Roland Cooper State Park
Roland Cooper State Park lies within a majestic pine forest on the eastern shores of the Dannelly Reservoir, only 6 miles north of Camden in Wilcox County.
This 236 acre public recreation area is only a 2 hour drive from the large cities of Montgomery, Mobile and Selma.
The 22,000 acre lake, known locally as Miller’s Ferry Reservoir, is an impoundment of the Alabama River and considered to be a prime fishing spot.
Anglers come year round to catch largemouth bass and other native fish at this Alabama park, while also enjoying boating, camping and birdwatching.
Activities
Visit for a day or spend a few nights, you won’t be disappointed. Explore, enjoy the water or have a picnic and play.
The day use area, also the primitive camping section of the park, has picnic tables, grills, a playground and basketball and volleyball courts.
A nearby pavilion is available for rent and has tables, a fireplace and spectacular views of the lake. This is a picturesque spot for a large gathering or special event.
Fishing at Roland Cooper State Park
Fishing is probably the most popular activity at Roland Cooper State Park. Here you can fish directly from your boat or find a comfy spot on the shore or near your campsite.
The largemouth bass are said to be no smaller than 3 pounds and crappie, catfish and bream are also plentiful here.
Tournaments are held throughout the year to see who can catch the most fish from this abundant lake.
Remember to pick up a fishing license on your way in. You can purchase one online here.
Boating at Roland Cooper State Park
Enjoy a peaceful day on the lake – kayak, canoe, tube or water ski. Put your craft into the water from the shore or from one of the convenient boat launches.
A marina is also located inside of the park and has boat rentals of kayaks and flat bottom aluminum motor boats. Each person inside of the boat must have a life jacket and children under the age of 8 are required to wear one at all times while boating.
Swimming at Roland Cooper State Park
There isn’t a designated swimming beach or area within Roland Cooper State Park but swimming is best in the main channel of the river. Be aware though that swimming from your boat is not permitted.
Trails at Roland Cooper State Park
There are 2 multi-use trails at Roland Cooper State Park. These trails are ideal for walking, hiking or bicycling through the lush green bushes and plants inside the heavily wooded park.
One of these trails is the Chipmunk Trail, a .9 mile easy path that winds through the woods and overlooks the river.
If you’re hoping to explore more trails and don’t mind a bit of a drive to get to them then head over to the Alabama Nature Center 85 miles north of the park.
This wildlife and safari park is located at 3050 Lanark Rd in Millbrook. There’s over 5 miles of trails and boardwalks inside this park and 350 acres of forest, fields, streams, wetlands and ponds to explore.
Wildlife at Roland Cooper State Park
Roland Cooper State park lies on the Alabama Black Belt Birding Trail, named for the rich dark soil found along the rivers.
It is considered to be a birder’s paradise with many species of raptor, waterfowl and songbird. Bald eagles, osprey and wild turkey are a common sight year round.
While relaxing in the park or walking along the trail you’ll more than likely see squirrels, rabbits, deer, raccoons and opossum. And you may see a few different types of snakes as well.
Lodging at Roland Cooper State Park
Roland Cooper State Park has both campsites and cabins to choose from when planning your stay inside of the park. Be aware that the park requires a 2-night minimum stay for all reservations.
Choose from one of the 55 improved campsites with full hookups (water, electric and sewer).
Each of these spacious paved sites has a picnic table and grill. Bathhouses, a camp store and camper storage is conveniently located nearby for easy access.
Another 15 primitive tent-only campsites are available if you’re more interested in a rustic camping experience. These sites each have a picnic table, grill and fire ring but no water, electric or sewer connections.
Water and restrooms are located close by though and while camping in this area you will have access to the main bathhouse located in the improved camping area.
The park also has 12 cabins available for rent. All cabins are fully furnished and spread throughout the park, some with views of the water. Cabins sleep 4-6 and rollaway beds are available for rent in the park office.
You can choose to stay in one of the 6 older cabins, or in one of the 6 new ‘tiny’ cabins. See the official park page (linked below) for more details.
Some cabins are pet friendly for an additional fee of $25 per night. And one cabin is fully handicapped accessible. If interested in either make sure to specify when making reservations.
All cabins have full kitchens including utensils and cookware plus a tv and heat and air conditioning. You will need to bring your own towels and bed linens.
Pets at Roland Cooper State Park
Pets must be leashed but are allowed throughout the park except in certain designated signed areas. There is an additional $25 fee for dogs if you’re staying in one of the pet friendly cabins.
Attractions Near Roland Cooper State Park
If you’re interested in experiencing some of the local culture take a drive into Camden and visit the Black Belt Treasures Cultural Arts Center at 209 Claiborne St.
If crafting is your thing, you can learn more about the local quilters who produce internationally celebrated quilts at nearby Gee’s Bend.
Searching for more opportunities to hike, boat, fish or camp? Check out one of these two nearby state parks. Both are about an hour’s drive from Roland Cooper State Park.
- Paul Grist State Park – located at 1546 Grist Rd in Selma
- chickasaw state park – located at 26955 US Hwy 43 in Gallion
If you’re hoping to get some shopping and dining in during your visit then head over to Montgomery, Mobile, or Selma – all within a 2-hour drive of Roland Cooper State Park:
Park Location
Roland Cooper State Park 285 Deer Run Dr Camden, AL 36726 Phone: 334.682.4838
Map
Video
Here is a short YouTube video showcasing the camping and several attractions at Roland Cooper State Park:
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to visit Alabama state parks?
Most Alabama state parks charge a modest day-use fee of $1-$5 per person. Gulf State Park charges $6 per vehicle. Camping, cabin, and lodge fees apply separately. The low fees make parks very accessible.
What are the best state parks in Alabama?
Top parks include Gulf State Park (Gulf Shores beach), Cheaha (highest point in Alabama), DeSoto (Little River Canyon waterfall), Oak Mountain (largest state park), and Cathedral Caverns (massive cave entrance).
Can I camp on the beach at Gulf State Park?
Gulf State Park does not allow beach camping, but it offers excellent campgrounds and modern cabins within walking distance of the beach. The park features 2 miles of white sand Gulf Coast beach.
Are there caves to explore at Alabama state parks?
Yes, Cathedral Caverns State Park features one of the largest cave entrances in the world (126 feet wide, 25 feet high). Guided cave tours showcase massive stalagmite formations and an underground frozen waterfall.
Explore More Alabama State Parks
Roland Cooper State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Alabama. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Alabama guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
