By Travis England
WEST POINT, Ga. – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Mobile District's R. Shaefer Heard Campground at West Point Lake has been named one of RV Life's "Best of the Best" Campgrounds for 2025. With more than 1 million active users, RV Life is one of the largest online communities for RV travelers. Its annual award is founded on genuine reviews from campers across the nation.
For the staff at West Point Project, this recognition is more than a title. It is a sign that the team's hard work is making a difference. From the ground crews to the front gate, every part of the operation plays a role in making sure visitors have a great experience.
"This recognition highlights the dedication of our staff and partners who work every day to maintain a safe, welcoming, and well-managed recreation area," said Jay Jamison, West Point Project Manager. "Most importantly, it reflects the trust and appreciation of our visitors, which is the true measure of our success." The award underscores the value of daily teamwork and the consistent service visitors expect from Corps-managed recreation areas.
Susan Cromer, West Point Chief Ranger of Recreation, said the condition of the campground is a big reason why campers return. "R. Shaefer Heard Campground was recognized as one of the 'Best of the Best' because of its well-kept facilities, peaceful setting, and our strong visitor support," Cromer said. "The park ranger staff plays a big role in that experience. From checking facilities and posting signs to training park attendants and helping with safety concerns, our team works hard to make sure campers enjoy their stay."
She added that maintaining that standard requires constant attention, communication, and pride in the work.
Park Ranger Christine Dowell, who oversees campground operations, agreed that it takes a whole team effort to keep things running smoothly.
"The whole team works constantly to make sure visitors have a clean, safe, and enjoyable experience," Dowell said. "Volunteers, contractors, park attendants, and park rangers each play a critical role in delivering a high-quality camping experience." From routine tasks to unexpected challenges, she said, the team is always focused on putting visitors first.
Fonda Haynes, campground gatehouse attendant, sees many of the same campers return throughout the year.
"They keep coming back because they like the area, they feel very welcomed, and they trust the people working here," Haynes said. "We try to make a good first impression and help visitors with whatever they need."
Haynes said that even small gestures, like a friendly greeting or helpful directions, help make the campground feel like home.
This national recognition places R. Shaefer Heard Campground among the top-rated destinations for both RV and tent campers. More importantly, it reflects the professionalism and consistency of the West Point Project team, and the high standards carried out across the Mobile District. It shows that even the day-to-day work, whether it is cleaning a site, helping campers, or offering directions, amounts to something greater.
With an area of operation across Alabama, Mississippi, Georgia, and northern Florida, and a vast military region that includes operations across Central and South America, the Mobile District’s award- winning teams of engineering, construction, regulatory and emergency management professionals are nationally recognized for their leadership in delivery of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ civil works and military programs missions to the Nation.