Fort Gaines sits on elevated bluffs overlooking the Chattahoochee River at around 200 feet above sea level, creating a unique ecosystem where Alabama and Georgia wilderness meet. The region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and mild winters where camping remains viable year-round. Campgrounds in this area typically feature wooded sites with varying levels of shade and proximity to water.
What to do
Kayak fishing expeditions: Lake Walter F. George (also called Lake Eufaula) offers excellent fishing opportunities with properly licensed equipment. "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. Lots of blooming Lilly's, big oaks with moss, shorebirds and gators," notes one visitor to Florence Marina State Park Campground.
Wildlife observation: Watch for native animals in their natural habitat throughout the region. "The birds were swooping up the dragonflies it was interesting to watch. We would go watch sunset at the lake funny our phones read AL. time not GA time," shares a camper who stayed at Florence Marina State Park.
Explore historic structures: Visit the Coheelee Creek Covered Bridge, one of few remaining covered bridges in the region. "There is the famed Coheelee Creek Covered Bridge that apparently people come from all over to see," according to a visitor at Omussee Creek Park.
What campers like
Level, spacious campsites: Many campgrounds in the region feature well-designed sites that accommodate various camping setups. "Sites are spacious, campground was full and it didn't feel crowded. Nice park to take a walk, you can rent a boat and I hear there's some great fishing," mentions a reviewer at Florence Marina State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain their restrooms and common areas regularly. "The bathrooms and showers were tidy and clean. I really did love it here and based on my experience here I will be looking at other KOA Journeys to visit," reports a tent camper at Ozark-Fort Rucker KOA.
Military facilities: Fort Benning and Fort Rucker offer exceptional camping for eligible military personnel. "This place has it all. It is surrounded by trees. The spaces are far apart. Walking and running trails abound. And, Bonus, JETS - Go Air Force!! Yes, on the Army Post - lucky!!" shares an enthusiastic visitor to Military Park Fort Benning Uchee Creek Army Campground and Marina.
What you should know
Alligator presence: Local waterways contain alligators that require proper safety awareness. "There are signs posted to watch for gators," mentions one camper about Ozark-Fort Rucker KOA, while another visitor notes about Military Park Fort Rucker Recreation Area Engineer Beach RV Park: "I definitely recommend this campground as long as you don't mind the helicopters going over at all hours of the day and night."
Weather considerations: The region experiences seasonal heavy rains that can affect camping conditions. "Drawback was that some sites had alot of water on them and in them. Lots of low lying areas in the park and some campsites so, during rain it's gets very wet and can have alot of standing water," reports a camper at Florence Marina.
Cell service variability: Connectivity fluctuates throughout the region based on location and provider. "Cell service was extremely spotty so don't expect to get much in the way of cell or internet service here. Great place to camp and have lots of peace and quiet," notes a visitor to Florence Marina State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. "There's a sandbox and playground but for a little more you can get a hotel room," mentions a visitor to Florence Marina, while another camper at Ozark-Fort Rucker KOA adds: "My kids and I absolutely loved it here. The staff was very friendly and helpful. We did tent 'glamping' so we had electric, water and wifi nearby but still enjoyed our time away."
Water activities: Swimming pools provide relief during hot months at select locations. "Their pool and splash pad is nicer than most hotels. The site bathrooms/showers and laundry area are kept in very well condition. We saw all types of wild life, deer, boar, and a variety of birds," shares a family that experienced tent camping at Family Time Campground.
Yurt camping Fort Gaines, Georgia area: While traditional yurts are limited, several campgrounds offer yurt-style accommodations and tent glamping alternatives. Military Park Fort Rucker Recreation Area offers yurt options alongside their RV sites, providing families with the yurt camping Fort Gaines experience without requiring personal equipment.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Most campgrounds near Fort Gaines provide complete RV services. "We stayed in site #16 it has full hook up. The park was busy it was Halloween they have a haunted boat ride and a hayride. Great place to spend Halloween," shares an RVer about Florence Marina State Park.
Pull-through site options: Many campgrounds feature easy-access sites. "Stayed on a long pull-through site #9. Full hook-ups was a nice surprise. Sites are spacious, campground was full and it didn't feel crowded," notes an RV camper at Florence Marina.
Budget considerations: Prices vary significantly between campgrounds. "KOA campgrounds really vary in so many categories. This one was super convenient to the hwy (consequently, some road noise through the night). Very clean, great dog area, modern laundry, nice bathrooms," reports a visitor to Ozark-Fort Rucker KOA.
