1. Bladon Springs State Park - 5 minutes from Silas
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Location:
Silas, ALHighlights:
If you're after a peaceful retreat steeped in history, Bladon Springs State Park is a charming spot to visit. Once the site of a famous mineral spa, it’s now a tranquil green space perfect for relaxing, birding, and enjoying the quiet beauty of southwest Alabama.We Recommend It For:
History lovers, birdwatchers, families, and those seeking a quiet picnic stop with natural charm.What I Love: ♥
The historical ties to its mineral spa past, calm picnic grounds, and the birding opportunities along the Alabama Black Belt Birding Trail.- Stroll the serene grounds once home to a historic spa built around four mineral springs.
- Picnic under the trees and enjoy the peaceful, green surroundings—the park’s been welcoming visitors since 1934.
- Let the kids play at the on-site playground while you unwind in the shade.
- Watch for woodpeckers, raptors, and songbirds—the park is part of the Alabama Black Belt Birding Trail.
Cost:
Free to enterDistance from Silas:
Just 5 minutes south of downtown Silas via Bladon RoadHow to Get to Bladon Springs State Park:
From Silas, head south on AL-17, then turn left onto Bladon Road. The park entrance will be clearly marked on your right.Address:
Bladon Springs State Park, 3921 Bladon Rd, Silas, AL 36919Phone: 251-754-9207
2. Blue Springs State Park
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Location:
Clio, ALHighlights:
If you're looking for a refreshing summer escape in Alabama, Blue Springs State Park is a family favorite with crystal-clear spring-fed pools and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. It's been a go-to destination since 1963 for swimming, camping, and outdoor fun.We Recommend It For:
Families, swimmers, campers, anglers, and anyone looking for a cool, spring-fed retreat on a warm day.What I Love: ♥
The natural blue spring water, variety of accommodations, and extras like a fishing pond, volleyball court, and shaded playground.- Swim in the two spring-fed concrete pools filled with crystal-clear water from a natural underground spring.
- Picnic under shaded pavilions or play a round of sand volleyball with friends and family.
- Fish in the stocked pond, home to bass and catfish—great for casual anglers.
- Camp in comfort or rough it your way with modern campsites, primitive sites, rental cabins, or campers available.
- Let kids explore the on-site playground designed for ages 2 to 12.
Cost:
$4 per adult (12+); $2 per child (4–11); free for kids under 4Distance from Clio:
Just 5 minutes east of downtown Clio along AL-10How to Get to Blue Springs State Park:
From Clio, head east on AL-10 for about 3 miles. The park entrance will be on your right, clearly marked by signage.Address:
Blue Springs State Park, 2595 AL-10, Clio, AL 36017Phone: 800-252-7275
3. Bucks Pocket State Park - 1.5 hours from Birmingham
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Location:
Grove Oak, ALHighlights:
Nestled on Sand Mountain, Bucks Pocket State Park is a hidden gem with sweeping canyon views, rugged trails, and a peaceful, off-the-grid vibe. This 2,000-acre natural area offers both outdoor adventure and quiet moments in nature.We Recommend It For:
Hikers, mountain bikers, equestrians, photographers, and anyone looking for a scenic and secluded escape in northern Alabama.What I Love: ♥
The panoramic vista from Point Rock, a trail system perfect for all types of outdoor recreation, and easy access to Lake Guntersville for boating and fishing.- Hike, bike, or ride horseback along 15 miles of trails through forested canyon terrain and along ridgetops.
- Picnic at a scenic overlook with views stretching across the natural canyon below.
- Fish and boat at nearby Lake Guntersville, just a short drive away for those wanting to get out on the water.
- Enjoy a peaceful day in a quiet, less-traveled state park with incredible photo ops and wildlife viewing.
Cost:
$4 per adult (12+); $2 per child (4–11); free for children under 4Distance from Birmingham:
About 1.5 hours northeast—easy enough for a day trip with time to spareHow to Get to Bucks Pocket State Park:
From Birmingham, take I-59 N to AL-68 E, then follow county roads to Grove Oak. The park is well signed once you're nearby.Address:
Bucks Pocket State Park, 393 Co Rd 174, Grove Oak, AL 35975Phone: 800-252-7275
4. Cathedral Caverns State Park - 40 minutes from Huntsville
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Location:
Woodville, ALHighlights:
Originally known as “Bat Cave,” Cathedral Caverns impresses with one of the largest cave entrances in the world and a striking interior that truly lives up to its name. It’s an underground wonder filled with massive formations and fun for the whole family.We Recommend It For:
Families, geology enthusiasts, photographers, curious adventurers, and anyone who’s never experienced a real cave tour.What I Love: ♥
The awe-inspiring ‘Goliath’ stalagmite, fun gemstone mining activities, and the easy, guided cave tours that are great for all ages and abilities.- Tour the cavern on a guided walk that takes you past impressive features including towering stalagmites and massive rock columns.
- Marvel at ‘Goliath’—a 45-foot-tall, 243-foot-circumference stalagmite that’s one of the largest in the world.
- Mine for gems outside the cave—perfect for kids and hands-on learners.
- Explore the surrounding park area and enjoy a peaceful setting tucked into the Appalachian foothills.
Cost:
Cave tour tickets required; adults $20, children (5–11) $9, under 5 free; gemstone mining additionalDistance from Huntsville:
Approximately 40 minutes southeast via US-72How to Get to Cathedral Caverns State Park:
From Huntsville, take US-72 E to Cathedral Caverns Highway (AL-63), then follow signs to Cave Road and the park entrance.Address:
Cathedral Caverns State Park, 637 Cave Rd, Woodville, AL 35776Phone: 256-728-8193
Romantic Alabama State Parks
5. Cheaha State Park - 1.5 hours from Birmingham
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Location:
Delta, ALHighlights:
As Alabama’s oldest state park, Cheaha State Park is steeped in natural beauty and history—and it's home to the highest point in the state. Surrounded by Talladega National Forest, it offers sweeping views, rugged trails, and restful accommodations for every kind of outdoor traveler.We Recommend It For:
Hikers, campers, families, couples, and anyone seeking fresh mountain air and scenic serenity.What I Love: ♥
Mount Cheaha's panoramic overlooks, cozy chalets and hotel stays, and the balance of rustic adventure with modern comforts.- Explore hiking trails ranging from easy strolls to more challenging forest routes with stunning mountaintop views.
- Stay in style with options including 73 modern campsites, semi-primitive sites, cabins, chalets, and a 30-room hotel.
- Relax with a picnic, go for a refreshing swim, or try your hand at fishing in the scenic park lakes.
- Dine at the on-site restaurant, which pairs local flavors with breathtaking views from the mountaintop.
Cost:
$5 per adult; $2 per child (ages 4–11); lodging and campsite fees varyDistance from Birmingham:
About 1.5 hours east via I-20 and State Route 281How to Get to Cheaha State Park:
From Birmingham, take I-20 E toward Oxford, then head south on AL-281. Follow the scenic byway into the park—watch for signs as you approach Mount Cheaha.Address:
Cheaha State Park, 19644 State Rte. 281, Delta, AL 36258Phone: 256-448-5111
6. Chewacla State Park - 10 minutes from downtown Auburn
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Location:
Auburn, ALHighlights:
Chewacla State Park is a lush, 700-acre escape just minutes from downtown Auburn, offering a perfect mix of nature, recreation, and relaxation. Its centerpiece, Lake Chewacla, makes it a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike.We Recommend It For:
Families, campers, anglers, paddlers, hikers, and mountain bikers looking for adventure close to the city.What I Love: ♥
The scenic 26-acre lake, well-maintained trails, shaded campsites, and the peaceful forest setting that feels miles away from the buzz of college life.- Swim, fish, or paddle in Lake Chewacla—perfect for cooling off or casting a line in a tranquil setting.
- Hike or bike through the park’s trail system, with routes ranging from beginner-friendly to adrenaline-pumping for serious riders.
- Camp overnight at one of the park’s tent or RV campsites, all tucked into shady wooded areas.
Cost:
$4 per adult (12+); $2 per child (4–11); camping fees vary by siteDistance from Auburn:
Less than 10 minutes from downtown Auburn—easy access for a quick getawayHow to Get to Chewacla State Park:
Take Shell Toomer Parkway southeast from downtown Auburn. The park entrance is clearly marked and easy to find.Address:
Chewacla State Park, 124 Shell Toomer Pkwy, Auburn, AL 36830Phone: 334-887-5621
7. Chickasaw State Park - 25 minutes from Demopolis
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Location:
Gallion, ALHighlights:
Chickasaw State Park is a charming, 520-acre green space created in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps. It’s a peaceful destination for families, picnickers, and birders looking for a scenic spot to unwind and connect with nature.We Recommend It For:
Families, birdwatchers, local campers, nature photographers, and anyone seeking a quiet outdoor setting in Alabama’s Black Belt region.What I Love: ♥
The wide-open picnic spaces, relaxing wading pool, and rich birdlife that makes this park a delightful stop along the Alabama Birding Trail.- Let the kids play on the playground or splash in the seasonal wading pool on warm days.
- Camp overnight at one of the park’s modern campsites or gather under a rental pavilion for group events.
- Picnic in wide, grassy areas surrounded by mature shade trees—ideal for a low-key outdoor afternoon.
- Birdwatch for species like palm warblers and white-eyed vireos, or spot wildlife such as wild turkeys, deer, and quail.
Cost:
Free to enter; small fees apply for pavilion rentals and overnight campingDistance from Demopolis:
About 25 minutes east via US-80 and US-43How to Get to Chickasaw State Park:
From Demopolis, take US-80 E to US-43 S and follow signs to the park. The entrance is just off the highway and easy to spot.Address:
Chickasaw State Park, 26955 U.S. Highway 43, Gallion, AL 36742Phone: 334-295-8230
Alabama State Parks for Families
8. Desoto State Park
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Location:
Fort Payne, ALHighlights:
Nestled atop Lookout Mountain, Desoto State Park is a beloved Alabama retreat offering a blend of rich history and adventurous outdoor recreation. Originally developed by the CCC in the 1930s, the park still welcomes families, hikers, and nature lovers year-round.We Recommend It For:
Families, outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, campers, and anyone looking for a fun and scenic mountain getaway.What I Love: ♥
The variety of trails, the CCC museum, a nature center with live animal exhibits, and that refreshing Olympic-size swimming pool during summer.- Explore over 25 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails that wind through waterfalls, forest, and rocky terrain.
- Visit the CCC museum to learn how the park was built and walk in the footsteps of its earliest stewards.
- Cool off at the seasonal Olympic-size pool or join ranger-led programs at the interactive nature center.
- Adventure into kayaking, fishing, bouldering, and guided outdoor expeditions for all ages and skill levels.
Cost:
$4 per adult (12+); $2 per child (4–11); additional fees for lodging, pool use, and guided activitiesDistance from Fort Payne:
About 15 minutes northeast via AL-35 and Desoto ParkwayHow to Get to Desoto State Park:
From Fort Payne, take AL-35 E to Desoto Parkway NE. Follow signs up Lookout Mountain to the main park entrance.Address:
Desoto State Park, 7104 Desoto Pkwy NE, Fort Payne, AL 35967Phone: 256-845-0051
9. Frank Jackson State Park
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Location:
Opp, ALHighlights:
Set around the scenic shores of Lake Jackson, Frank Jackson State Park is a peaceful haven for anglers, campers, and anyone who enjoys life by the water. With over 2,050 acres of greenery and shoreline, it’s a gem in southern Alabama.We Recommend It For:
Anglers, campers, birdwatchers, walkers, and families looking for a quiet, lake-centered retreat.What I Love: ♥
Excellent fishing access, lakeside campsites, a boardwalk to a lake island, and tranquil trails perfect for relaxing strolls or birding.- Fish for bass, crappie, catfish, and bream—cast off from a boat or the accessible fishing pier.
- Camp by the lake with RV or tent sites offering scenic views and access to a modern bathhouse.
- Walk the three miles of trails or take a peaceful stroll across the boardwalk to the island at the heart of the lake.
- Picnic at shaded tables around the lake and enjoy a calm, laid-back afternoon outdoors.
Cost:
$4 per adult (12+); $2 per child (4–11); additional fees apply for camping and boat launchDistance from Opp:
Located right in Opp—no long drive required to enjoy a day or weekend by the waterHow to Get to Frank Jackson State Park:
From downtown Opp, head west on AL-52, then turn onto Jerry Adams Drive to reach the park entrance.Address:
Frank Jackson State Park, 100 Jerry Adams Dr, Opp, AL 36467Phone: 334-493-6988
10. Gulf State Park
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Location:
Gulf Shores, ALHighlights:
With more than three miles of white-sand beaches and a sprawling landscape of coastal habitats, Gulf State Park is one of Alabama’s most celebrated outdoor escapes. It’s a family-friendly destination packed with amenities and has earned TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence multiple years in a row.We Recommend It For:
Beachgoers, campers, families, active travelers, and anyone seeking both fun and tranquility on Alabama’s coast.What I Love: ♥
The pristine beach access, 507 well-equipped campsites, lakeside cabins, and the endless recreation options from trails to tennis courts.- Swim, sunbathe, and surf along the park’s three miles of gorgeous Gulf Coast shoreline.
- Camp at one of 507 sites, or enjoy a peaceful stay in a lakeside cabin or cozy cottage.
- Relax near the campground with access to bathhouses, a swimming pool, tennis courts, laundry facilities, and a nature center.
- Host or unwind at the beach with rentable pavilions and convenient concession stands.
Cost:
$5 per vehicle for beach parking; lodging and campsite fees vary by season and typeDistance from Gulf Shores:
Located right in the heart of Gulf Shores—easy access for locals and visitors alikeHow to Get to Gulf State Park:
Take AL-59 S into Gulf Shores, then follow signs to AL-135. The main park entrance is well-marked and close to the beach and campground areas.Address:
Gulf State Park, 20115 AL-135, Gulf Shores, AL 36542Plan Your Trip