Deerlick Creek
4.66163 reviews12421 DEERLICK RD, TUSCALOOSA, AL 35406, USA
Deerlick Creek
$20.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$28.00
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 range from $20 for Tent Only Electric sites to $30 for Standard Electric sites during peak season. Group Shelter Electric is available for $25 daily.
About this campground
Nestled along the serene shores of Holt Lake, Deerlick Creek Campground offers an idyllic escape within the Black Warrior-Tombigbee Waterway. With 46 spacious campsites equipped with water and electric hookups, plus six secluded tent-only sites for those seeking a more rustic experience, this waterfront retreat caters to every camping style. Days here unfold with endless possibilities—cast a line from the shore, explore winding trails by foot or bike, take a refreshing dip at the swimming beach, or challenge friends to a game on the multi-use court. Modern amenities like hot showers ensure comfort while you disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with nature.
The campground offers a mix of accommodations, including RV sites, tent-only sites, and a group picnic shelter. All campsites are equipped with water and electric hookups, and tent sites feature additional amenities such as wooden decks and fire pits.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the best of Alabama's seasons at Deerlick Creek, where warm temperatures in the 80s and 90s from April through September create perfect conditions for water activities and outdoor adventures. The region receives a generous 60 inches of annual rainfall, keeping the landscape lush and vibrant. As autumn arrives, the campground transforms into a spectacular canvas of crimson, gold, and amber, with cooler temperatures providing ideal hiking weather and cozy evenings around the campfire.
ElevationPerched on the gentle hills overlooking Holt Lake, the campground offers elevated vantage points that capture stunning water views and cooling breezes, creating a natural amphitheater where the forest meets the water.
Natural Features and SceneryDeerlick Creek Campground is a sanctuary where towering pines mingle with majestic hardwoods, creating a diverse forest canopy that erupts in spectacular color each fall. This rich ecosystem serves as home to graceful white-tailed deer that wander through campsites at dawn, wild turkeys that strut along forest paths, and playful squirrels that chatter from the treetops. Seasonal migrations bring a variety of birds to the area, making it a paradise for wildlife watchers. The tranquil waters of Holt Lake stretch before you, offering mirror-like reflections at sunrise and gentle waves that lap peacefully against the shore.
Geological RegionSet within the remarkable Black Warrior-Tombigbee Waterway system, Deerlick Creek Campground occupies a prime location where engineering meets nature. The campground graces the shoreline of Holt Lake, a magnificent body of water created by the damming of the historic Black Warrior River. This unique setting, where mixed pine and hardwood forests cascade down to meet the water's edge, showcases the beautiful marriage of Alabama's natural landscape with the waterway that has shaped the region's ecology and recreation opportunities.
Campsite details
AccessibilityCampsites are generally accessible with level concrete pads for RVs and wooden decks for tent sites. Some trails and paved paths are available for easy navigation, though the terrain may be hilly in certain areas.
Sites SizeCampsites are spacious and can accommodate large RVs and tents. "RV sites are large, generous distance between sites, and very clean," according to a reviewer.
Sites PrivacySites offer good privacy, enhanced by the natural wooded surroundings and spacing between campsites. "The trees provide adequate privacy and nice shade during the day," one user noted.
Total Campsites46 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid sites 36-40 for large rigs due to difficult navigation. Smaller rigs or trailers may find these sites manageable and secluded. Sites 22 and 35 are noted for views and spacious layouts.
Best CampsitesSites 35 and 40 are often touted as the best due to their lake views and privacy. Site 17 offers a view of rock formations and a deck overlooking the water.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 7 AM.
Check-out
Check-out must be completed by 10 PM.
Stay Limit
Visitors can stay for up to 14 nights per visit or within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Most campsites accommodate families
- larger gatherings can use the group shelter.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutIncludes multiple loops, such as River Bluff, LRID, and TPIN. Many sites are terraced with decks or patios. Large rigs are better suited to upper loop sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from March 1 to November 29 annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via the recreation.gov website, app, or by calling 877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll reservations must be done online. Walk-up reservations at the gatehouse are not permitted.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before arrival, subject to a $10 cancellation fee and forfeiture of the first night’s recreation fee for late cancellations (individual sites).
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Deerlick Creek Campground offers a wide array of activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, swimming, and boating. The scenic Holt Lake provides opportunities for water sports, while the surrounding forest features trails for recreational use. A paved bicycle trail and a multi-use sports court add to the options for outdoor fun. Wildlife viewing is a popular activity, with deer, wild turkey, and migratory birds commonly sighted.
Hiking
The campground features hiking trails through wooded areas and along the lakeshore. The trails vary in difficulty and are accessible from the campsites. "There are trails, smooth roads...and places to explore," a user mentioned.Fishing
Holt Lake is popular for fishing, with species such as bass, crappie, bream, and catfish commonly found. "The waterway is popular for fishing for bass, crappie, bream, catfish, and more," the official description states.Swimming
A designated swimming beach is available for campers. The beach is well-maintained and provides a safe area for swimming. "The beach is nice and well-kept," one reviewer noted.Biking
A paved bicycle trail is available within the campground, making it easy for campers to explore the area on two wheels. "The paved paths are amazing!" commented a user.Boating
The campground features a boat ramp for launching canoes, kayaks, or larger boats. The lake provides opportunities for various water sports.Wildlife viewing
The forested area around the campground is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, wild turkeys, and migratory birds. "Fall is extremely beautiful here and we would see about 30 deer each evening," one review stated.Beach activities
The swimming beach is a focal point for beach-related activities. Some users noted driftwood and trash as minor issues, but overall, the beach is described as clean and relaxing.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing and kayaking are available, facilitated by the boat launch.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted, but visitors are encouraged to buy firewood locally and burn it on-site.
- Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 7 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsRaccoons are commonly noted in reviews as a minor nuisance, with warnings to secure food properly. Poison ivy is present around some campsites.
Active alertsGate closures occur between 10 PM and 7 AM, impacting late arrivals or emergency exits.
Weather forecast
82
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 44%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
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
Emergency services are likely found in nearby Tuscaloosa, which is 17 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 01 - November 29
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available but not extensively detailed in the source materials.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Holt Lake and offers a swimming area, boat ramp, and fishing piers.
Common complaintsSome visitors reported poison ivy and the lack of sewer hookups. Additionally, the campground only has one bathhouse for all loops, which can be inconvenient during peak times.
HostHosts have received consistent praise for their friendliness and helpfulness. They clean sites prior to guest arrival and are noted to go above and beyond even during emergencies.
Campground Map
12421 DEERLICK RD, TUSCALOOSA, AL 35406, USA
Driving directionsFrom I-59 in Alabama, take Exit 73 (MacFarland Boulevard). Go west on MacFarland Blvd./Highway 82 for approximately 4.2 miles. Veer right onto Rice Mine Road. At the stoplight turn left onto Rice Mine Rd. Then, turn right at the stoplight onto New Watermelon Road and follow it for 3.4 miles. Turn right at the stop sign onto Lake Nicol Road, and follow Lake Nicol Rd. for 3.4 miles to Deerlick Road. Turn right onto Deerlick Rd. for approximately 3.2 miles to Deerlick Park.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, although some routes include winding and narrow sections. Reviews note the difficulty of navigating sharp turns and cul-de-sacs, particularly for large rigs or trailers, specifically at sites 36-40.Nearby places
Tuscaloosa is approximately 17 miles from the campground (about 20-30 minutes by car).
Nearby supplies
A Publix supermarket is approximately 11 miles away. Other stores like CVS and local shops are accessible within a 6-mile drive from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.7
163 reviews
Deerlick Creek is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Deerlick Creek Campground receives overwhelmingly positive reviews for its cleanliness, spacious sites, friendly staff, and scenic views. Campers appreciate the well-maintained facilities and the variety of activities available.
Review Summaries
Based on 163 reviews
What Campers Love
Common highlights include clean and spacious campsites, well-maintained restrooms, friendly and helpful staff, and beautiful views of Holt Lake. Many users praised the privacy and natural setting of...
Based on 163 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include the lack of sewer hookups at campsites, occasional issues with unmaintained trails, and limited firewood availability. Some users also mentioned the inconvenience of a locked gate...
Based on 163 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend choosing sites with the best views, such as site 35 for its deck overlooking the lake. Campers also advised using bug spray due to chiggers and checking site accessibility for larger...
Based on 163 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Fall is a particularly popular season due to the colorful foliage and wildlife activity. Spring and summer are also well-regarded for water activities, though some users noted challenges with bugs...
Based on 163 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Bathrooms/showers are a bit out of date as some people have mentioned, but they are ALWAYS well taken care of and clean." "Fall is extremely beautiful here and we would see about 30 deer each...
Based on 163 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 35 is frequently recommended for its views and spacious layout. Sites 36-40 are noted as challenging for larger RVs due to tight turns.
Based on 163 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility is generally good, with level pads and paved paths, although the hilly terrain might pose challenges in some areas.
Based on 163 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, though detailed reviews on pet policies are sparse. Some users noted enjoying the spaciousness, which is pet-friendly.
Based on 163 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025