Shoal Creek Preserve: A Natural Escape
Explore the natural beauty of North Alabama at Shoal Creek Preserve, offering hiking, scenic views, and diverse wildlife in a peaceful setting.
Shoal Creek Preserve, also known as the Billingsley-McClure Shoal Creek Preserve, is a 298-acre natural area in Lauderdale County, Alabama. Dedicated by Forever Wild, the preserve features a diverse landscape of fallow fields, mature upland hardwood stands, and scenic creek bottoms. The preserve offers two main hiking trails: the Jones Branch Loop (2.4 miles) and the Lawson Branch Loop (1.8 miles), providing a total of 4.3 miles of trails. These trails wind through varying terrains, offering views of Shoal Creek, Indian Camp Creek, Lawson Branch, and Jones Branch. Hikers can enjoy the beauty of small waterfalls and diverse flora and fauna. Horseback riding is also permitted on a dedicated 2.1-mile trail. Shoal Creek Preserve aims to protect natural plant and animal species while providing recreational opportunities such as hiking, horseback riding, fishing, hunting, canoeing, picnicking, bird watching, photography, and nature study. The preserve is open to the public, offering a serene environment for outdoor activities.
Local tips
- Wear appropriate footwear for hiking, as the trails can be uneven and may have stream crossings.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching, as the preserve is home to various bird species.
- Consider hiking both the Jones Branch and Lawson Branch Loops to experience the full diversity of the preserve's scenery.
A brief summary to Shoal Creek Preserve
- Butler Creek Rd, Florence, Alabama, 35634, US
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-9 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-9 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-9 pm
- Thursday 6 am-9 pm
- Friday 6 am-9 pm
- Saturday 6 am-9 pm
- Sunday 6 am-9 pm
Getting There
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Driving
From Florence, Alabama, take Cox Creek Parkway and then Highway 47 until you turn left onto County Road 61. The preserve will be on your right. Parking is available on County Road 61. There are no fees for using this area.
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Walking
From the parking area on County Road 61, the trailhead is easily accessible. Follow the signs for either the Jones Branch Loop or the Lawson Branch Loop to begin your hike.
