A Brief History of Chewacla State Park
In need of an outdoor escape? Just beyond the city is a local haven for outdoor lovers.
For almost 85 years, Chewacla State Park has been an area favorite for those looking for an outdoor escape. Established by the state in 1939, the park was originally a beautiful unclaimed wooded area with two creeks flowing through it. The workers of Wrights Mill, a nearby sawmill, often cooled off in the creek after a hard day's work, which makes the land a local favorite for over a 100 years now. In 1935, the federal government purchased what is now known as Chewacla State Park and established a Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). The CCC originally built foot trails, an arched bridge, roads, a dam, and eight cottages, which are mostly still standing today.
The park we know now is well established and outfitted for hiking, biking, swimming, and leisurely walks. Spanning 696 acres of land, Chewacla State Park has beautiful trails and a 26 acre lake called Lake Chewacla, where you can canoe, kayak, swim, and fish. While visiting Lake Chewacla, make sure to stop by Chewacla Falls for arguably the prettiest view in the park. There are 36 individual camping spots with electricity and water access, as well as 10 tent-camping sites. All camping areas are equipped with shower facilities, grills, tables, and pavilions. If you’re looking for an elevated form of camping, Chewacla has partnered with Timberline Glamping to offer a brand new glamping experience. Each tent features king or queen sized bed(s), Keurig Coffee maker, mini fridge, electrical outlets, heating/cooling, and comfort amenities, such as lamps, rugs, and diffusers. Chewacla is one of five state parks in Alabama to offer this experience.
Chewacla State Park is a proud host of local and national events. The park currently hosts local mountain biking organization CAMP (Central Alabama Mountain Pedalers) for Super Sunday Rides and Tuesday Night Rides. Additional trails were added by CAMP to create the perfect mountain bike ride, increasing Alabama riders' love for the park. Chewacla has also hosted the USA Cycling’s Marathon Mountain Bike National Championship on the park’s trails, the annual Chewacla Cha Cha 5k & 10k, and other running and mountain biking events.
Chewacla State Park is the perfect spot for locals and travelers to experience the outdoors in their ideal way. Park entry ranges between $2-$4 depending on age. Annual park passes are available for frequent visitors. For updated information, check out Alabama State Park’s website before you visit.
Don't miss out on what's happening in Auburn-Opelika!
Sign up for our e-newsletter here.