Chewacla State Park: Auburn's Natural Escape

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Explore nature's playground in Auburn: hiking, swimming, camping, and history await at Chewacla State Park. A CCC legacy.

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Chewacla State Park

Chewacla State Park, a 696-acre haven near Auburn University, offers a blend of outdoor activities and historical charm. Established in 1939, the park features a 26-acre lake, hiking and biking trails, and facilities built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s [4, 10, 14]. It's a local favorite for recreation and relaxation [4, 10].

A brief summary to Chewacla State Park

124 Shell Toomer Pkwy, Auburn, Alabama, 36830, US
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Monday 8 am-8 pm
Tuesday 8 am-8 pm
Wednesday 8 am-8 pm
Thursday 8 am-8 pm
Friday 8 am-8 pm
Saturday 8 am-8 pm
Sunday 8 am-8 pm

Local tips

Bring your own canoe or kayak to explore Lake Chewacla, as there is no boat ramp, but hand-launched, non-motorized watercraft are welcome [2, 6, 7].
Check the park's event calendar for upcoming mountain biking events, group rides, and community celebrations [5, 7].
Consider booking a stay in one of the historic CCC-era cabins for a unique and rustic lodging experience [4, 8, 12].
Be sure to hike to Chewacla Falls for a picturesque view and a refreshing swimming hole [2, 11].
Entrance fees are required and can be paid upon arrival; have cash or card ready [2, 5, 7].

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Getting There

Driving

Chewacla State Park is easily accessible by car. From downtown Auburn, head south on College Street, which becomes Shell Toomer Parkway (AL-147). Continue for approximately 3 miles. The park entrance is located directly off Shell Toomer Parkway on the left [7, 15]. Parking is available throughout the park near the lake, trails, and campgrounds [2, 7]. Expect to pay an entrance fee of $4 for adults (ages 12-61), $2 for children (ages 4-11) and seniors (62+) [2, 5, 7].
Public Transport

While there is no direct public transportation to Chewacla State Park, you can take an Uber or Lyft from Auburn University or downtown Auburn [7]. The ride is approximately 3 miles and should cost between $8 and $15, depending on demand [7]. Remember to factor in the park's entrance fee upon arrival: $4 for adults, $2 for children and seniors [2, 5, 7].
Walking

From the southern edge of Auburn University's campus, you can walk south along Shell Toomer Parkway (AL-147) to reach Chewacla State Park [7]. The walk is approximately 3 miles and will take about an hour [7]. Be aware that portions of the walk may have limited sidewalks [7]. Remember to bring water and factor in the park's entrance fee of $4 for adults, $2 for children and seniors [2, 5, 7].

Discover more about Chewacla State Park

Chewacla State Park, located just south of Auburn, Alabama, is a 696-acre retreat offering a variety of outdoor activities and a glimpse into the area's history [4, 14]. Established in 1939, the park's origins date back to the 1930s when the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) developed the area [10, 14]. Lake Chewacla, a 26-acre man-made lake, is the park's centerpiece, providing opportunities for swimming, fishing, and paddling non-motorized boats [2, 4, 14]. Anglers can try their luck at catching bream, bass, crappie, and catfish [2, 4, 6]. A swimming area with a beach is available for visitors looking to cool off [2, 4]. The park boasts over 25 miles of trails suitable for both hiking and mountain biking [5]. The trail system, recognized as a National Recreation Trail since 2011, caters to various skill levels [2, 14]. The Central Alabama Mountain Pedalers (CAMP) actively maintains and expands the mountain biking trails [4, 5]. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as squirrels, chipmunks, deer, and red foxes while exploring the trails [2, 4]. Chewacla's history is deeply intertwined with the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) [10, 14, 16]. In the 1930s, the CCC transformed the land, constructing roads, trails, and the dam that created Lake Chewacla [12, 13, 14]. Six stone cottages built by the CCC are still available for rent, offering a unique lodging experience [4, 8, 12]. These renovated cottages feature modern amenities while retaining their rustic charm [4, 8]. For those who prefer camping, the park offers full hookup campsites and primitive sites [4, 8]. Chewacla State Park hosts various events throughout the year, including mountain biking events, group rides, and community celebrations [5, 7]. The park is also a popular spot for stargazing due to its distance from city lights [2].