McFarland Park: A Riverside Jewel in Florence
Discover scenic beauty & recreation at McFarland Park in Florence, AL – a historic riverside destination with events, camping, & family fun!
McFarland Park, a sprawling 350-acre oasis in Florence, Alabama, has been a cherished destination for over 10,000 years. Situated where Cypress Creek meets the Tennessee River, the park's location has drawn inhabitants since archaic times, with the area's mussels giving rise to the name "Muscle Shoals." Today, McFarland Park serves as a vibrant center for community life and recreation. Operated by the Florence Parks and Recreation Department, the park hosts numerous events, including the annual Spirit of Freedom Celebration on July 4th, concerts during the W.C. Handy Music Festival, and various fishing and disc golf tournaments. Families will find a welcoming environment with playgrounds, lighted walking trails, and a beach area. The park also features a marina, a floating restaurant, and a lighthouse, offering diverse attractions for all ages. For those seeking an extended stay, McFarland Park offers sixty campsites equipped with amenities for RVs and primitive camping options. Visitors can also enjoy a driving range for golfers, a soccer field, picnic shelters with fireplaces, baseball fields, and an on-site marine store. McFarland Park is more than just a recreational area; it's a place where history, community, and nature converge, making it a must-visit destination in Northern Alabama.
Local tips
- Check the Florence AL city website for event listings at McFarland Park, especially around major holidays and festivals.
- Bring your fishing gear! The park provides access to the Tennessee River, known for its excellent fishing.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many picnic tables or shelters, some equipped with fireplaces.
- Consider booking a campsite in advance, especially during peak season (May-August), to secure your spot.
- Take advantage of the walking trails for a scenic stroll around the harbor and enjoy the views of the Tennessee River.
A brief summary to McFarland Park
- 200 James M Spain Dr, Florence, Alabama, 35630, US
- +1256-740-8817
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-9 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-9 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-9 pm
- Thursday 8 am-9 pm
- Friday 8 am-9 pm
- Saturday 8 am-9 pm
- Sunday 8 am-7 pm
Getting There
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Walking
From downtown Florence, McFarland Park is accessible by foot. Head east on Tennessee Street, then turn right onto N Court Street. Continue onto Clayborn Liles Drive, and you'll find the park entrance on your left. The walk is approximately 1.5 miles and should take around 30 minutes. Enjoy the scenic views of the Tennessee River as you approach.
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Driving
If driving from the Shoals area, take US-43/Florence Blvd towards downtown Florence. Turn onto Hermitage Drive, then turn onto James M Spain Drive. Follow the road until you reach McFarland Park. Parking is available within the park. Parking at the Tombigbee Cashless Parking Deck downtown is $0.50/hour, with a daily maximum of $4.
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Public Transport
Public transportation options in Florence are limited. The Northwest Alabama Council of Local Governments (NACOLG) offers a Dial-a-Ride service that requires advance scheduling. Contact them at (256) 314-0047 or toll-free at (833) 314-0047 to arrange a ride. A one-way trip within the Shoals area typically costs around $3.
