Prairie Creek (Al)
4.52533 reviews582 PRAIRIE CREEK ROAD, LOWNDESBORO, AL 36752, USA
Prairie Creek (Al)
$22.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Facility rates for 2025 are as follows: Standard Electric sites range from $26 to $30 per night. Tent-Only Electric sites are $22 per night. These rates do not include discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Nestled along the tranquil shores of Woodruff Lake, Prairie Creek Campground invites you to experience the authentic charm of Alabama's Black Prairie Belt. With 62 thoughtfully placed campsites—including 55 spacious family RV sites and 7 secluded tent-only spots—this riverside retreat offers the perfect blend of comfort and natural beauty. Ancient oaks draped in Spanish moss create a cathedral-like canopy overhead, while the gentle waters of the Alabama River system provide a soothing soundtrack to your outdoor adventure.
Prairie Creek Campground offers a mix of camping styles, including traditional RV and tent camping, as well as group sites.
Historical SignificanceYour campsite serves as a gateway to one of America's most profound stories. Just a short drive away, the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail traces the footsteps of civil rights heroes who changed the course of history. Prairie Creek Campground provides an ideal basecamp for those seeking to explore these hallowed grounds, offering peaceful evenings under the stars after days spent walking in the footsteps of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and countless brave activists.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythm of Alabama's seasons at Prairie Creek, where cool, crisp winters give way to warm, languid summers under predominantly clear blue skies. The region's moderate rainfall nourishes the lush landscape year-round, occasionally creating dramatic afternoon thunderstorms that refresh the air and bring out the earthy scents of the prairie. Smart campers pack layers and rain gear to fully embrace whatever Mother Nature offers during their stay.
ElevationThe campground rests at a gentle elevation that captures cooling breezes from the lake while maintaining easy access to the water's edge.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the remarkable ecosystem of the Black Prairie Belt, where towering hardwood forests give way to sun-dappled pine groves and sweeping grasslands. From your campsite, watch morning mist rise from Woodruff Lake as the Alabama River winds its ancient course through the landscape. This vibrant habitat attracts an impressive array of wildlife—white-tailed deer browse at forest edges during golden hour, while elegant egrets and great blue herons patrol the shoreline, creating perfect moments for wildlife photography and quiet observation.
Geological RegionPrairie Creek Campground sits within the legendary Black Prairie Belt, a geological treasure known for its extraordinarily fertile dark soils that have shaped both the natural landscape and human history of central Alabama. This unique region creates a stunning tapestry where rolling grasslands meet dense forests of hardwood and pine, offering campers a rare opportunity to experience one of the Southeast's most distinctive and ecologically rich environments.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible parking areas and flat, paved roads that are suitable for walking and biking.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious, with many able to accommodate large RVs. Concrete pads are available for RVs, and most sites are level.
Sites PrivacySites offer varying levels of privacy, with some reviewers noting sites are well-spaced, while others mentioned close proximity to neighbors.
Total Campsites62 campsites
Recommended CampsitesVisitors seeking privacy should select sites on the outer loops, away from playgrounds and communal areas. Tent campers may prefer the dedicated peninsula sites.
Best CampsitesSites near the water are highly recommended for their views and proximity to fishing docks. Sites 40, 41, and 48 are frequently praised in reviews.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
1:00 PM
Check-out
3:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit, with a maximum of 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
8guests are typically allowed per site.
Groups
The group camping area is suitable for larger parties, with amenities like electric and water hookups. Specific guest limits are not indicated.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized in loops, with specific areas for RVs and tent campers. Most sites are spacious and level.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Specifically, for 2025, the campground operates from January 1 to December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground does not offer first-come-first-served spots. All reservations must be made online, and visitors cannot choose a site on arrival.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be changed for an additional $10 fee if the new stay dates differ entirely. Cancellations incur a $10 fee and may also result in forfeiture of the first night's use fee if canceled less than 1 day before check-in.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Prairie Creek offers a range of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The nearby Lowndes Wildlife Area provides opportunities for hunting, and the campground's scenic setting is ideal for relaxing and enjoying nature.
Fishing
Fishing is a key attraction, with opportunities to catch bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish. Fishing decks and piers are available at some sites.Biking
The campground is flat and well-suited for biking, with paved roads that are ideal for casual rides.Boating
Boating and other water sports are popular, supported by a boat ramp and docks. Kayaking and canoeing are also enjoyed by visitors.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include spotting deer, egrets, blue herons, and even alligators. The proximity to the Alabama River enhances these experiences.Water Sports
Jet skiing, kayaking, and canoeing are popular water sports available at the campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated fire rings. Visitors are encouraged to use locally sourced wood to prevent the spread of invasive pests.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsAnt infestations are a recurring issue, as noted by multiple campers. Visitors should treat sites with ant deterrents. Hunting noise is sometimes audible in nearby areas during the season.
Active alerts/No active advisories were noted in the source material.
Weather forecast
87
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 35%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest hospital, emergency services, and police are in Montgomery, approximately 25 miles away. The campground does not appear to have immediate on-site emergency services.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is centralized with dumpsters available, but additional trash cans within loops are absent, which some users found inconvenient.
Proximity to water featuresMany campsites border Woodruff Lake or the Alabama River. Fishing docks and a boat ramp provide convenient water access.
Common complaintsCommon issues include ant infestations, poorly enforced leash rules, and outdated bathroom facilities.
HostHosts are described as friendly and helpful; however, some negative reviews mention inconsistency in enforcement of rules.
Campground Map
582 PRAIRIE CREEK ROAD, LOWNDESBORO, AL 36752, USA
Driving directionsFrom Montgomery, Alabama, follow Highway 80 west for approximately 25 miles. Turn right on County Road 29 and follow the signs into the campground.
The campground is accessible via well-paved roads. There is a railroad crossing that may disrupt the contents of your vehicle, so travelers are advised to secure belongings appropriately.Nearby places
Montgomery (25 miles, approximately 40 minutes), Selma (30 miles, approximately 50 minutes), Prattville (35 miles, approximately 55 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Limited supplies are available in Selma or Montgomery, both of which are within 30-40 miles. Local stores like Dollar General are about 10 miles away. The campground office sells ice.
Camper Reviews
4.5
533 reviews
Prairie Creek (Al) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Prairie Creek Campground is well-loved for its peaceful surroundings, spacious sites, and proximity to the Alabama River. Common highlights include wildlife viewing, fishing, and boating opportunities. However, issues such as ant infestations and some maintenance concerns with bathhouses are mentioned.
Review Summaries
Based on 533 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects frequently mentioned include the scenic waterfront views, clean and spacious campsites, friendly staff, and excellent fishing opportunities. Families appreciate the flat terrain for...
Based on 533 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints center around ant infestations, outdated bathroom facilities, occasional issues with campground hosts, and inconsistent enforcement of pet rules. Some visitors also noted a lack of hiking...
Based on 533 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing ant spray and preparing for spotty cell service. Many suggest choosing waterfront sites for optimal views and bringing all necessary supplies due to the campground's...
Based on 533 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews indicate that summer months bring challenges like ants and mosquitoes, while winter and spring are appreciated for their quiet atmosphere and fewer bugs. Fall is popular for hunting and...
Based on 533 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The views of the Alabama River were awesome. Tons of wildlife viewing, with lots of egrets and blue herons.' - Newton Foster
2. 'Very nicely maintained campground! Bathrooms are clean with good...
Based on 533 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews are mixed, with site 44 praised for its quiet atmosphere and biking opportunities, while site 10 is criticized for standing water and lack of room for a picnic table. Waterfront...
Based on 533 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Some guests noted the absence of accessibility features in older bathhouses. However, the campground's flat terrain and paved roads are seen as beneficial for those with mobility challenges.
Based on 533 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Mixed reviews exist regarding pet policies. While some appreciated the pet-friendly environment, others raised concerns about off-leash dogs causing disturbances.
Based on 533 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025