Sunset at Lake Lurleen. Photo: Park Facebook page
This picturesque wooded park surrounds Lake Lurleen and has 23 miles of multi-use trails, campsites and opportunities for swimming, boating and fishing.
The lake and park were named for Lurleen Wallace, a former Alabama governor who was instrumental in funding a major renovation project of the Alabama State Parks.
Today Lake Lurleen State Park is popular with locals and visitors alike, especially during college football season!
Activities
Whether you plan to visit for the day or spend a few nights you won’t be disappointed in all that this cozy park has to offer. Picnic areas, play areas and restrooms throughout the park help make your stay more comfortable.
If you’re searching for a place for a special event the park has 4 large pavilions with tables and grills, a banquet room and meeting facilities.
Here are the some of the other activities that you can do at Lake Lurleen State Park:
Swimming at Lake Lurleen State Park
A sandy beach with an enclosed swimming area is a welcome treat on a warm day. But for your safety it’s important that you only swim inside of the enclosed area and not from anywhere else such as from a boat or bridge.
A small beachside pavilion with tables and a grill is located near the water and is a great spot to escape from the harsh sun.
Boating at Lake Lurleen State Park
Floating on the lake can be a very tranquil experience especially on a lazy summer day. Explore, fish or just relax and enjoy the peacefulness and nature all around you.
You won’t be allowed to bring in your own boat or water equipment for use on Lake Lurleen but rentals are available inside of the park. And there are many different types to choose from – paddle boats, kayaks, canoes, fishing boats with motors and coracles.
Be mindful of the boating regulations before launching from one of the convenient boat launches. Also be aware that no water or jet skiing is allowed on the lake.
Fishing at Lake Lurleen State Park
Fishing is a popular activity at Lake Lurleen State Park, and the lake is regularly stocked with largemouth bass, bream, catfish and crappie.
Fish from the shore, boat or on one of the 3 convenient fishing piers.
A small bait and tackle shop is located inside of the park for your fishing needs. But remember to purchase a fishing license before arriving. You can purchase one online here.
Trails at Lake Lurleen State Park
The TASHKA trail system at Lake Lurleen State Park contains over 23 miles of trails ranging from easy to moderate in difficulty. There is one main trail and 5 paths that loop off from it. All of the trails are multi-use for walking, hiking and bicycling. Horses and motorized vehicles are not allowed.
The main trailhead has two access points, one at the south end of the park and the other in the north. The trails wind through the woods and along the shoreline of Lake Lurleen and are open from sunrise to sunset daily.
Here are a couple of the park’s popular trails:
- Lakeside Trail – A 3.5 mile spacious and mostly flat grounded trail that is rated easy for most users.
- Ridge Loop Trail – A moderate 2 mile path.
- Lightning, Tornado and Storm Loop – A longer moderate path of 6.9 miles.
Wildlife at Lake Lurleen State Park
The park is located along the Alabama Birding Trail and many songbirds and waterfowl can be seen from the trails and lakeshore.
If you’re paying attention you may spot an eastern bluebird, an eastern kingbird, a cliff swallow, an orchard oriole, a red-headed woodpecker or a pine warbler. Also keep an eye out for deer, raccoons, opossum, squirrels, snakes and alligators.
An onsite Nature Center provides educational resources for individuals and class trips on the history of the park and nature all around it. They have many bird and wildlife mounts for close up views of different species.
The Nature Center is open Friday to Sunday 8am-5pm, March through November.
Camping at Lake Lurleen State Park
Lake Lurleen State Park has 91 modern campsites with water and electricity for RVs or tents. The sites have either 30- or 50-amp and some sites also have sewer hookups. The park also has 36 recreational vehicle storage sites available for a rental fee of $2/day for your RV storage needs.
All campsites have water, picnic tables and a fire ring and 20 of the sites also have wooden decks. Bathhouses are conveniently located nearby and throughout the park.
Separate primitive campsites are nestled in a wooded area with water and access to trail toilets and a bathhouse.
Pets at Lake Lurleen State Park
Pets are welcome except in certain designated areas but must be leashed and cleaned up after.
Attractions Near Lake Lurleen State Park
Explore historic Northport! Visit Northport’s downtown filled with 19th century architecture, galleries, shops and specialty restaurants.
Interested in golfing? Play a round at the Hidden Meadows Golf Course. If you’ll be visiting the area in October check out the Kentuck Festival of the Arts – an annual 2-day event featuring artists, music, southern folklife and children’s activities.
Nearby University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa is also worth a stop and to visit two of their popular attractions:
Park Location
Lake Lurleen State Park
13226 Lake Lurleen Road
Coker, AL 35452
Phone: 205.339.1558
Open daily 7am until sunset
$5 entry fee ($2 for seniors and children under 11)
Map
Video
Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Lake Lurleen State Park:
Leave A Comment