For the last twenty-six years Oak Mountain State Park has been my home away from home. There truly is so much to see and do there. I promise that everyone in your family will find enjoyment in at least one of the many activities available. Seriously, for this guide, I originally wrote out at least seven pages of notes! After much editing, here is my guide to Oak Mountain State Park, or at least part 1 of it.
Alabama Wildlife Center
Oak Mountain is home to The Alabama Wildlife Center, which is dedicated to the conservation of Alabama’s native bird species. There is also an avian rehab center. The staff and volunteers offer engaging experiences for visitors of all ages, like guided tours, live animal presentations, and interactive exhibits that highlight the importance of protecting our environment and all of its inhabitants.
Camping
If you are into camping, Oak Mountain has you covered with six different camping options! You can stay in one of their fully equipped cabins. Two of them are dog friendly, and one is ADA compliant. There is space to RV camp, and space to primitive camp. If you’re backpacking, check out the back-country camping all throughout the park. There are twelve sites for equestrian camping, too! And lastly, there are group camping areas.
If you are looking to host an event, Oak Mountain has many pavilions throughout the park available for rent, as well as a meeting room.
Sports
Mountain Biking
Oak Mountain has a BMX track that has been around since the late 1970s. It is the oldest continuously running track in the former NBL and is a USABMX Sanctioned Track. There are approximately thirty miles of Mountain Biking Trails, but that number is growing. All skill levels are welcome. You can even take classes or go on a night ride.
Archery
The Community Archery Park is very well-maintained and peaceful. It is open year-round for recreational shooting, competitive tournaments, and outdoor educational programming. There are many shooting distances available for all skill leves, from five yards up to 50 yards, as well as a shooting platform.
Golf
The Oaks Golf Course is a public 18-hole championship course. You can visit their fully stocked pro shop, practice on the driving range, and eat breakfast or lunch at The Grille. You’d be hard-pressed to find a more scenic golf course.
Equestrian
Oak Mountain is home to the Rusted Roof Barn. If you’re a beginner, a certified CHA instructor is available for lessons in both English and Western saddles, and they have occasional events. If you have your own horse or just want to take a guided trail ride, there are twenty-five miles of horseback riding trails.
Water Sports
Oak Mountain offers several opportunities to get out and enjoy the water. There is a Flipside Inflatable Obstacle Course and Flipside Water Sports. Marina Rentals are available for paddleboarding, tandem kayaks, single kayaks, canoes, and pedal boats. There are also two sandy beaches in the park.
Hiking
Oak Mountain has at least nine different trails starting at various different locations. I strongly encourage you to pick up a map to explore the trails. You can hike to Peavine Falls, a sixty-five-foot tall naturally-fed waterfall. There are trails that can take you to the top or the bottom of the falls.
Treetop Interpretive Nature Trail
There is a very popular and easy trail called the Treetop Interpretive Nature Trail with a boardwalk. This fun little hike is full of informative signs, and you will see six enclosures that house non-releasable birds of prey, including owls, hawks and vultures. While you are there, be sure to check out the Interpretive Center. You can build your own fairy house at The Enchanted Fairy House Garden, too.
Fishing & Falconry
The park’s six fishing lakes contain largemouth bass, bream, catfish, and crappie. Falconry is also available during certain seasons. SPSOA Deer Management Hunts are also offered to help with the balance and natural community.
