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Ten Islands Historic Park: Where History Meets Nature

Explore Alabama's Ten Islands Historic Park: A blend of nature and history on the Coosa River, perfect for outdoor adventures and serene relaxation.

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Ten Islands Historic Park in Ragland, Alabama, offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty along the Coosa River and Neely Henry Lake. Once the site of ancient settlements, a Civil War skirmish, and a strategic fort, it's now a peaceful retreat for swimming, fishing, and exploring nature trails.

A brief summary to Ten Islands Historic Park

  • Monday 5 am-9 pm
  • Tuesday 5 am-9 pm
  • Wednesday 5 am-9 pm
  • Thursday 5 am-9 pm
  • Friday 5 am-9 pm
  • Saturday 5 am-9 pm
  • Sunday 5 am-9 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure parking, as spaces are limited [1, 3].
  • Bring your own food and drinks, as there are no concessions available inside the park [1].
  • Pack sunscreen and insect repellent for a comfortable outdoor experience [1].
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Ragland, Alabama, head east on AL-144. Continue on AL-144 for approximately 5 miles. Ten Islands Historic Park will be on your left [1]. Parking is free at the entrance, but spaces are limited, especially during peak season [1, 3]. Nearby street parking is also available [1, 3].

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Discover more about Ten Islands Historic Park

Ten Islands Historic Park, nestled on the shores of Neely Henry Lake near Ragland, Alabama, is a captivating destination where history and nature intertwine [1]. This day-use park, open from April to October, provides a unique opportunity to explore a site with a rich and varied past dating back thousands of years [1, 4]. The park's name comes from the Creek Indian village of "Oti Palin," meaning Ten Islands, reflecting its origin as a series of islands along the Coosa River [1]. While most of these islands are now submerged following the construction of Neely Henry Dam, the area retains its historical significance and natural beauty [1, 7]. Evidence of settlement dates back to Paleo, Archaic, Woodland, and Mississippian Indian groups [1, 7]. Hernando de Soto is believed to have crossed the Coosa River here in 1540, marking an early chapter in European exploration [1, 7]. During the Creek War of 1813-1814, General Andrew Jackson established Fort Strother nearby as a strategic supply base; figures like Davy Crockett and Sam Houston passed through this area [1, 9]. The park also witnessed a Civil War skirmish in 1864 [1, 8]. Today, Ten Islands Historic Park is a peaceful retreat where visitors can immerse themselves in the outdoors [1]. A sandy swimming beach offers a place to cool off, while anglers can fish from the pier or shoreline for bass and catfish [1, 6]. A boat ramp provides access to Neely Henry Lake for boating and watersports [1, 3]. Nature trails wind through wooded areas, perfect for hiking and birdwatching [1, 3]. The park is also a haven for birdwatchers, with diverse species inhabiting the area [1, 2]. Amenities include restrooms and covered picnic tables [1, 2].

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