August 7 is National Campfire Day! Have you been camping in our area, yet? Here’s your guide to camping in the River Region and a little bit beyond. 

Jackson Lake Island- Millbrook

Jackson Lake Island is conveniently located in Millbrook and has tons of spots for tent camping and even a few full hook-up sites. There’s plenty of things to do while you’re there. Hang out with the goats that live on the island, take your boat or kayak for a spin in the river, and maybe catch a fish or two. Pets are welcome as long as they’re on leashes and controlled around the goats. Don’t forget to check out the remains of the Town of Spectre from Tim Burton’s film Big Fish— lots of photo opportunities here! 

Fort Toulouse- Wetumpka

Located in Wetumpka, Fort Toulouse has a 39 site RV campground that overlooks the Coosa River. Each RV site includes electric and water hook-ups, a grill, and a concrete picnic table. Plus, there’s a bathhouse and a dump station for campers’ convenience. There’s also a group tent site that can be reserved in advance. 

While you’re there, make sure you check out the recreated 1751 Fort Toulouse, Creek Indian houses, and the partially restored 1814 American Fort Jackson. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a walk on the one-mile-long Bartram Nature Trail. 

Camp Sherrye on the Coosa- Wetumpka

Camp Sherrye on the Coosa is a campground and RV park located in Wetumpka. Each site features a concrete patio with full hookups and a picnic table. This campground has a kayak ramp, a screened pavilion, and more. There’s even a dog park— pets are welcome as long as they are leashed and well-behaved. Campfires are allowed as long as they are contained in portable, covered fire pits. 

Kickback Ranch and Event Center- Ramer

Kickback Ranch and Event Center is located in Ramer, just 30 minutes south of Montgomery. There are several cabins available for rent here, as well as full-functioning RV sites. Guests have access to the lakes and beach, bike and kayak rentals, and more. There are also a variety of event venues at Kickback, so this is the perfect place to host your next get-together or family reunion. If you visit and truly fall in love with the area, there’s a chance you might be able to live there permanently— just give the staff a call and they’ll tell you all about it. Resident perks include a pool, a gym, and more. 

Wind Creek State Park- Alex City

Located about an hour north of Montgomery in Alex City, Wind Creek State Park has over 500 modern campsites with water and electrical hookups. Some of the sites also have sewer hookups, and some even include waterfront access and TV service. The campground also features several bathhouses and laundry facilities. 

If you’d rather stay in a cabin, you can do that at Wind Creek, too! There are seven on-site cabins to choose from, and each one has central heat and air, a microwave, a coffee maker, a toaster, and a small refrigerator. Bed linens, bath linens, pillows, and cooking utensils are not provided— add those to your packing list! Pets are only allowed in certain cabins, so call ahead and check before making reservations and bringing your furry friend. 

There are plenty of fun things to do while you’re camping at Wind Creek. The park includes a community archery range (bring your own equipment), boat rentals, a mini-golf course, a swimming area, and even zipline tours. Don’t forget to climb to the top of the silo while you’re there— the view is great! Wind Creek also features several miles of hiking and biking trails. 

P.S. Wind Creek has a swimming area, picnic sites, and pavilions available for day use! Pets are welcome as long as they are leashed and well-behaved. 

Chewacla State Park- Auburn

Located about an hour north of Montgomery in Auburn, Chewacla State Park is a great place for camping. This park features nine primitive camping sites, 36 modern campsites that you can park an RV or fifth-wheel on, a group camp area for large groups, and six rustic stone cabins.

No matter what your style of camping is, you’re sure to have a great time here. The primitive sites have space for a tent and one vehicle, and they include a fire ring for small campfires. The modern campsites are gravel pads that include full hookups and satellite TV. Both modern camping loops have a temperature-controlled bathhouse with showers, sinks, and toilets. Chewacla’s cabins are suited to accommodate four to six adults, and they are all furnished with basic cooking appliances and cookware, a wood-burning fireplace, and basic linens. 

While you’re camping at Chewacla, you can canoe or kayak, swim, and fish at 26-acre Chewacla Lake. This park also features miles of mountain biking and multi-use trails with gorgeous scenic views.

 

Need to pick up some camping gear for your trip? 

Here are a few recommended stores in the River Region for all things camping, fishing, hiking, and more:

Mountain High Outfitters– Montgomery 

Academy Sports + Outdoors– Montgomery and Prattville

Bass Pro Shops– Prattville 

Camo Country– Wetumpka 

Bert’s Tackle Box– Wetumpka