Alabama Rock Zoo: A Stone Safari

The Alabama Rock Zoo is a whimsical roadside attraction located in Fackler, Alabama, where ordinary rocks are transformed into colorful creatures. This unique zoo began in the 1970s when Leonard Dawson, a local farmer, saw artistic potential in two large boulders that were moved onto his property during road construction. He painted the first boulder to resemble a rooster, and with that, the Rock Zoo was born. Over the years, the collection expanded to include a variety of animals, from a bull and giraffe to turtles, bears, and even sea creatures. Dawson's family continues to maintain the zoo, adding new creations and repainting the existing ones. Visitors are welcome to admire the rock animals, take photos, and even contribute their own painted rocks to the collection. The Rock Zoo is a testament to the power of imagination and the beauty of simple things. It's a place where visitors of all ages can come to appreciate the creativity and whimsy of this unusual roadside attraction. The zoo is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is free to visit.