View from Bald Rock at Cheaha State Park. Photo by Pat Byington for Bham Now

July 19 is your chance to explore nature at Alabama’s state parks for free. Our state boasts some beautiful parks, and many of them aren’t too far from Birmingham.

Alabama turns 200 later this year. In honor of the state’s bicentennial, the Alabama State Parks Division is providing free admission to parks across the state. They’re also offering free parking and 20 percent off overnight stays (with a couple of exceptions).

Below are some park highlights:

Closest to Birmingham: Oak Mountain State Park

My husband, bulldog and I at King’s Chair at Oak Mountain State Park

Oak Mountain is one of my favorites. It’s also the largest state park in Alabama, featuring hiking, boating, fishing, mountain biking and more. If you’re up for a hike, there’s a beautiful overlook called King’s Chair (pictured above) that is definitely worth checking out. The view is stunning. It’s where my husband proposed to me, so I might be a little biased.

While you’re there, you and the fam can also check out the inflatable water park and escape the heat (a separate charge will apply).

Location: 200 Terrace Drive, Pelham, AL 35124

Oldest state park still in operation: Cheaha State Park



Cheaha State Park. Photo by Bham Now

I’m embarrassed to say that after five years in Birmingham I still haven’t been to Cheaha. Just look at that photo! July 19 might be the day I go explore this beauty. Cheaha Mountain is the highest point in the state, and Outside Magazine named it the best vista in Alabama. Cheaha is only a little over an hour from Birmingham.

Location: 19644 Hwy 281, Delta, AL 36258

State park on the beach: Gulf State Park

Gulf State Park. Photo via Gulf Shores Tourism

This one is a little farther from Bham at 4.5 hours, but I’d say it’s worth it for this view. Gulf State Park is a great place to sit on the beach and relax. Aren’t we lucky to have mountains and beaches so close to home?!

Location: 20800 E. Beach Blvd., Gulf Shores, AL 36542

More state parks to explore:

Bladon Springs State Park

Blue Springs State Park

Buck’s Pocket State Park

Cathedral Caverns State Park

Chewacla State Park

Chickasaw State Park

DeSoto State Park

Frank Jackson State Park

Joe Wheeler State Park

Lake Guntersville State Park

Lake Jackson RV Park At Florala

Lake Lurleen State Park

Lakepoint State Park

Meaher State Park

Monte Sano State Park

Paul M. Grist State Park

Rickwood Caverns State Park

Roland Cooper State Park

Wind Creek State Park

Know before you go: the Bicentennial overnight stay discount doesn’t apply to Bladon Springs, Chickasaw, Paul Grist, and Roland Cooper state parks or the Lodge at Gulf State Park.

Which is your favorite park? Let us know @Bhamnow.