Deep within the mixed oak-and-pine forests and fertile rolling farmlands of southeast Alabama, on the banks of the Chattahoochee River directly on the Georgia state line, you’ll find yet another one of the state’s amazing US Army Corps of Engineers sites, Amity Campground.

      The Chattahoochee River begins its journey to the Gulf of Mexico in the Blue Ridge Mountains of north Georgia. The river finally reaches Alabama here at West Point Lake and forms the border between the two states the remainder of its journey south. Amity Campground, on the southern end of the lake, is the northernmost Corps of Engineers campground on the Alabama side of the river.

      Like Walter F. George and George W. Andrews Lakes farther south, West Point Lake was created by impounding the river. In 1962 Congress directed the Corps of Engineers to build West Point Dam to control flooding, provide a navigable water route to the gulf, develop and encourage wildlife and fish habitats, and provide hydroelectric power to the region. The dam is 7,250 feet long and creates a lake with a surface area of 25,900 acres and a shoreline of 525 miles. The power plant here generates enough electricity each year to run 24,000 homes. The dam was closed to tourists immediately after the attacks of 9/11 but has recently reopened. Tours must be scheduled in advance and have a minimum of 10 people. Contact West Point Dam at 706-645-2937 for more information.

      As for the campground, the bulk of it juts into the lake, offering spectacular sunrises over the shimmering waters. This is a birding paradise, with many rare and beautiful species calling the lake, and campground, home. It is not uncommon to see an eagle or osprey soaring high overhead or to catch a glimpse of the rare great cormorants. Other birds you may see include king rails, greater white-fronted geese, gulls, purple gallinules, and, in the winter, several thousand species of migratory birds.

      Once again, Amity Campground and the surrounding lake are an angler’s dream, especially if you’re a bass fisher. Largemouth and spotted bass are the main catches, but you can also try your hand at catfish, crappie, and bream. There are two cement boat ramps for you to launch from, along with plenty of room for bank fishing. And don’t forget to bring along that Alabama freshwater-fishing license.

      There is no shortage of activities. Besides fishing, the campground has a playground and basketball, tennis, and volleyball courts.

      You’ll find two nice hiking trails here as well.