Conecuh National Forest Forest Road 345 Burnt Corn Creek Sand Hills Explorer
Ancient sand ridges in longleaf pine wilderness.
Forest Road 345 winds through the ancient sand hills of south Alabama’s Conecuh National Forest, following ridges that were once barrier islands when the Gulf of Mexico reached this far north. The route starts near the Burnt Corn Creek bridge and climbs through longleaf pine savanna that hasn’t changed much since Creek Indians hunted here. You’ll encounter deep sand pits, especially around mile 6 where the old turpentine camp roads intersect—momentum is your friend through these sugar-sand stretches.
Easy to moderate trail perfect for learning sand driving techniques without getting into serious trouble. Stock vehicles with good tires can handle it, but airing down to 15-18 PSI makes a huge difference in the deep sections. Spring wildflower season (March-May) offers the best scenery, while fall hunting season requires extra caution. Dispersed camping throughout, and the wildlife here is outstanding—wild turkey, deer, and occasional black bear. Bring plenty of water and expect limited cell service.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Backcountry |
| Surface | Sand |
| Features | Camping, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 14 mi / 22.5 km |
| Duration | Full day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 420 ft |
| Best season | October-May |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Andalusia, Alabama |
| Land manager | US Forest Service |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Tacoma or 4Runner handle the deep sand on FR 345?
A stock high-clearance 4x4 can manage it, but you need to air down to 15-20 PSI before you hit the sand ridges — this isn't optional. A locker or at least a rear LSD helps significantly on the loose, rutted sections near Burnt Corn Creek.
Is FR 345 accessible in summer?
Technically open, but summer is the worst time to run it — Alabama heat and humidity are brutal, and the sand gets even looser and more fatiguing to drive. Best season is October through May when temps are manageable and the longleaf savanna is at its best.
Do I need a permit or pay a fee to run this trail?
No permit required and no day-use fee for Conecuh National Forest road travel. Dispersed camping is free but limited to 14 consecutive days in one spot under standard USFS rules.
What's the hardest section and what should I actually expect?
The deep sand ridge sections are the crux — sustained loose sand that will suck momentum and overheat an automatic transmission if you're not moving steadily. It's not rock crawling, but high-centered rigs and buried tires are common for drivers who skip airing down or try to go too slow.
How far is the nearest gas from the trailhead, and is there water on trail?
Andalusia is your last reliable fuel stop, roughly 20-25 miles out — top off before you leave town. There are water crossings on trail but no potable water sources, so carry everything you need for the day or your campsite.
Trail track
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