Camping opportunities around Kent, Alabama extend beyond developed campgrounds into several riverside and lakeside settings at elevations ranging from 200 to 600 feet. The region experiences hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F from June through September, with mild winters rarely dipping below 30°F. Most primitive camping locations don't require advance reservations during weekdays, though weekend availability becomes limited during summer months.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: At Chewacla State Park Campground, visitors can access varying trail difficulties for outdoor enthusiasts. "There are several mountain bike trails of varying diffivulties. There is also paddle boating and kayaks available for the lake," according to one reviewer. The park features multiple trail options within a compact area.
Fishing access: Waterfront sites at Wind Creek State Park Campground provide direct lake access for anglers. "Our site backed up to a point where we could sit and watch the water," notes a camper who enjoyed the lakeside location. Fishing from shore is permitted throughout the camping area.
Water recreation: Campers can enjoy swimming beaches during summer months. "This is a great family campground with a boat launch on lake Martin. Good swimming, adequate shade," reports one visitor to Wind Creek State Park. The swimming areas typically open from May through September, with some locations providing lifeguards during peak season.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Gunter Hill receives consistently positive feedback for site size. "Large sites, shaded, have sewer hookups, concrete pads, many on a beautiful lake," notes one camper. Most sites include concrete pads measuring 16' x 60' to accommodate larger RVs.
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance ranks high on visitor priorities. As one reviewer states about Fort Toulouse - Jackson Park Campground, "Clean and quiet. Had separate men & women's bathrooms, w 4 or 5 toilet stalls and maybe 4 showers." The campground maintains 24-hour access to restroom facilities.
Shade coverage: Tree cover provides relief during hot Alabama summers. "The sites are very open to each other but a lot of shade," reports a visitor to Wind Creek State Park. Most established campsites feature mature hardwood trees that provide natural cooling during summer months.
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Winter camping offers advantages at some campgrounds near Kent. "We were the only trailer in loop D. It was quiet and very enjoyable! Being right on the lake and having the ducks swim up really thrilled our dogs," shares a winter camper at Wind Creek State Park.
Reservation requirements: Most developed campgrounds require advance booking. "I called 24 hrs in advance, since I have a car it was no problem to find a spot," notes a visitor to Whippoorwill Vineyards, where camping is permitted with vineyard purchases.
Cell service reliability: Connectivity varies significantly between locations. "Wifi works great in our section as well if you need that. Speed test showed 10Mbps on my device and I had no issues streaming 4K on a Roku TV," reports a camper at Chewacla State Park, though service decreases in more remote camping areas.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. At Camp Sherrye on the Coosa, "They have a large dog run, but it is connected to the playground," notes one visitor describing the recreational facilities available to children.
Kid-friendly activities: Wind Creek State Park offers numerous family options. "We love camping at Wind Creek. lots to do for the kiddos!" shares one parent, while another details, "They have playgrounds throughout the campground, trails from 1 mile long to 15 miles long that can be utilized by horse, bike, or on foot."
Swimming areas: Designated swimming locations provide safer water access. "Tent camping with family during Hurricane evacuation. Beautiful park, numerous bath houses, laundry, camp store, playgrounds, mini golf, and so much more," reports a visitor to Wind Creek State Park, highlighting the family-oriented amenities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Level concrete pads simplify setup at Gunter Hill. "Very long and level concrete pad. Great Verizon signal and numerous free digital TV stations to choose from," reports one RVer about their waterfront site.
Hookup locations: Pay attention to utility placement when selecting sites. "We stayed overnight on site 35. It has full hookups, however the sewer was a bit far from the paring pad. If you have a single black tank hose this may be an issue," warns a Gunter Hill camper.
Access roads: Most campgrounds accommodate standard RVs without difficulty. "Large site. Biking was great, good hills a little hard on these novice riders. There was also a bike trail just outside the gate that was paved and paralleled a roadway," notes a visitor to Chewacla State Park regarding the access roads and surroundings.
