Background

Open Pond Recreation Area: Conecuh National Forest's Gem

Escape to nature in Conecuh National Forest: camping, fishing, hiking & history at Open Pond Recreation Area near Andalusia, Alabama.

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Nestled within Alabama's Conecuh National Forest, Open Pond Recreation Area is a 450-acre natural haven featuring a scenic lake, diverse recreational activities, and a Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) legacy. It's a prime destination for camping, fishing, hiking, and picnicking in a tranquil, historical setting [5, 7, 12].

A brief summary to Conecuh National Forest Open Pond Recreation Area

Local tips

  • Visit in the spring or fall for the most pleasant weather and fewer bugs, making hiking and camping more enjoyable [7, 12].
  • Bring your fishing gear to enjoy freshwater fishing on Open Pond; non-motorized boats are permitted [5].
  • Call ahead to check campsite availability, as reservations are not accepted and the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis [2, 5].
  • Explore the CCC-built picnic shelter for a glimpse into the area's history [2, 5, 7].
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Andalusia, Alabama, head south on US-29 S/AL-55 S [5, 12]. Continue to follow AL-55 S for approximately 12 miles. Turn right onto AL-137 S and drive for about 8 miles [5, 12]. Open Pond Recreation Area will be on your left. Parking is available within the recreation area [5]. Day use fee is $5 per vehicle [3].

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Discover more about Conecuh National Forest Open Pond Recreation Area

Open Pond Recreation Area, a 450-acre oasis within the Conecuh National Forest, offers a refreshing escape into nature [5, 12]. Centered around a picturesque 30-acre natural sinkhole lake, the area provides a tranquil setting for various outdoor activities [3, 12, 19]. Originally developed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), Open Pond boasts a rich history [5, 7, 12]. The CCC's legacy is still visible in the park's distinct architectural design, particularly in the group picnic shelter, which retains its original character and charm [2, 5, 7]. This historical connection adds an extra layer of interest for visitors who appreciate the blend of nature and heritage [5, 12]. The area is renowned for its diverse recreational opportunities [12, 18]. Anglers can enjoy freshwater fishing from two piers or launch non-motorized or electric motorized boats from the available ramps [3, 5, 12]. Hiking enthusiasts can explore the trail that loops around Open Pond or venture onto the southern end of the 20-mile Conecuh Trail, accessible via a half-mile spur from the day-use area [3, 5, 12, 17]. This trail leads to Blue Spring, a natural spring known for its clear, ice-blue water [12]. Camping is a popular activity at Open Pond, with 65 developed campsites and 9 undeveloped sites available [6, 12, 19]. The developed campsites offer amenities such as electrical and water hookups, picnic tables, fire pits, and access to modern restrooms and bathhouses with hot showers [2, 4, 6, 12]. The campground is open year-round, attracting "Snowbirds" during the mild winter months and providing pleasant, secluded sites for car and tent campers [7, 12]. Beyond the lake and trails, Open Pond is surrounded by the larger Conecuh National Forest, a sprawling 83,000-acre expanse of longleaf pine forests, cypress ponds, and diverse wildlife [3, 4, 12, 16]. The forest is undergoing reforestation efforts to restore the native longleaf pine ecosystem, which is crucial for the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker and other species [3, 12].

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