11 Outdoor Activities to Try This Summer in Auburn-Opelika

Charlie Fleury

Adventure awaits in every corner of Auburn-Opelika. Whether you are exploring scenic hiking trails, indulging in luxury camping experiences, or rallying in a game of pickleball, Auburn-Opelika is a great destination for all ages. Regardless of what kind of outdoor adventure you are seeking, this charming Alabama destination will certainly blow you away.

Hike to the Waterfall at Chewacla State Park

As one of Alabama’s most beloved state parks, Chewacla offers 696 acres of scenic glory. The beauty of Chewacla State Park is one that will captivate any and all visitors thanks to its 30+ miles of hiking and biking trails, stunning waterfall, wonderful picnic spots, refreshing lake, and more. Whether you’re looking to hit the trails, cast your fishing line, or simply enjoy the fresh air, you’ll fall in love with this incredible state park. Don’t forget to snap a pic at the waterfall to commemorate the trip!

Reconnect with Nature with Luxury Glamping

Think camping but make it glamorous. Glamping in Chewacla State Park through Timberline Camping allows you to enjoy the perks of camping outdoors without sacrificing the luxury and comfort found in your own home. Timberline provides tents with many different amenities for various packages including beds of various sizes, mini-refrigerators, fire pits, electrical outlets, air conditioning, heaters, and more. With endless outdoor opportunities at your doorstep, glamping provides a great opportunity for visitors to reconnect with nature in style.

Chase the Thrill of Mountain Biking at Chewacla

Load up your bikes and hit some of the best biking trails the state of Alabama has to offer. All riders from beginner to advanced are welcome to enjoy these trails. Chewacla provides beginner-friendly paths with progression built in, in addition to hand-built trails with texture and options. Most notably, however, Chewacla has the state’s only wall ride, a 15-foot-high arc with a 70-degree angle known as The Great Wall of Chewacla.

Experience the Pinnacle of Pickleball

The 24-court, state-of-the-art pickleball pavilion in Opelika is what makes this destination a haven for pickleball enthuisasts and beginners. This covered, open-air pavilion with LED lighting allows for 24-7 use. With easy access to amenities and a thriving local club, this facility is where the local community and visitors come together for the love of the game that is increasing in popularity every day.

Tee Off at Robert Trent Jones Grand National

Put your golf skills to the test on one of three 18-hole courses at RTJ Grand National. The Lake Course, Links Course, and Short Course all sit on 600-acre Lake Saugahatchee with 32 of the 54 holes along its shores. Robert Trent Jones himself proclaimed Grand National the “single greatest natural site for a golf course” he had ever seen. The Links and Lake courses were in the top 10 of Golf Digest's list of “America’s Top 50 Affordable Courses,” "Best Golf Courses in Alabama," and all three courses are listed on Golf Digest's “Places to Play” among the nation’s 40 Super Value courses.

Hit the Target at Opelika’s Archery Park

Nestled within the Opelika community lies a new Archery Park featuring a shooting house with 12 covered bays. The bays offer targets ranging from 20 to 60 yards, catering to various skill levels. Visitors can also experience simulated tree stand hunting conditions from a raised platform, adding an extra layer of excitement to their archery experience. Note that all archers must possess a Hunting License, Fishing License, or Wildlife Heritage License to shoot at this range.

Test Your Disc Golf Skills

For any and all disc golf enthusiasts, be sure to check out one of two disc golf facilities in Auburn-Opelika, the Spring Villa Disc Golf Course and the Tumble Tree Disc Golf Course. Spring Villa is the area’s newest facility, featuring two distinct courses, the Graveyard Course and the Rock Course. Each course caters to different skill levels, allowing all guests to truly put their skills to the test. Tumble Tree is another facility that offers a unique experience as its course travels over inclines and hills and follows trails through the woods of Opelika.

Explore the Serene Trails of Kreher Preserve and Nature Center

The Kreher Preserve offers nature lovers a serene escape from the bustle of everyday life. Spanning over 120 acres, this shady preserve has a network of scenic trails perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife photography. The KPNC is an exceptional place for families as there are an abundance of environmental education programs, workshops, and opportunities to discover nature with hands-on learning.

Explore the Area’s Vibrant Birdlife

Bring your binoculars! The Piedmont Plateau Birding Trail in East Central Alabama has over three dozen sites, from Alabama’s highest mountain to the shores of Lake Martin. The Auburn-Opelika area is home to four of these sites. Whether you plan to visit Chewacla State Park, the Kreher Preserve, Lee County Public Fishing Lake, or Wood Duck Nature Preserve of Opelika, you can expect to see a wide range of birds. Summer Tanagers, Eastern Bluebirds, and Wood Thrushes are just a handful of the incredible species you will be able to identify on this trail.

Cast Your Line at the Lee County Public Fishing Lake

Don’t forget to pack your fishing rod because the Lee County Public Fishing Lake allows for a great escape for fishing lovers. Whether casting a line from the shore or venturing out on a boat, visitors can enjoy the serenity of fishing while surrounded by the natural beauty of the Auburn area.

Enjoy the Sunshine at Agriculture Heritage Park

Put together a picnic basket and enjoy the fresh air at Auburn University’s Red Barn. Located south of Auburn’s campus, this 30-acre park surrounds a beautiful pond that sets the perfect scene for an outdoor picnic with your friends. Feel free to bring your furry friends, as well. They will absolutely love the open area to run around and stretch their legs. It’s truly a puppy’s heaven!