Spring-fed swimming holes and natural forest surroundings distinguish the camping areas surrounding Clio, Alabama. Located in the southeastern part of the state, the region maintains warm summer temperatures with highs regularly exceeding 90°F from June through August. Most campgrounds in the area remain open year-round, with fall offering more comfortable camping conditions as temperatures moderate to the 70s.
What to do
Swimming in natural springs: Blue Springs State Park Campground features a spring-fed pool that stays 68°F year-round, offering relief during hot Alabama summers. "The spring is beautiful and flows into a little creek," notes Christopher P. about Blue Springs State Park Campground, though he recommends visiting "early in the morning" to avoid crowds.
Fishing opportunities: Hardridge Creek Campground provides shoreline fishing access and boat launches for anglers. "The site included 50/30/15 amp electrical, water, fire pit, picnic table, fire ring, BBQ and portable table," reports Tony C. at Hardridge Creek Campground, adding that the park includes "a swimming area with boundaries to prevent boats and jet skis from entering."
Trail exploration: Walking paths at several campgrounds provide exercise options for both humans and pets. "There are some small hikes in this campground," mentions B M., who stayed at Cotton Hill, where visitors can observe "more birds than we can count and a beautiful variety of trees and plants."
What campers like
Spacious, waterfront sites: Many campgrounds feature lakeside camping with direct water access. "This campground offers beachfront sites where you can walk right out from your site to the water," explains Carrie with BottleCapsAndBacon F. about Hardridge Creek Campground, noting the campground has "a beach, park and gazebo that everyone can access."
Clean facilities: Park maintenance receives consistently positive reviews from campers. "The bathhouse was spotless with hot showers and great water pressure," reports Jessica O., who appreciated the natural setting at Hardridge Creek Campground where they had "water views from both sides of the site, and thick forest on a third side."
Dog-friendly amenities: Multiple campgrounds near Clio accommodate pets with dedicated areas. "Sweet on and off 231 all paved pull through sites... everyone is escorted to their site by the wonderful owner and her staff," says Wendy T. about Ozark-Fort Rucker KOA, which features a "nice dog run for the pups," according to Bridgett G.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer heat requires preparation, especially when camping with pets. "August in Alabama is very hot," confirms Deanna C., who found Blue Springs State Park Campground comfortable despite the temperature but noted "bugs became a real issue as the sun began to set. Come armed with repellant."
Campsite privacy varies: Some campgrounds offer more secluded sites than others. "The sites are well spaced, most are water front and easy access to water or have water view," explains Liz H. about Cotton Hill, adding that it has "full hookups" and "great Verizon and AT&T signals."
Ant prevention: Several campgrounds in the region have reported ant issues. Tony C. warns about Hardridge Creek Campground: "If you do not take preemptive measures beforehand you will be affected. Everything that touches the ground is a conduit for their access, the tires, leveling jacks, tongue jack, power cord and the water hose are their tools."
Tips for camping with families
Spring swimming timing: For families wanting to enjoy the springs, timing matters. "The main attraction in this state park is the spring fed pool. There is a lot of nice grassy areas plus a playground but everyone was in the water," shares Deanna C. about Blue Springs State Park, though she "found it too cold even though August in Alabama is very hot."
Playgrounds and recreation: Several dog-friendly campgrounds near Clio offer play areas for children. "We had a fire pit, picnic table, and parking to ourselves. The pool came in clutch since it is very humid and hot over there," reports Mika about Ozark-Fort Rucker KOA, adding it was "nice, CLEAN and refreshing" though there might not be "enough grassy area for older kids or adults."
Beach access: Waterfront sites with beach areas provide natural play spaces. "There are two shower/bathroom stations with cheap laundry ($1.50 wash and $1.00 dry) which are clean," notes Elizabeth E. about Hardridge Creek Campground, though she questions "they have swimming" despite "supposed to be 1,000 alligators."
Tips from RVers
Hookup options: Several campgrounds offer full hookups for RVs of various sizes. "Perfect place to stay for short or long term. Close to town but just far enough away to have peace and quiet," shares Emily R. about Deer Run RV Park, which has "fishing ponds, walking trail, bath/laundry house and pool."
Site selection for satellite users: Tree coverage affects satellite reception at many campgrounds. "The older section of the CG is shaded with mature trees, while the newer area has fewer, making it ideal for satellite users," advises MickandKarla W. about Deer Run RV Park, adding that "water pressure was high, so we used a reducer."
Noise considerations: Highway proximity impacts some camping experiences. "The only thing that dropped a star was the sounds from the highway was absolutely overwhelming. It was so loud we had a hard night sleeping," warns Stephanie B. about Deer Run RV Park, recommending against staying "if you're not staying in something to block out sound."
