Oak Mountain State Park: Alabama's Outdoor Playground
Explore Alabama's largest state park: hiking, biking, lakes, wildlife, and endless outdoor adventures await near Birmingham.
Discover Alabama's largest state park, a sprawling haven of over 11,000 acres offering outdoor adventures for everyone. From hiking and biking trails to lakes, beaches, and a wildlife center, Oak Mountain State Park provides a diverse range of activities and stunning natural beauty just south of Birmingham [2, 3].
A brief summary to Oak Mountain State Park
- 200 Terrace Dr, Pelham, Alabama, 35124, US
- +1205-620-2520
- Visit website
- Monday 7 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-7 pm
- Thursday 7 am-7 pm
- Friday 7 am-7 pm
- Saturday 7 am-7 pm
- Sunday 7 am-7 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure parking at popular trailheads [7].
- Bring appropriate footwear and gear for your chosen activities, such as hiking boots, swimwear, or fishing equipment [3].
- Check the park's event calendar for races, festivals, and other activities that may impact trail access or parking [9].
- Take advantage of the park's accessible trails and facilities for visitors with mobility challenges [16, 17].
- Purchase your entry pass online or have cash ready for the entrance fee [12, 15].
Getting There
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Driving
Oak Mountain State Park is located off盛 of I-65 and US-280. From Birmingham, take I-65 South to Valleydale Road (Exit 247). Follow Valleydale Road east to Hwy 31, then turn right. Travel south on Hwy 31, then turn left onto Terrace Drive, which leads directly to the park's main entrance. Alternatively, from US-280, turn onto Oak Mountain State Park Road. A new entry gate off Highway 280 opened May 12, 2025, costing $5 per car [12]. Parking is available throughout the park at trailheads and major attractions [7]. Carload admission is $15, or $10 for Pelham residents [2].
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Public Transport
While public transportation directly to Oak Mountain State Park is limited, you can take a Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA) bus to a nearby location and then use a ride-sharing service to reach the park. Take the Route 31 bus to Pelham, AL, and then use a taxi or Uber/Lyft for the final few miles to the park entrance. Ride-sharing costs from Pelham to the park entrance typically range from $15-25. Park carload admission is $15, or $10 for Pelham residents [2].
Discover more about Oak Mountain State Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Monte D'Oro Historical Marker
10.4 km
Discover the Monte D'Oro Historical Marker in Hoover, Alabama – a captivating glimpse into the rich history and cultural heritage of this vibrant community.
The Old Mill
16.4 km
Discover the historic charm of The Old Mill in Mountain Brook, a picturesque landmark offering a glimpse into Birmingham's past and a tranquil escape into nature's beauty.
Hoist House at Redding Shaft Mine
18.1 km
Explore Birmingham's mining history at the Hoist House, a preserved landmark in Red Mountain Park offering a glimpse into the past.
HIGHLAND HISTORIC DISTRICT
18.5 km
Explore Birmingham's Highland Historic District: a blend of architectural styles, lush parks, and a vibrant community in the heart of the Magic City.
Five Points South Historical Marker
19.2 km
Discover the vibrant history of Birmingham's Five Points South, a charming neighborhood with stunning architecture, culinary delights, and a lively atmosphere.
Oldest house in Shades Valley/Irondale Furnace Commissary
19.3 km
Explore Birmingham's oldest home, a preserved 19th-century commissary offering a glimpse into the lives of early settlers and the region's industrial heritage.
The Jordan Home (Dr. Mortimer Jordan)
19.5 km
Discover the elegance of Birmingham's past at the Jordan Home, a Neo-Classical landmark in the historic Highland Park neighborhood.
Birmingham Historic Touring Company
19.7 km
Explore Birmingham's history with guided tours that reveal the city’s rich heritage, iconic landmarks, and captivating stories from the past.
Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s ‘Letter From Birmingham Jail’ Marker
19.7 km
A marker commemorating Martin Luther King Jr.'s powerful 'Letter From Birmingham Jail,' a cornerstone of the Civil Rights Movement, located in front of the former Birmingham City Jail.
Sloss Mines Hoist House
19.8 km
Explore Birmingham's industrial heritage at the Sloss Mines Hoist House, a window into the region's iron ore mining past on Red Mountain.
Dread River Distilling Company
20.1 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Dread River Distilling Company in Birmingham, AL, where craft spirits meet culinary excellence in a lively atmosphere.
Arlington Antebellum Home & Gardens
20.8 km
Explore the enchanting Arlington Antebellum Home & Gardens, a historical gem in Birmingham, AL, showcasing Southern elegance and rich cultural heritage.
Avondale Park Historic District
20.9 km
Discover historic architecture, vibrant green spaces, and a rich cultural heritage in Birmingham's charming Avondale Park Historic District.
Alabama Peanut Co.
21.0 km
Birmingham's oldest peanut shop, roasting and boiling unique flavors since 1907 on historic Morris Avenue. A taste of tradition!
The Woodward Building
21.0 km
Birmingham's first skyscraper, the Woodward Building, showcases Chicago-style architecture and stands as a landmark of the 'Heaviest Corner on Earth'.
Unmissable attractions to see
Oak Mountain Cabins
1.9 km
Lakeside cabin rentals in Oak Mountain State Park, Alabama's largest state park, offering a relaxing nature escape and outdoor adventure.
Maggie's Glen
2.1 km
Discover tranquility in Oak Mountain's Maggie's Glen: a serene hiking destination with diverse flora and a peaceful stream, perfect for nature lovers.
Alabama Wildlife Center
2.5 km
Discover Alabama's avian wildlife at the Alabama Wildlife Center, dedicated to rehabilitation, education, and conservation in Oak Mountain State Park.
Oak Mountain Interpretive Center
2.5 km
Explore Alabama's natural history at Oak Mountain Interpretive Center, offering interactive exhibits and educational programs for all ages!
Oak Mountain Beach
2.6 km
A perfect summer escape within Oak Mountain State Park, offering swimming, sunbathing, and family-friendly fun on a beautiful sandy beach.
Treetop Nature Trail of Alabama Wildlife Center
2.7 km
Observe majestic birds of prey up close on an elevated boardwalk at Alabama Wildlife Center's Treetop Nature Trail in Oak Mountain State Park.
Oak Mountain State Park Basketball Courts
2.8 km
Enjoy a game of basketball surrounded by the natural beauty of Oak Mountain State Park in Pelham, Alabama.
Oak Mountain State Park Playground
3.1 km
A perfect family destination inside Oak Mountain State Park, offering a fun, safe, and accessible playground experience for children of all ages.
Heardmont Park
3.2 km
Discover a vibrant recreational hub in Birmingham, AL, with sports fields, walking trails, playgrounds, and a senior center for all ages.
Kings Chair
3.7 km
Hike to King's Chair in Oak Mountain State Park for breathtaking views of Alabama's natural beauty. A moderate trail with a rewarding panorama.
Peavine Falls at Oak Mountain State Park
4.1 km
Discover the beauty of Peavine Falls at Oak Mountain State Park, a natural oasis offering hiking, scenic views, and a refreshing escape near Birmingham.
Oak Mountain
4.6 km
Discover Alabama's largest state park: hiking, biking, lakes, wildlife, and endless outdoor adventures await near Birmingham in Pelham.
Front Gate at Oak Mountain State Park
4.7 km
Discover Alabama's largest state park: a haven for outdoor adventures, scenic beauty, and diverse recreational activities near Birmingham.
Oak Mountain Amphitheatre
5.0 km
Alabama's former premier outdoor music venue, hosting legendary artists in rock, country, pop, and R&B for decades. A cherished memory for music fans.
Oak Mountain State Fair
5.2 km
Experience classic fairground fun with thrilling rides, games, delicious food, and live entertainment at Oak Mountain State Fair in Pelham, AL.
Essential places to dine
The Grille
2.7 km
Experience culinary excellence at The Grille in Pelham - where local flavors meet exceptional dining.
Creekside BBQ
4.6 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Creekside BBQ in Pelham - where every bite tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Texas Roadhouse
4.7 km
Discover the best of American cuisine at Texas Roadhouse in Pelham - where flavorful steaks meet warm hospitality.
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
4.7 km
Savor the taste of traditional American cuisine at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in Pelham—where Southern charm meets delicious comfort food.
Chick-fil-A
5.1 km
Discover Chick-fil-A in Pelham: where delicious chicken meets family-friendly dining in a vibrant atmosphere.
Margarita Grill
5.4 km
Discover flavorful Tex-Mex cuisine at Margarita Grill in Pelham – where vibrant dishes meet refreshing cocktails in a lively atmosphere.
First Watch
7.3 km
Experience delightful breakfasts and healthy brunch options at First Watch in Hoover - perfect for families and food lovers alike.
Jim 'N Nick's Bar-B-Q
7.9 km
Experience the best of Southern barbecue at Jim 'N Nick's Bar-B-Q in Hoover—where every bite tells a story of tradition and flavor.
J. Alexander's Restaurant
8.3 km
Discover exquisite American cuisine at J. Alexander's Restaurant in Hoover - where tradition meets taste in every bite.
Capella Pizzeria
9.9 km
Discover Birmingham's hidden gem for pizza lovers at Capella Pizzeria—delicious flavors await in every slice!
Bellini's Ristorante & Bar
10.0 km
Discover the taste of Italy at Bellini's Ristorante & Bar—where every meal is a celebration of flavor and tradition.
Saigon Noodle House
10.4 km
Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Saigon Noodle House in Birmingham—where flavorful dishes meet warm hospitality.
Tre Luna Bar and Kitchen
11.0 km
Experience the fusion of Southern comfort food and Italian cuisine at Tre Luna Bar and Kitchen in Hoover—where every meal is a celebration.
Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux - Stadium Trace Restaurant
11.1 km
Dive into delicious Southern flavors at Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux in Hoover—a sports lover's paradise with an inviting atmosphere.
Perry's Steakhouse & Grille
11.4 km
Experience culinary excellence at Perry's Steakhouse & Grille in Birmingham – where exquisite steaks meet exceptional service.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Premium Products
2.7 km
Discover Birmingham's Premium Products: Your Destination for Quality Herbs and Cannabis Accessories in Alabama.
Attic Antiques
3.8 km
Explore Attic Antiques in Birmingham for a curated selection of vintage treasures, unique decor, and rare collectibles that evoke nostalgia.
Oak Mountain Hobbies & Toys - Drones, RC Cars, Trains, Parts & Service Shop
6.5 km
Discover a world of creativity and fun at Oak Mountain Hobbies & Toys, your ultimate destination for drones, RC cars, and model trains in Pelham, Alabama.
Gifted
6.5 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and stylish women's clothing at Gifted, Pelham's charming boutique that celebrates local artisans and creativity.
The Beveled Edge
6.6 km
Explore The Beveled Edge in Birmingham, AL – a unique picture frame shop filled with collectibles and artistic treasures for art lovers.
El Viejo Este LLC
6.7 km
Explore the essence of the Wild West at El Viejo Este LLC, Pelham's premier Western apparel store, offering cowboy hats, boots, and Southern charm.
Myrtle Jane's South
6.9 km
Explore Myrtle Jane's South, an antique store in Pelham, Alabama, featuring unique vintage finds and charming home decor that tells a story.
Encore Home
7.6 km
Explore Encore Home in Pelham, Alabama: A unique gift shop offering antique furniture, art, and home goods for the discerning traveler.
Vintage Interiors
7.8 km
Explore Vintage Interiors in Pelham for a unique collection of antique furniture and decor that tells a story, perfect for home styling or memorable souvenirs.
Nostalgia
8.4 km
Discover the joy of childhood at Nostalgia, Pelham's beloved toy store filled with classic and contemporary toys for every age.
Elegant Jewelers
8.6 km
Discover the exquisite craftsmanship and personalized service at Elegant Jewelers in Riverchase Galleria, Birmingham's premier destination for fine jewelry.
Old Navy
8.6 km
Explore Old Navy in Hoover, a vibrant clothing store offering stylish and affordable fashion for the whole family in a welcoming environment.
Windsor
8.7 km
Discover the ultimate fashion haven at Windsor in Hoover, offering an exquisite collection of dresses, accessories, and more for every occasion.
Riverchase Galleria
8.8 km
Discover the Riverchase Galleria: a premier shopping mall in Hoover, Alabama, with diverse stores, dining, and entertainment for every tourist.
J&V clothes
8.8 km
Discover the latest trends at J&V Clothes in Birmingham, Alabama – your ultimate fashion destination for stylish clothing and accessories.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hooters
5.0 km
Experience the thrill of sports and savor delicious American cuisine at Hooters in Pelham, Alabama, a must-visit sports bar for all food lovers.
Applebee's Grill + Bar
5.0 km
Savor the authentic flavors of American cuisine at Applebee's Grill + Bar in Pelham, Alabama, where great food meets a friendly atmosphere.
Taco Mac Pelham
5.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and mouth-watering American cuisine at Taco Mac Pelham, your go-to sports bar in Alabama for wings and fun.
Ragtime Cafe
5.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at Ragtime Cafe, Birmingham's lively bar and restaurant perfect for casual dining and social gatherings.
The Chandelier Lounge
5.5 km
Discover the elegance of The Chandelier Lounge in Pelham, Alabama, where exquisite cocktails and stunning ambiance create unforgettable evenings.
The Beer Hog
6.1 km
Explore craft beer culture at The Beer Hog in Pelham, Alabama, where a lively atmosphere meets an exceptional selection of brews.
Blue's Bourbon & Brews
6.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife and Southern charm of Blue's Bourbon & Brews in Pelham, Alabama, where great bourbon and live music await you.
Pub 261
6.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Pub 261 in Birmingham, where delicious food and refreshing drinks create the perfect local experience.
Perfect Note
7.2 km
Discover Perfect Note in Hoover, Alabama – a lively bar and restaurant offering delicious food, craft drinks, and enchanting live music.
Gabriel's Cafe
8.1 km
Discover Gabriel's Cafe in Hoover, Alabama - your go-to bar for delicious drinks, fun events, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Dave & Buster's Birmingham
8.5 km
Experience the ultimate fusion of dining and entertainment at Dave & Buster's Birmingham with delicious food, thrilling games, and a lively atmosphere.
Twin Peaks
9.0 km
Experience the excitement of live sports and delicious American cuisine at Twin Peaks, Hoover's ultimate sports bar destination.
On Tap Sports Cafe - Inverness/280
9.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious menu at On Tap Sports Cafe, a top sports bar in Birmingham, Alabama.
Lil Bits Tavern
9.6 km
Discover the charm of Lil Bits Tavern, Pelham's favorite bar for local drinks and delicious bites in a cozy atmosphere.
The Anvil Pub and Grill
9.9 km
Experience the best of Birmingham dining at The Anvil Pub and Grill, where delicious food meets a friendly atmosphere.
