Oak Grove's wooded highlands support glamping experiences at elevations between 600-1,100 feet. Located in central Alabama, the region features mixed pine and hardwood forests with seasonal temperature variations that make spring and fall particularly comfortable for outdoor stays. Campgrounds in this area provide both developed and primitive camping options within state parks and forest areas.
What to do
Hiking trail adventures: At Oak Mountain State Park Campground, the backcountry sites offer better seclusion than standard campsites. One visitor shared, "The site we stayed at was only a short walk, maybe 15 min from the road but it felt like a totally different world." The park's various trail lengths make it suitable for different hiking abilities.
Water activities: Wind Creek State Park Campground offers extensive lake access for swimming and boating. A camper reported, "We stayed at site 100 it was an excellent site right on the water next to us was like a private beach. This is the only public access to Lake Martin." The park has boat rentals and dedicated swimming areas.
Mountain exploration: Explore the highest point in Alabama at Upper Improved Campground, which sits at over 2,400 feet elevation. According to a visitor, "Right by the lake is a trailhead that leads up to more amazing views. It's a fun hike climbing over huge boulders for much of the way." Trails here vary from easy boardwalks to more challenging rocky paths.
What campers like
Updated facilities: Recent renovations at Oak Mountain State Park have significantly improved the camping experience. One camper mentioned, "They put a massive amount of money into updating this place. This is the #1 best state park campground I have ever been at." The improvements include modernized bathhouses and site upgrades.
Secluded sites: For those seeking a quieter experience, the backcountry options provide more privacy. A visitor to Weogufka State Forest noted, "The shelter is has a platform that goes around 3 walls on the inside which is enough space for about 3 people to stay comfortably. It is also very well maintained and has a logbook."
Year-round accessibility: Many glamping sites near Oak Grove remain open throughout all seasons. A winter visitor to Wind Creek State Park shared, "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."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most premium sites require advance booking, particularly at popular parks. At Wind Creek, a reviewer advised, "Check in is at 4 pm and check out is at 2 pm. Spots are close together but I've seen worse."
Water availability: In higher elevation areas, water can be seasonal. For Cheaha backcountry camping, "Check ahead by calling the ranger station if you will be backpacking and they can let you know if there will be water in the streams. This is particularly a problem in the late winter months."
Site variations: Sites at the same campground can differ significantly in features and privacy. At Bohamia, a camper explained, "Services are great some cabins and tents having ACs, but primitive camping allowed as well. Great showers and bathhouse with filtered drinking water option that I used daily."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Wind Creek State Park offers multiple recreation options for children. A family noted, "They have playgrounds throughout the campground, trails from 1 mile long to 15 miles long that can be utilized by horse, bike, or on foot. Boat rentals include two different places."
Educational opportunities: Oak Mountain provides nature learning experiences through its wildlife areas. A visitor described, "Don't miss the TREE TOP NATURE TRAIL!" which features rescued wildlife and educational displays.
Beach access considerations: For families wanting water activities, consider specific loops at Clear Creek Cove RV Resort where "The whole place is set up to have easy access to the water and it does this really well. There are multiple docks and plenty of spaces to tie up your boat."
Tips from RVers
Site selection advice: At Cheaha State Park, an RVer recommended, "Very friendly check in staff. Huge park, very nicely landscaped and neatly mowed. A30 level site and nearly full shade coverage." Sites with shade are particularly valuable during summer months.
Connectivity considerations: Cell service and WiFi vary significantly between campgrounds. An Oak Mountain visitor reported, "It has wifi throughout and almost everywhere in the park has cell reception," while a Cheaha camper noted, "No wifi or cell service; but we loved being disconnected."
Setup logistics: Wind Creek has different sections with varying levels of privacy. An RVer mentioned, "We stayed in C section with full hook-ups. They have playgrounds throughout the campground," suggesting this area for families wanting amenities.
