The Tombigbee and Black Warrior Rivers join near Gallion, Alabama, creating a system of waterways ideal for fishing, kayaking, and camping. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F from June through September, with high humidity making mosquito protection essential. Area campgrounds typically see less crowding on weekdays, with peak visitor periods during spring and fall when temperatures moderate.
What to do
Fishing from your campsite: Many sites at Forkland Campground include private water access points suitable for bank fishing. "Some sites have stairs to the water, to a beach big enough for one person to fish or to tie up a jon boat," notes Nate S. Early morning provides opportunities to see unusual wildlife. "Early in the morning you can see some huge paddlefish jumping in the water."
Hiking the nature trails: The walking paths at Belmont Park offer direct access to the Tombigbee River. "This is a great campsite if you want a secluded quiet place with river access. There is a boat launch that leads you straight to the Tombigbee river before it meets the Black Warrior in Demopolis," according to Hannah C. The park includes tent sites with picnic tables and fire pits, some with water access.
Swimming at Miller's Ferry: A public swimming area with adjacent playground makes Miller's Ferry Campground particularly popular with families during summer months. "Public lake for swimming, on site, with playground!" notes L&A C. The beach area provides a designated swimming zone away from boating traffic.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Campers consistently mention the ample distance between sites at Foscue Creek. "Sites have slot of room and are level. River sites are hard to get. Very clean," shares David S. The concrete pads accommodate both RVs and tow vehicles without extending into roadways. "Concrete pads long enough to back trailer and truck in and not be in the road," reports Matthew M.
Clean facilities: The maintenance standards at area campgrounds receive frequent positive comments. Michael Austin S. states that at Foscue Creek, "The bathrooms were the cleanest bathrooms I've seen at a public campground." Similarly, Raymond B. notes about Forkland, "Bathroom/shower house clean as can be. The nature trail was very calming and enjoyable."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The waterfront location provides chances to observe river wildlife. "The river is lovely at sunset, and there are tons of birds and other wildlife within the park," Michael Austin S. shares about Foscue Creek. Paddlefish, waterfowl, and shore birds are commonly sighted, particularly during morning and evening hours.
What you should know
Mosquito preparation: Insects can be intense, particularly in evening hours and after rainfall. "Lots of mosquitoes can be aggressive in the evenings," warns Nate S. about Forkland. At Miller's Ferry, L&A C. advises, "Lots of mosquitoes & ants, bring bug spray for a more pleasant stay!" Long sleeves and pants for evening activities help reduce bites.
Gate closure times: Several campgrounds enforce strict entry/exit policies. "Downfall was 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," explains Matthew M. about Foscue Creek. Plan evening activities accordingly to avoid being locked out.
Water pressure considerations: Water systems at some campgrounds may require regulation. Nate S. mentions at Forkland to "be sure to have a pressure regulator" for the water hookup. At Jennings Ferry, Mike H. notes it gets "4 stars" instead of 5 because there are "no FHU's" (full hookups).
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When selecting a site, consider proximity to play areas. At Jennings Ferry, Taylor H. recommends: "We are staying in site 25 and it's absolutely amazing. We are camping with family who have the spot beside us in the front. Directly behind us is the playground which is a total win if camping with kiddos."
Swimming options: COE Demopolis Lake Foscue Creek Campground provides safe water access points for children. While river currents can be strong in some areas, coves and protected areas offer safer swimming. James L. describes the atmosphere as "Peaceful and Cheap" with amenities that make family camping comfortable.
Nature activities: Create wildlife spotting guides for children focusing on local birds and fish. At Forkland, Hannah C. mentions there are "great sites right on the water" and "nature/bird trail, playgrounds for the kids, and a boat landing with quick access to the Tombigbee and Black Warrior rivers."
Tips from RVers
Campsite selection: Satellite TV users should consider tree coverage when booking. At Jennings Ferry, Mike H. advises: "No bad sites here. #22 gets satellite year round. Fish from site #13." RVers report the most level sites are typically in newer sections of campgrounds.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups, so plan accordingly. At Forkland, Nate S. notes that "the dump station is in the middle of the campground," making it convenient when departing. Ed M. suggests at Miller's Ferry to "bring your own [bathroom facilities] if you can" due to the distance from some sites to the restrooms.
Limited reservation windows: The most desirable waterfront sites book quickly, especially during spring and fall. "River sites are hard to get," warns David S. about Foscue Creek. Reservations open 6 months in advance through recreation.gov for Corps of Engineers campgrounds, and booking the maximum window is recommended for pet friendly camping near Gallion, Alabama.
