Blue Springs State Park provides spring-fed swimming in a natural pool that stays a consistent cool temperature year-round. Located about 50 miles from Fort Rucker, this park features RV sites with hookups and rustic cabin accommodations. The campground maintains 4 miles of trails through wooded areas, offering alternative recreation beyond the main swimming attraction.
What to do
Spring swimming: At Blue Springs State Park, the 68-degree spring water offers relief from summer heat. "The spring is beautiful and flows into a little creek," notes Christopher P., though he recommends visiting "on a weekday early in the morning" to avoid crowds.
Cave exploration: The limestone formations at Florida Caverns State Park provide underground adventures within 90 minutes of Fort Rucker. "The caverns tour is worth it," states Brenda S., who appreciated the educational aspect. Visitors should arrive before opening hours as "there is a line" according to Jenn B.
Fishing access: Geneva State Lake features two dedicated fishing docks with shoreline access for anglers. "Beautiful park to camp next to the lake with 2 fishing docks," reports Vand H. The lake permits non-motorized boats for accessing deeper waters, with camping spots situated near shorelines for convenient fishing.
What campers like
Natural water features: The cold springs create distinctive swimming experiences unavailable elsewhere. "This is a gem in south Alabama with the most perfect cold water to cool that Alabama heat," shares Anna R. about Blue Springs State Park, though she cautions the water is "too cold even though August in Alabama is very hot."
Secluded camping: Some sites offer peaceful experiences away from crowds. "It was gorgeous especially for sunrise. There are 2 hiking trails that go to either side of the lake from the campground," explains SJ W. about camping at Geneva State Lake, adding "it was so peaceful and the sunrises over the lake were breathtaking."
Paddling opportunities: Water trails complement land-based recreation near Fort Rucker. "We loved the paddle through Blue Lagoon. Bring your kayak or rent one there, it's definitely worth it," recommends Zack C., who enjoyed this feature at Florida Caverns State Park alongside the cave tours.
What you should know
Varying maintenance levels: Facility conditions differ significantly between parks. "It is clearly an older park with not much recent love. It is clean but not perfect," describes MtnBkr1984 about Blue Springs State Park, noting "the sites have older hookups but they are functional."
Hunting seasons: Public lands near Fort Rucker permit hunting during designated seasons. "You can go further into the forest but it was deer hunting season so I didn't explore," cautions SJ W. about trails at Geneva State Lake. Wearing bright colors during hunting season is advised for safety.
Accessibility challenges: Some campgrounds have unpaved access roads that become problematic in wet weather. "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" in rainy conditions, notes SJ W. about Poor But Proud Stables, which offers limited RV sites with hookups.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Several parks provide play equipment for children. "There is a lot of nice grassy areas plus a playground but everyone was in the water," explains Deanna C. about Blue Springs State Park, indicating multiple recreation options for different age groups.
Space for activities: Open areas accommodate group gatherings and games. "The park was quite nice. It was clean and well maintained, and there was lots of room for the grandkids to play and ride bikes," shares John W., who visited Blue Springs with a large family group.
Scout-friendly facilities: Group camping areas work well for organized youth outings. "Camping with a scout troop and it was awesome even though it rained," says Bridgit L. about Florida Caverns State Park, adding "plenty of room to roam and setup camp."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring preparation. "The campsites are not level and some of them you have to guess where to put the trailer," explains MtnBkr1984 about Blue Springs State Park. Bringing leveling blocks is recommended.
Size restrictions: Larger RVs face limitations at some parks. "Not a park for a lot of large RVs," warns Richard F. about Florida Caverns State Park, suggesting travelers with big rigs should call ahead to confirm access and site dimensions.
Equestrian camping accommodations: For those seeking equestrian camping near Fort Rucker, Alabama, specialized facilities provide both horse and human needs. "This place has a lot of amenities pool, fishing, horse and atv trails that are great for beginner horseriders," reports Nicole H. about Heart of Dixie Trail Ride, which offers "stalls or paddocks for your horses fresh water" alongside camping facilities.
