Camping near Uriah, Alabama offers dispersed and primitive sites across multiple wildlife areas and recreation zones, with elevations generally under 200 feet above sea level. The region's river systems, including the Alabama River and Big Escambia Creek, create opportunities for waterside camping throughout the year. Average summer temperatures reach the low 90s with humidity levels regularly exceeding 80%.
What to do
Tubing on Big Escambia Creek: Magnolia Branch Wildlife Reserve offers tubing trips through the campground for $5 per person, typically lasting about 2 hours with stops. "They do not allow you to bring your own floats, but tubing with theirs is $5 per person," notes a visitor.
Horseback riding: Bring your horses to explore designated trails at Magnolia Branch Wildlife Reserve. "Bring your horses and ride, swim, tube," suggests one camper who enjoyed the equestrian-friendly environment.
Civil War history exploration: Blakeley State Park Campground features 26 miles of trails through historic sites. "Walking auto cell phone tours of civil war, boat tours," notes a recent visitor. The park spans 2000 acres with well-maintained trails that were once streets of the town of Blakeley.
Fishing without a license: Several ponds at Magnolia Branch Wildlife Reserve allow fishing without requiring an Alabama fishing license. "Ponds have fish to catch, don't even need an Alabama fishing license to fish," reports one camper.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Isaac Creek campground receives praise for its waterfront sites. "All the campsites are close to the water, most are quite shady," mentions one camper, while another adds that sites feature "very long and wide paved sites. Room for large fifth wheel or motor coach plus a vehicle."
Wildlife viewing: The wetlands and rivers near Uriah provide excellent opportunities to spot native species. "Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with turtles, frogs, and even alligator sightings in nearby swamps," notes a camper at one riverside location.
Covered camping structures: Mystic Springs Recreation Area offers unique covered structures at most sites. "Each site has a porta potty, garbage can & covered pavilion with picnic table, fire ring & grill," explains one visitor. Another camper adds, "The cover is amazing - you can put your tent, car or camper under it to stay dry. Makes me wonder why more campgrounds don't have something similar."
Waterfront access: Campers consistently mention the benefit of having direct water access. At Lake Stone Campground, visitors appreciate the "quiet peaceful lake side" setting with "clean restrooms, reasonable fees (cash only)."
What you should know
Reservation requirements vary: Many campgrounds in the area have different booking systems. Mystic Springs Recreation Area requires free reservations through their website. "Mystic Springs Campground is a reservation only, free primitive campground," explains a regular visitor. However, one camper noted an issue with no-shows: "While I was here I think almost all the sites were officially booked, yet less than half actually were occupied."
Cell service limitations: Reception can vary dramatically between campgrounds. "Stayed two nights, 2-3 bars Verizon, easy access, quiet," reports one camper about Mystic Springs, while others note complete dead zones at more remote locations.
Distance to supplies: Many campgrounds are far from stores. "40m from nearest grocery store, so come prepared," advises a camper at Isaac Creek. Another notes, "Would definitely recommend planning ahead because there are no shops anywhere near the vicinity and forgetting something will cost you a good 30 min drive."
Gate closing times: Check operating hours before arrival. One camper at Magnolia Branch Wildlife Reserve noted, "Gate closes at 4:00 PM (Feb). Restrooms sketchy. But nice sites."
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity considerations: At Magnolia Branch Wildlife Reserve, families should consider whether they want to be near or far from play areas. "The sprawling playground that aligns the campsites assures of loud, screaming children at all hours," notes one camper seeking quiet.
Junior Ranger programs: Blakeley State Park offers educational activities for children. "Woke up to begin the junior ranger packet for our kiddos (provided at checkout) and hiked and explored all day," shares a parent who visited with 5 and 7-year-old children.
Easy biking opportunities: Several campgrounds offer gentle terrain for young cyclists. "Bring your bikes, lots of roads to explore with little traffic," suggests a camper at Blakeley State Park.
Swimming safety awareness: Water activities require supervision, particularly due to local wildlife. "Lots of gaters (if you have small pets this is sketchy)," warns a camper at Mystic Springs Recreation Area about the potential hazards.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: At Lake Stone Campground, RVers appreciate the reasonable fees and spacious sites. "Quiet, clean and reasonable. We'll definitely go back," notes one RV camper.
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require additional preparation for RVs. At Blakeley State Park, one RVer cautions, "Some of the sites are so unlevel. But the historical tour of the park is amazing."
Hookup variability: Magnolia Branch Wildlife Reserve has different site options. "Most are full hook up with less then 20 being power and water only," explains a camper, adding that "pads are gravel but fairly level."
Accessibility for different RV sizes: Consider your vehicle size when selecting a campground. "Several of the sites are more difficult for large RV's to navigate, but there are sites that will accommodate larger RV's," advises a regular visitor to Mystic Springs Recreation Area, which offers primitive camping despite being able to accommodate some larger vehicles.
