Elm Bluff Campground
03 reviewsElm Bluff Campground
$14.00 - $14.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fee applies to Standard Nonelectric sites; Recreation.gov indicates $14 per night but excludes taxes and incremental charges.
Standard Site Fee$14.00
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
Total Campsite Fees$14.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider334-872-9554alabamariverlake@usace.army.mil
About this campground
Nestled along the meandering Alabama River, Elm Bluff Campground beckons those who crave authentic outdoor experiences far from the digital world. This rustic riverside retreat offers a refreshing escape where the absence of power hookups and limited cell service becomes a blessing rather than a burden. While fresh water is available for your camping needs, the campground maintains its back-to-basics charm that draws nature enthusiasts seeking genuine tranquility. Remember to book your stay in advance through the reservation system, as the traditional honor box has been retired to better serve today's adventurers.
Elm Bluff Campground offers 'Standard Nonelectric' campsites with an emphasis on rustic, nature-focused camping. Electrical hookups are not available.
Weather and SeasonsLate December unveils Elm Bluff at its most inviting, with crisp temperatures hovering around a comfortable 57°F and crystal-clear skies stretching endlessly above the river valley. During this magical Week 51, rainfall barely touches 19%, creating perfect conditions for cozy campfires and star-filled nights. The dry air and gentle winter sun make this season ideal for hiking riverside trails and enjoying outdoor meals without the oppressive humidity of summer months. Seasoned campers know to plan their visits during these pristine weather windows, avoiding the occasional heavy rains and gusty winds that can sweep through the river corridor.
Natural Features and SceneryThe Alabama River serves as both backdrop and soundtrack to your Elm Bluff experience, its gentle waters reflecting golden sunsets and misty dawns that photographers dream about. This peaceful sanctuary has earned devoted followers who return year after year, drawn by what visitor Liz Taylor perfectly captures as 'the peace and quiet of the campground.' Long-time campers SUE C and her husband have discovered what many seek but few find - a place where 'very quiet and peaceful' aren't just marketing words, but the genuine essence of the experience. The rustic charm isn't manufactured; it's woven into every riverside breeze and every moment of solitude among the native hardwoods.
Geological RegionElm Bluff claims one of the most picturesque stretches along the Alabama River, where ancient waterways have carved a natural haven perfect for those seeking riverside serenity.
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Campsite details
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor peace and quiet, Site 1 and Site 5 have been highly rated by users. Site 1 is recommended by MIKE M as 'quiet and peaceful,' while Site 5 was noted by SUE C for its tranquil atmosphere.
Best CampsitesUser MIKE M rated Site 1 highly with a perfect score of 5. Similarly, user SUE C mentioned enjoying Site 5 during their stay.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Open and Closed SeasonOpen January 1, 2025 to December 31, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made online through Recreation.gov and are no longer available on-site via an honor box system.
Walk-in AvailabilityHonor box payments are no longer accepted; reservations must be made online. Users noted that the transition from first-come first-serve to online reservations was new and surprising.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations before the scheduled arrival are allowed with a $10 fee and forfeiting the reservation fees. Late cancellations (beginning from midnight 1 day before check-in) incur the first night's fee and the $10 cancellation fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Cell phone service
Activities you can enjoy
The official source does not detail activities available at Elm Bluff Campground. However, its location on the Alabama River may imply opportunities for water-based activities.
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Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
General hazardsCell service is limited, which could pose challenges during emergencies. Users have also noted the sparse amenities and lack of alternative payment systems onsite.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 81%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 8.7 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingReservations are required in advance, and the honor box for payments is no longer available, signaling a move to a more regulated waste and payment management system.
Proximity to water featuresLocated along the Alabama River, offering opportunities for fishing and water-based recreation.
Common complaintsTransition to an online reservation system has been noted as a concern among some users. Sue C expressed that this new system might be difficult for campers who are accustomed to the first-come-first-serve honor box. Additionally, bad cell service was flagged as problematic.
Campground Map
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Elm Bluff Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Users generally appreciate the tranquility and natural beauty of Elm Bluff Campground. One review describes it as 'very quiet and peaceful,' while another user highlights the 'peace and quiet of the campground.'
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers frequently mention the peaceful atmosphere and limited crowding. For example, 'Love the peace and quiet of the campground,' and 'My husband and I love this campground. It was quiet and...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The transition to an online reservation system has caused some confusion. One user notes, 'Having to reserve online was something new to us at this campground,' and expresses concern that it might be...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Frequent campers suggest spreading awareness about the new reservation system to avoid confusion. One user advises, 'Our hunting club comes every year in May... we will, of course, make our members...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is described as more crowded during May, specifically the week after Mother's Day, as reported in a review: 'During that time, it's very crowded.' In contrast, other times of the year...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Love the peace and quiet of the campground.' - Liz Taylor
2. 'Very quiet and peaceful.' - Mike M
3. 'My husband and I love this campground... it was quiet and peaceful while we were there.' - Sue...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Users have provided feedback on specific campsites. For example, 'Site 1' and 'Site 5' are mentioned positively for their quietness and peaceful setting.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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