Paul M. Grist State Park: A Tranquil Alabama Retreat
Discover Alabama's natural beauty at Paul M. Grist State Park: a perfect spot for fishing, camping, hiking, and family fun in a tranquil setting.
Paul M. Grist State Park, nestled in Dallas County, Alabama, offers a serene escape with its 100-acre lake, surrounded by 1,080 acres of wooded landscape. Originally established as Valley Creek State Park in the 1930s, it was later renamed to honor Paul Malone Grist, a YMCA director and community leader. The park provides a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, camping, and hiking.
A brief summary to Paul M. Grist State Park
- 1546 Grist Rd, Valley Grande, Alabama, 36701, US
- +1334-872-5846
- 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
- Bring your fishing gear to take advantage of the well-stocked lake; fishing tackle and bait are available at the park office.
- Consider reserving a campsite in advance, especially if visiting during peak season, to secure a spot with lake views.
- Pack comfortable shoes for hiking the extensive trail system and exploring the diverse flora and fauna.
- Visit nearby Selma to explore historic sites such as the Old Depot Museum and the National Voting Rights Museum.
Getting There
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Driving
Paul M. Grist State Park is located approximately 15 minutes northeast of Valley Grande, Alabama. From Valley Grande, head north on AL-22 towards Selma. Turn right onto County Road 44, then turn right onto Grist Rd. Follow Grist Rd to the park entrance. Parking is available near the main facilities and trailheads. There are no tolls on this route. Park admission is $3 for adults (ages 13-61) and $2 for children (ages 6-12).
Discover more about Paul M. Grist State Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tally-Ho Restaurant
18.4 km
Discover Tally-Ho Restaurant in Selma, AL, where succulent steaks and a warm atmosphere create an unforgettable dining experience.
Selma Plaza
18.8 km
Experience shopping, dining, and local culture at Selma Plaza, a vibrant mall in Selma, Alabama perfect for tourists.
The Treasure Box Flea Market
18.9 km
Discover unique vintage finds, antiques, and hidden treasures at The Treasure Box Flea Market in Selma, AL – a haven for bargain hunters!
Quality Inn Edmund Pettus Bridge area
18.9 km
Experience Southern hospitality and explore Selma's historic sites at Quality Inn near the Edmund Pettus Bridge.
Selma Mall
19.0 km
Explore Selma Mall in Alabama: Your ultimate shopping destination with diverse stores, dining options, and family-friendly entertainment.
Huddle House
19.1 km
Experience the heart of Southern hospitality at Huddle House in Selma, Alabama, where delicious American comfort food awaits you.
Junebugg's Flea & Antique Mall
19.3 km
Discover unique antiques and vintage treasures at Junebugg's Flea & Antique Mall in Selma, AL – a delightful experience for treasure hunters and nostalgia seekers.
American Inn of Selma
19.5 km
Discover the heart of Selma, Alabama, with a comfortable stay at the American Inn, your gateway to historical exploration and local charm.
Candy Lady
19.7 km
Experience the sweetness of Selma at Candy Lady, where delightful ice cream flavors and a charming atmosphere await every visitor.
Hampton Inn Selma
19.8 km
Experience comfort and Southern hospitality at the Hampton Inn Selma, your perfect base for exploring Alabama's historic sites and vibrant culture.
Lannie's Bar-B-Q Spot
20.4 km
Discover authentic Southern barbecue at Lannie's Bar-B-Q Spot in Selma, Alabama, a must-visit for food lovers seeking delicious flavors.
Edmundite Missions
20.5 km
Discover the heart of community service at Edmundite Missions in Selma, Alabama, where faith meets action for social justice.
John Tyler Morgan House
21.2 km
Visit the historic John Tyler Morgan House in Selma, Alabama, home to a Confederate General and long-serving U.S. Senator.
Temple Mishkan Israel
21.3 km
Discover Temple Mishkan Israel in Selma, AL: a historic synagogue, a monument to Jewish heritage, and a landmark of Civil Rights history.
Mabry-Jones House
21.3 km
Discover Selma's history at the Mabry-Jones House, a beautiful example of Greek Revival architecture and home to notable figures.
Unmissable attractions to see
Tabernacle Baptist Church
20.5 km
Visit Tabernacle Baptist Church in Selma, a historic landmark and pivotal site in the Civil Rights Movement, showcasing courage and resilience.
Brown Chapel AME Church
21.2 km
Visit the historic Brown Chapel AME Church in Selma, Alabama, a pivotal landmark in the Civil Rights Movement and the fight for voting rights.
Sturdivant Hall Museum
21.3 km
Experience the grandeur of the Old South at Sturdivant Hall, a beautifully preserved Greek Revival mansion in historic Selma, Alabama.
Old Depot Museum
21.6 km
Explore Selma's vibrant history at the Old Depot Museum, from Native American artifacts to the Civil Rights Movement.
Old Town Historic District
21.6 km
Explore Selma's Old Town Historic District: A journey through time, architecture, and the heart of the Civil Rights Movement.
Enslavement & Civil War Museum
21.7 km
Explore the compelling history of African Americans from ancient Africa through enslavement and the Civil War at this Selma museum.
Bridge Crossing Jubilee
21.7 km
Commemorating the Selma to Montgomery marches and the Voting Rights Act, honoring civil rights history and the fight for equality.
Historic Riverfront Park
21.8 km
Explore Selma's Historic Riverfront Park: A scenic waterfront park with Civil Rights history, river views, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Selma Interpretive Center of the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail
21.8 km
Discover the starting point of the historic Selma to Montgomery march, a pivotal landmark in the Civil Rights Movement.
Edmund Pettus Bridge
22.0 km
Walk in the footsteps of civil rights heroes on this iconic bridge, a powerful symbol of the fight for voting rights and equality in Selma, Alabama.
Vaughan Smitherman Museum
22.1 km
Explore Selma's vibrant past within the walls of this historic Greek Revival landmark, from Civil War relics to hospital artifacts.
Civil Rights Memorial Park
22.2 km
Reflect on the courageous fight for equality at Selma's Civil Rights Memorial Park, honoring pivotal events and figures of the movement.
National Voting Rights Museum and Institute
22.3 km
Explore the pivotal history of the Voting Rights Movement in Selma, AL, honoring the brave activists who fought for equality. A must-see Civil Rights landmark.
New Live Oak Cemetery
22.5 km
Discover Selma's past in a serene setting, where history and nature intertwine among the monuments and ancient trees of New Live Oak Cemetery.
Lions Fair Park
24.3 km
A community hub in Selma, Alabama, hosting the annual Central Alabama Fair and various local events.
Essential places to dine
SelmaFamilyRestaurant
17.4 km
Experience authentic Southern cuisine at Selma Family Restaurant in Alabama - where every meal is served with warmth and tradition.
All in One
17.4 km
Experience Southern hospitality at All in One - where traditional American cuisine meets modern culinary creativity.
Lizzy Carrie Deli & Catering, L.L.C
17.4 km
Experience authentic Southern cuisine at Lizzy Carrie Deli & Catering in Selma, Alabama – where flavor meets hospitality.
Tasty B's
18.9 km
Discover the flavors of Southern cuisine at Tasty B's in Selma, Alabama - where delicious food meets warm hospitality.
China Star Super Buffet
18.9 km
Savor authentic Chinese flavors at China Star Super Buffet in Selma - an all-you-can-eat paradise for food enthusiasts.
Wendy's
19.0 km
Savor delicious burgers and fries at Wendy's in Selma—your perfect fast food stop during your Alabama adventures.
Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen
19.1 km
Indulge in authentic Louisiana flavors at Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen in Selma - where spicy meets savory in every bite.
Hardee’s
19.1 km
Discover delicious fast food at Hardee's in Selma - home of hearty hamburgers and classic American favorites.
Pizza Hut
19.1 km
Experience delicious pizza and chicken wings at Pizza Hut in Selma – perfect for families seeking comfort food on their travels.
Sonic Drive-In
19.1 km
Experience classic American fast food at Sonic Drive-In in Selma - where tasty burgers meet friendly service.
KFC
19.1 km
Savor the iconic flavors of KFC in Selma - where Southern hospitality meets delicious fried chicken.
China Wok
19.2 km
Discover authentic Chinese flavors at China Wok in Selma, Alabama – where each dish tells a story of culinary tradition.
Little Caesars Pizza
19.2 km
Experience affordable deliciousness at Little Caesars Pizza in Selma - perfect for travelers craving quick bites without compromising taste.
American Deli
19.3 km
Experience the best of Southern comfort food at American Deli - where delicious chicken wings meet family-friendly dining in Selma.
Taco Bell
19.4 km
Discover the joy of Tex-Mex cuisine at Taco Bell in Selma - a must-visit destination for fast food lovers seeking delicious meals at great prices.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
KD Bridal & Formalwear
18.3 km
Explore KD Bridal & Formalwear in Selma, Alabama, for exquisite wedding dresses and tuxedos, creating unforgettable moments for your special day.
Good Stuff Thrift Store
18.7 km
Explore Good Stuff Thrift Store in Selma, Alabama - A hidden gem for vintage finds and community treasures.
Walmart Supercenter
18.8 km
Experience the convenience of shopping at Walmart Supercenter in Selma, Alabama, offering everything from groceries to electronics under one roof.
Cato Fashions
18.8 km
Discover stylish women's clothing at Cato Fashions in Selma, Alabama, where fashion meets affordability in a welcoming shopping environment.
The Purple Tulip Boutique
18.9 km
Explore The Purple Tulip Boutique for exquisite formal wear in Selma, Alabama, where elegance meets exceptional service for every special occasion.
Foot Locker
18.9 km
Discover the latest trends in footwear and sportswear at Foot Locker Selma - your ultimate shopping destination for stylish sneakers and apparel.
Citi Trends
18.9 km
Discover stylish and affordable fashion for the whole family at Citi Trends in Selma, Alabama – a must-visit clothing destination!
Z's Fashion
18.9 km
Discover Z's Fashion in Selma, Alabama – where local trends meet unique styles for a shopping experience like no other.
Beauty and Beyond
19.0 km
Explore Beauty and Beyond in Selma, Alabama—your ultimate destination for premium cosmetics and personalized beauty advice.
City Gear
19.2 km
Explore City Gear in Selma, Alabama – your ultimate destination for trendy shoes and stylish clothing for everyone in the family!
One Way Book Store
19.5 km
Discover a treasure trove of books, church supplies, and trophies at One Way Book Store in Selma, Alabama - a must-visit for every book lover.
First Avenue Mini Mart
20.1 km
Explore First Avenue Mini Mart in Selma, AL for essential snacks, beverages, and local flavors, perfect for your travels.
Kustom Kreation Floral & Gift Shop
20.2 km
Explore Kustom Kreation Floral & Gift Shop in Selma, Alabama – where unique gifts and stunning floral arrangements await every visitor.
Pavilion Boutique
20.3 km
Explore Pavilion Boutique in Selma, Alabama, for unique fashion and accessories that celebrate Southern elegance and style.
PSC Thrift Store
20.8 km
Explore the PSC Thrift Store in Selma, Alabama, for eclectic finds and vintage treasures that tell a story.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Dallas County Moose Lodge 1737
19.0 km
Discover the warmth and camaraderie of the Dallas County Moose Lodge 1737 in Selma, a perfect spot for drinks and local culture.
XPLOSION
19.5 km
Experience the thrill of sports at XPLOSION, Selma's go-to sports bar with delicious bites and a vibrant atmosphere.
Michael's Pub
20.2 km
Discover the lively nightlife and warm atmosphere of Michael's Pub in Selma, Alabama, where great drinks and good company await you.
Southern Comfort Lounge
21.0 km
Experience Southern charm at the Southern Comfort Lounge in Selma, Alabama, where live music and delicious cocktails create unforgettable moments.
Dripz Lounge
21.7 km
Discover the charm of Dripz Lounge in Selma, Alabama – your go-to bar for a taste of local nightlife and a cozy atmosphere.
Sparkle's Saloon
21.7 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Sparkle's Saloon, a charming bar in Selma, Alabama, offering refreshing drinks and a taste of local culture.
Dallas County
22.0 km
Experience the vibrancy of Dallas County's gay bar scene in Selma, Alabama, a celebration of diversity, culture, and community.
King Bar
37.9 km
Discover the wonders of King Bar, a vibrant reef destination in Alabama offering stunning marine life and a relaxing atmosphere for every tourist.
Mary Taylor Bar
39.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious seafood at Mary Taylor Bar, a hidden gem in Alabama's coastal beauty.
Mitchell Bar
39.8 km
Explore the vibrant underwater world of Mitchell Bar, a stunning reef in Alabama, where adventure and marine beauty await every visitor.
Rifleman Bar
44.0 km
Experience the heart of Alabama at Rifleman Bar - a cozy retreat for drinks, stories, and local culture.
Upper Sister Bar
44.5 km
Explore the vibrant marine life and stunning coral formations at Upper Sister Bar, a must-visit reef destination in Alabama for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
BIG STAR TAVERN
46.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Big Star Tavern in Prattville, offering karaoke, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Middle Sister Bar
47.9 km
Explore the serene beauty of Middle Sister Bar in Alabama, a stunning reef destination perfect for adventure and relaxation.
Providence Bar
49.2 km
Explore the stunning reef landscapes of Providence Bar in Alabama, a serene escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
