Set in the rolling woodlands of Eastern Alabama near the Auburn-Opelika area, Chewacla State Park offers nearly 700 acres of scenic outdoor adventure. From lakeside cottages to biking trails and waterfalls, this family-friendly park is a hub for recreation, history, and natural beauty year-round.

Recommended For

Nature Lovers: Explore wooded trails, visit Chewacla Falls, and enjoy birdwatching by the lake.

Families: Spend the day swimming, hiking, biking, or enjoying a lakeside picnic with the kids.

Outdoor Enthusiasts: Paddle, fish, or tackle 20 miles of mountain biking trails built for all skill levels.

What to Expect

  • Location: 124 Shell Toomer Parkway, Auburn, AL 36830
  • Setting: Wooded parkland with a lake, waterfalls, trails, and CCC-era structures
  • Size: Nearly 700 acres of forested land in East Alabama
  • Vibe: Quiet, rustic, and family-friendly with historical charm and modern trails

Top Attractions

  • Lake Chewacla: A 27-acre lake ideal for swimming, kayaking, fishing, and peaceful views
  • Chewacla Falls: A scenic manmade waterfall formed by the park’s historic dam
  • CCC Cabins: Stone cottages built in the 1930s—cozy, historic, and perfect for unplugging

Water Activities

  • Swimming: A small lakeside beach offers a refreshing place to cool off
  • Fishing: Cast for bass, bream, catfish, and crappie
  • Boating: Canoes and kayaks are welcome—no boat ramp, so no motorboats

Trails & Hiking

  • Sweet Shrub Trail: An easy, interpretive creekside walk starting from the Lower Pavilion
  • Troop 30 Trail: A longer loop following Moore’s Mill Creek to the park’s edge
  • Eagle Scout Trail: Wide and accessible, running along the lake’s edge
  • Deer Rub Trail: Pass ancient gneiss boulders on the way to Walnut Shelter

Mountain Biking

  • Trail Options: Over 20 miles of trails, ranging from easy loops to challenging technical courses
  • Terrain: Expect jumps, dips, vertical climbs, and scenic forested stretches

Pavilions

  • Beachside Pavilion: Conveniently located near the lake and swimming area
  • Lower Pavilion: The most secluded—great for quiet gatherings near the playground
  • Upper Pavilion: The only one with electricity; near a grassy field perfect for soccer or kickball

Accommodations

  • Cottages: Six cozy stone cottages from the 1930s, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps
  • Campgrounds: Tent and RV options available for a rustic overnight experience

Wildlife Viewing

  • Mammals: Chipmunks, squirrels, red foxes, and deer are commonly seen
  • Birds: Spot wild turkeys, Kingfishers, Blue Herons, and other native species

Park History

  • Early Days: Originally a draw for visitors near Wright’s Mill in the 1800s
  • 1930s: CCC constructed stone bridges, trails, cabins, and the dam creating Lake Chewacla
  • 1939: Became an official state park under the Alabama State Park system

Educational Programs

  • Outdoor Skills Series: Alabama State Parks’ video series covers gear, camping, and more
  • Alabama 100 Miles Challenge: Log 100 miles of activity—hike, bike, paddle, or swim—via the official app and share online

Visitor Tips

  • Trail Maps: Grab one at the park entrance or download ahead of time
  • Early Morning: Great for birdwatching and avoiding summer crowds
  • Footwear: Wear sturdy shoes—terrain ranges from flat to rocky and uneven

Contact & Map

Chewacla State Park
124 Shell Toomer Parkway, Auburn, AL 36830
Phone: 334-887-5621
alapark.com/chewacla-state-park

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