Chewacla State Park Campground offers full hookup RV sites with level, spacious dimensions. Site 15 provides an easy back-in option for larger vehicles while maintaining privacy between neighboring campers. The campground design includes multiple camping loops with 36 total sites, creating distinct camping zones that accommodate different preferences. While glamping options remain popular, the traditional campsites feature concrete picnic tables and water/electric/sewer hookups, making this state park appealing to both RV campers and tent campers seeking more rustic options close to Auburn University.
What to do
Mountain biking on varied terrain: Chewacla's trail system includes options for riders of all skill levels. At Chewacla State Park Campground, "Many areas have skilled mtb trails to ride, worth a sniff," according to Arthur G., who noted the diverse riding opportunities throughout the park.
Explore waterfalls and hiking trails: The 696-acre property features interconnected trail networks beyond just the popular waterfall area. "The hike was easy and not very long. The trail loops around a lake and brings you to a waterfall on the back side of the lake," reports Lillie M., highlighting the accessible nature of the park's water features.
Visit nearby Providence Canyon: A short drive from Florence Marina State Park Campground, this geological wonder offers unique hiking. "We stayed to go hiking over at Providence Canyon. It was a short ten minute drive," notes Joe R., who found the proximity ideal for day trips.
Paddle on Lake Martin: The expansive water access at Wind Creek State Park Campground provides boating options throughout the year. "This is the only public access to Lake Martin. Large lake for swimming, boating, fishing," explains Rachel G., highlighting the water recreation potential.
What campers like
Privacy between campsites: At Amity Campground, the site layout creates natural separation. "The lots are hugh. most are on the water. Some sites are so private you'd think you are alone," writes Steve G., describing the spacious design that allows for personal space even when the campground is busy.
Full hookups and level sites: Campers appreciate the practical site design. "Nice campground with large, level, full hookup sites," notes Susanna S. about Chewacla State Park, highlighting the importance of site quality for comfortable stays.
Excellent WiFi connectivity: Unlike many rural campgrounds, technology access remains robust in certain areas. "WiFi works great in our section as well if you need that. Speed test showed 10Mbps on my device and I had no issues streaming 4K on a Roku TV," shares Jared W., noting the unexpected connectivity at Chewacla State Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural setting supports diverse wildlife. "If you take your kayak to explore the sloughs, there's a very good chance you'll see great egrets and blue herons," mentions Dorraine S. about Amity Campground, pointing to the birdwatching potential.
What you should know
Gate closure policies: Some parks implement strict access hours. At R. Shaefer Heard Campground, "the gate is locked shut from 10 PM to 8 AM, no exceptions unless the elderly host personally deems your emergency worthy," warns Denis P., suggesting campers plan arrivals accordingly.
Variable bathroom facilities: Bathroom quality varies significantly between parks. "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," reports Denis P. about R. Shaefer Heard Campground, contrasting with better-maintained facilities at other parks.
Reservation and payment requirements: Some parks have implemented strict booking policies. "There's new policy of full (non-refundable) payment is now required when you make your reservation. Unless you want to pay an up charge for your nightly rate," advises Larry M. about Pine Mountain RV Resort.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely across the region. "Verizon LTE is one tiny bar, but webpages and videos load, albeit slow," notes Fran H. about Blanton Creek Campground, providing practical information for those needing to stay connected.
Tips for camping with families
Look for waterfront sites with safe swimming: Water access enhances the family experience. "We had spot 96 and we tent camped. The spot was recommended in another review and it was wonderful. Right beside the water so the kids were able to play in the water most of the time," shares Justin W. about their stay at R. Shaefer Heard Campground.
Choose loops with playground access: Dedicated play areas provide important activity spaces. "From where our site was we could see the playground and also let our kids ride there bikes around the circle that the camp sites where on," explains Joshua H. about his experience at Franklin D Roosevelt State Park Campground.
Consider yurt options for Opelika, Alabama area camping: Yurt camping near Opelika offers a comfortable middle ground between tenting and cabin camping. "We recently visited for the first time this year and I must say that this place will be on my always go list. We love the peacefulness and cleanliness of the park," comments Denise M. about her family's experience.
Check for organized activities: Some parks offer scheduled events. "My four kids and I had a blast at FDR state park. They have a lot of stuff to do there. We fished and swam, they also had a scavenger hunt that you kids loved doing," shares Joshua H., highlighting the structured activities available.
Tips from RVers
Select sites based on length and grade: Not all sites accommodate larger rigs. "The park is relatively small but it's very well kept. Small rigs can pretty much enjoy any spot but larger rigs need to be sure that the site is level for the length of the rig," advises Stacy H. about Blanton Creek Campground.
Consider proximity to highways and towns: Location impacts provisioning runs. "The park is close to town, meaning abundance of food options and cheap gas (2.499) on June 6, 2025," notes Tom C. about Chewacla State Park, referencing the convenient location.
Check amenities for extended stays: Laundry and shower facilities matter for longer visits. "Bathhouse was also a bit of a hike from site but had parking area so we drove over there and included a nice laundry facility," explains Rachel G. about Wind Creek State Park, highlighting the practical considerations.
Look for yurt accommodations as RV alternatives: Yurt camping options near Opelika provide comfortable alternatives when RV sites are limited. Multiple parks in the region offer these structures with varying levels of amenities, from rustic to fully equipped with electricity and climate control.
