R. Shaefer Heard Campground offers both standard camping and primitive sites with varied lake access points. Located along West Point Lake, the campground features 117 sites spread across wooded terrain with many situated directly on the water. Sites include concrete pads, fire rings, and access to potable water. Nearby Amity Campground provides additional lakefront options with spacious sites set well apart from each other, offering privacy for both tent and RV campers.
What to do
Hiking opportunities: Take advantage of the Piedmont Plateau Birding Trail that runs through Amity Campground. "There is a nature trail within the campground that leads to a marsh where there are duck, owl, and bluebird nest boxes. There are two long boardwalks where you can walk over the marsh. There's a good chance you'll see turtles and frogs," notes one visitor.
Water recreation: Paddle the quiet coves of West Point Lake at R. Shaefer Heard Campground. "My family and I camp here often! 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," writes one camper.
Mountain biking: Less than an hour away, Chewacla State Park offers technical trails. "Many areas have killed mtb trails to ride, worth a sniff," reports a mountain biking enthusiast. The park maintains multiple difficulty levels suitable for beginners through advanced riders.
What campers like
Lakeside privacy: Campsites at Blanton Creek Campground offer waterfront access with natural spacing. "Quiet lovely small campground. We had a very private site and loved it," shares one reviewer who appreciated the secluded setting.
Stargazing conditions: The dark skies at R. Shaefer Heard Campground create opportunities for astronomy enthusiasts. "We were there back in June. 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," notes a family who enjoyed evenings under the stars.
Yurt camping options: For those interested in yurt camping at West Point Lake, Pine Mountain RV Resort offers yurts with modern amenities just a short drive away. "We were in town for Callaway Gardens pumpkin event. We will definitely stay here again. Couldn't have been happier honestly," reports a visitor who booked one of their alternative accommodation options.
What you should know
Gate restrictions: R. Shaefer Heard enforces strict after-hours policies. "But beware: the gate is locked shut from 10 PM to 8 AM, no exceptions unless the elderly host personally deems your emergency worthy," cautions one camper. Plan arrivals accordingly to avoid being locked out.
Bathroom conditions: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. At R. Shaefer Heard, "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," reports one camper. Consider self-contained options if bathroom quality is important.
Seasonal water levels: Lake conditions change throughout the year. "Older facilities but the views make up for it. Water and power year round even in winter. Some spots are a little closer than others but most have 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," notes a winter visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Tent-friendly sites: Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park provides excellent family camping options. "My four kids and I had a blast at FDR state park. They have a lot of stuff to do there. We fished and swam, they also had a scavenger hunt that you kids loved doing. 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," shares a parent.
Swimming access: Look for sites with gradual water entry for children. "We stayed at site 63. Park is very well maintained. Camp hosts were especially accommodating and helped us get a great spot without reservations on Labor day weekend. Our site was right on the waterfront with plenty of firewood available in the surrounding woods," explains a camper at Amity Campground.
Entertainment options: Pack water toys and fishing gear for lakefront sites. "Right by the lake is a trailhead that leads up to more amazing views. It a fun hike climbing over huge boulders for much of the way. The kids enjoy this too," reports a regular visitor to nearby recreation areas.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose carefully based on RV length. "Not all bath houses have showers but they were all well maintained. We would definitely go again!" notes a camper at Amity, where sites accommodate mid-sized rigs best. Look for the concrete pad sites for most level options.
Hookup considerations: Electrical capacity can be inconsistent. "30 amp circuit was not adequate. The breaker continually tripped while using small kitchen appliances," reports one RVer who stayed at Pine Mountain RV Resort. Consider bringing a surge protector and adaptors.
Dump station access: Most campgrounds provide dump stations rather than full hookups. "Dump site easy to get to and in convenient location!" according to reviews. R. Shaefer Heard provides a central dump station, while select sites at other area campgrounds may offer full hookups.
