Poor But Proud Stables provides equestrian camping near Keystone Lake, Alabama with three dedicated RV sites for horse owners. The property sits in the rural Alabama countryside approximately 12 miles from Blue Springs State Park, offering access to local riding trails that feature moderate terrain suitable for various skill levels. The stables operate on a reservation-only basis and typically reach capacity during peak riding seasons when trail conditions are most favorable.
What to do
Natural spring swimming: Blue Springs State Park features a spring-fed pool that serves as the main attraction for visitors seeking relief from Alabama heat. The water remains consistently cold even during summer months. "The spring is beautiful and flows into a little creek... this place has the potential to be a good spot," notes Christopher P. from Blue Springs State Park Campground.
Horseback riding: Explore local trails through the rural Alabama countryside on horseback. The terrain surrounding Keystone Lake provides seasonal water crossings and varied difficulty levels. Riders should prepare for moderate trail conditions that change with weather patterns. Horse owners camping at Poor But Proud Stables must bring temporary containment systems as the facility does not provide dedicated corrals.
Family recreation: Blue Springs State Park offers additional family activities beyond water recreation. "There is a lot of nice grassy areas plus a playground but everyone was in the water," reports Deanna C. about Blue Springs State Park Campground. The park provides space for children to ride bikes and play while adults enjoy shaded areas around the springs.
What campers like
Natural water features: The spring at Blue Springs State Park receives consistently positive feedback for its clarity. "The springs are very pretty and great for a natural spring. We did not swim but were very impressed with the cleanliness of the water," shares MtnBkr1984 from Blue Springs State Park Campground.
Quiet weekday camping: For campers seeking solitude, mid-week visits offer significantly reduced crowds. "We stayed on April 8 & 9 (Thursday and Friday) and found it mostly empty! At night, the only sounds were the nature sounds of a very active forest," reports MtnBkr1984 from Blue Springs State Park Campground.
Proximity to beach routes: The location serves as a convenient stopping point for travelers heading to coastal destinations. "This is a gem in south Alabama with the most perfect cold water to cool that Alabama heat," notes Anna R. about White Oak Pastures, describing it as "a must stop on the way to the beach."
What you should know
Variable site conditions: Campsite quality and amenities vary significantly throughout the region. "It is clearly an older park with not much recent love. It is clean but not perfect. The sites have older hookups but they are functional. 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 Campground.
Weekend crowding: Visitor volume increases substantially during weekends and peak summer months. "The spring here is nice. But it is over crowded and trashed," reports Christopher P. about Blue Springs State Park Campground, noting issues with facility maintenance during high-traffic periods.
Temperature extremes: The spring water remains exceptionally cold regardless of ambient temperature. "I love it there wish I could move there but the water is freezing," comments Karon R. about Blue Springs State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Bring insect protection: Evening insect activity requires proper preparation, particularly for families with children. "Bugs became a real issue as the sun began to set. Come armed with repellant," advises Deanna C. about Blue Springs State Park Campground.
Plan for bike recreation: The campground layout accommodates children's activities. "The park was quite nice. It was clean and well maintained, the bath house was clean, and there was lots of room for the grandkids to play and ride bikes," shares John W. from Blue Springs State Park Campground.
Prepare for cold water swimming: Young children may find spring water temperatures challenging. Parents should monitor swimming time and have warm clothing available after water activities.
Tips from RVers
Leveling equipment required: Most campsites in the area require additional leveling tools. "The campsites are not level and some of them you have to guess where to put the trailer," notes MtnBkr1984 from Blue Springs State Park Campground.
Hookup condition awareness: Utility connections exist but may show signs of age. "The sites have older hookups but they are functional," reports MtnBkr1984 about Blue Springs State Park Campground, suggesting campers inspect connections before full setup.
Space limitations: RVers with larger rigs should confirm site dimensions before arrival, particularly at equestrian camping areas near Keystone Lake where trailer parking adjacent to camping sites may restrict larger vehicles.
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