Conecuh National Forest Forest Road 337 Turkey Creek Sand Hills Circuit
Deep sand adventure through longleaf pine wilderness.
Forest Road 337 plunges into the heart of Conecuh’s sand hills, where sugar-white sand runs deeper than your sidewalls and longleaf pines tower overhead like cathedral spires. This 18-mile loop follows Turkey Creek through some of Alabama’s last intact longleaf ecosystem, with the creek itself meandering lazily through cypress swamps and hardwood bottoms. The notorious “Sugar Bowl” – a quarter-mile stretch of axle-deep sand – separates casual visitors from serious sand runners, while Turkey Creek’s seven crossings range from ankle-deep riffles to hood-deep pools during spring floods.
Moderate difficulty that becomes expert-level after heavy rains when the sand turns to quicksand soup. Air down to 15 psi minimum, pack a shovel and recovery boards, and bring more water than you think you need. Summer heat makes this brutal; fall and winter offer the best conditions when creek levels stabilize and temperatures drop. No permits required, but check with the Andalusia Ranger Station for current conditions. Camp anywhere along the creek for some of the most peaceful nights you’ll find in Alabama’s backcountry.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Sand |
| Features | Camping, Remote, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 18 mi / 29 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 240 ft |
| Best season | October-April |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD with low range |
| Nearest town | Andalusia, Alabama |
| Land manager | US Forest Service |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Official sources | fs.usda.gov |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock 4WD handle the deep sand sections on FR 337?
A stock 4WD with low range is the minimum — you'll need it. Airing down to 15-20 PSI is not optional here; the sand is loose and long enough to swallow unprepared rigs. Lifted vehicles have an easier time but aren't required.
When is FR 337 passable and what makes it close?
October through April is the sweet spot — cooler temps and less standing water. Summer brings heavy rain that turns creek crossings sketchy and soft sand even softer; the Forest Service also occasionally closes roads after major storms, so check with the Conecuh Ranger District before you go.
Do I need a permit or is there a fee to run this trail?
No permit required and no day-use fee for driving FR 337. Dispersed camping in Conecuh National Forest is free; just follow the 14-day stay limit and stay 150 feet from water sources per Forest Service rules.
What's the hardest part of this trail and what should I actually expect?
The deep sand stretches are the crux — not technical rock or ledges, but sustained loose sand that will bog a vehicle running street pressure in seconds. The creek crossings are generally shallow (knee-deep or less in normal conditions) but have soft approaches that can trap you if you're not moving with momentum.
How far is the nearest gas station and is there water available on trail?
Andalusia is your last fuel stop, roughly 20-30 miles out — fill up before you head in. There's no potable water on the route; the creek crossings are surface water only, so bring everything you need for the full 1-2 days.
Trail track
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