Chewacla State Park’s 696 scenic acres offer plenty of rest, relaxation and recreation, just a short drive from the Auburn-Opelika area. Facilities include a 26-acre lake, swimming area, playground, a modern campground, picnic areas with tables, grills and shelters, cabins, hiking and mountain biking trails. Chewacla State Park is located at 124 Shell Toomer Pkwy, in Auburn, Alabama. For more information, click here.
Caitlyn White
Lake Chewacla is perfect for reeling in bream, bass, crappie and catfish or taking a dip off the beach area. No luck in the lake, then try one of the park’s two creeks. There is no boat ramp on the lake, but visitors are allowed to bring their own small non-motorized watercraft such as canoes or kayaks if they can be hand-launched from the bank.
The park offers plenty of hiking and mountain biking trails to choose from. Options range from the short interpretive Sweet Shrub Trail to the more challenging mountain biking trails built by the Central Alabama Mountain Pedalers (CAMP). While on the trails visitors are likely to see squirrels, chipmunks, red fox, deer and turkeys; as well as unique rock formations and a variety of native flora and fauna.
There are six stone cottages in the park, which are available for rental year round. The cottages have been renovated and feature hardwood floors, stone fireplaces, beautiful new bathrooms, modern kitchens and televisions. Each has central heating and cooling so your stay will be comfortable no matter what time of year you visit. Linens are provided. If you prefer roughing it the park also offers 36 full hookup camping sites and 10 primitive sites. Shower facilities are available in all camping areas.
There are at least 12 named trails, that are perfect for hiking and mountain biking. Trails vary in difficulty and length, and each one offers different unique views of the park. For a detailed description of the trails, you can view the complete list here.
Canoe rentals are available Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 6:30pm (closing times change during the year based on park hours of operations). Guests can rent canoes by going to the beach access area and talking to a representative. Rentals can be made as late as 30 minutes before the park closes.
Chewacla State Park is a gorgeous place to visit and explore, the team from CAMP have done an outstanding job on the trails and the lake is always beautiful. A visit to Chewacla State Park is worth the trip from anywhere. Pictures used in this article are owned by Alabama State Parks.
For nearby lodging and camping options, click here. For more great parks and amazing locations in the area, click here. For the best family activities, click here.
