Camping near Stockton, Alabama centers around the Mobile-Tensaw Delta, one of the largest undeveloped watersheds in the United States. The region spans over 260,000 acres of wetlands, with elevation ranging from sea level to only 10 feet above, creating diverse swamp and riverine habitats. Weather can be unpredictable with summer temperatures routinely reaching 90°F and high humidity making proper preparation essential.
What to do
Civil War history exploration: Blakeley State Park contains significant historical sites with interpretive trails. "There are bathrooms and bath houses, fairly secluded campsites, along with 26 miles of trails which are easy to moderate with a flat surface. You will walk through historic civil war sites, trails that were once the streets of the town of Blakeley," notes Julie D. about Blakeley State Park Campground.
Kayaking the delta waterways: The intricate water channels offer excellent opportunities for paddling. Steven B. shares about Live Oak Landing: "We enjoyed 2 nights here along the tensaw river. There is a big boat ramp to explore the delta. The bathrooms and showers are clean. And there is a disc golf course also."
Mountain biking: Several parks maintain trail systems specifically for bikers. "Friendly staff. Mountain biking. Campsites with them without electricity and water. Great place to stay," mentions Robert N. about Harper Campground. Many trails are rated beginner to intermediate, with most loop trails ranging from 2-5 miles in length.
Fishing opportunities: Many campgrounds provide water access with productive fishing spots. "Our favorite nearby campground!" writes Chirleen E., adding that Blakeley has "tons of hiking trails" with "reasonable rates, picnic tables, and fire rings at the sites."
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Many campgrounds offer larger-than-average sites with good privacy. At Harper - Blakeley State Park, "The sites have picnic tables and fire rings and offer decent privacy. Bath house is 7 minute walk," reports Lisa S., who also notes the campground is "at least a mile into the woods and has no hook ups."
Wildlife viewing: The delta ecosystem supports diverse animal populations. "Beautiful pines and waterfront spaces are spread apart nicely. This is really a diamond in the rough!" shares Mark B. about camping at Meaher State Park Campground. Many campgrounds maintain wildlife viewing platforms or provide guided nature programs.
Historical features: Several parks preserve important regional history. Kristina M. notes about Harper Campground: "The history of the place is also really cool and we did not get any creepy vibes. Each site had a nice wooden picnic table and fire pit." Tours and historical markers help visitors understand the area's significance.
Short drives to amenities: Despite wilderness settings, most campgrounds remain close to services. "It is very close to Mobile, but also very secluded. There is alot of space between sites and lots to see and do within the campground also," explains Alana R. about Apalachee RV Campground.
What you should know
Reservation requirements vary: Some campgrounds require advance booking while others allow walk-ins. "Very nice level camping sites with good facilities. A huge plus is it's near I-65, but quiet. The park itself is quite scenic and nice to walk around. A bit expensive though, but worth the convenience," notes Mark S. about Live Oak Landing.
Weather considerations: Summer heat and occasional severe storms can impact camping plans. The Mobile-Tensaw Delta receives approximately 65 inches of rain annually, creating potential for flooding in low-lying areas during heavy rain periods.
Campsite leveling challenges: Some RV sites require extra work to level properly. Michael mentions about Blakeley State Park: "Some of the sites are so unlevel. But the historical tour of the park is amazing. So much information about the civil war. Other than the rv sites being so unlevel the park is really nice."
Insect preparation essential: Delta environments support abundant insect populations. "We have RV'd here several times and enjoy it each time. Love the history here as well as the various trails for hiking, biking, or horseback riding. Still can't believe that this woodsy campground is minutes away from Mobile," shares Dave D. about Harper Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Look for educational opportunities: Many parks offer junior ranger programs and interpretive activities. Nicole G. shares about Meaher State Park Campground: "We booked in the improved camping section and came in a little later than I had wanted to set up. We arrived at 7:00pm. I have never been greeted by a more enthusiastic staff member who just kept saying we would love it."
Consider bathroom proximity: Families with young children benefit from sites near facilities. "I camped here for one night in the improved tent campsites at bartram campground. The site had trees to hang my hammock, a fire ring, water, and a picnic table. You walk maybe 50ft from your parking spot to the site in the woods," notes Amy B. about Apalachee Campground.
Look for kid-friendly activities: Some campgrounds maintain playground equipment or designated swimming areas. Jennifer G. describes Chickasabogue Park: "This is a nice campground. It has RV hookup, tent sites, and site with just electric and water hookup for campers or tents... Playgrounds ball fields and also a roped off swimming area."
Pack for variable temperatures: Even summer nights can cool significantly, requiring layered clothing options. Nighttime temperatures can drop 15-20°F below daytime highs, especially in early spring and late fall.
Tips from RVers
Check site leveling before booking: Many campsites require additional leveling equipment. John W. notes about Apalachee Campground: "Great park with a ton of historically preserved areas from the 1800's. Some sites are level some are more difficult to level."
Consider full hookup availability: Not all campgrounds offer complete services. DALLEEN shares about Deer Creek RV Park: "Super friendly staff and the spots, wowza, they are huge and all pull through. Bring your bikes, lots of roads to explore with little traffic. Oh, and all sites also have sewer!"
Verify road conditions: Some access roads may present challenges for larger rigs. Aaron D. describes Blakeley State Park: "We stayed at spot RV Spot 2. It was a pull through spot and easy to get into. The spot was somewhat flat but we had to maneuver to get even and then still needed leveling blocks."
Ask about quiet hours enforcement: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds. Clay M. notes about Meaher State Park: "We have stayed here 4 times over the last 2 years. We keep coming back. It's a good location for events in Mobile and Baldwin counties. Site are level and paved. All have FHU I believe. You can hear traffic in Hwy 98 and I10 at night but was not an issue for us."
