Tent and RV camping options surround the coastal community of Coden, Alabama, situated 20 miles southwest of Mobile along the western shore of Mobile Bay. The area features a subtropical climate with humid summers averaging 90°F and mild winters rarely dropping below 45°F. Most campgrounds in this region maintain elevation under 10 feet above sea level, with pine and oak tree coverage providing natural shade at many sites.
What to do
Hiking historical trails: Blakeley State Park Campground offers 26 miles of trails through Civil War sites and ancient forests. "There are miles of trails and history throughout the 2000 acres with walking auto cell phone tours of civil war sites and boat tours," notes a camper.
Wildlife viewing: The waterways near Meaher State Park Campground provide opportunities to see native coastal species. "The park is in the middle of the delta, giving easy access to the water and lovely views. Trails are short but the boardwalk connecting the two parts of the park is incredible," explains one visitor.
Fishing from piers: Multiple campgrounds offer fishing access without requiring a boat. At Bay Breeze RV on the Bay, "A long peer leads out to the water making a beautiful sitting and fishing spot. The boat ramp is right beside the peer," according to a recent camper.
What campers like
Natural settings with water access: Many campers appreciate the combination of wooded sites and water proximity. "Beautiful pines and waterfront spaces are spread apart nicely. This is really a diamond in the rough!" says a visitor at Meaher State Park.
Yurt accommodations: Yurt camping near Coden, Alabama provides an alternative to traditional tents or RVs. At Gulf State Park Campground, "There are several yurts that are set up and organized for camping during certain parts of the year that each have 4 cots and a fire pit."
Family-oriented activities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Camp Resort receives praise for its programming. "We had a lot of fun. The kids loved all of the Saturday activities. Campsites have a fire pit, so we made s'mores. They have a store with everything we needed, which was really nice."
What you should know
Site selection matters: At many campgrounds, specific sites offer significantly different experiences. "We had a nice, level, paved pull-through site where all of the sites on our street faced their own private view of the wetlands," notes a visitor at Gulf State Park.
Wildlife precautions: Several campgrounds report wildlife encounters requiring awareness. "Beware of the ants! The whole campground is infested with stinging ants. There are ant piles all over the campsites," warns a Gulf State Park camper.
Security features: Some properties implement safety measures. At Mobile Oaks RV Resort, "Pretty quiet park with security gates and cameras. Alot of nice size trees with a 14 acre lake and swimming pool."
Tips for camping with families
Pool facilities: Multiple properties offer swimming options for children. At All About Relaxing RV Park, "Clean, safe, convenient, friendly, fun place, cool pool, great gathering areas, great patios and great dog park."
Educational opportunities: Consider campgrounds with learning components. "The Civil War history is interesting and the rangers are well-versed in history. They have a nature center and lots of different ecosystems," reports a Blakeley State Park visitor.
Bathroom convenience: For families with young children, look for properties with well-maintained facilities. "Bathhouse has 4 guest bathrooms like you would find in a house. Each has a sink, vanity, toilet and very large shower. By far the nicest I have ever seen at any campground," notes an All About Relaxing camper.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Several reviewers mention space constraints at various properties. "We've enjoyed our stay at this RV Park. The camping sites are well landscaped with signs welcoming you by name. The only downside is the sites are a little cramped/close together."
Hookup configurations: Utilities vary significantly between properties. "The sites are level and hook-ups are convenient. Nice landscaping exists between each site. The park is very quiet, peaceful and relaxing. Trash pick-up is at your site every morning."
Local support: Some RV parks provide additional assistance. "This is the only campground we have been in that the staff greet you as you pull in and take you right to your site. They direct you into your site which you are greeted with a welcome sign with all family members' names."
