West Point Lake camping offers 500 miles of shoreline spanning the Alabama-Georgia border, with seasonal operations that vary between campgrounds. The terrain features gentle slopes at many waterfront sites, creating easy lake access for watercraft launching. Water levels in this 25,900-acre reservoir fluctuate throughout the year, affecting shoreline conditions at certain campsites during different seasons.
What to do
Fishing from your site: Many lakefront sites at R. Shaefer Heard Campground allow fishing directly from camp. "We love the peacefulness and enjoyed playing at the edge of the water. Kids thoroughly enjoyed playing at the edge of the water," notes a camper who appreciated the proximity to the water.
Wildlife viewing on nature trails: Explore marsh areas on boardwalks near Amity Campground for wildlife sightings. "There is a nature trail within the campground that leads to a marsh where there are duck, owl, and bluebird nest boxes. There's a good chance you'll see turtles and frogs," reports one visitor who explored the boardwalks.
Boating without crowds: The numerous coves around West Point Lake create varied boating experiences. "West Point 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, it is never over crowded."
Sports activities: Tennis courts and basketball facilities supplement water activities at several locations. At Holiday Campground, "we had one of the group sites that had 10 spots total. There's a large pavilion at the site that we used to have a movie night for the kids and a big fire pit where we roasted mallows and gathered around at night time."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The spacious layout of sites at many West Point Lake campgrounds provides seclusion. At Whitetail Ridge Campground, "the sites are relatively close together but there are woods in between so they are somewhat private. The lake is down right now because they are repairing the dam so it was fun to walk along the banks."
Lake views from campsites: The sunset views from lakefront sites rank high with campers. "We had an amazing site with a great waterfront view perfect for sunsets. Kids thoroughly enjoyed playing at the edge of the water," describes a camper at R. Shaefer Heard Campground.
Waterfront access: Direct access to the water from campsites remains a popular feature. "We were able to launch our kayaks right from our campsite and saw several others launch boats from theirs. Serene views everywhere we looked," notes a camper who appreciated the ease of water entry.
Clean facilities: Despite varied facility age, cleanliness is consistent at most Corps of Engineers sites. "The bathhouse is heated and has five toilet stalls and four nicely tiled showers with benches," reports a camper at Blanton Creek Campground.
What you should know
Gate closure hours: Security gates at most Corps sites operate on strict schedules. "Beware: the gate is locked shut from 10 PM to 8 AM, no exceptions unless the elderly host personally deems your emergency worthy. Installing a simple keypad would save everyone time and dignity," cautions a visitor to R. Shaefer Heard Campground.
Facility condition varies: While locations are well-maintained, some facilities show their age. "The bathhouses are something out of a post-apocalyptic travel journal— rusted fixtures, broken tiles, and enough cockroaches and spiders to start a nature documentary," writes one camper about an older shower facility.
Cell service considerations: Coverage differs by location and carrier around the lake. At Holiday Campground, "Verizon was weak over most of the property talk and text ok but data not so much." Other campers report: "We have been looking for a water view, with cell phone signal, in order to be able to work from the camper. Bingo!"
Tent vs. RV experience: Some campgrounds cater more to one type of camping than others. "Facilities are very limited, and it's clear this campground wasn't designed with tent campers in mind. You'll wait in line for restrooms, and you won't enjoy it," notes a camper at R. Shaefer Heard.
Tips for camping with families
Large group camping options: Some campgrounds offer specific areas for family gatherings. "The Freeman Road loop campsites are in close proximity to each other, with the restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities close by at the end of the lane. This is a great spot for family group camping," advises a visitor to Whitetail Ridge.
Kid-friendly water access: Look for sites with gradual shorelines for safer water play. At Franklin D Roosevelt State Park, "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."
Wildlife encounters for children: The marsh areas provide educational wildlife viewing opportunities. "There are two long boardwalks where you can walk over the marsh. There's a good chance you'll see turtles and frogs. There are also benches for birding," reports a nature enthusiast.
Biking opportunities: The paved roads in many campgrounds create safe cycling spaces. "Kids on bikes seemed to be having a ball, mostly relaxing and if your into fishing for adults. Lake sites are huge and well spaced out with plenty of shade and privacy," notes a visitor to R. Shaefer Heard.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Choose carefully for larger recreational vehicles. At 3 Creeks Campground, "The sites were not too close together, so that is a plus. A lot of full time residents, but mostly a quiet in-the-woods location. Full hookups with 50 amp service and friendly hosts."
Backing challenges: Some sites present positioning difficulties. "All sights have access to the lake, but this campground also has a day use area with a beachy type area if you find your site to rocky, or mucky," notes a camper who appreciated the alternatives.
Electrical service notes: While 50-amp service is available at many sites, not all campgrounds offer the same hookups. "Large rigs can pretty much enjoy any spot but larger rigs need to be sure that the site is level for the length of the rig. Some spots have a driveway that goes downhill from the camper and others go uphill from the camper which might be an issue for 5th wheels."
Site leveling considerations: Terrain variations can affect comfort in larger RVs. "I stayed at site #30 and thoroughly enjoyed the access to the water, the quiet nook of the site and closeness of the restrooms. Dump station was easy to access and range station folks were super friendly!"
