Camping near Camden, Alabama offers visitors access to several Corps of Engineers parks along the Alabama River waterways system. The region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F from June through September, while winters remain relatively mild with occasional freezing temperatures. The area sits within the coastal plains at elevations between 100-200 feet above sea level, creating terrain that's relatively flat with rolling hills surrounding the river systems.
What to do
Fishing access: Most campgrounds near Camden provide boat ramps and waterfront sites ideal for anglers. At Prairie Creek Campground, campers report seeing "huge paddlefish jumping out of the water" and catching "gar and blue cats along with a lot of small crappie." Some sites even reported a "3 foot gator around most of the weekend."
Swimming areas: Several campgrounds feature designated swimming areas with nearby amenities. At Millers Ferry Campground, there's a "public lake for swimming, on site, with playground" making it ideal for cooling off during hot Alabama summers.
Hiking trails: Walking paths and nature trails offer opportunities to observe wildlife. Prairie Creek Campground offers a nature trail where visitors have spotted "many birds and deer." One camper mentioned it was "pleasant to walk the dog around the campground with the added benefit of also being able to walk through the old abandoned campground that was destroyed by a hurricane."
What campers like
Peace and quiet: The relative seclusion of Camden area campgrounds makes for tranquil stays. At Foscue Creek, one visitor noted it "seems out in the country side, but actually within 3 miles of Demopolis," offering a balance of solitude and convenience.
Spacious sites: Campsites in the area generally provide ample room between neighbors. A visitor at Sherling Lake Park and Campground appreciated the "level sites" that are "spacious" and "quiet." At Foscue Creek, the "concrete pads long enough to back trailer and truck in and not be in the road" provide practical benefits.
Wildlife viewing: The riverside settings create excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. At Sherling Lake, campers can see "plenty of wild Turkey and deer" in the "beautiful wooded area." The waterfront locations throughout the area provide opportunities to observe river wildlife and birds.
What you should know
Insect preparation: Multiple campgrounds report significant insect activity, particularly ants. At Prairie Creek Campground, campers warn about "ants, ants, ants" and recommend bringing pest control supplies. One camper shared that "Jim the gate guy told us to put comet around tires, didn't have any so trailer was invaded by a horde of little black ants."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the Camden area. In some campgrounds like Owassa Lakeside RV Park, campers report "no wifi availability" while Prairie Creek has "sketchy phone service...we have verizon and had very limited coverage."
Gate restrictions: Some campgrounds enforce strict access hours. At Foscue Creek, "you had to be in or out of the park by 10pm bc the gate closes. And you have to go get the park ranger to open it," which could impact late arrivals or evening activities off-site.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playgrounds for children. Millers Ferry has a "nice playground" near many campsites, and another camper noted it's "kid friendly" with a "fun swimming area and playground."
Beach activities: Water access points provide natural play areas. A camper at Bells Landing mentioned enjoying waterfront activities, while another visitor to Millers Ferry noted "there is even a beach for swimming" making it ideal for families.
Bathroom proximity: When camping with children, consider bathroom location. At Prairie Creek, one camper selected a site "across the street from the bathhouse and playground" which made their location convenient for family needs, while bathhouses at some campgrounds may be "a long walk from many sites."
Tips from RVers
Water pressure considerations: Some campgrounds report lower water pressure than ideal. Foscue Creek has "FHU's but kinda low water pressure (40 psi)" according to experienced RVers, so campers may want to bring water pressure regulators.
Overnight options: For those needing just a quick stopover during RV camping near Camden, Alabama, Sherling Lake offers convenience. One RVer called it a "hidden little gem" that's "very close to the interstate" and "extremely affordable for full hook ups" with both "pull through and back in sites available."
Rig size accommodations: Most campgrounds in the area can handle moderate to large RVs. Millers Ferry has sites that "easily accommodated our 40 ft Rv/fifth wheel & Dooley" while Prairie Creek's paved sites are "perfect for this 24' RV" according to visitors.
