Alabama Rock Zoo: A Stone Safari
Discover a whimsical roadside attraction in Fackler, Alabama, where ordinary rocks are transformed into colorful and imaginative animal creations.
The Alabama Rock Zoo is a charming and unusual roadside attraction located in Fackler, Alabama. This whimsical zoo features an assortment of rocks transformed into colorful animals through creative painting. The zoo began in the 1970s when Leonard Dawson, a local farmer, saw potential in two large boulders left on his property during the construction of County Road 32. He envisioned a bull in one and a rooster in the other, and with some cement and paint, the Rock Zoo was born. Over the years, the collection has grown to include a diverse menagerie of creatures, from a skunk to a shark, a giraffe, an elephant, and everything in between. Dawson's granddaughter, Tammy Murphey, and her family now maintain the zoo, carrying on his legacy. Visitors come from far and wide to admire the painted rocks, take photos, and even add their own creations to the display. The Rock Zoo is a testament to the power of imagination and the joy of simple creativity. It's a place where visitors can escape the ordinary and embrace the whimsical, making it a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike. The zoo is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily and is free to visit.
Local tips
- The Rock Zoo is free, but consider leaving a small donation to help the family maintain the attraction.
- Bring your own painted rock to add to the collection and leave your mark on this quirky roadside attraction.
- Visit during daylight hours for the best viewing experience, as the zoo is not illuminated at night.
A brief summary to Rock Zoo
- 3215 Co Rd 32, Fackler, Alabama, 35746, US
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Getting There
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Driving
The Alabama Rock Zoo is located on County Road 32 in Fackler, Alabama. From downtown Fackler, head east on County Road 32. The Rock Zoo will be on your left. There is no dedicated parking lot, so park on the side of the road. The attraction is free.
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Public Transport
While Fackler has limited public transportation, the most common option is the bus. Check for bus routes that run along County Road 32 or connect to nearby towns like Scottsboro or Huntsville. From the bus stop, you may need to walk a short distance to reach the Rock Zoo. Bus fares typically range from $1.25 to $2.00 for a single ride.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Fackler, but their availability may be limited due to the rural location. A short taxi ride from downtown Fackler to the Rock Zoo would cost approximately $15-$20. Be sure to confirm availability and pricing before you start your trip.
