Alabama is home to an incredible range of state parks that have something to offer adventurers year-round. Our Alabama State Parks Passport series highlights all of the stunning outdoor spaces throughout the state that make for the perfect seasonal getaway. The eleventh in our series is Chewacla State Park.

According to Alabama State Parks, “Chewacla State Park’s 696 scenic acres offer plenty of rest, relaxation and recreation, just a short drive from the Auburn-Opelika area. Facilities include a 26-acre lake, swimming area, playground, a modern campground, picnic areas with tables, grills and shelters, cabins, hiking and mountain biking trails.”

RECREATION

Chewacla is an ideal place for hikers and mountain bikers. With a number of trails, the park has something for everyone. Those looking for a less intense hiking experience can enjoy the Sweet Shrub Trail while advanced mountain bikers can enjoy dedicated biking trails constructed by the Central Alabama Mountain Pedalers. All trails are great for wildlife spotting—from elusive red foxes to deer and turkey. For ecological enthusiasts, the park is home to a number of interesting plants and rock formations.

Chewacla is a perfect spot to catch catfish, crappie, bass, or bream. Those looking to enjoy a day of fishing can also explore the site’s creeks. While larger boats are not able to get onto the water as the park does not offer a boat ramp, all visitors are welcome to bring non-motorized watercraft that can be hand-launched from the lake’s bank such as canoes and kayaks.

 

ACCOMMODATIONS

One of Chewacla’s most charming offerings is its stone cottages. As Alabama State Parks shares, “In the 1930’s the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) built six stone cottages in the park, which are available for rental year round. The cottages have been renovated and feature hardwood floors, stone fireplaces, beautiful new bathrooms, modern kitchens and televisions.”

Central heating and cooling allow the cabins to serve as the perfect getaway at any time of year. For those looking for a more immersive experience, Chewacala has 10 primitive sites and 36 camping sites to choose from, and all camping areas offer nearby shower facilities for visitors.

AREA ATTRACTIONS

For those interested in expanding their experience beyond the park, Chewacla is ideally situated for entertainment and exploration. Area attractions range from the nearby Tuskegee Forest to Auburn University, Toomer’s Corner, and downtown Opelika. For a culture-centric experience, visitors can explore the Tuskegee Airman National Historic Site and the Julie Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. The area is also home to a great range of shopping and dining destinations.