West Point Lake forms the backdrop for pet friendly camping near Lanett, Alabama, with over 500 miles of shoreline spanning the Alabama-Georgia state line. Campgrounds around the 25,900-acre lake sit at approximately 635 feet elevation, offering water access and forest camping at Corps of Engineers sites. Summer temperatures regularly reach into the 90s, making water activities popular for both campers and their dogs.
What to do
Hiking with pets: Amity Campground features a nature trail leading to marsh areas with wildlife viewing opportunities. "There is a nature trail within the campground that leads to a marsh where there are duck, owl, and bluebird nest boxes. There are two long boardwalks where you can walk over the marsh," notes Dorraine S., adding that "There's a good chance you'll see turtles and frogs."
Kayaking with dogs: Water-loving pets can join their owners for paddling at Whitetail Ridge Campground, where many sites allow direct water access. Richard U. reports, "We are at camp site 35, which is in a cove and I'm not complaining of working from the hammock, overlooking West Point! The pad is right off the camper and the few feet you walk to get to the lake is easy to access."
Fishing spots: Many lakeside sites at Holiday Campground allow dogs to join their owners while fishing. "We had a private campsite, woods on both sides and we couldn't see any other campers. The lake views were really nice, easy access to the water with our kayaks and floats," according to Jennifer M., who found the campground "very quiet with great access to the lake."
What campers like
Large, private sites: Franklin D Roosevelt State Park Campground offers spacious campsites where pets have room to settle in. "We were on site 213 and 214. Beautiful wooded site lots of space between sites in this loop. Very short walk to lake," notes Liz H., who appreciated having "lots of room for our dogs."
Lakefront access: Many campers praise the direct water access for pets at Amity Campground. Amanda D. describes it as the "Best Campground on West Point Lake" with "nice, quiet campground. Great views of the lake from most sites," perfect for dogs who enjoy swimming.
Dedicated swimming areas: Dogs that enjoy cooling off can use designated swimming zones at some campgrounds. At Holiday Campground, "The sites in our area were all on the water with easy access," reports Bryan D., noting their site "had a picnic table, grill and fire ring" conveniently positioned near the water.
What you should know
Gate restrictions: R. Shaefer Heard Campground has strict access rules that affect pet owners. Denis P. warns, "Beware: the gate is locked shut from 10 PM to 8 AM, no exceptions unless the elderly host personally deems your emergency worthy," which means evening dog walks must be planned accordingly.
Bathroom facilities: Bathroom quality varies significantly between campgrounds. At Blanton Creek Campground, campers find "the cleanest bathhouse I have ever seen" according to Tracy, who noted "a resident who had been there a while said they clean the bathrooms several times a day."
Seasonal operations: Many campgrounds around Lanett have limited operating seasons. Holiday Campground is only "open March-Labor Day" according to Debbie K., which restricts fall and winter camping options for pet owners.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly spots: Blanton Creek Park Georgia Power provides clean facilities and water access for families with pets. Liz H. shares that "our golden retrievers loved being at the water. Sites are very large with good space between them," adding that the "no wake zone around the campground area" makes it safer for children and dogs.
Playground access: Some campgrounds feature dedicated play areas where children can burn energy while pets rest at the campsite. At Franklin D Roosevelt State Park, Katie A. notes "Great camping spots with lots of trees and a creek running through. Many gorgeous hiking trails, several starting from the camping area," providing activity options for various family members.
Group camping options: Families traveling together with pets can reserve group sites at Holiday Campground. Jeremy N. explains, "We had one of the group sites that had 10 spots total. There's a large pavilion at the site that we used to have a movie night for the kids and a big fire pit where we roasted mallows and gathered around at night time."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Whitetail Ridge, Richard U. advises that "Site 36 is a better choice" than site 35 for RVs, noting "this particular site is a bit small, and you can't stay hooked up to the camper... there's not enough room."
Weather considerations: Summer heat can be intense for pets left in RVs. At R. Shaefer Heard, Suzy E. admits "my review is tainted because we were here in July and it was HOT! The saving grace was the big tree in our campsite (116) and the ability to float in the water," highlighting the importance of shade when camping with pets in warmer months.
Leveling ease: Many RVers appreciate the level sites at Blanton Creek Park. Crissy L. reports their "site (40) was perfectly level so we were able to setup in no time and get out of the bad weather," which is particularly valuable when arriving with pets during inclement conditions.
