Opelika, Alabama and the surrounding areas offer numerous campgrounds with pet-friendly accommodations. Located in the east-central region of Alabama at approximately 700 feet elevation, the area experiences humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Campgrounds near Opelika typically feature a mix of wooded and lakefront sites, with most facilities open year-round due to the moderate winter temperatures.
What to do
Biking trails for all skill levels: At Chewacla State Park Campground, mountain biking enthusiasts can explore varying difficulty levels. "Many areas have killed mtb trails to ride, worth a sniff," notes Arthur G., who visited specifically for the mountain biking opportunities.
Water activities on West Point Lake: The 35-mile long lake at R. Shaefer Heard Campground offers multiple water recreation options within 30 minutes of Opelika. "The lake is a great place to fish, swim, and yes even boat, but what we enjoy the most about this place is that you can fully enjoy water skiing, Jett skiing, but you can also enjoy a nice paddle in a kayak or canoe," explains Jamie H.
Geocaching adventures: Several campgrounds offer geocaching opportunities. "Several geocaches" are available near biking trails according to gale H., who enjoyed the activity during their stay at Chewacla State Park Campground.
What campers like
Large, level sites: Campers consistently praise the spacious sites at Lakeside RV Park. As Charlie B. mentions, "The campsites are mostly gravel and seem to be fairly level. The staff here are very friendly and helpful."
Proximity to shopping and attractions: Many visitors appreciate how campgrounds near Opelika offer wilderness settings while remaining close to amenities. "Late checkout (3pm) was so nice. Overall, a great campground," writes Dianna B. about R. Shaefer Heard Campground, noting that trails and facilities were just "a short drive" away.
Reliable utilities for extended stays: Full hookups are standard at many area campgrounds. "Full Hookups, easy entry, paved sites, Quiet park," notes Ken and Cathy M. about Spring Villa Campground, adding that they're "only 15 minutes from Tiger Town Mall and serious shopping."
What you should know
Gate closure times vary by campground: Some parks enforce strict entry/exit hours. "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.
Bathroom facilities quality differs widely: While some campgrounds maintain pristine facilities, others struggle. "Both men's and women's restrooms had trash all over floor, showers that didn't look to have cleaned in quite some time and toilets full of yuck," reports Mark O. about Auburn RV Park.
Internet connectivity considerations: Signal strength varies significantly between campgrounds. "Verizon was weak over most of the property talk and text ok but data not so much," notes Ward about R. Shaefer Heard Campground, while Jared W. found that at Chewacla, "WiFi works great in our section... Speed test showed 10Mbps on my device."
Tips for camping with families
Choose loop campsites for bike-riding kids: Circular campground layouts provide safer cycling areas for children. "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," shares Joshua H. about Franklin D Roosevelt State Park.
Utilize designated swimming areas: Many local campgrounds feature swimming spots designed for family safety. At Blanton Creek Campground, "They have a swimming area, small creek, and falls," notes Arthur G., providing multiple water options for different age groups.
Look for interactive activities: Some parks offer structured activities for children. "They also had a scavenger hunt that you kids loved doing," mentions Joshua H. about Franklin D Roosevelt State Park, providing entertainment beyond standard outdoor recreation.
Tips from RVers
Site selection impacts satellite connectivity: RVers relying on satellite services should choose sites carefully. "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," warns Denis P. about visiting Blanton Creek Park.
Level sites avoid setup challenges: Many experienced RVers recommend checking site grades before booking. "Very nice, large gravel sites, well spaced, with a concrete picnic table and a fire ring. We didn't use any of the amenities, but the staff we encountered were friendly and helpful," shares Crissy L. about Blanton Creek Park.
Check hookup specifics before arrival: Not all sites offer the same amenities even within the same campground. "All sites except #1 and #2 have water, electric, sewer and TV connections," explains Tony C. about Chewacla State Park Campground, highlighting the importance of confirming specific site details when making reservations.
