Chewacla State Park, Piedmont Plateau Travel Guide

4.6 (1850)

Discover Auburn's natural beauty: hiking, biking, swimming, and history await at Chewacla State Park, a CCC-era treasure.

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Chewacla State Park

Chewacla State Park, a 696-acre oasis near Auburn, Alabama, offers a diverse landscape of recreational opportunities. Established in 1939 and developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), the park features a 26-acre lake, cascading waterfall, hiking and biking trails, and historic stone cabins, providing a perfect blend of nature and history.

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 canoe or kayak to explore Lake Chewacla, as there is no boat ramp, but hand-launched, non-motorized watercraft are welcome.
Check the park's event calendar for upcoming mountain biking events, group rides, and community celebrations.
Consider booking a stay in one of the historic CCC-era cabins for a unique and rustic lodging experience.
Be sure to hike to Chewacla Falls for a picturesque view and a refreshing swimming hole.
Entrance fees are required and can be paid upon arrival; adults (12-61) $4, children (4-11) and seniors (62+) $2.

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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 Pkwy/AL-147) for approximately 3 miles. Chewacla State Park will be on your left. Parking is available throughout the park near the lake, trails, and campgrounds. Expect to pay an entrance fee of $4 per person (ages 12-61), $2 for children (ages 4-11) and seniors (62+).
Public Transport

While there is no direct public transportation to Chewacla State Park, you can take an Uber or Lyft from Auburn University or downtown Auburn. The ride is approximately 3 miles and should cost between $8 and $15, depending on demand. Remember to factor in the park's entrance fee upon arrival: $4 for adults, $2 for children and seniors.
Walking

From the southern edge of Auburn University's campus, you can walk south along Shell Toomer Parkway (AL-147) to reach Chewacla State Park. The walk is approximately 3 miles and will take about an hour. Be aware that portions of the walk may have limited sidewalks. Remember to bring water and factor in the park's entrance fee of $4 for adults, $2 for children and seniors.

Discover more about Chewacla State Park

Chewacla State Park, a scenic retreat spanning 696 acres, lies a short drive from Auburn and Opelika, offering a diverse range of outdoor activities. Established in 1939, the park's origins trace back to the 1930s when the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) transformed the area, constructing trails, a dam, and several stone cottages, many of which still stand today.The park's centerpiece is the 26-acre Lake Chewacla, perfect for fishing (bass, bream, crappie, and catfish), swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. A beach area is designated for swimming, and non-motorized watercraft are welcome. The iconic Chewacla Falls, created by a CCC dam, provides a picturesque backdrop for relaxation and photography.Over 25 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails wind through the park's varied terrain, catering to all skill levels. From the beginner-friendly CAMPS Trail to more challenging routes like the Falls View Trail and the mountain biking trails maintained by the Central Alabama Mountain Pedalers (CAMP), there's something for everyone. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as deer, squirrels, chipmunks, and a variety of native flora and fauna.Chewacla State Park also offers a range of amenities, including a modern campground with full hookups for RVs, primitive camping areas, picnic areas with tables and grills, and a playground. The park's six historic stone cabins, built by the CCC, provide a unique lodging experience. A new, accessible playground near Chewacla Lake opened in 2025.