Camping options near Opelika, Alabama range from lakefront sites to forested retreats. Located in the east-central region of Alabama, the area features rolling hills with elevations between 700-1000 feet and hot, humid summers with mild winters. Camping sites are typically situated around the numerous lakes and reservoirs that dot the landscape, providing water access as a primary recreational feature.
What to do
Fishing at Lake Martin: Wind Creek State Park Campground offers excellent fishing opportunities on the 41,000-acre Lake Martin. "Large lake for swimming, boating, fishing. Sites are very open to each other but a lot of shade," notes Rachel G., who appreciates the park's water access.
Hiking mountain trails: Franklin D Roosevelt State Park Campground provides extensive trail systems varying in difficulty. "Many gorgeous hiking trails, several starting from the camping area. The visitor center has a real cool shop and the staff are always friendly and helpful," says Katie A., who has camped there multiple times.
Water recreation on West Point Lake: R. Shaefer Heard Campground provides direct access to West Point Lake. "The lake is down right now because they are repairing the dam so it was fun to walk along the banks," mentions SJ W., who enjoyed exploring the shoreline during winter camping.
What campers like
Spacious, private campsites: R. Shaefer Heard offers good separation between sites. "If you value privacy, you'll love the layout: each site is tucked deep into the woods, with excellent space and seclusion," writes Denis P. about the campground's design.
Family-friendly amenities: Wind Creek State Park features numerous facilities for families. "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," explains Romeo M., highlighting the diverse recreation options.
Extended checkout times: Several campers appreciate flexible scheduling at area campgrounds. "Late checkout (3pm) was so nice. Overall, a great campground," mentions Dianna B. about her experience at R. Shaefer Heard Campground.
What you should know
Gate closure policies: Security measures affect night access at some campgrounds. "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. about R. Shaefer Heard Campground, suggesting planning evening activities accordingly.
Satellite reception limitations: Technology connections can be challenging in wooded areas. "Starlink users: take note— if the lake is high, the shoreline disappears, and with it, any chance of a clear shot to the sky. Reception through the trees was very poor," notes one camper about connectivity challenges.
Cell coverage varies by provider: Mobile service differs between campgrounds. "Verizon was weak over most of the property talk and text ok but data not so much," reports Ward about R. Shaefer Heard, while at Wind Creek State Park another camper notes, "the wifi is not strong, but Verizon signal is great."
Tips for camping with families
Waterfront sites for swimming: Select lakefront sites for direct water access. "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 his family's experience at R. Shaefer Heard.
Bike-friendly campground loops: Choose campgrounds with safe cycling areas. Joshua H. recommends Franklin D Roosevelt State Park: "We camped in campground 5 and 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."
Activity variety for different ages: Wind Creek offers diverse recreation options. "Lots to do for the kiddos! Super friendly staff, storm shelter, zip line, boat rentals, restaurant, beaches on the lake," summarizes Jessi B., highlighting the variety that keeps children entertained.
Tips from RVers
Site length considerations: Check site dimensions when booking. "If your camper is over 25' or so length may cause a problem," cautions Ward about R. Shaefer Heard Campground, noting that not all sites accommodate larger rigs despite appearing spacious on maps.
Full hookup availability: Utility connections differ between loops and campgrounds. "If you look at the map you'll see that some sites are full hook-up and some are not. We stayed in C section with full hook-ups," advises Romeo M. about Wind Creek State Park's varied site offerings.
Winter camping advantages: Off-season camping provides more solitude. "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," shares Erin L. about her winter experience at Wind Creek State Park.
