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Lake Lurleen State Park: A Lakeside Retreat

Discover Alabama's natural beauty at Lake Lurleen State Park: camping, fishing, hiking, and lakeside fun await in this scenic Tuscaloosa retreat.

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Escape to Lake Lurleen State Park, a 1,625-acre haven in Tuscaloosa County, Alabama, named after the state's first female governor, Lurleen Wallace. This scenic park features a 250-acre lake perfect for fishing, swimming, and boating, along with over 23 miles of multi-use trails for hiking and biking. With modern camping facilities and a range of outdoor activities, it's an ideal destination for relaxation and recreation.

A brief summary to Lake Lurleen State Park

Local tips

  • Purchase an Alabama State Fishing License if you plan to fish in Lake Lurleen.
  • Reserve campsites in advance, especially during weekends, holidays, and University of Alabama football season.
  • Explore the park's trails for hiking and biking, but be aware that some trails may be temporarily closed for construction.
  • Rent a boat to enjoy water activities on Lake Lurleen, but note that motorized water sports like jet skiing are not allowed.
  • Day use fees are $3 for adults and $1 for children and seniors.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Lake Lurleen State Park is located at 13226 Lake Lurleen Rd, Coker, AL 35452. From Tuscaloosa, take US Highway 82 northwest for approximately 9 miles. The park entrance is located off of Tuscaloosa County Road 49. Parking is available throughout the park, including near the park office and campsites. Expect possible delays on US-82 due to bridge replacement construction near Sam Sutton Road in Coker, ongoing until early 2027. Day use entrance fees are $3 for adults and $1 for children and seniors.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From downtown Tuscaloosa or the University of Alabama campus, taxi or ride-share services like Uber and Lyft are available. A taxi from Tuscaloosa to Lake Lurleen State Park is approximately 30 km and costs around $30. Be aware that prices may vary depending on demand and time of day. There are no additional mandatory access fees.

Unlock the Best of Lake Lurleen State Park

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Discover more about Lake Lurleen State Park

Lake Lurleen State Park, a 1,625-acre park located nine miles northwest of Tuscaloosa and Northport, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park's centerpiece is the 250-acre Lake Lurleen, created in 1952 by damming a tributary of Big Creek. The park was initially known as Tuscaloosa County Public Lake until 1970, when the state took control and added new facilities. In 1972, it was renamed in honor of Lurleen Wallace, Alabama's first female governor and a Tuscaloosa County native. Today, Lake Lurleen State Park offers a wide array of activities and amenities. The lake is stocked with largemouth bass, bream, catfish, and crappie, making it a popular spot for anglers. Boat launch areas, fishing piers, and boat rentals are available. Visitors can also enjoy swimming at the beach and bathhouse. For those who prefer land-based activities, the park boasts over 23 miles of multi-use trails suitable for hiking and mountain biking. These trails wind along the lake shoreline and through wooded areas, offering scenic views and varying levels of difficulty. The Tashka Trail system, designated as a National Recreation Trail in 2011, is a highlight for many visitors. The park also features a modern campground with 91 campsites for tents and RVs. These campsites offer water and electrical hookups, with some also providing sewer connections. Bathhouses are conveniently located throughout the campground. Other amenities include a nature center, picnic areas, play areas, and pavilions. Lake Lurleen State Park hosts annual events such as the Youth Fishing Tournament and the Lake Lurleen Triathlon. It's also a popular overnight spot during college football season, being located only 14 miles from the University of Alabama.

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