waiver:
CAMP Waiver Form
Completing the waiver helps ensure everyone can safely participate in trail work activities.
How do volunteers log their hours?
CAMP tracks volunteer hours to help demonstrate the community impact of trail stewardship and to support grant applications and partnerships with land managers.
After participating in a workday, please log your time using the volunteer log form.
Volunteer Hours Log:
Log CAMP Volunteer Hours
Supporting CAMP
How is CAMP funded?
CAMP receives no funding from park gate fees. Trail construction and maintenance are supported entirely through:
- Memberships
- Donations
- Sponsorships
- Volunteer labor
How can I support CAMP?
You can support CAMP by:
- Becoming a member
- Making a donation
- Volunteering at trail workdays
- Participating in CAMP events and rides
Your support helps keep trails open, safe, and growing for the community.
Trail Etiquette
Who yields on multi-use trails?
Proper trail etiquette helps everyone enjoy the trails safely.
General guidelines:
- Mountain bikers yield to hikers
- All users yield to horses (Tuskegee National Forest has a horse trail)
- Riders traveling downhill yield to riders climbing uphill when safe to do so.
Can I ride off the trail?
Please stay on designated trails. Riding off-trail damages vegetation and causes erosion.
Events
Does CAMP host rides or events?
Yes. CAMP hosts and supports a variety of events including mountain bike rides, trail runs, and community outdoor events across Central Alabama. Our event calendar lists CAMP’s events and rides.
Mountain Biking in the Southeast
CAMP is part of a strong network of mountain bike organizations across the Southeast that advocate for trails and outdoor recreation.
Regional Trail Organizations
- Cyclist of Greater Sylacauga (COGS)
- North East Alabama Bicycle Association (NEABA)
- Coldwater Mountain Trails, Anniston, AL
- McClellan Trails, Fort McClellan, AL
- Chief Ladiga Trails, Anniston, AL
- Birmingham Urban Mountain Pedalers (BUMP)
- Oak Mountain Trails, Pelham, AL
- Tannehill Trails, McCalla, AL
- Trussville City Trails, Trussville, AL
- Chattahoochee Valley Area SORBA (CVA-SORBA)
- Standing Boy Trails, Columbus, GA
- Flat Rock Park Trails, Columbus, GA
- West Point Trails, West Point, GA
- Fort Benning Trails, Fort Benning, GA (open to the public)
- River Region Mountain Bike Alliance (RRMBA)
- Swayback Bridge Trail, Wetumpka, AL
- West Alabama Mountain Bike Association (WAMBA)
- Munny Sokol Park Trails, Tuscaloosa, AL
- South Alabama Mountain Bike Association (SAMBA)
These organizations help build, maintain, and advocate for sustainable trails throughout the region.
Contact
How can I contact CAMP?
You can reach CAMP through our email:
