Oak Mountain State Park, South Alabama Travel Guide

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Discover Alabama's largest state park: hiking, biking, lakes, wildlife, and endless outdoor adventures near Birmingham.

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Oak Mountain State Park

Escape to Oak Mountain State Park, Alabama's largest state park, offering a diverse landscape and a wide array of outdoor activities. From hiking and biking trails to lakes and beaches, this park provides a refreshing retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, just a short drive from Birmingham.

A brief summary to Oak Mountain State Park

200 Terrace Dr, Pelham, Alabama, 35124, US
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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

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Oak Mountain State Park.

Bring comfortable shoes for hiking or walking, as the park offers numerous trails with varying terrains.
Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic picnic areas, or grab a snack at the pro shop.
Consider visiting during the week to avoid weekend crowds, especially during peak seasons.
Check the park's event calendar for upcoming festivals, races, and educational programs.
Purchase an annual pass for frequent visits to save on entry fees.

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Explore Oak Mountain State Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Oak Mountain State Park, mapped for you.

Unlock the Best of Oak Mountain State Park

Buy tickets

No tickets available

Book tours with entry

Birmingham Area Family Fun Multi-Attraction Pass

$71.25

Book tours without entry

No tours available

Getting There

Driving

From Birmingham, take I-65 South to Exit 246 for AL-119/Cahaba Valley Rd. Turn right onto AL-119 South, then left onto Oak Mountain Park Rd. At the traffic circle, take the third exit onto John Findlay Dr, then turn right onto Terrace Dr, which leads into the park. Alternatively, from the US 280 corridor, a new entry gate is now open on Belcher Drive, across from North Shelby Baptist Church. Typical parking fee is $5 per car. Parking lots are available throughout the park, including near the North Trailhead and South Trailhead.
Public Transport

From Birmingham, the BJCTA MAX line 280 bus runs to Valleydale Rd and Inverness Corner Shopp. From there, you would need to take a taxi or rideshare to complete the journey to Oak Mountain State Park, approximately 5 miles away. The bus fare is around $2, and the taxi/rideshare could cost $15-$25.

Discover more about Oak Mountain State Park

Oak Mountain State Park, sprawling across 11,861 acres in Pelham, Alabama, stands as the state's largest park, offering a diverse range of outdoor activities and stunning natural landscapes. Established in 1927 with an initial 940 acres, the park has grown significantly, becoming a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and a convenient escape for Birmingham residents.The park boasts over 100 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, catering to all skill levels. The Red Trail is even featured on the International Mountain Biking Association's (IMBA) list of EPIC rides. Explore Peavine Falls, a picturesque 65-foot waterfall, or relax by one of the park's three lakes, perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding.Oak Mountain offers a variety of attractions, including the Alabama Wildlife Center, where injured native birds are rehabilitated, and the Oak Mountain Interpretive Center, featuring interactive exhibits on the park's natural history. Enjoy family-friendly activities such as swimming at Double Oak Lake, playing at the playground, or visiting the BMX track. The park also hosts numerous events throughout the year, from races and triathlons to educational programs and festivals.With its rich history, diverse landscape, and abundance of recreational opportunities, Oak Mountain State Park provides an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you're seeking adventure on the trails or relaxation by the lake, this park offers something for everyone.