Coldwater Equestrian Campground serves as a central hub for horseback riding enthusiasts visiting Blackwater River State Forest. The campground offers full hookup capabilities with nearby access to Cold Water Creek. The campground connects to an extensive network of trails throughout the state forest, providing varied terrain for riders of all skill levels. Sites are arranged in close proximity to create a community atmosphere among equestrian campers.
What to do
Creek swimming: Wilderness Landing on Blackwater River provides access to a sandy-bottomed river perfect for cooling off. "The river is sand bottom and fairly clear. My big ol' malamute 'Stealie' loves the river!" notes Stealie F. from Wilderness Landing.
Fishing opportunities: Geneva State Lake offers multiple fishing docks and quiet shorelines for anglers. "Beautiful park to camp next to the lake with 2 fishing docks. No bathrooms just port a potty. The camping price is $2 per night, no reservation is needed, and is online payment," reports Vand H. from Geneva State Lake.
Trail exploration: Multiple forest paths connect throughout the region, with options ranging from short walks to extended rides. "Lots of trails to ride your horses. A lot of the campsites are right on the water. You even have a private huge sandbar for campers only," shares Jennifer P. about trail access from various sites.
What campers like
Affordable options: Several campgrounds in the area provide economical camping with basic amenities. "It's not on the big side of campgrounds but still has some of the amenities. No hookups at the campsites but there is running water (hot and cold) in the bath house with flushing toilets. Power outlets in the bath house as well. The best part is it's FREE! For up to 14 days," explains a camper at Magnolia Branch Wildlife Reserve.
Water access: Many sites feature direct creek or river frontage with swimming areas. "We stayed on site #56 and it was right on the water. It was also next to the road. The site was extra super sandy (beach sand) and would be a lot better if they removed some of it," notes one visitor about waterfront camping.
Quiet surroundings: Wooded campsites provide peaceful settings away from crowds. "Parked in a clearing with 2 5th wheel renters on it...walked back into the woods along a trail and chose one of several camp clearings. Level ground, dry, lots of deer. We will return!!" shares Christopher M. about his experience at Peaceful Camping in the Woods.
What you should know
Site conditions: Many sites in the region feature sandy terrain which can affect setup. "It was so peaceful and the sunrises over the lake were breathtaking. $5 a day and there is a QR code on the board to pay, or you can buy an annual pass for $40 if you plan on staying at least 9 days it's worth it," notes SJ W. about camping at Geneva State Lake.
Operating hours: Some parks have limited operating hours that affect entry. "Gate closes at 4:00 PM (Feb). Restrooms sketchy. But nice sites," warns Stephen D. about accessibility constraints.
Privacy considerations: Site arrangements vary widely from closely packed to secluded options. "Large sites with plenty of space between. They rent tubes to float the creek or canoes to paddle the ponds in the park. Ponds have fish to catch, don't even need an Alabama fishing license to fish. Super quiet," explains Mark S. from Wilderness Landing.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. "The campground itself is beautiful. The noise level is terrible. So if you are retired or want a nice, quiet place, this isn't it. The sprawling playground that aligns the campsites assures of loud, screaming children at all hours," notes Jim, providing insight for those seeking either family-friendly or quiet environments.
Ranger interactions: Some campgrounds feature staff who provide special attention to young visitors. "Very friendly staff especially the Rangers. Faye (one of the rangers) is great. We had our 3 year old granddaughter with us and she came by at least twice a day to give her a ride on the golf cart and printed of pages she could color on rainy days," shares a camper about their family experience.
Water activities: Multiple locations offer tubing, swimming or boating options for children. "Nice place with couple fishing lakes and creek. They do not allow you to bring your own floats, but tubing with theirs is $5 per person. General admission was $5 per person. They have canoes. Some nice shaded lots BIG need more signs. Clean beach area," explains Sherry P. about recreational options.
Tips from RVers
Cell service: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the region. "So well maintained, it is way back in the woods. Cell service was on the struggle bus the whole time, but overall this is a great little place," reports Terran B. about connectivity challenges at Coldwater Recreation Area.
Road access: Some campgrounds require navigation through unpaved roads. "Beautiful views, clean restrooms, and free. Other campers were very friendly. The only reason for a 3 is the rough drive getting there," shares Donna G. describing access conditions.
Weather considerations: Rain can impact accessibility on dirt roads. "Wish I could have stayed longer but I didn't want to get stuck there in the rain - it was about 5 miles of dirt roads to get in there and they were well maintained but I didn't want to risk it," advises SJ W. about planning for weather when visiting remote equestrian camping areas near Wing.
