DeSoto State Park Alabama
Contents
- 1 DeSoto State Park Alabama
- 1.1 Location
- 1.2 Hours
- 1.3 Contact Details
- 1.4 DeSoto State Park Area Attractions
- 1.5 Suggested Equipment for DeSoto State Park Adventures
- 1.6 DeSoto State Park Activities & Tips
- 1.7 Fishing
- 1.8 Hiking
- 1.9 Waterfalls
- 1.10 Cycling
- 1.11 Camping
- 1.12 Staycation
- 1.13 Swimming
- 1.14 Picnic
- 1.15 Other Activities
- 1.16 Leave No Trace
DeSoto State Park is a popular state park nestled atop breathtaking Lookout Mountain in scenic Northeast Alabama.
This state park is abundant with beautiful waterfalls, trails, activities, and campsites, which makes it a favorite among locals and nature lovers of all ages.
It was developed in the late 1920s by hardworking men of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). Their efforts made sure that the park has natural enhancements that continue to withstand the test of time.
Visitors’ most favorite feature of the DeSoto State Park is the picturesque DeSoto Falls, which is 7 miles north of the park heading towards Mentone, Alabama. Your visit to the DeSoto State Park won’t be complete without visiting it.
DeSoto State Park is located only 8 miles northeast of Fort Payne, Alabama.
DeSoto State Park by Alabama State Park site
Location
7104 DeSoto Parkway NE Fort Payne, AL 35967
Check out this Driving Directions file for more details.
Hours
Lodge Front Desk: 24/7 All Year
Country Store: 9:00 AM- 5:00 PM
Park Trails/Picnic Areas are open dawn to dusk
Contact Details
General Info: 256-845-5380
Lodging: 256-845-5380
Camping: 1-800-760-4089
DeSoto State Park Area Attractions
Suggested Equipment for DeSoto State Park Adventures
DeSoto State Park Activities & Tips
.
Fishing using a spinning rod and bait casters is possible but not advised at the DeSoto State Park in Alabama. Instead, Fly fishing is advised. Also, please note that you need to apply for a FISHING LICENSE in order to do any type of fishing activity within the state park.
Summer is the best time to do fly fishing. Red Eye Bass and Bluegill are abundant during summer. Spring marks the start of the fishing season since water turns warmer and fish activities grow during this time. Fall sets a cooler temperature and makes fishing a litter harder than usual while winter makes fishing a challenge.
DeSoto Falls – This is DeSoto state park’s most beautiful and picturesque area, possibly one of the best Falls in Alabama.
You can fish standing among the rocks or you can also ride a kayak and canoe and fish along the stream. This area is open year-round from sun up to sundown. Fish available here are the largemouth bass and a variety of panfish.
West Fork of Little River – If you’re into fly fishing, this fishing ground provides the best opportunities in North Alabama. The water here is crystal clear and can be accessed on the yellow trail. Fish available here include the red-eye bass and a variety of panfish.
DeSoto Scout Trail – When you enter Little River Canyon National Preserve, the trail, also known as the DeSoto Scout Trail. This is a good area to fish since this area is not usually accessed by other visitors. Access to the DeSoto Scout Trail can be from the Gilliam Trailhead in DeSoto State Park or from WMA Road 5 inside Little River Wildlife Management Area.
Little River Management Area – This area offers backcountry roads where Little River can be accessed with plenty of long, wadeable runs, perfect for the fly rod.
Little River Canyon National Preserve – hiking towards this area can be taxing and is perfect for the athletic type. The views here are breathtaking . Little River Canyon National Preserve has made improvements to the canyon and offers a few trails leading to the bottom.
Canyon Mouth Park – LRC National Preserve – $3 per vehicle entrance fee, Canyon Mouth Park offers access to Little River. Barbecue grills, picnic tables, restrooms, a pavilion are available. This area is for those who came with their families and want to immediately clean and eat the fish they caught.
Before hiking, make sure to pack enough food and picnic snacks. The DeSoto State park has so much to offer hikers. Explore ridges, check out the majestic waterfalls and rivers in the area, including the West Fork of Little River which flows downstream into the Little River Canyon. See the lush greens and lots of wildlife and exciting views.
Located on Lookout Mountain, DeSoto State Park has over 30 miles of hiking trails, 11 miles of bike trails, and most of the trails interconnect with each others. Some trails however, lets you go to remote areas of the state park.
1. Be informed and stay on the trail.
2. Wear appropriate clothes for the season, AND most importantly, use sturdy and appropriate footwear. Tennis shoes & hiking boots are recommended. Open-toed shoes are not advised against mountainous terrain and might cause accidents.
3. Prepare enough water and snacks since hiking takes up a lot of energy & it would be difficult to run out of energy while hiking.
4. Get a map and ask for directions. Gadgets may run out of batteries so it’s important to have a map & necessary emergency items such as flashlights, etc.
5. Consider your limits when it comes to the physical aspect of the trails. Do not be too overconfident especially if you are traveling solo. It is best to bring a walking stick or a trekking pole to keep your balance and to ensure that you won’t tire easily.
6. With the exception of fishing, do not feed, hurt, touch, or taunt wild animals.
7. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time before sundown to finish your hike. The trails close at dusk.
8. Watch your step, watch out for obstructions in the path and be careful of where you place your feet & hands.
9. Do not leave trash.
10. Do not disrupt other hikers.
Have fun & be safe!
These maps should be downloaded and printed for each group member. It’s better if at least one of the copies is placed inside a waterproof container.
- Talmadge Butler Boardwalk trail – The Talmadge Butler Boardwalk trail is also called Boardwalk. It is a 360-yard trail that caters to anyone regardless of trekking ability. There’s a 20-ft octagonal deck that places visitors over the pool created by Azalea Cascade. The best time to visit is Fall from the first week of October to mid-November. Wildflower blooms around March.
- Desoto Scout trail – The Desoto Scout trail is 16 miles long however there are still some certain sections that remain closed due to flooding and overgrowth. This historic trail starts at Comer Scout Reservation, continues through Desoto State Park, and into Little River Canyon National Preserve.
Only hikes after March 1, 2014 can be counted toward the Trail Trekkers Program.
Good luck and Good hiking!
Trail Trekker Logs can also be obtained at the Country Store or Lodge in DeSoto State Park.
If there is anything in abundance at DeSoto State Park in Alabama, it is the number of waterfalls in the area. If you love waterfalls, this is the place for you.
The best time to view waterfalls is during Spring, Late Fall, and Winter. Note that the waterfalls are usually dry during summer.
Below are the waterfalls in DeSoto State Park:
DeSoto Falls is one of the most famous, tallest, and most visited waterfalls in Alabama. This waterfall was named after the Spanish explorer Hernando De Soto. It stands at 107 feet and is part of the DeSoto State Park on Lookout Mountain. It is about 7 miles from the main park area at the Lookout Mountain Parkway.
The waterfall can be reached via a paved pathway that leads several hundred yards from the parking lot. People will be going down around 50 steps down to the railed overlook. The historic A. A. Miller Dam & the upper falls can be seen by people of all ages and abilities however, the lower and main parts of the waterfall are not for everyone since it requires walking down steep concrete stairs to the overlook.
There is a DeSoto Falls Picnic Area which is open daily for everyone during the day. People can enjoy their picnic and use the facilities while looking at the beautiful lake.
Note that in the summertime and early fall, the water level is mostly dry and lower compared to strong water flows in winter and early spring.
Located in the Little River Canyon National Preserve 10 miles South of DeSoto State Park, 45-foot Little River Falls is located off Alabama Highway 35 in Fort Payne, Alabama. The most popular way to see Little River Falls is via the falls parking lot across the Al Highway 35 Bridge. A 100-foot ADA-accessible boardwalk leads from the parking lot to an overlook near the falls. The Little River Falls parking area is open daily during daylight hours
The amount of water going over the falls depends on the amount of rainfall. In the winter and early spring the water level is high. During the summer and early fall, the water level is much lower.
133-foot Grace’s High Falls is located in the Little River Canyon National Preserve.
It is one of the tallest waterfalls in the state.
The amount of water depends on the amount of rainfall so expect the water level to be lower during the summer and early fall.
It can be reached via Canyon Rim Drive off AL Highway 35.
Laurel Falls is a small but beautiful waterfall that can be found off of the orange trail and falls just about 6 feet.
It is about 0.75 miles from DeSoto’s Country Store and the trail is rugged & moderate with some uphill climbs.
Indian waterfall falls about 20ft and is located just across the road from the Talmadge Butler Trailhead. You may use the wooden footbridge to see a better view of the surrounding nature.
Indian Falls is about 0.1 miles from the trailhead and is easily reached over a small footpath.
The Lodge Falls is the easiest waterfall to find in the DeSoto State Park and falls 25 feet.
Like most waterfalls, it is rain-dependent so it is quite dry during summer.
If Lodge falls is the easiest to find, Lost Falls as the namesake suggests, is the hardest to find among the waterfalls in the DeSoto State Park. It is rather small with a 5 ft drop and is best seen during Spring and Winter.
Lost Falls is located about 1.5 miles from DeSoto’s Country Store and terrain can be moderate to mildly strenuous.
This small cascade flows into a pool located at the end of the Talmadge Butler Boardwalk Trail.
Azalea Cascade can be reached by the red trail behind the Country Store.
DeSoto State Park has over 30 miles of hiking trails, including up to 11+ miles of mountain biking trails. Terrain on all trails varies from easy to strenuous.
Helmets are required for children 16 & under.
Hikers and Bikers are encouraged to wear bright colors or hunter orange during deer season. Be aware of Hunters on the CCC Road from – October 15th through January 31st
- ‘Family Bike Loop’-2.5 mile loop. Rated ‘Easy’ to Moderate. Can be accessed by the Lost Falls Trailhead.
- ‘Never-Never Land Loop’-3.8 mile loop. Rated Moderate to Mildly Strenuous. Can be accessed by Lost Falls Trailhead
- ‘CCC Quarry Bike Loop’ roughly 5 miles. Rated Moderate to Strenuous (due to inclines). Can be accessed by DeSoto State Park’s Country Store
- ‘Gillam Bike Loop’-3.5 mile loop. Rated Moderate. Can be accessed by the Gillam Loop Trailhead or the DeSoto State Park Lodge (via the Chalet Trail-.7 miles)
DeSoto State Park is the place to camp in the Great Outdoors! DeSoto State Park features improved & primitive campgrounds, with campsites located in a wooded, mountainous setting.
DeSoto State Park’s Backpacking Campsites are a one-of-a-kind camping experience, for those that prefer a camping site with a more rustic view of nature.
To reach these sites you must carry in your supplies over a distance of a couple of miles.
- FIRE PREVENTION:
- Extinguish campfires thoroughly checking before leaving backpacking sites.
- The burning of trash is strictly prohibited.
- Fires are allowed in designated pits only.
- Only dead and down wood may be used in fire pits.
- Backing-type stoves are recommended for cooking.
- Drinking water should be carried using reusable containers. Burying trash is not allowed.
- Pets are allowed but should be caged, leashed, or crated. Pets should not be longer than 6ft and the animals should not be dangerous or noisy.
Reservations can be done in the park personally or via online reservations using the following links:
New Online Camping Reservation Tool
Book Online Log Cabins, Chalets, Rustic Cabins and Lodge Room Reservations Here.
Reservations may be made for these sites by phone or in person, otherwise backpacking sites are registered on a first come first serve basis. For more information or to make a reservation by phone, please call the Country Store at 1-800-760-4089 or 1-800-ALAPARK.
Backpacking sites are limited to a maximum of 6 people and 2 tents.
One-time Reservation Fee for all overnight accommodations – $5.00
4% Resort Fee applied to each night
NEVER-NEVER LAND BACKPACKING CAMPSITE
Latitude N34.49313 Longitude W-085.63768
Located in the Forever Wild Tract, this backpacking campsite was nick-named Never-Never Land by the many mountain bike volunteers who built the trails in the area.
The shortest route to this backpacking campsite is .75 miles from the Lost Falls Trailhead.
An 8 ft. by 10 ft. 3-sided trail-side shelter was added to the Never-Neverland backpacking campsite through a partnership between Alabama State Parks, National Park Service, and NASA.
Latitude N34.50678 Longitude W-085.62658.
The CCC Quarry backpacking campsite is located northeast of the old Civilian Conservation Corps quarry off the white trail. One of the shortest routes to this backpacking campsite is 1.1 miles from the Country Store parking lot, following the white trail.
An 8 ft. by 10 ft. open shelter was added to the CCC Quarry backpacking campsite and was constructed by the Fort Payne High School Ag Class.
Number of Campsites: 18
Amenities: fire ring enough for 2 tents, vaulted toilet, picnic tables, grills, trashcans, a picnic shelter, and a water faucet.
Note: Campers are allowed access to the Improved Campground (approx. 1 mile away) to use comfort stations showers, flush toilets & laundry rooms.
RATES
Rate varies, please check the rate during the time of reservation.
- One-time Reservation Fee for all overnight accommodations – $5.00
- 4% Resort Fee applied to each night
- A deposit of one night’s rent plus resort and transaction fees are required to hold a reservation.
- The cancellation of a reservation has to be within 72 hours of arrival.
- The campsite is chosen at the time of check-in. Check out time: 11:00 AM
- We recommend that reservations for holiday weekends should be made at least 3 months in advance.
- Campsites are on a “first-come, first-serve” basis.
- Group sites are available for large groups only, by reservations only. Group rates are for scout groups, church groups, school groups, etc.
- Open-air or tent camping only-No pop-ups, vans, or camper shells allowed.
- Campsites are chosen at the time of check-in. Please note tents must be within 20 feet of the fire pit on site.
OTHER RULES:
- Quiet time is 10 PM to 6 AM-Please be respectful of other campers
- No alcoholic beverages
- Campsites are on a “first-come, first-serve” basis
- Campsites are limited to 8 persons per site (except group campsites)
- Only 2 tents are allowed for each campsite
- Group sites available for large groups only, by reservations only
- Entering and exiting… close and lock the gate behind you
- Checkout or re-register by 11 am.
- When checking out early, drop the key in the drop-box beside the front
- door at the country store.
- Open-air or tent camping only, no pop-ups, vans, or camper shells
- allowed.
- Camp within 20 feet of the fire ring in each designated site, please don’t
- break down or move fire rings.
- Park at designated areas. Please don’t drive into any campsite or block
- roadways.
- The picnic tables in the traffic island are for day-use only
- No camping or campfires around these picnic tables.
- The picnic pavilion in the primitive area is available for use by registered
- campers.
- Place all trash in receptacles daily
- Do not leave food or trash out overnight.
- Pets must be on a leash
- Ride bikes only on roads and on trails marked with a white diamond
- blaze (Get a copy of the mountain bike trail map and rules)
- Bikers must yield the right-of-way to hikers on trails.
- No unlicensed motorized vehicles are allowed on park property
- No chainsaws or other power tools are allowed in the primitive area. No
- live trees are to be cut.
The site is located in the Primitive Campground.
The 12 foot by 10 foot Diamond Brand Wall Tent is set atop a 20-foot long wooden deck. Bring your own air mattress, cot, or sleeping pad. The walk-in campsite has a small, two-vehicle parking area, ground grill/fire ring, and a small picnic table. A vaulted toilet, picnic tables, trashcans, picnic shelter, and a water faucet are centrally located in the campground a short walk from the wall tent site. Campers are allowed access to the Improved Campground (approx. 1 mile away) to use comfort stations, showers, flush toilets, & laundry room.
DSP Primitive Campground Map (PDF)
RATES
$19.97 per night
For up to 4 people, no extra tents are allowed
• Prices do not include 13% Lodging Tax
• One-time Reservation Fee for all overnight accommodations – $5.00
• 4% Resort Fee applied to each night
A deposit of one night’s rent plus resort and transaction fees are required to hold a reservation.
The cancellation of a reservation has to be within 72 hours of arrival.
Check out time: 11:00 AM
We recommend that reservations for holiday weekends should be made at least 3 months in advance.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- Bring your own sleeping essentials: sleeping bag, cot, pillows, and air mattress, etc.
- We also suggest you bring your own water or you can use a community water spigot about 200 yards away in Primitive Campground.
- Vaulted toilet located in a primitive campground about 200 yards away.
- Pets are welcome but must remain on leash at all times.
DeSoto State Park is the place to camp in the great outdoors! DeSoto State Park features an improved & primitive campground, with campsites located in a wooded, mountainous setting. Backpacking Campsites are an option as well.
DeSoto State Park’s Improved Campground has a total of 94 full hook-up sites, with 2 comfort stations centrally located that have restrooms, showers, & coin-laundry. Each site can accommodate any size of large camping units. Tents are also welcome on the back-in sites. Picnic tables & grills are located at each site.
There can be 1 RV & 1 tent on a site, or two tents on a site only.
Cancellation of a reservation has to be within 72 hours of arrival.
Campsites chosen at time of check-in. Check out time: 11:00 AM Check in time: 2:00 pm
We recommend that reservations for holiday weekends should be made at least 3 months in advance.
Improved Campsite Specific Reservations are available in person, or by phone. If you do not choose a specific campsite during your reservation, one will be assigned the day of check-in from the availability list.
Check in at DeSoto’s Country Store on County Road 89. Store is open 9:00 am-5:00 pm(CST) 7 days a week.
If you arrive after hours or on closed days you may stop in the Lodge Front Desk or call 256-845-5380 to register over the phone.
To help us keep the overnight rates low, we ask you to perform a few housekeeping tasks before you leave:
• Pack out all you packed in – do not leave any food or equipment
• Take all trash with you
• Empty any water out of the basin
• Sweep out the cabin
• Close and lock all windows
• LOCK THE DOORS BEHIND YOU
Alabama State Parks offers a 15% discount on overnight accommodations managed and operated by the State Park System for the following:
- Senior citizens age 62 and older
- Veterans and Active Military Personnel
- Guests who are 100% Disabled (as documented through a physician)
- State of Alabama employees on business
Proof of age or disability is required at check-in. This discount is only available Sunday through Thursday nights at 15% off the reservation system’s day-rate for the amenity selected. This discount is not available in conjunction with other group rates, special packages, weekly or monthly rates, or discounts. This discount is not valid on holidays or weekends (Fridays and Saturdays). This discount must be mentioned upon check-in and will be applied upon verification.
- Campground Comfort Stations
- Lodge Lobby
- Motel Rooms
- Restaurants
- Park Office
- Country Store
Be protected from the elements by staying at a Primitive Cabin. This cabin is located in DeSoto State Park’s quiet and peaceful Primitive Campground.
Additional Information
The camping cabin sleeps up to 5 people and is outfitted with a bunk bed with an upper twin, a lower full, and a trundle twin bed. There is also a twin daybed.
You will need to bring your own linens or sleeping bags.
There is a dining table and benches, living area chairs, and rockers on the porch, as well as a food preparation area with sink/basin. (Please no pets & no smoking.)
The camping cabin does NOT have electricity, heat, or water. The cabin does have lights from a solar kit on the roof.
For a water source, a community water spigot is located near the vaulted toilet several yards away. You will be given access at registration to the improved campground’s comfort stations for showers & flush toilets.
RATE
$47.80 a night*
*Price does not include 13% Lodging Tax
One-time Convenience Fee for all overnight accommodations – $5.00
4% Resort Fee applied to each night
A deposit of one night’s rent plus resort and transaction fees are required to hold a reservation.
The cancellation of a reservation has to be within 72 hours of arrival.
Check-in time is 2:00 PM on the day of arrival and check-out time is 11:00 AM on the day of departure.
Charming Cabin 3 is the perfect getaway for an individual, a couple, or a small group. Cabin 3 features an open Kitchen and Dining room area with new appliances, plenty of pantry space, and a flat screen Tv. Our living area is perfect for relaxing, featuring a 55-inch flat screen TV and plenty of seating. This Cabin has 1 King size bed in the master bedroom & 1 other bedroom with a full-size bed. Cabin 3 also includes a full bathroom centrally located, Cable TV, Full kitchen equipped with utensils and basic cookware, all linens, sleeper sofa (Full Size), and a large deck with patio table and chairs.
RATES
$187.00 per night*
Accommodates 4-6 Adults.
*Prices do not include 13% Lodging Tax
One-time reservation fee for all overnight accommodations – $5.00. 4% Resort Fee applied to each night
A deposit of one-night’s rent plus resort and transaction fees are required to hold a reservation.
Cancellation of a reservation has to be within 72 hours of arrival.
Check in time is 4:00 PM on the day of arrival and check out time is 11:00 AM the day of departure.
We recommend that reservations for holiday weekends should be made at least 3 months in advance.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Rate is for up to 4 people; each additional person 12 years and older – $10 per night
Complimentary access to the swimming pool during summer months
No pets allowed in Cabin 3. Dogs are allowed in 2 motel rooms, 1 rustic cabin, and 3 chalets only. Request Dog-friendly accommodations at time of reservation – $16.50 additional per night
Handicapped facilities available
Two night minimum of weekends (March – November)
Three night minimum on Holiday weekends: Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, & New Year’s
Cabins are NOT to be used for Weddings, Parties, or Gatherings. Only registered guests are allowed at the cabins
Enjoy a peaceful getaway on Lookout Mountain in our fully furnished 2 Bedroom/1 Bath Log Cabin! Our Log Cabins have an open Living Room and Kitchen. The Living Room is perfect for relaxing in front of the Fireplace or watching tv. The Kitchen is equipped with utensils and basic cookware. Our Log Cabins have 2 bedrooms; one with a queen-size bed, and the other with a full-size bed. The living room also has a sleeper sofa (full size). The living room and each bedroom has cable tv. All linens are supplied. Spend the day enjoying hiking trails, waterfalls, or shops in our local town of Fort Payne… and we are just a short distance from Mentone!
RATES
$163.00 per night* Accommodates 4-6 Adults.
*Prices do not include 13% Lodging Tax
One-time Reservation Fee for all overnight accommodations – $5.00. 4% Resort Fee applied to each night
A deposit of one-night’s rent plus resort and transaction fees are required to hold a reservation.
Cancellation of a reservation has to be within 72 hours of arrival.
Check in time is 4:00 PM on the day of arrival and check out time is 11:00 AM the day of departure.
We recommend that reservations for holiday weekends should be made at least 3 months in advance.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Rate is for up to 4 people; each additional person 12 years and older – $10 per night
Complimentary access to the swimming pool during summer months
No pets allowed in log Cabins. Dogs are allowed in 2 motel rooms, 1 rustic cabin, and 3 chalets only. Request Dog-friendly accommodations at time of reservation – $16.50 additional per night
Handicapped facilities available
Two night minimum of weekends (March – November)
Three night minimum on Holiday weekends: Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, & New Year’s
Cabins are NOT to be used for Weddings, Parties or Gatherings. Only registered guests are allowed at the cabins.
Number of Rooms: 25 consisting of double beds and king-sized beds (all non-smoking)
Check-in: 4 PM
Check-out: 11 AM
Amenities: mini-refrigerator, microwave, telephone, hairdryer, coffee pot, iron, ironing board, cable tv, wifi.
RATES
$98.00 per night, 2 double beds, 1-2 guests*
$103.00 per night, 1 king bed, 1-2 guests *
*Prices do not include 13% Lodging Tax
- One-time Reservation Fee for all overnight accommodations – $5.00 and 4% Resort Fee applied to each night.
- Deposit: one-night’s rent plus resort and transaction fees are required to hold a reservation.
- Cancellation of a reservation has to be within 72 hours of arrival.
- Reservations for holiday weekends should be made at least 3 months in advance.
- Each additional person 12 years and older – $10 per night
- Motel guests have complimentary access to the swimming pool during summer months
- Corporate and Government rates are available
- 2 motel rooms are dog-friendly (must be reserved) – $16.50 additional per night.
- Request Dog-friendly accommodations at time of reservation
- ADA facilities available, Please request availability when making reservation.
Surrounded by Northeast Alabama’s beautiful woodlands and mountainous terrain, our A-frame Chalets are PERFECT for a mountain getaway! With an open concept, our Chalets have 1 Bedroom/Open Loft and 1 Bathroom. Relax around the Fireplace or enjoy cable TV in our cozy living room. The kitchen is equipped with utensils and basic cookware. Our Chalets have 1-bedroom downstairs with a full-size bed. The open loft has 2 twin-size beds. The living room also has a sleeper sofa (twin-size). All Linens are supplied. Spend the day enjoying hiking trails, waterfalls, or shops in our local town of Fort Payne… and we are just a short distance from Mentone!
DeSoto State Park Map(PDF file)
Navigate the way to your Chalet! Click here to see the location of each Chalet.
RATES
$153.00 per night*
Accommodates 4-5 Adults.
*Prices do not include 13% Lodging Tax.
One-time Reservation Fee for all overnight accommodations – $5.00 4% Resort Fee applied to each night.
A deposit of one-night’s rent plus resort and transaction fees are required to hold a reservation.
Cancellation of a reservation has to be within 72 hours of arrival.
Check in time is 4:00 PM on the day of arrival and check out time is 11:00 AM the day of departure.
We recommend that reservations for holiday weekends should be made at least 3 months in advance.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Rate is for up to 4 people; each additional person 12 years and older – $10 per night
Complimentary access to the swimming pool during summer months
Dogs are allowed in 2 motel rooms, 1 rustic cabin, and 3 chalets only. Request Dog-friendly accommodations at time of reservation – $16.50 additional per night
ADA facilities available, Please request availability when making reservation
Two night minimum of weekends (March – November)
Three night minimum on Holiday weekends: Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, & New Year’s
Cabins are NOT to be used for Weddings, Parties or Gatherings. Only registered guests are allowed at the cabins.
DeSoto State Park has 4 comfortable CCC rustic cabins that are surrounded by Northeast Alabama’s beautiful woodlands and mountainous terrain.
These rustic cabins were built in the mid-1930s by members of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), a government- made work program during the Great Depression that was designed to bring relief to millions of unemployed Americans.
AMENITIES
Our Rustic Cabins are perfect for a romantic getaway or a family retreat. Rustic Cabins have an open Living Room/Kitchen concept. The living room includes a beautiful Fireplace and Cable TV. The Kitchen is equipped with utensils and basic cookware. Our Rustic Cabins 8,9, and 11 have 1 bedroom with a full-size bed, 2 twin-size beds and a sleeper sofa (twin-size) in the living area, and one full bath. Cabin 12 has 1 bedroom with a full size bed, a queen sleeper sofa in the living area, and one full bath. Each Rustic Cabin has central heating and air conditioning. All linens are supplied. Spend the day enjoying hiking trails, waterfalls, or shops in our local town of Fort Payne… and we are just a short distance from Mentone!
Navigate the way to your Rustic Cabin! Click here to see the location of each Rustic Cabin.
DeSoto State Park Map(PDF file)
RATES
$109.00 per night*
Accommodates 4 Adults.
*Prices do not include 13% Lodging Tax
One-time Reservation Fee for all overnight accommodations – $5.00
4 % Resort Fee applied to each night
A deposit of one-night’s rent plus resort and transaction fees are required to hold a reservation.
Cancellation of a reservation has to be within 72 hours of arrival.
Check in time is 4:00 PM on the day of arrival and check out time is 11:00 AM the day of departure.
We recommend that reservations for holiday weekends should be made at least 3 months in advance.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Rate is for up to 4 people; each additional person 12 years and older – $10 per night
Rustic Cabin guests have complimentary access to the swimming pool during summer months
Dogs are allowed in 2 motel rooms, 1 rustic cabin, and 3 chalets only. Request Dog-friendly accommodations at time of reservation – $16.50 additional per night
Two night minimum on weekends (March – November)
Three night minimum on Holiday weekends: Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, & New Year’s
Notice: Cabins are NOT to be used for Weddings, Parties or Gatherings. Only registered guests are allowed at the cabin.
DeSoto State Park has a swimming pool bu is open only from Memorial Weekend (2022) to Labor Day Weekend (2022). The state Park also has Laurel Creek leading to Little River where anyone can swim. A popular location for swimmers is the DeSoto Falls Picnic Area. However, please note that these nature locations do not have lifeguards, so keep your family safe and always have an eye on children.
DeSoto’s Olympic-size pool is fun for the whole family complete with a diving board and ADA-lift. The pool is located close to DeSoto State Park’s picnic area and within 1/2 mile of the Country Store & Information Center. Changing rooms are located at the pool. The pool has lounge chairs & a small deck with tables located near the pool.
(Open for the season Memorial Day Weekend 2022- Labor Day Weekend 2022)
GENERAL INFORMATION
Pool Hours: 11:00 to 6:00
- CLOSED FOR THE SEASON
- $5 per swimmer-cash or cards
- Individual and Family Season Pool Passes Available
- Free swimming 5:00 PM-6:00 PM
- Complementary Access for Lodge & Improved Campground Guests
- Lifeguards on duty
- No refunds or rainchecks
- Pool may close due to bad weather, mechanical problems, or minimum occupancy.
- Children under 14 years old must be accompanied by an adult
SEASON POOL PASSES
Individual Pools Pass – $88
Family Pool Pass – $198 for up to six family members
Call 256-845-0051 or download application here
AFTER-HOURS POOL PARTY
Base Rate: $142.20
Party hours are 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM
One lifeguard is provided–Up to 25 people
Additional lifeguards are $28.00 each
To check date availability for your pool party, email karley.craft@dcnr.alabama.gov
Swimming & Wading is allowed in Laurel Creek and in the West Fork of Little River, which runs through DeSoto State Park. Little River is accessed by the yellow trail in DeSoto State Park (DeSoto Scout Trail)-Water Level varies widely, low especially in the Summer. No Lifeguard–swim at your own risk.
Swimming & Wading is allowed in Laurel Creek and in the West Fork of Little River, which runs through DeSoto State Park. Little River is accessed by the yellow trail in DeSoto State Park (DeSoto Scout Trail)-Water Level varies widely, low especially in the Summer. No Lifeguard–swim at your own risk.
Shelter Reservation Fee: $119.00
Pavilion area or Picnic Shelter 1 has the following features:
- Can hold up to 100 people.
- Has 2 fireplaces.
- Has electrical plugs.
- Great for events.
- Public restrooms and an easily accessible handicap restroom are located on the ends of the shelter.
Picnic Shelter 2 Fee: $73.00
Picnic Shelter 2 has the following features:
- Can hold up to 25 people.
- Has 2 picnic tables.
- Volleyball court & playground are nearby.
Note: Picnic area closes at sundown.
Picnic Shelter 3 Fee: $73.00
Picnic Shelter 3 has the following features:
- Can hold up to 25 people.
- Has 2 picnic tables.
- Volleyball court & playground are nearby.
Note: Picnic area closes at sundown.
Gazebo Fee: $58.00
Gazebo on the Talmadge Butler Boardwalk Trail has the following features:
- Short walk from the picnic area
- Parking is available at the trailhead.
- Boardwalk is handicapped accessible.
Note: Picnic area closes at sundown.
Shady Grove Dude Ranch is a perfect place to take family and friends horseback riding and see scenic Lookout Mountain near Mentone, Alabama.
Price: $40.00
Call Shady Grove for horseback riding Reservations: 256-634-4027
Geocaching is a real-world, outdoor treasure hunting game using GPS-enabled devices. Participants navigate to a specific set of GPS coordinates and then attempt to find the geocache (container) hidden at that location.
For more Geocaching details, check out the geocaching page here.
Rent sit-on-top kayaks to enjoy a peaceful flatwater paddle on Little River overlooking beautiful DeSoto Falls.
Life vests & paddles are provided.
2021 inclusive dates: March 20, 2021 – October 24, 2021.
Hours: Saturday & Sunday: 10 AM-6 PM
Fee: $50 Minimum. Single sit-on-top kayak: $15.00 per hour. Tandem(2 person) sit-on-top kayak: $25.00 per hour
Weight limit on single kayaks is 300lbs.
Weight limit on tandem kayaks is 450lbs
Call Miller’s Bend Paddle Shack (Saturday & Sunday): 256-634-0203
For any information, call DeSoto Lodge–256.845.5380. Please call at least 24 hours prior for reservations.
For yoga hikes, health protocols including masks are required.
For schedules, please email brittney.hughes@dcnr.alabma.gov.
People of all ages can enjoy a truly unique experience by going to the CCC Museum and learning about the Depression-era program that developed DeSoto State Park and other parks all over the U.S.A.
Admission is free, with donations accepted.
Masks are respectfully requested.
Hours: Saturdays-12:00-4:00 March thru November
Call 256.845.0051 to arrange your visit.
This Mountain Inn Restaurant is located in the original sandstone Lodge built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the mid 1930’s.
HOURS:
Friday: Dinner- 5-8 PM.
Saturday: Breakfast- 7-10 AM, Lunch- 11:30-2 PM, Dinner- 5-8 PM.
Sunday: Breakfast- 7-10 AM, Lunch- 11:30-2 PM
You may view the menu here.
DeSoto State Park has partnered with Screaming Eagle Zip lines and Aerial adventures to offer a sky trail in the trees.
Enjoy six ziplines that range from 100 to 350 ft in length and seven sky bridges that range from 50 to 150 in length.
A spiral staircase tower begins the trek and allows for a bird’s eye view from up to 55 ft in the air.
PRICE: $49.00 ($54.66 after taxes)
LOCATION: Country Store & Information Center-DeSoto State Park, on County Road 89 (Dekalb County)
HOURS: Open Thursdays – Mondays 9AM – 4PM
Closed Tuesday-Wednesday
MINIMUM AGE: 6 years old
MINIMUM WEIGHT: 40 lbs
MAX WEIGHTS: Girls 250 lbs and under. Guys 285 lbs and under
Must wear a closed-toed shoe to participate in the aerial adventure tours.
DeSoto State Park is a must-visit state park in Alabama. Check out other state parks in Alabama here.