Hello, adventurers! We had the pleasure of sitting down with Anna Jones, the event coordinator at Oak Mountain State Park, and learned all about the park’s fascinating history, exciting activities, and why you should plan your next adventure here. Join us as we dive into the wonders of this magnificent 11,000-acre oasis.

Outdoor Paradise

Oak Mountain State Park is an adventurer’s paradise. It proudly boasts the title of Alabama’s largest state park, spanning over 11,000 acres. What makes this park truly special is its diverse range of recreational activities, catering to every type of outdoor enthusiast.

Whether you’re seeking structured activities like basketball or golf, or you’re drawn to more natural and green spaces, Oak Mountain State Park has it all. The park offers three pristine lakes open to the public for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding. If you prefer a break from structured activities, explore over 100 miles of hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding trails. Imagine taking a relaxing stroll in the lush green woods and escaping the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Affordable Fun For Everyone

Oak Mountain State Park offers free activities and amenities once you pay the entry fee. These include access to sandy beaches, playgrounds, volleyball and basketball courts, archery ranges, and more. You can also visit the Alabama Wildlife Center, where orphaned and injured native Alabama birds are rehabilitated, or explore the interpretive center, where you can learn about local ecology and meet some of the park’s critters. For some activities like golf or guided horseback riding, there may be an additional fee, but the majority of the park’s offerings are completely free once you’re inside.

Expansion: The Belcher Tract

Exciting news for nature enthusiasts! Oak Mountain State Park is expanding its boundaries with the addition of the Belcher Tract. This new property near the popular Kings Chair area and Lunker Lake will soon be accessible to park visitors. The expansion will include lakes and stunning vistas, offering even more opportunities for outdoor exploration and adventure.

Overnight Accommodations

If one day isn’t enough to experience everything this park has to offer, Oak Mountain State Park provides a range of overnight accommodations. Campers can choose between two campgrounds, one located at the north end near Beaver Lake and an equestrian campground at the south end. For those seeking a cozier experience, the park offers ten cabins nestled around Tranquility Lake. These two-bedroom cabins have received recent updates, making your stay in the heart of nature even more comfortable. Plus, there’s exciting news about renovations to the main campground, with significant improvements planned to make your camping experience even better. The estimated reopening date is Memorial Day 2024, so keep an eye out for updates!

Lots Of Events

Oak Mountain State Park hosts over 350 events annually. These events cater to a wide range of interests and ages, making the park a hub of community engagement and outdoor fun. From BMX races to color runs, adventure races to triathlons, the park’s event calendar is packed with exciting activities. Notable events include the Mammoth March, a group hike where participants explore the park’s breathtaking landscapes, and XTERRA, an event that showcases top athletes from around the globe. The park’s dedication to inclusivity means that even beginners can join the action alongside seasoned athletes.

Get Your Annual Pass

To make your Oak Mountain State Park adventures even more accessible, consider purchasing an annual pass. With options for individuals, families, and seniors, these passes offer convenience and savings for frequent visitors. Just present your pass at the gate, and you’re on your way to another day of outdoor exploration.

Wildlife Encounters

Oak Mountain State Park is more than just land; it’s a thriving wildlife sanctuary. Here, you can spot lots of creatures, from owls and hawks to blue herons and foxes. While you won’t find black bears, alligators, or sharks here, you’ll discover a diverse range of native species that call this park home.

Anna’s Favorites: Treetop Nature Trail and More

Before we wrap up our journey through Oak Mountain State Park, we asked Anna about her favorite spot in the park. She shared her love for the Treetop Nature Trail, an elevated boardwalk that offers an enchanting view of the park’s canopy. The feeling of walking among the treetops and observing the wildlife is truly magical.

Creating Lifelong Memories

As we conclude our adventure through Oak Mountain State Park, we can’t help but be inspired by Anna Jones’s passion for this natural paradise. Her dedication to preserving this stunning environment and providing unforgettable experiences for visitors shines through in every word. Oak Mountain State Park is not just a destination; it’s a place where memories are made, nature is cherished, and the spirit of adventure thrives.

So, what are you waiting for? Plan your next adventure to Oak Mountain State Park, where you can enjoy yourself in the beauty of Alabama’s great outdoors, experience fun activities, and create lasting memories with your loved ones. Explore, discover, and reconnect with nature at Oak Mountain State Park – Shelby County’s own. Find out more awesome places to check out with Discover Shelby.