Camping in Spanish Fort, Alabama places you along the eastern shore of Mobile Bay, where river deltas meet bay waters at elevations just above sea level. The region experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot summers regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters rarely dipping below 40°F. Unlike the beachside accommodations highlighted in other resources, many Spanish Fort camping areas offer waterfront sites along rivers and bays with distinct aquatic ecosystems.
What to do
Explore historic civil war sites: Blakeley State Park features 26 miles of trails through civil war battlefields. "You will walk through historic civil war sites, trails that were once the streets of the town of Blakeley. A beautiful hike on boardwalks along the Blakeley River then through a swamp on deep into woods amongst ancient oaks," explains Julie D. at Blakeley State Park Campground.
Go boating on Mobile Bay: Meaher State Park offers direct water access with a boat launch. "Beautiful pines and waterfront spaces are spread apart nicely. This is really a diamond in the rough!" notes Mark B. about Meaher State Park Campground.
Take guided park tours: Several parks offer ranger-led educational experiences. "2000 acres, walking auto cell phone tours of civil war, boat tours. Big pull through rv spots and a tent campground. Awesome," says Kevin L. from Blakeley State Park.
What campers like
Peaceful waterfront sites: The quieter camping locations offer a more relaxed alternative to glamping close to Spanish Fort, Alabama. "We were assigned site 6. We were surrounded on 3 sides by woods but had neighbors directly across from us and diagonally... Mostly easy hiking with a variety of distances throughout the park from the campground," shares MomSolo from Blakeley State Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campsites provide natural habitats for viewing native species. "This park is in the middle of the delta, giving easy access to the water and lovely views. Trails are short but the boardwalk connecting the two parts of the park is incredible," writes Lynn G. about Meaher State Park.
Boardwalk experiences: Several parks feature elevated walkways through natural areas. "Beautiful clean park. Getting upgraded. Two wonderful boardwalks. One to the Bayou. Ice machine, showers cabins, upgraded tent sites and wifi. Large sites with full hookups," notes John R. from Fort Pickens Campground.
What you should know
Campsite elevation issues: Some sites require additional equipment for setup. "Be carefull. Some of the sites are so unlevel. But the historical tour of the park is amazing. So much information about the civil war," warns Michael from Blakeley State Park.
Insects can be problematic: Bring appropriate protection, especially during warmer months. "Campground not near the park restaurants. Would be a long walk to get to them. Decent hookups. Beware of the ants!!!!!! The whole campground is infested with stinging ants," cautions marilyn G. from Gulf State Park Campground.
Weather considerations: The area is prone to sudden storms. "During a severe storm, the owner talked to us to ensure we were aware of which building to use for safety along with written instructions," reports a visitor to All About Relaxing RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-focused activities: Many campgrounds offer scheduled programming. "They have tons of activities for the kids including crafts, hay rides, s'mores and more," notes Terry J. about Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Camp Resort.
Choose sites with playground access: Several campgrounds have dedicated play areas. "Enjoy taking the grandkids to Jellystone campground in Elberta, Alabama. Lots to do with their activities, wagon rides, group s'mores campfire, fishing, crafts," shares David C.
Consider pet-friendly locations: Many sites welcome four-legged family members. "It's located on the river and they have a pet beach separate so even your dogs can enjoy the water," mentions Amber L. about The Retreat RV & Campground.
Tips from RVers
Find level sites: Terrain varies significantly between campgrounds. "We've stayed here several times. Nice flat sites in the pines and next to the Bay. Bathhouses are nice," advises Cindy C. about Meaher State Park.
Check hookup specifications: Confirm your site meets your power requirements. "The campground website currently (September 4, 2021) that all electric campsites are 50amp which they are not, if you need a 50amp site you will have to call the office to ensure you can secure one," warns Chloe F. from The Retreat RV & Campground.
Measure site dimensions: Some spaces have tight clearances. "Our camper is 35 feet travel trailer, and it was quiet tight getting into our spot, and it will be for most current spots, we would not have been able to park where we were had there been a camper next to us," adds Chloe F.
