Military Park Fort Benning Uchee Creek Army Campground offers accommodations primarily for military personnel, DoD civilians, and their guests. The property encompasses several camping areas with varied access to the Chattahoochee River. Sites feature elevated tent platforms that prevent flooding issues during rainy periods. Visitors can expect consistent aircraft noise due to proximity to military training areas. Chewacla State Park and Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park provide alternative glamping options near Phenix City, Alabama for civilians without military connections.
What to do
Wildlife watching at water's edge: Amity Campground campers often spot diverse wildlife along the shoreline. One visitor noted, "We saw all types of wild life, deer, boar, and a variety of birds" while exploring the grounds. The campground provides access to the Piedmont Plateau Birding Trail.
Hiking at FDR State Park: Located 45 minutes from Phenix City in Pine Mountain, Georgia, Franklin D Roosevelt State Park Campground offers extensive trail systems for day hiking. A recent visitor shared, "Many gorgeous hiking trails, several starting from the camping area." The visitor center includes a shop with trail maps and local information.
Water recreation at Florence Marina: The park provides affordable boat rentals for exploring the lake. A camper reported, "We rented a boat my husband fished and we drove around the lake. You can have a AL. or GA fishing license here the lake runs through both states." The marina offers various watercraft options suitable for fishing or sightseeing.
Visit Providence Canyon: Located near Florence Marina State Park, this geological formation resembles a miniature western canyon. "This is a super campground with friendly hosts and fellow campers... Providence Canyon is very close," noted one visitor. The canyon offers hiking opportunities with unique photography viewpoints.
What campers like
Spacious, well-separated sites: Uchee Creek Army Campground receives consistent praise for its site layout. According to one review, "The tent footprint is elevated by railroad ties, preventing flooding and it made it very convenient to put my boots on in the morning. Established trash/food hang poles as well as picnic tables next to the fire ring with fold over grill capabilities."
Quality amenities at family-oriented facilities: Pine Mountain RV Resort maintains facilities that appeal to families with children. A camper observed, "The park has too much to list for amenities! Dog park, clean laundry facilities, camping, chalets, excellent pull thru's, boat rental, post access and MWR office, and more!" Their pool area includes specialized swimming zones for different age groups.
Lakefront access at well-maintained parks: Amity Campground features direct water access from many sites. One visitor commented, "Gorgeous lakeside sites with nice sloping grass down to water. Very peaceful. Restrooms were clean and well stocked. Reasonably priced under $30 for water and electric site."
Clean bathhouses and showers: Many campgrounds around Phenix City maintain above-average bathroom facilities. A camper at Blanton Creek noted, "The bathhouse is heated and has five toilet stalls and four nicely tiled showers with benches." Most parks clean facilities daily, with some employing campground hosts specifically for this purpose.
What you should know
Military restrictions apply: Access to certain facilities is limited to authorized personnel. A visitor cautioned, "Only downside is that you have to be military, or be with someone who is military, to get in" when describing Uchee Creek. Civilian visitors should verify access requirements before planning visits.
Cell service varies significantly: Coverage fluctuates throughout the region, affecting work-remote capabilities. At Blanton Creek Campground, "Verizon LTE is one tiny bar, but webpages and videos load, albeit slow." Campers should not expect reliable high-speed connections at most sites.
Late-night noise concerns: Some waterfront campgrounds experience sound issues from nearby establishments. At Highland Marina, one camper reported, "The Hooch Hideaway, a seedy bar is just across an inlet from the campground. They played loud country/rock music until 2:00 am." Check campground maps for proximity to commercial venues.
Tent fees can accumulate: Policies vary regarding multi-tent camping. At Blanton Creek, "If you drop a tent with an RV they charge you an extra $30. If you have two tents on one site they charge you $25 for EACH tent." Verify fee structures when making reservations, especially for group camping.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Chewacla State Park Campground provides play areas within walking distance of campsites. One visitor mentioned, "Kids on bikes seemed to be having a ball, mostly relaxing and if your into fishing for adults." The second camping loop contains sites with good playground visibility.
Swimming options for various ages: Several parks offer swimming areas with safety features. At R. Shaefer Heard Campground, a family noted, "Check in was quick and easy. We had an amazing site with a great waterfront view perfect for sunsets. Kids thoroughly enjoyed playing at the edge of the water." Some parks maintain designated swimming zones away from boat traffic.
Family-friendly site selection: Request specific sites that accommodate children's needs. A parent at FDR State Park shared, "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 that the camp sites where on." Most campgrounds allow advance requests for specific site numbers.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Camping near Phenix City offers educational wildlife encounters. "If you're into C130s flying over due to being in close proximity to the US Army Airborne School, this is the place for you," noted one Uchee Creek visitor, highlighting both natural and military aircraft viewing opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Florence Marina State Park Campground receives mixed reviews regarding site levelness. A reviewer noted, "Sites are roomy and super level." However, at Blanton Creek, another RVer cautioned, "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."
Power capacity issues: Electric service varies between campgrounds and sometimes within the same facility. One camper at Pine Mountain mentioned, "30 amp circuit was not adequate. The breaker continually tripped while using small kitchen appliances." Check amperage ratings when booking, especially for larger RVs with multiple appliances.
Seasonal site accessibility: Some campgrounds close during winter months or limit services. According to one regular camper at Amity, "We would love it even more if the Corps of Engineers would keep it open all year long." Always verify operating dates when planning winter or shoulder season trips.
