Alabama River Lakes camping areas offer direct water access to Woodruff Lake, one segment of the 318-mile Alabama River waterway managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The river system supports diverse wildlife including paddlefish, gar, catfish, and turtles along with occasional alligators. Camping spots along these waterways range from primitive sites with vault toilets to full-service campgrounds with boat ramps and fishing piers at elevations generally below 200 feet above sea level.
What to do
Fishing from shore or dock: Chilatchee Creek Campground offers multiple fishing spots from private docks. "We drove through Two miles of red mud to get to the paved access road," notes a camper about accessing this fishing haven. The campground provides good catfish fishing opportunities directly from waterfront sites.
Wildlife viewing at dawn and dusk: Morning wildlife watching can be rewarding near water sites. "I thought I was lost I had traveled so far off the beaten path. Suddenly I see a sign! Whew! Surrounded by water this campground was not very full in November. On a tiny island there appeared to be thousands of birds roosting in the evening," shares one visitor about Chilatchee Creek.
Hiking nature trails: Maxwell-Gunter AFB FamCamp includes walking paths around a lake plus a repurposed softball field serving as a spacious dog exercise area. The campground offers "a nice little lake but that's about it in terms of 'natural' amenities," according to one reviewer who also noted proximity to train tracks.
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Campers consistently praise the generous spacing between sites at Alabama River Lakes campgrounds. At Elm Bluff Campground, visitors appreciate the "large paved parking pads" along the Alabama River. This smaller, more remote campground offers approximately ten sites with water hookups and clean outhouses during off-season periods.
Privacy and seclusion: The remote locations provide genuine outdoor experiences away from urban areas. "Secluded, quiet, plenty of wildlife and great fishing. Can't wait to go back," remarks a visitor about Chilatchee Creek Campground, while another describes it as "gorgeous" with "beautiful lake and Spanish moss, spacious sites, plenty of privacy, and very quiet."
Wildlife encounters: The Alabama River system supports diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. "We saw huge paddlefish jumping out of the water, many birds and deer on the nature trail. Bring fishing poles," suggests one Prairie Creek visitor, while another mentions spotting "turtles and gators" at Chilatchee Creek.
What you should know
Ant prevention essential: Multiple campgrounds report significant ant issues, particularly in warmer months. Bring preventative measures like powdered deterrents or barriers. "Don't let the partial dirt road fool you. What a find. Secluded, quiet, plenty of wildlife and great fishing," shares a visitor about Sherling Lake Park, a well-maintained city-owned campground near the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail.
Road conditions vary: Access roads to more remote campgrounds may become difficult during wet weather. "We thought we were lost because the dirt road to get to the campground was very narrow and rough. Once arrived near the campground it was fine," explains one camper about their journey to Chilatchee Creek.
Site utilities placement: Water and electric hookups vary by campsite, with some requiring longer hoses or cords. "Laundry and bathroom needs updated, but clean. Fire-ring, picnic table, and water & electric at each sight," notes a Chilatchee Creek visitor who also mentioned spotting fireflies at night.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly fishing spots: Prairie Creek Campground offers accessible fishing areas ideal for children. "We needed a place in a pinch since we got on the road in the afternoon... $18 for the night and we had running water, a fire pit, and a decent little plot overlooking a section of the Alabama River," shares one family who also enjoyed canoeing on Woodruff Lake.
Playgrounds and open spaces: Several campgrounds feature playground equipment and open areas for children. "Level gavel site! Lots of trees So cool to see lighting bugs at night! Lot of sites on the water not ours though. Trails and nature for walking dogs. Nice playground," reports a Chilatchee Creek visitor.
Safety around water: Given the prevalence of waterfront sites, maintain close supervision of children near water. "There was a 3 foot gator around most of the weekend. Some gar and blue cats to catch along with a lot of small crappie," notes one Prairie Creek camper, highlighting both the fishing opportunities and the need for awareness of wildlife.
Tips from RVers
Level sites with concrete pads: The Backyard RV Resort (formerly The Woods) features "gravel roads and pull-thru sites" close to I-65. "Spots are level and decent sized. Booking was a breeze, staff was very friendly," shares one visitor who also noted good cell reception with "AT&T had 5 bars and streamed videos with no problem. Verizon had 4 bars as well."
Bathhouse quality varies: While most campgrounds maintain clean facilities, construction ranges from modern to basic. "The bathhouses are minimal and outdated, but very clean," reports a Chilatchee Creek visitor, while another mentioned "two of the three bathhouses are well maintained. The bathhouse at the dump station is in bad need of repairs."
Sewer hookup availability: Many Alabama River Lakes campgrounds offer water and electric but limited sewer connections. "This is everything I want in a campground except it has no sewer sites. Flat campground that is easily walkable and can ride bikes," explains a Prairie Creek visitor who also appreciated the on-site laundry facilities.
