Fishing at sunset at Lake Guntersville State Park. Photo: Park Facebook page
The beautiful resort area of Lake Guntersville State Park lies on the eastern shore of Lake Guntersville amid mountains and lush woodlands.
This Alabama state park was originally known as Little Mountain State Park when it was established in 1947.
Today it features a resort inn, restaurant and convention center atop Taylor Mountain; plus an 18-hole golf course, a fishing center, a beach complex, 36 miles of multi-use trails and lakeview cottages and campground.
Activities
Serene Lake Guntersville stretches 75 miles from Nickajack Dam on the Tennessee River to Guntersville Dam.
Swimming, boating and fishing are popular activities to do on this massive lake.
Visit for a day or spend a few nights, you won’t run out of fun activities to keep you entertained. Here are some of the highlights at Lake Guntersville State Park:
Swimming at Lake Guntersville State Park
Enjoy the public beach area with its sandy beach or enter the clean, clear water from your campsite. Or gaze at the lake while you swim in the pool above it at The Lodge.
There is a large pavilion near the beach area that can be rented for your next big event.
The Beach Pavilion has 12 picnic tables, a concession area with a small kitchen and close up views of the lake.
The partial kitchen contains 2 refrigerators, a freezer, sink, microwave and 2 serving tables.
Boating at Lake Guntersville State Park
With numerous boat ramps available throughout the park you won’t find a problem getting your canoe, kayak, pontoon or other boat launched into the lake waters. There’s even a transient dock at the park with spacious boat slips and hookups.
Boat rentals such as canoes, pontoons and bass boats are available at Town Creek Fishing Center.
Fishing at Lake Guntersville State Park
Lake Guntersville boasts of excellent fishing, and many prized largemouth bass have been caught in its waters.
Fish from your boat or the pier, or take part in one of the fishing tournaments held here.
Popular catches include milfoil, hydrilla, bluegill, bream, sunfish, catfish, sauger, crappie and largemouth bass.
Remember to pick up a fishing license before arriving at the park. Licenses can be purchased online here.
If you need fishing bait and supplies head over to Town Creek Fishing Center on AL Hwy 227.
They also carry snacks, camping supplies and other needed necessities plus they have 2 ramps, a fishing pier and boat rentals.
Trails at Lake Guntersville State Park
With 6,000 acres of woodland available you’re sure to find plenty of opportunity to walk, hike or bike at Lake Guntersville State Park.
Scenic views, historical markers and loops through 36 miles of forest and wildflowers await you.
Explore the trails on horseback with Alabama Horseback Adventures.
Or if you’d prefer an aerial vew, soar overhead with Screaming Eagle Zipline.
The trails range from easy to moderate and difficult with the rocky and rooted terrain in some parts. Here are a couple of the popular trails:
- Licksillet Trail – 2.5 mile trail that follows the path used by the Cherokee Indians during the 1800s.
- Benny Bobo – Multi-use paved trail from The Lodge to Mabrey Outlook. There are 2 benches along the trail in case you want to stop and rest.
- Old Still Path – A half mile walk to the well preserved whiskey still.
Golf at Lake Guntersville State Park
Eagle’s Nest Golf Course is an 18-hole championship golf course on top of Taylor Mountain with rolling hills and exquisite views of Lake Guntersville.
They also have a Pro Shop where you can purchase or rent golf clubs and other accessories.
Wildlife at Lake Guntersville State Park
A special feature at Lake Guntersville State Park is its Eagle Awareness Program.
For 35 years this park has worked diligently to bring the eagle population back from the brink of extinction and raise awareness for this important bird.
Each year they offer live demonstrations, educational programs and guided walks to view the bald eagles in their natural habitat.
You’ll see more than just eagles at this park, many species of waterfowl live near the lake and many more species of migrating birds fly through each season.
If you’re interested in seeing more species of birds check out The Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge an hour’s drive south in Decatur. They have 35,000 acres of protected habitat.
Other wildlife that you may see inside of this park are deer, foxes, rabbits, squirrels, opossum and snakes. Keep your eyes open in case there may be an alligator or bear nearby.
Camping at Lake Guntersville State Park
Spend the night at Lake Guntersville State Park camping outside, staying in one of the many suites at the scenic resort inn or in one of the many lakeside cabins or lake view chalets.
The campground has 295 sites with water and electric hookups (and some with sewer hookups).
There is also another primitive tent-only campground nearby and closer to the water. Clean restrooms, 2 bathhouses and laundry facilities make your stay more comfortable.
The camp store sells groceries, snacks, gifts and supplies for fishing and camping. And there is a playground and large play area complete with a splash pad for the little ones.
The chalets are located on the mountain top and have wraparound porches so that you can enjoy the view. Each of the 20 chalets has a living room, kitchen with cookware and utensils, bathroom, 2 bedrooms, gas fireplace and cable tv.
Fully equipped cabins and basic camper cabins are located next to the lake for easy access to the water.
And The Lodge sits atop Taylor Mountain with spectacular views of Lake Guntersville. This resort style Inn has a restaurant (Pinecrest Dining Room), a lounge (The Hickory Lounge) and a convention center.
Each of The Lodge’s hotel suites has cable tv, a microwave, small refrigerator, coffee maker and an iron.
The Convention Center has several rooms, ballrooms and one large meeting room and is perfect for state, regional or national meetings (and weddings).
Weddings at Lake Guntersville State Park
Consider having your special day at Lake Guntersville State Park.
The Lodge’s Convention Center has 2 ballrooms (one large enough to comfortably seat up to 250 guests), 2 outside terraces and a panoramic view of the lake.
The Gathering Place is a multi purpose venue with a gorgeous view of the lake. This venue has a large meeting room and kitchen and space for up to 60 guests.
Pets at Lake Guntersville State Park
Pets are welcome at Lake Guntersville State Park as long as they are leashed. Also, some of the cabins are pet friendly (inquire when making reservations).
The Dog Park, located between the beach and campground, offers a safe enclosed area for running and playing. This enclosure is separated into two sections – one for small dogs and one for larger dogs.
Park Location
Lake Guntersville State Park
1155 Lodge Dr
Guntersville, AL 35976
Phone: 256.571.5444
Map
Video
Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Lake Guntersville State Park:
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