Chewacla State Park, River Region Travel Guide

4.6 (1850)

Explore nature's playground at Chewacla State Park in Auburn, AL: Hike scenic trails, swim in the lake, and discover historic CCC-era cabins.

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Chewacla State Park

Chewacla State Park, a 696-acre haven near Auburn, Alabama, offers a blend of natural beauty and recreational activities. Established in 1939 and developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), the park features a 26-acre lake, hiking and biking trails, and historic stone cabins, providing a refreshing escape for outdoor enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Chewacla State Park

124 Shell Toomer Pkwy, Auburn, Alabama, 36830, US
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Monday 8 am-8 pm
Tuesday 8 am-8 pm
Wednesday 8 am-8 pm
Thursday 8 am-8 pm
Friday 8 am-8 pm
Saturday 8 am-8 pm
Sunday 8 am-8 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Chewacla State Park.

Bring your own kayak or canoe to explore Lake Chewacla, as only non-motorized boats are permitted.
Check the park's website or call ahead for updated information on park hours, swimming conditions, and possible trail closures.
Consider booking cabins and campsites well in advance, especially for weekends and Auburn University home game weekends.
Take advantage of the park's proximity to Auburn and Opelika to explore local dining, shopping, and cultural attractions.

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Explore Chewacla State Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Chewacla State Park, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

From downtown Auburn, head south on College Street/Shell Toomer Parkway (AL-147). Continue for approximately 3 miles. Chewacla State Park will be on your left. The entrance fee is $4 for adults (ages 12-61), $2 for children (ages 4-11) and seniors (62+). Military personnel with ID and children under 4 are free.
Ride Share

From Auburn University's campus, a ride-sharing service (Uber/Lyft) to Chewacla State Park will take approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around $12-$18 for the one-way trip. Confirm the fare and destination with your driver before starting the ride.

Discover more about Chewacla State Park

Chewacla State Park, located on the southern edge of Auburn, Alabama, is a cherished destination offering 696 acres of outdoor recreation and scenic landscapes. The park's history dates back to the early 1840s with Wright's Mill, a local swimming spot, later transformed in 1935 by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). The CCC constructed the park's infrastructure, including six stone cottages, a dam creating the 26-acre Lake Chewacla, an arched masonry bridge, roads, and trails; the park officially opened in 1939.Today, Chewacla State Park is a popular spot for various activities. Lake Chewacla invites visitors to swim, fish (with an Alabama Fishing License), and enjoy non-motorized boating. Anglers can cast for largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish. The park boasts over 30 miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking, with options ranging from the easy Sweet Shrub Trail to more challenging mountain biking trails crafted by the Central Alabama Mountain Pedalers (CAMP).For overnight stays, Chewacla offers modern campgrounds, primitive camping areas, and the renovated historic stone cabins built by the CCC. These cabins provide a comfortable and historic lodging experience. Additionally, glamping sites with furnished safari tents are available. The park also features picnic areas, playgrounds, and a swimming area, making it ideal for family outings.Chewacla State Park has received accolades, including a National Recreation Trail designation in 2011 and a Tripadvisor's Traveler's Choice Award in 2020. Its blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and historical significance makes it a unique and valued destination in the Auburn-Opelika area.