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Ten Islands Historic Park: Where History Meets Nature

Explore Alabama's Ten Islands Historic Park: A blend of history, nature, and recreation on the scenic Neely Henry Lake near Ragland.

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Ten Islands Historic Park near Ragland, Alabama, offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Situated on Neely Henry Lake, the park features a sandy swimming beach, fishing pier, boat ramp, and nature trails, inviting visitors to explore its rich past and scenic surroundings.

A brief summary to Ten Islands Historic Park

  • Monday 5 am-9 pm
  • Tuesday 5 am-9 pm
  • Wednesday 5 am-9 pm
  • Thursday 5 am-9 pm
  • Friday 5 am-9 pm
  • Saturday 5 am-9 pm
  • Sunday 5 am-9 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially during peak season, as parking spaces are limited.
  • Bring swimwear and sunscreen to enjoy the sandy swimming beach.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the park's scenic picnic areas.
  • Explore the nature trails for birdwatching and observing local flora and fauna; wear comfortable shoes.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Ragland, Alabama, head east on AL-144 for approximately 5 miles. Ten Islands Historic Park will be on your left. Parking is free at the entrance, but spaces are limited, especially during peak season. Nearby street parking is also available.

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Discover more about Ten Islands Historic Park

Ten Islands Historic Park, nestled on the shores of Neely Henry Lake near Ragland, Alabama, is a captivating destination where history and nature intertwine. This day-use park provides a unique opportunity to explore a site with a rich and varied past, dating back thousands of years. The park's name originates from the Creek Indian village of "Oti Palin," meaning Ten Islands, reflecting its beginnings as a series of islands along the Coosa River. While most of these islands are now submerged following the construction of Neely Henry Dam, the area retains its historical significance and natural beauty. Evidence suggests settlements dating back to Paleo, Archaic, Woodland, and Mississippian Indian periods. In 1540, Hernando de Soto is believed to have crossed the Coosa River here, marking an early chapter in European exploration. During the Creek War of 1813-1814, General Andrew Jackson established Fort Strother near Ten Islands, using it as a strategic supply base. Figures like Davy Crockett and Sam Houston passed through this area during that time. The park also witnessed a Civil War skirmish in 1864. Today, Ten Islands Historic Park is a peaceful retreat where visitors can immerse themselves in the outdoors. The park features a sandy swimming beach, perfect for cooling off on a hot day. Anglers can cast their lines from the fishing pier or along the shoreline, hoping to reel in bass, catfish, and other local species. A boat ramp provides easy access to Neely Henry Lake for boating and watersports enthusiasts. For those who prefer to stay on land, the park offers a network of nature trails that wind through wooded areas and along the lake's edge.

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