Front Gate at Oak Mountain State Park
Discover Alabama's largest state park: a haven for outdoor adventures, scenic beauty, and diverse recreational activities near Birmingham.
The front gate marks the entry point to Oak Mountain State Park, Alabama's largest state park, offering a diverse range of outdoor activities and stunning natural landscapes just south of Birmingham. It's the starting point for adventures within the park's nearly 10,000 acres.
A brief summary to Front Gate at Oak Mountain State Park
- 1 John Findlay Dr, Pelham, Alabama, 35124, US
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure parking at popular trailheads.
- Bring appropriate footwear and gear for your chosen activity, whether it's hiking boots for the trails or swimwear for the lake.
- Check the park's event calendar for races, festivals, and other activities that may impact access to certain areas.
- Take advantage of the park's diverse offerings, from the Alabama Wildlife Center to the BMX track, to create a well-rounded experience.
- Consider purchasing an annual park pass for unlimited access to Oak Mountain and other Alabama State Parks.
Getting There
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Driving
From Birmingham, take US-280 East towards Childersburg. Follow US-280 E until you see signs for Oak Mountain State Park. Turn onto John Findlay Drive and follow it to the park's front gate. Parking is available throughout the park, but it's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, as lots can fill up quickly. The entrance fee is $5 per adult. Additional parking is available at the new Belcher Tract entrance off Highway 280. The new entry gate is on Belcher Drive off Highway 280, across from North Shelby Baptist Church. The fee is $5 per car at the gate's cashless kiosk.
Discover more about Front Gate at Oak Mountain State Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Monte D'Oro Historical Marker
10.0 km
Discover the Monte D'Oro Historical Marker in Hoover, Alabama – a captivating glimpse into the rich history and cultural heritage of this vibrant community.
Hoist House at Redding Shaft Mine
16.5 km
Explore Birmingham's mining history at the Hoist House, a preserved landmark in Red Mountain Park offering a glimpse into the past.
Sloss Mines Hoist House
16.8 km
Explore Birmingham's industrial heritage at the Sloss Mines Hoist House, a window into the region's iron ore mining past on Red Mountain.
The Old Mill
18.1 km
Discover the historic charm of The Old Mill in Mountain Brook, a picturesque landmark offering a glimpse into Birmingham's past and a tranquil escape into nature's beauty.
Birmingham Historic Touring Company
18.7 km
Explore Birmingham's history with guided tours that reveal the city’s rich heritage, iconic landmarks, and captivating stories from the past.
Owen Plantation House
19.3 km
Explore the Owen Plantation House, a captivating historical landmark in Bessemer, Alabama, rich in Southern heritage and architectural beauty.
Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s ‘Letter From Birmingham Jail’ Marker
20.0 km
Explore the profound legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at the historic 'Letter from Birmingham Jail' Marker, a cornerstone of America's civil rights movement.
Five Points South Historical Marker
20.1 km
Discover the historical essence of Birmingham at Five Points South Historical Marker, a vibrant symbol of the city's rich past and cultural evolution.
HIGHLAND HISTORIC DISTRICT
20.5 km
Discover the charm of the Highland Historic District in Birmingham, Alabama, where history and Southern culture come alive through stunning architecture and vibrant community life.
Falling Rock Falls Trail Head
20.5 km
Discover a hidden waterfall near Montevallo, Alabama, offering a refreshing hike and stunning natural beauty in the Cahaba River WMA.
The Jordan Home (Dr. Mortimer Jordan)
20.7 km
Discover the legacy of Dr. Mortimer Jordan at his historic Birmingham home, a stunning example of Greek Revival architecture in the heart of the charming Highland Park neighborhood.
Arlington Antebellum Home & Gardens
20.8 km
Explore the enchanting Arlington Antebellum Home & Gardens, a historical gem in Birmingham, AL, showcasing Southern elegance and rich cultural heritage.
The American Village
20.8 km
Experience American history firsthand at this immersive living history museum in Montevallo, Alabama. Reenactments, landmarks, and education await!
Dread River Distilling Company
21.1 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Dread River Distilling Company in Birmingham, AL, where craft spirits meet culinary excellence in a lively atmosphere.
Oldest house in Shades Valley/Irondale Furnace Commissary
21.4 km
Explore the Irondale Furnace Commissary, the oldest house in Shades Valley, a historical landmark reflecting Alabama's industrial heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Oak Mountain Amphitheatre
1.4 km
Alabama's premier outdoor music venue for decades, hosting legendary artists and creating unforgettable concert experiences before its closure in May 2025, leaving a lasting legacy in Birmingham's cultural scene.
Oak Mountain State Fair
1.5 km
Experience classic fairground fun at Oak Mountain State Fair in Pelham, AL, with rides, games, food, and live entertainment.
Oak Mountain State Park Playground
1.7 km
A delightful playground within Oak Mountain State Park, offering swings, slides, and a seesaw for endless family fun in a scenic natural setting.
Oak Mountain State Park Basketball Courts
2.0 km
Shoot hoops surrounded by nature's beauty at Oak Mountain State Park's basketball courts. A perfect blend of recreation and scenic views!
Treetop Nature Trail of Alabama Wildlife Center
2.0 km
Observe majestic birds of prey up close on an elevated boardwalk at Alabama Wildlife Center's Treetop Nature Trail in Oak Mountain State Park.
Oak Mountain Beach
2.2 km
Sandy shores, swimming, and sunbathing await at Oak Mountain Beach in Oak Mountain State Park, a perfect family-friendly getaway in Pelham, Alabama.
Oak Mountain Interpretive Center
2.4 km
Explore Alabama's natural history at Oak Mountain Interpretive Center, offering interactive exhibits and educational programs for all ages within a beautiful park setting.
Alabama Wildlife Center
2.5 km
Discover Alabama's avian wildlife at the Alabama Wildlife Center, dedicated to rehabilitation, education, and conservation in Oak Mountain State Park.
Oak Mountain
2.5 km
Explore Alabama's largest state park: hiking, biking, swimming, and nature await just south of Birmingham at Oak Mountain!
Peavine Falls at Oak Mountain State Park
2.5 km
Discover the beauty of Peavine Falls at Oak Mountain State Park, a natural oasis offering hiking, scenic views, and a refreshing escape near Birmingham.
Pelham City Park
3.3 km
Pelham City Park: A vibrant community hub offering diverse recreational activities, sports facilities, and community events in the heart of Pelham, Alabama.
Oak Mountain State Park
4.7 km
Explore Alabama's largest state park: hiking, biking, lakes, and wildlife await near Birmingham.
Cahaba Riverchase Greenway Trailhead
5.6 km
Discover a peaceful.5-mile paved trail along the Cahaba River in Hoover, perfect for a quick nature escape and enjoying local wetlands.
Chace Lake Park
5.9 km
Enjoy a peaceful walk or workout at this community park in Hoover, AL, featuring trails, fitness stations, and a relaxing atmosphere.
Oak Mountain Cabins
6.4 km
Escape to nature in fully-equipped cabins at Oak Mountain State Park, Alabama's largest state park, offering tranquility and outdoor adventures.
Essential places to dine
Creekside BBQ
1.6 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Creekside BBQ in Pelham - where every bite tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Chick-fil-A
1.6 km
Discover Chick-fil-A in Pelham: where delicious chicken meets family-friendly dining in a vibrant atmosphere.
Margarita Grill
1.7 km
Discover flavorful Tex-Mex cuisine at Margarita Grill in Pelham – where vibrant dishes meet refreshing cocktails in a lively atmosphere.
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
1.9 km
Savor the taste of traditional American cuisine at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in Pelham—where Southern charm meets delicious comfort food.
Texas Roadhouse
2.2 km
Discover the best of American cuisine at Texas Roadhouse in Pelham - where flavorful steaks meet warm hospitality.
The Grille
2.3 km
Experience culinary excellence at The Grille in Pelham - where local flavors meet exceptional dining.
First Watch
5.7 km
Experience delightful breakfasts and healthy brunch options at First Watch in Hoover - perfect for families and food lovers alike.
Jim 'N Nick's Bar-B-Q
6.5 km
Experience the best of Southern barbecue at Jim 'N Nick's Bar-B-Q in Hoover—where every bite tells a story of tradition and flavor.
J. Alexander's Restaurant
6.8 km
Discover exquisite American cuisine at J. Alexander's Restaurant in Hoover - where tradition meets taste in every bite.
Tre Luna Bar and Kitchen
7.2 km
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Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux - Stadium Trace Restaurant
7.5 km
Dive into delicious Southern flavors at Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux in Hoover—a sports lover's paradise with an inviting atmosphere.
Capella Pizzeria
13.4 km
Discover Birmingham's hidden gem for pizza lovers at Capella Pizzeria—delicious flavors await in every slice!
Saigon Noodle House
13.6 km
Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Saigon Noodle House in Birmingham—where flavorful dishes meet warm hospitality.
Perry's Steakhouse & Grille
14.0 km
Experience culinary excellence at Perry's Steakhouse & Grille in Birmingham – where exquisite steaks meet exceptional service.
Bellini's Ristorante & Bar
14.1 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Oak Mountain Hobbies & Toys - Drones, RC Cars, Trains, Parts & Service Shop
1.8 km
Discover a world of creativity and fun at Oak Mountain Hobbies & Toys, your ultimate destination for drones, RC cars, and model trains in Pelham, Alabama.
Gifted
1.8 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and stylish women's clothing at Gifted, Pelham's charming boutique that celebrates local artisans and creativity.
El Viejo Este LLC
2.0 km
Explore the essence of the Wild West at El Viejo Este LLC, Pelham's premier Western apparel store, offering cowboy hats, boots, and Southern charm.
Myrtle Jane's South
2.2 km
Explore Myrtle Jane's South, an antique store in Pelham, Alabama, featuring unique vintage finds and charming home decor that tells a story.
Encore Home
2.9 km
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Vintage Interiors
3.1 km
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Nostalgia
3.7 km
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The Beveled Edge
3.7 km
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Premium Products
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Academy Sports + Outdoors
6.5 km
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Elegant Jewelers
7.1 km
Discover the exquisite craftsmanship and personalized service at Elegant Jewelers in Riverchase Galleria, Birmingham's premier destination for fine jewelry.
World Market
7.2 km
Explore World Market in Hoover, Alabama, for a unique selection of global home decor, furniture, and gourmet delights, perfect for every taste and budget.
Old Navy
7.2 km
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Windsor
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Discover the ultimate fashion haven at Windsor in Hoover, offering an exquisite collection of dresses, accessories, and more for every occasion.
Riverchase Galleria
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Discover the Riverchase Galleria: a premier shopping mall in Hoover, Alabama, with diverse stores, dining, and entertainment for every tourist.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Taco Mac Pelham
1.3 km
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Hooters
1.6 km
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The Beer Hog
1.7 km
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The Chandelier Lounge
1.7 km
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Pub 261
3.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Pub 261 in Birmingham, where delicious food and refreshing drinks create the perfect local experience.
Blue's Bourbon & Brews
3.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife and Southern charm of Blue's Bourbon & Brews in Pelham, Alabama, where great bourbon and live music await you.
Ragtime Cafe
3.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at Ragtime Cafe, Birmingham's lively bar and restaurant perfect for casual dining and social gatherings.
Lil Bits Tavern
5.1 km
Discover the charm of Lil Bits Tavern, Pelham's favorite bar for local drinks and delicious bites in a cozy atmosphere.
Perfect Note
5.9 km
Discover Perfect Note in Hoover, Alabama – a lively bar and restaurant offering delicious food, craft drinks, and enchanting live music.
El Santuario
6.0 km
Discover El Santuario in Pelham, Alabama - the perfect bar for vibrant nightlife, delicious drinks, and unforgettable dance parties.
Goodfellas Social Club
6.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and great drinks at Goodfellas Social Club in Helena, Alabama – a perfect spot for nightlife and entertainment.
The Wine Bunker - Whiskey & Wine Bar
6.9 km
Discover The Wine Bunker, the perfect spot in Alabaster, Alabama, for whiskey and wine lovers seeking a cozy atmosphere and exceptional selections.
Gabriel's Cafe
7.0 km
Discover Gabriel's Cafe in Hoover, Alabama - your go-to bar for delicious drinks, fun events, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Dave & Buster's Birmingham
7.1 km
Experience the ultimate fusion of dining and entertainment at Dave & Buster's Birmingham with delicious food, thrilling games, and a lively atmosphere.
Twin Peaks
7.2 km
Experience the excitement of live sports and delicious American cuisine at Twin Peaks, Hoover's ultimate sports bar destination.
