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Oak Mountain State Park, Greater Birmingham Travel Guide

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Explore Alabama's largest state park: hiking, biking, lakes, wildlife, and endless outdoor adventures await near Birmingham.

Oak Mountain State Park, Alabama's largest state park, offers a diverse landscape and an array of outdoor activities. Located just south of Birmingham, the park's history dates back to the 1920s, with significant development by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. Today, visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, swimming, camping, and more within its nearly 10,000 acres.

A brief summary to Oak Mountain State Park

  • 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
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Oak Mountain State Park.

  • Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure parking at popular trailheads.
  • Bring appropriate footwear for hiking or mountain biking, as trails vary in difficulty and terrain.
  • Check the park's event calendar for races, festivals, and other activities that may impact access to certain areas.
  • Consider purchasing an annual pass for frequent visits to save on entrance fees.
  • Visit the Alabama Wildlife Center to see rescued native birds and learn about avian rehabilitation.

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Getting There

  • Driving

    From I-65, take the Valleydale Road exit and head east. Follow Valleydale Road until it intersects with Hwy 31. Turn right onto Hwy 31 south, then turn left onto Terrace Drive, the main entrance to the park will be on your left. Note that Pelham residents get a discount on the carload admission fee. Carload admission is $10 for Pelham residents and $15 for non-residents.

  • Public Transport

    While there is no direct public transportation to Oak Mountain State Park, you can take a Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA) bus to a nearby location such as the intersection of Hwy 31 and Valleydale Road, and then take a taxi or ride-sharing service to the park entrance. A single BJCTA fare is $1.50. A ride-sharing service from that intersection to the park entrance will cost approximately $15-$25.

  • New Highway 280 Entrance

    A new entry gate off Highway 280 opened May 12, 2025. The new entry gate is on Belcher Drive off Highway 280, across from North Shelby Baptist Church. For day visitors it will cost $5 per car at the gate's cashless kiosk.

Discover more about Oak Mountain State Park

Oak Mountain State Park, encompassing nearly 10,000 acres in Pelham, Alabama, stands as the state's largest and most versatile outdoor recreation area. Established in 1927, the park's early development was significantly shaped by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), whose legacy can still be seen in the park's infrastructure.Today, Oak Mountain State Park provides a wide range of activities. Over 100 miles of trails cater to hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. The park boasts three lakes for fishing, swimming, and boating, including Double Oak Lake with its sandy beach and paddleboat rentals. Other attractions include the Alabama Wildlife Center, which rehabilitates injured birds, and the Oak Mountain Interpretive Center, offering insights into the park's natural history.Whether you're seeking a challenging hike to King's Chair Overlook, a relaxing day by the lake, or an educational experience with native wildlife, Oak Mountain State Park offers something for everyone. The park also hosts numerous events throughout the year, from BMX races to triathlons, ensuring a vibrant and engaging atmosphere. With its diverse landscape and rich history, Oak Mountain State Park is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

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