Oak Mountain State Park: Alabama's Outdoor Playground
Discover Alabama's largest state park: hiking, biking, wildlife, and outdoor adventures await just south of Birmingham at Oak Mountain State Park.
Escape to Oak Mountain State Park, Alabama's largest state park, offering over 9,940 acres of outdoor adventure. Located just south of Birmingham, the park features hiking, biking, swimming, fishing, and a variety of attractions for all ages. From the Alabama Wildlife Center to Peavine Falls, discover the natural beauty and recreational opportunities within this vast park.
A brief summary to Oak Mountain State Park
- 200 Terrace Dr, Pelham, Alabama, 35124, US
- +1205-620-2520
- Visit website
- Monday 7 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-7 pm
- Thursday 7 am-7 pm
- Friday 7 am-7 pm
- Saturday 7 am-7 pm
- Sunday 7 am-7 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure parking at popular trailheads.
- Bring appropriate footwear for hiking or mountain biking, as trails vary in difficulty and terrain.
- Check the park's event calendar for races, festivals, and other activities that may impact access to certain areas.
- Consider purchasing an annual pass for frequent visits to save on entry fees.
- Visit the Alabama Wildlife Center to learn about native birds and see the rehabilitation efforts.
Getting There
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Driving
From I-65, take Exit 242 for Valleydale Road and head east. Continue onto Double Oak Lane. Turn left onto Cahaba Valley Road/AL-119 N. Turn right onto Oak Mountain State Park Road. Continue onto Terrace Drive. Follow signs to the park entrance. Alternatively, from US-280, turn onto AL-119 S/Cahaba Valley Rd. In approximately 5 miles, turn left onto Oak Mountain State Park Road, then continue onto Terrace Drive. Follow signs to the park entrance. As of May 12, 2025, a new entry gate is open off Highway 280 on Belcher Drive, across from North Shelby Baptist Church. Entrance fee is $5 per vehicle for Pelham residents and $15 for non-residents. Parking is available throughout the park at various trailheads and attractions. Expect delays during peak times and special events.
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Ride-sharing
Request a ride to the Oak Mountain State Park main entrance at 200 Terrace Drive, Pelham, AL 35124. From the drop-off point, follow signs to the visitor center or your desired trailhead. A ride-sharing trip from downtown Birmingham to Oak Mountain State Park typically costs $30 - $50, depending on demand and time of day. Note that ride-sharing availability within the park may be limited, so plan accordingly for your departure.
Discover more about Oak Mountain State Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Monte D'Oro Historical Marker
10.4 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.
The Old Mill
16.4 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.
Hoist House at Redding Shaft Mine
18.1 km
Explore Birmingham's mining history at the Hoist House, a preserved landmark in Red Mountain Park offering a glimpse into the past.
HIGHLAND HISTORIC DISTRICT
18.5 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.
Five Points South Historical Marker
19.2 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.
Oldest house in Shades Valley/Irondale Furnace Commissary
19.3 km
Explore the Irondale Furnace Commissary, the oldest house in Shades Valley, a historical landmark reflecting Alabama's industrial heritage.
The Jordan Home (Dr. Mortimer Jordan)
19.5 km
Discover the elegance of Birmingham's past at the Jordan Home, a Neo-Classical landmark in the historic Highland Park neighborhood.
Birmingham Historic Touring Company
19.7 km
Explore Birmingham's history with guided tours that reveal the city’s rich heritage, iconic landmarks, and captivating stories from the past.
Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s ‘Letter From Birmingham Jail’ Marker
19.7 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.
Sloss Mines Hoist House
19.8 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.
Dread River Distilling Company
20.1 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Dread River Distilling Company in Birmingham, AL, where craft spirits meet culinary excellence in a lively atmosphere.
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.
Avondale Park Historic District
20.9 km
Discover historic architecture, vibrant green spaces, and a rich cultural heritage in Birmingham's charming Avondale Park Historic District.
Alabama Peanut Co.
21.0 km
Discover the flavors of Birmingham at Alabama Peanut Co., where history meets Southern cuisine in a charming setting.
The Woodward Building
21.0 km
Birmingham's first skyscraper, the Woodward Building, showcases Chicago-style architecture and stands as a landmark of the 'Heaviest Corner on Earth'.
Unmissable attractions to see
Oak Mountain Cabins
1.9 km
Lakeside cabin rentals in Oak Mountain State Park, Alabama's largest state park, offering a relaxing nature escape and outdoor adventure.
Maggie's Glen
2.1 km
Discover tranquility in Oak Mountain's Maggie's Glen: a serene hiking destination with diverse flora and a peaceful stream, perfect for nature lovers.
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 Interpretive Center
2.5 km
Explore Alabama's natural history at Oak Mountain Interpretive Center, offering interactive exhibits and educational programs for all ages!
Oak Mountain Beach
2.6 km
A perfect summer escape within Oak Mountain State Park, offering swimming, sunbathing, and family-friendly fun on a beautiful sandy beach.
Treetop Nature Trail of Alabama Wildlife Center
2.7 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 State Park Basketball Courts
2.8 km
Enjoy a game of basketball surrounded by the natural beauty of Oak Mountain State Park in Pelham, Alabama.
Oak Mountain State Park Playground
3.1 km
A perfect family destination inside Oak Mountain State Park, offering a fun, safe, and accessible playground experience for children of all ages.
Heardmont Park
3.2 km
Discover a vibrant recreational hub in Birmingham, AL, with sports fields, walking trails, playgrounds, and a senior center for all ages.
Kings Chair
3.7 km
Hike to King's Chair in Oak Mountain State Park for breathtaking views of Alabama's natural beauty. A moderate trail with a rewarding panorama.
Peavine Falls at Oak Mountain State Park
4.1 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.
Oak Mountain
4.6 km
Discover Alabama's largest state park: hiking, biking, lakes, wildlife, and endless outdoor adventures await near Birmingham in Pelham.
Front Gate at Oak Mountain State Park
4.7 km
Discover Alabama's largest state park: a haven for outdoor adventures, scenic beauty, and diverse recreational activities near Birmingham.
Oak Mountain Amphitheatre
5.0 km
Alabama's former premier outdoor music venue, hosting legendary artists in rock, country, pop, and R&B for decades. A cherished memory for music fans.
Oak Mountain State Fair
5.2 km
Experience classic fairground fun with thrilling rides, games, delicious food, and live entertainment at Oak Mountain State Fair in Pelham, AL.
Essential places to dine
The Grille
2.7 km
Experience culinary excellence at The Grille in Pelham - where local flavors meet exceptional dining.
Creekside BBQ
4.6 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Creekside BBQ in Pelham - where every bite tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Texas Roadhouse
4.7 km
Discover the best of American cuisine at Texas Roadhouse in Pelham - where flavorful steaks meet warm hospitality.
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
4.7 km
Savor the taste of traditional American cuisine at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in Pelham—where Southern charm meets delicious comfort food.
Chick-fil-A
5.1 km
Discover Chick-fil-A in Pelham: where delicious chicken meets family-friendly dining in a vibrant atmosphere.
Margarita Grill
5.4 km
Discover flavorful Tex-Mex cuisine at Margarita Grill in Pelham – where vibrant dishes meet refreshing cocktails in a lively atmosphere.
First Watch
7.3 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
7.9 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
8.3 km
Discover exquisite American cuisine at J. Alexander's Restaurant in Hoover - where tradition meets taste in every bite.
Capella Pizzeria
9.9 km
Discover Birmingham's hidden gem for pizza lovers at Capella Pizzeria—delicious flavors await in every slice!
Bellini's Ristorante & Bar
10.0 km
Discover the taste of Italy at Bellini's Ristorante & Bar—where every meal is a celebration of flavor and tradition.
Saigon Noodle House
10.4 km
Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Saigon Noodle House in Birmingham—where flavorful dishes meet warm hospitality.
Tre Luna Bar and Kitchen
11.0 km
Experience the fusion of Southern comfort food and Italian cuisine at Tre Luna Bar and Kitchen in Hoover—where every meal is a celebration.
Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux - Stadium Trace Restaurant
11.1 km
Dive into delicious Southern flavors at Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux in Hoover—a sports lover's paradise with an inviting atmosphere.
Perry's Steakhouse & Grille
11.4 km
Experience culinary excellence at Perry's Steakhouse & Grille in Birmingham – where exquisite steaks meet exceptional service.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Premium Products
2.7 km
Discover Birmingham's Premium Products: Your Destination for Quality Herbs and Cannabis Accessories in Alabama.
Attic Antiques
3.8 km
Explore Attic Antiques in Birmingham for a curated selection of vintage treasures, unique decor, and rare collectibles that evoke nostalgia.
Oak Mountain Hobbies & Toys - Drones, RC Cars, Trains, Parts & Service Shop
6.5 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
6.5 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and stylish women's clothing at Gifted, Pelham's charming boutique that celebrates local artisans and creativity.
The Beveled Edge
6.6 km
Explore The Beveled Edge in Birmingham, AL – a unique picture frame shop filled with collectibles and artistic treasures for art lovers.
El Viejo Este LLC
6.7 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
6.9 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
7.6 km
Explore Encore Home in Pelham, Alabama: A unique gift shop offering antique furniture, art, and home goods for the discerning traveler.
Vintage Interiors
7.8 km
Explore Vintage Interiors in Pelham for a unique collection of antique furniture and decor that tells a story, perfect for home styling or memorable souvenirs.
Nostalgia
8.4 km
Discover the joy of childhood at Nostalgia, Pelham's beloved toy store filled with classic and contemporary toys for every age.
Elegant Jewelers
8.6 km
Discover the exquisite craftsmanship and personalized service at Elegant Jewelers in Riverchase Galleria, Birmingham's premier destination for fine jewelry.
Old Navy
8.6 km
Explore Old Navy in Hoover, a vibrant clothing store offering stylish and affordable fashion for the whole family in a welcoming environment.
Windsor
8.7 km
Discover the ultimate fashion haven at Windsor in Hoover, offering an exquisite collection of dresses, accessories, and more for every occasion.
Riverchase Galleria
8.8 km
Discover the Riverchase Galleria: a premier shopping mall in Hoover, Alabama, with diverse stores, dining, and entertainment for every tourist.
J&V clothes
8.8 km
Discover the latest trends at J&V Clothes in Birmingham, Alabama – your ultimate fashion destination for stylish clothing and accessories.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hooters
5.0 km
Experience the thrill of sports and savor delicious American cuisine at Hooters in Pelham, Alabama, a must-visit sports bar for all food lovers.
Applebee's Grill + Bar
5.0 km
Savor the authentic flavors of American cuisine at Applebee's Grill + Bar in Pelham, Alabama, where great food meets a friendly atmosphere.
Taco Mac Pelham
5.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and mouth-watering American cuisine at Taco Mac Pelham, your go-to sports bar in Alabama for wings and fun.
Ragtime Cafe
5.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at Ragtime Cafe, Birmingham's lively bar and restaurant perfect for casual dining and social gatherings.
The Chandelier Lounge
5.5 km
Discover the elegance of The Chandelier Lounge in Pelham, Alabama, where exquisite cocktails and stunning ambiance create unforgettable evenings.
The Beer Hog
6.1 km
Explore craft beer culture at The Beer Hog in Pelham, Alabama, where a lively atmosphere meets an exceptional selection of brews.
Blue's Bourbon & Brews
6.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife and Southern charm of Blue's Bourbon & Brews in Pelham, Alabama, where great bourbon and live music await you.
Pub 261
6.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Pub 261 in Birmingham, where delicious food and refreshing drinks create the perfect local experience.
Perfect Note
7.2 km
Discover Perfect Note in Hoover, Alabama – a lively bar and restaurant offering delicious food, craft drinks, and enchanting live music.
Gabriel's Cafe
8.1 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
8.5 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
9.0 km
Experience the excitement of live sports and delicious American cuisine at Twin Peaks, Hoover's ultimate sports bar destination.
On Tap Sports Cafe - Inverness/280
9.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious menu at On Tap Sports Cafe, a top sports bar in Birmingham, Alabama.
Lil Bits Tavern
9.6 km
Discover the charm of Lil Bits Tavern, Pelham's favorite bar for local drinks and delicious bites in a cozy atmosphere.
The Anvil Pub and Grill
9.9 km
Experience the best of Birmingham dining at The Anvil Pub and Grill, where delicious food meets a friendly atmosphere.
