Camping near Jacksons' Gap, Alabama offers access to Lake Martin, a reservoir with 750 miles of shoreline and depths reaching 150 feet in places. The area sits at approximately 500 feet above sea level with rolling terrain typical of the Alabama Piedmont region. Summer camping requires particular attention to hydration and shade, as humidity levels regularly exceed 80% during peak season.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Martin Recreation Area offers excellent fishing access with affordable boat rentals. "The boat rentals from the place are literally half the price of any civilian rental place," notes one camper. Fish species include largemouth bass, striped bass, and crappie.
Mountain biking trails: Chewacla State Park Campground features numerous mountain bike trails of varying difficulty levels. "Many areas have killed mtb trails to ride, worth a sniff," reports Arthur G. The park's trails include technical sections and beginner-friendly paths.
Swimming and diving: Wind Creek State Park Campground provides designated swimming areas with diving platforms. "My kids loved the diving platform," notes one visitor. The designated swimming areas feature roped boundaries and sandy bottom access points.
Waterfall exploration: Multiple small waterfalls dot the region, with a notable man-made waterfall at Chewacla State Park. "The waterfall is easy accessible and you can get as close as you wish," mentions Lillie M. The falls range from 5 to 15 feet in height.
What campers like
Peaceful winter camping: Wind Creek State Park Campground offers a completely different experience during off-season. "We were the only trailer in loop D. It was quiet and very enjoyable! Being right on the lake and having the ducks swim up really thrilled our dogs," writes Erin L.
Spacious waterfront sites: R. Shaefer Heard Campground provides well-spaced lake access sites. "Lake sites are huge and well spaced out with plenty of shade and privacy, others seemed packed in," observes Ward. Sites 115 and 116 are particularly noted for their seclusion.
Family-friendly amenities: Many campgrounds maintain playgrounds and organized activities. "We love camping at Wind Creek. Lots to do for the kiddos!" shares Jessi B. Activities often include ranger-led programs and seasonal events.
Extended checkout options: R. Shaefer Heard Campground provides a later checkout time than most campgrounds. "Late checkout (3pm) was so nice," writes Dianna B. This allows for a full final day of activities without rushing.
What you should know
Gate closure policies: Several campgrounds implement strict gate closure times. At R. Shaefer Heard, "the gate is locked shut from 10 PM to 8 AM, no exceptions unless the elderly host personally deems your emergency worthy," reports Denis P. Wind Creek also maintains gate closure policies.
Varying cell coverage: Connectivity differs significantly between campgrounds. At Whippoorwill Vineyards, service is better near the main buildings, while at R. Shaefer Heard, "Verizon was weak over most of the property talk and text ok but data not so much."
Bathroom quality concerns: Facility conditions vary widely between parks. R. Shaefer Heard receives criticism: "The bathhouses are something out of a post-apocalyptic travel journal—rusted fixtures, broken tiles, and enough cockroaches and spiders to start a nature documentary," according to Denis P.
Seasonal operations: Lake Martin Recreation Area operates only from April through September. "This is another one of the U.S. Military Campgrounds and similarly, it caters primarily to RVs," notes Sarah C. Outside operating seasons, facilities remain closed.
Tips for camping with families
Best family sites: Buck Creek Junction provides primitive camping with direct lake access. "There is lake accessibility as well as the ability to rent kayaks," notes Ashley F. The smaller size creates a more controlled environment for families with young children.
Activity planning: Chewacla State Park offers diverse family options beyond hiking. "Nice hiking trails, mountain biking trails, a lake, a waterfall, and cabins. What more could you ask for all in one spot?" shares Rich S.
Swimming safety: Lake levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting swimming conditions. Wind Creek maintains designated swimming areas with supervision during peak season. "The lake has a swim platform which has an elevated diving board about 10 to 12 feet high," notes Tony C. about nearby Chewacla.
Emergency preparation: Weather patterns can change rapidly, with summer thunderstorms developing quickly. "Storm shelter" is listed as an available amenity at Wind Creek by Matthew M., providing important protection during severe weather.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for privacy: Wind Creek RV offers ten dedicated RV sites with more separation than the main campground. The sites include full hookups with 30/50 amp service, water, and sewer connections.
Leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the area have uneven terrain. At R. Shaefer Heard, "Most all are concrete pads and level but if your camper is over 25' or so length may cause a problem," warns Ward. Bring additional leveling blocks for longer rigs.
Site accessibility: Chewacla State Park offers easy-to-navigate sites. "We are staying in the second loop and really like our site. The sites near us (28-33) all look great for space," recommends Jared W. These sites accommodate larger rigs with minimal backing challenges.
Supply planning: Limited nearby services mean stocking up before arrival. Wind Creek offers a small market, but as Romeo M. notes, "Check in is at 4 pm and check out is at 2 pm," which means planning your supply runs accordingly.
