DeSoto State Park: A Lookout Mountain Retreat
Explore DeSoto State Park: A scenic mountain retreat with waterfalls, hiking trails, and historic CCC structures in northeast Alabama.
DeSoto State Park, nestled atop Lookout Mountain near Fort Payne, Alabama, offers a diverse landscape of forests, rivers, and waterfalls across its 3,502 acres. Developed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), the park provides a blend of natural beauty and historical significance, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
A brief summary to DeSoto State Park
- 7104 Desoto Pkwy NE, Fort Payne, Alabama, 35967, US
- +1256-845-0051
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-9 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-9 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-9 pm
- Thursday 9 am-9 pm
- Friday 9 am-9 pm
- Saturday 9 am-9 pm
- Sunday 9 am-9 pm
Local tips
- Visit the CCC Museum to learn about the park's history and the work of the Civilian Conservation Corps.
- Hike the Talmadge Butler Boardwalk Trail for an easy, accessible nature walk with excellent birdwatching opportunities.
- Cool off in the Olympic-size swimming pool during the summer months (open Memorial Day to Labor Day).
- Check the park's event calendar for interpretive programs and guided hikes throughout the year.
- Be aware that cell service can be spotty in some areas of the park.
Getting There
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Driving
DeSoto State Park is located approximately 8 miles northeast of Fort Payne, Alabama. From Fort Payne, take AL-35 N/AL-89 N, following signs for DeSoto State Park. The park entrance is well-marked. Once inside the park, follow the signs to reach specific destinations such as the lodge, campground, or DeSoto Falls. Parking is available at the entrance, near the swimming pool, picnic areas, and trailheads. A day-use fee of $4 per vehicle is charged at the entrance.
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Walking
Within DeSoto State Park, many attractions are accessible by walking. The Country Store & Information Center serves as a central hub. From there, you can walk to the main picnic area, the Talmadge Butler Boardwalk Trail, and the West Fork of Little River. Trails are marked with specific colors for easy navigation; pick up a map at the Lodge, Country Store, or Nature Center. The Talmadge Butler Boardwalk Trail is ADA-friendly.
Discover more about DeSoto State Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Willstown Mission Cemetery
5.5 km
Discover the rich history of Fort Payne, Alabama at the Willstown Mission Cemetery, a serene historical landmark steeped in heritage.
Fort Payne Hosiery Museum
10.2 km
Step back in time at the Fort Payne Hosiery Museum, exploring the city's rich textile history as the 'Sock Capital of the World'.
Fort Payne Opera House
10.3 km
Experience history and culture at Alabama's oldest continuously operating theater, the beautifully restored Fort Payne Opera House.
Council Bluff School
10.5 km
Discover Alabama's rural educational heritage at the Council Bluff School, the last one-room schoolhouse in DeKalb County.
Little River Falls Bridge Overlook
11.2 km
Witness the majestic Little River Falls from an easily accessible overlook, marking the start of the Little River Canyon in Fort Payne, Alabama.
DeKalb County Public Lake
18.0 km
Escape to DeKalb County Public Lake for a day of fishing and family fun in a beautiful Sand Mountain setting.
James H. "Sloppy" Floyd State Park
27.4 km
Discover a peaceful retreat in northwest Georgia with fishing, hiking, and scenic beauty at James H. "Sloppy" Floyd State Park.
Gorham's bluff
32.6 km
Discover history and scenic beauty at Gorham's Bluff in Pisgah, Alabama, offering panoramic views and a tranquil community experience.
Unmissable attractions to see
Screaming Eagle Aerial Adventures at DeSoto Falls State Park
0.9 km
Experience the thrill of zip-lining through the forest canopy at DeSoto Falls State Park, with stunning views and exciting aerial adventures.
DeSoto State Park Cabin #6
1.0 km
Experience rustic comfort in DeSoto State Park's Cabin #6: Hike, explore, and unwind amidst the natural beauty of Lookout Mountain.
Indian Falls
1.0 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Indian Falls, a hidden gem within DeSoto State Park, offering a peaceful escape into nature.
Civilian Conservation Corps Museum
1.5 km
Discover the legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps and its impact on DeSoto State Park.
Cloudmont Ski & Golf Resort
4.8 km
Alabama's only ski resort offering year-round recreation with skiing in winter and golf in warmer months, nestled in the scenic Appalachian foothills.
Little River Wildlife Preserve
6.1 km
Discover a peaceful natural escape at Little River Wildlife Preserve, your gateway to the stunning Little River Canyon in Fort Payne, Alabama.
A. A. Miller Dam
6.7 km
Discover the historic A. A. Miller Dam near DeSoto Falls, a scenic gateway to hiking trails, natural beauty, and a glimpse into Alabama's pioneering past.
DeSoto Falls
6.7 km
Discover the beauty of DeSoto Falls, one of Alabama's tallest waterfalls, offering hiking, history, and stunning views.
DeSoto Falls Trailhead
6.7 km
Explore Alabama's natural beauty at DeSoto Falls, where history and stunning scenery combine for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Desoto Falls Picnic Area-DeSoto State Park
6.7 km
Discover the beauty and history of DeSoto Falls, one of Alabama's tallest waterfalls, nestled in the scenic DeSoto State Park.
DeSoto Falls Picnic Area
6.7 km
Discover Alabama's natural beauty at DeSoto Falls Picnic Area: Majestic waterfalls, scenic trails, and historical charm await!
Little River Canyon National Preserve
9.3 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems of Little River Canyon National Preserve in Alabama, a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.
Fort Payne Depot Museum
10.2 km
Step back in time at the Fort Payne Depot Museum, exploring railroad history, Native American artifacts, and local heritage in a stunning 1891 depot.
Brow Park
10.2 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views from atop Lookout Mountain at Brow Park, a scenic overlook perfect for picnics and sunsets.
Alabama Walking Trail Park
10.2 km
A modern park in Fort Payne with playgrounds, walking trails, and a splash pad, perfect for family fun and outdoor activities.
Essential places to dine
Wingstop
7.4 km
Savor deliciously crafted chicken wings at Wingstop in Fort Payne - a paradise for wing lovers with unique flavors and casual vibes.
Pizza Hut
7.4 km
Enjoy delicious pizza and chicken wings at Pizza Hut in Fort Payne - the perfect spot for families seeking tasty American comfort food.
Arby's
7.4 km
Experience delicious fast food delights at Arby's in Fort Payne, where quick bites meet satisfying flavors.
Jack's
7.5 km
Experience authentic Southern fast food at Jack's in Fort Payne—where delicious breakfasts meet hearty hamburgers in a welcoming atmosphere.
Krystal
7.6 km
Experience the best of fast food at Krystal in Fort Payne—delicious burgers, chicken wings, and breakfast delights await you.
Barone's Pizza and Arcade
7.9 km
Discover delicious pizzas and endless fun at Barone's Pizza and Arcade in Fort Payne, AL - where family dining meets gaming excitement!
Tiger’s Inn
8.1 km
Experience authentic American dining at Tiger's Inn in Valley Head – where comfort food meets Southern hospitality.
Rib Shak
8.1 km
Discover authentic Southern barbecue at Rib Shak in Valley Head—where smoky flavors meet heartfelt hospitality.
MI Pizza
8.2 km
Experience delicious homemade pizzas in Valley Head at MI Pizza – where quality meets affordability.
Little Caesars Pizza
11.3 km
Discover deliciously affordable pizza at Little Caesars Pizza in Fort Payne - perfect for travelers craving fast food delights.
Jefferson's
12.4 km
Experience mouthwatering chicken wings and juicy burgers at Jefferson's in Fort Payne—where American flavors come alive!
Santa Fe Cattle Company
12.8 km
Discover delicious steaks and BBQ delights at Santa Fe Cattle Company in Fort Payne - perfect for families and food lovers alike.
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
12.9 km
Experience authentic Southern cuisine at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in Fort Payne - where nostalgia meets delicious comfort food.
Subway
31.0 km
Discover fresh flavors at Subway in Cedar Bluff - where customization meets convenience in every bite.
Smorgasbord at The Cove
31.9 km
Discover delicious local cuisine at Smorgasbord at The Cove in Cedar Bluff – where flavors come alive in every bite.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hammers Department Store
10.4 km
Discover the charm of Hammers Department Store in Fort Payne, Alabama, where unique finds and unbeatable prices await every shopper.
Rim of the Canyon Cafe & Grocery
11.1 km
Discover local flavors and convenience at Rim of the Canyon Cafe & Grocery in Fort Payne, Alabama – a perfect stop for travelers and food lovers alike.
Gaming Etc.
15.1 km
Discover Gaming Etc. in Fort Payne, Alabama - your ultimate destination for video games, comics, and collectibles in a vibrant community atmosphere.
Cupboard Antiques
26.0 km
Explore Cupboard Antiques in Fyffe, AL for a captivating collection of vintage treasures and unique home decor that tells a story.
The Cupboard LLC
26.0 km
Explore The Cupboard LLC in Fyffe, AL, a unique consignment shop filled with eclectic treasures and friendly service, perfect for every treasure hunter.
Harton Nursery & Grocery Center
27.7 km
Discover fresh produce, vibrant plants, and local charm at Harton Nursery & Grocery Center in Cedar Bluff, Alabama—a true hidden gem for travelers.
Global Electronics
29.3 km
Discover top-notch electronics and gadgets at Global Electronics in Cedar Bluff, Alabama, the ultimate destination for tech enthusiasts.
Missy's Fort Crowe Fireworks
30.3 km
Discover the ultimate fireworks destination at Missy's Fort Crowe Fireworks in Cedar Bluff, Alabama, offering a vast selection and exceptional service for all your celebration needs.
Donna’s bargain center
30.6 km
Explore unbeatable deals and hidden treasures at Donna’s Bargain Center in Cedar Bluff, Alabama - a shopper's paradise for every budget.
Country Store
31.1 km
Discover the Country Store in Cedar Bluff, Alabama - your go-to spot for convenience, local snacks, and friendly service on your travels.
Kellz Designz
31.2 km
Discover your creativity at Kellz Designz, Cedar Bluff's premier custom t-shirt store, where every design tells your story.
Weiss Mart Marina
31.2 km
Experience the charm of Weiss Mart Marina in Cedar Bluff, Alabama—a perfect blend of convenience, recreation, and scenic beauty.
Maria's Furniture
31.2 km
Explore a charming selection of Southern-style furniture and decor at Maria's Furniture in Cedar Bluff, Alabama, perfect for every home.
Piggly Wiggly
31.2 km
Experience southern hospitality and local flavors at Piggly Wiggly, Cedar Bluff's favorite grocery store with fresh produce and quality products.
The Rock
31.5 km
Discover local flavors and warm hospitality at The Rock grocery store in Sand Rock, Alabama, a perfect stop for travelers seeking authentic regional products.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Applebee's Grill + Bar
13.1 km
Experience classic American dining at Applebee's Grill + Bar in Fort Payne, where comfort food and a warm atmosphere await you.
Black's Karaoke
26.2 km
Experience the joy of singing at Black's Karaoke in Gaylesville, Alabama, where every night is a celebration of music and camaraderie.
Canyon Drive Burger Shack
26.4 km
Discover delicious, budget-friendly burgers at Canyon Drive Burger Shack in the heart of Gaylesville, Alabama - a tasty stop for every traveler.
Little River Marina & Lodge
29.2 km
Discover the charm of Little River Marina & Lodge in Cedar Bluff, Alabama—your ultimate destination for outdoor adventures and lakeside relaxation.
KT Pho Asian Restaurant - Cedar Bluff, AL
30.7 km
Discover the vibrant and authentic flavors of Asian cuisine at KT Pho Asian Restaurant in Cedar Bluff, AL.
The Burger Shack
30.8 km
Experience the ultimate burger bliss at The Burger Shack, Cedar Bluff's top destination for delicious American fast food and cozy dining.
La Cabaña
30.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at La Cabaña, Cedar Bluff's premier destination for authentic Latin American cuisine.
The Big Chill
31.0 km
Discover the sweet delights of The Big Chill in Cedar Bluff, Alabama, where every scoop of ice cream is a taste of happiness.
Tony's Pizza & Subs
31.2 km
Discover Cedar Bluff's cherished Tony's Pizza & Subs, where delicious pizza and subs await in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
WEISS LAKE MOTEL
31.2 km
Experience the serene beauty of Weiss Lake at Weiss Lake Motel, your cozy retreat in Cedar Bluff, Alabama, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
StateLine Tavern & Grill
31.7 km
Discover the lively ambiance at StateLine Tavern & Grill, where delicious food, karaoke, and live music await in Rome, Georgia.
The Cove at Riverside RV Park & Campground
32.0 km
Experience the tranquility of nature at The Cove at Riverside RV Park & Campground, where adventure and relaxation await in beautiful Alabama.
La Marina
37.1 km
Discover La Marina in Leesburg, Alabama, where authentic Mexican cuisine meets a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for food lovers of all kinds.
Whistle Stop Cafe'
37.9 km
Experience the heart of Southern cuisine at Whistle Stop Cafe, where delicious comfort food meets warm hospitality in Centre, Alabama.
Guppy's Seafood
38.3 km
Savor the taste of the sea at Guppy's Seafood in Centre, Alabama, where fresh ingredients meet Southern hospitality.
