Big Things Are Happening at Alabama State Parks

From Mountaintop Retreats to Lakeside Getaways, The Future of Alabama's Parks is Looking Bright

By Kelly Caldwell

It is clear that Alabama State Parks are having a big year — and it's a beautiful thing to watch it all unfold. Construction fences may line the trail to all of the new that's coming, but fresh paint, new playgrounds, and more will soon be popping up at your favorite state parks, if they haven't already.

Thanks to a major bond initiative passed in 2022 and the support of partners like the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) and local communities, over $200 million is being invested across the state's park system, bringing modern upgrades, improved accessibility, and a whole new level of comfort to our beloved parks.

To get the inside scoop, I sat down with Matthew Capps, Director of Alabama State Parks. His energy for what's to come is contagious! From the highest point in the state to the Gulf Coast and everywhere in between, exciting things are happening. Here's a glimpse at just a few of the park transformations underway.

Wind Creek: Room to Roam and Relax

Located on beautiful Lake Martin, Wind Creek State Park is one of the most popular in the system, and it's getting two major upgrades that will only increase its popularity.

First, let's talk about the campground. Wind Creek has historically had over 500 campsites, which sounds like a good thing until you're trying to park a large RV. The team has reconfigured sections of the campground to create larger, more spacious sites (88 of them!), all with picnic tables and fire pits — and many of these sites are ADA-accessible. New restrooms are also on the park's update list.

But perhaps the most exciting change? The park's brand-new lakeside cottages. These five, three-bedroom, three-bathroom units are built with universal design in mind, meaning every guest can enjoy a spacious experience. Big windows, lake views, and all the comforts of home make these a perfect mix of lake life and a refined cabin experience.

“These cottages are a next-level experience for our guests at Wind Creek. They provide ample space to spread out for large families and groups of friends. My own family cannot wait to experience the Lakeside Cottages at Wind Creek, and we anticipate others will feel just the same,” Matthew told me.

Lake Lureen: A Full Park Refresh

Tuscaloosa folks, rejoice! Lake Lurleen State Park is getting a complete makeover, and that's something we can all celebrate!

"This is one of the parks that hadn't seen significant updates in decades," Matthew explained. The project includes new roads, separate day-use areas, and improvements to the campground, with larger, more accessible RV sites.

One of the standout features? A charming new reservation hub and guard shack that replaces a building that had seen its share of campers over the years. Add in a $17 million investment and future Timberline Glamping sites, and it's safe to say Northport's backyard is about to be even more exciting!

Gulf State Park: Family Fun from Tee to Trail

If you've ever visited the now-defunct golf course at Gulf State Park and wondered what could become of that wide-open space, wonder no more! It's being transformed into a new 100-site campground featuring a family recreation hub with a clubhouse, splash pad, pool, pickleball, putt-putt, and more. Vertical structures are already up, and infrastructure work is in progress.

The beach is always a draw to staying at Gulf State Park, but this added section of amenities makes the park's appeal even more exciting. Stay on site at Gulf State Park and have access to it all!

Cheaha: A Mountaintop Experience Worth the Wait

Let's talk about Cheaha. As a Wedowee girl myself, I have a soft spot for this iconic park perched on Alabama's highest point. So does Matthew, who calls the new Cheaha lodge the "showpiece" of the bond package. And after what I've seen and heard from our conversation, it's easy to see why!

Slated for completion in early to mid-2025, the lodge will feature 32 boutique-style rooms, a rooftop lounge, a coffee shop, and bluff-facing views from every room. The design draws inspiration from national park architecture but uses locally sourced Alabama timber to keep the look grounded in place. Rustic, but elegant, this lodge is something you simply must experience.

"Once people see and experience the new Lodge at Cheaha State Park, they are going to fall in love with it even more. Alabama's highest point is already highly celebrated, and this breathtaking space is going to take it to the next level," shared Capps.

Weddings, events, and leaf-season weekends are going to be even more magical at Cheaha State Park once those doors open — and I'm ready for it all!

Lakepoint: A New Look for a Legacy Favorite

If you haven't been to Lakepoint State Park in Eufaula lately, you're in for a surprise. The lodge's A-wing has been completely renovated, with brighter rooms, modern furnishings, better lighting, lake-view balconies, and local artwork from the Department of Conservation's photo contest adorning the walls.

Yes, there's a Keurig and a mini fridge. You'll have everything you need for a top-of-the-line experience in these renovated A-wing spaces. You simply must stay at the renovated Lodge at Lakepoint State Park to take it all in!

Other upgrades include:

• 50-amp improvements to many campsites

• Landscaping upgrades

• Lower cabins have been renovated near the lodge

• A fresh coat of paint for the marina (and hopefully the lodge soon)

• An exciting kayak tour partnership with the City of Eufaula and Alabama Power

Don't skip out on Lakepoint, friends. This one will take your breath away — and there's plenty of growth to come!

A Few More to Watch

Here are some additional projects underway or recently completed:

• Rickwood Caverns (Warrior): New shaded, ADA-accessible playground.

• DeSoto State Park (Fort Payne): Brand-new pool house with accessible amenities.

• Meaher State Park (Mobile Causeway): 40 new campsites, an elevated and accessible bathhouse, and four gorgeous tiny homes from Clayton Homes.

• Joe Wheeler State Park (Rogersville): Playground coming soon, new roof and windows installed.

Plan Your Next Adventure

As these projects wrap up, Alabama's parks will be more welcoming, accessible, and impressive than ever. Whether you head to the beach, the mountains, or the lake, Alabama State Parks are always in season.

Make your plans for your favorite park today at Alapark.com and stay tuned for more on the growth to come.