Weekend Buffets - Start your day with a big breakfast because the mountain air and our wonderful hiking trails and mountain bike trails will help you work it off before lunch.  Our buffets allow you to eat all you want while you enjoy a view of the Talladega National Forrest. Take some time to relax with good friends and good food. 

 Farmers Market/Music and a Movie in the Park-

 

Come out to Heritage Park from 4pm - 7pm every Friday through July 13 for the Chicago Street Farmers Market. Local farmers will be selling fresh produce, plants, honey, eggs, baked goods, and more. Live entertainment will begin at 5:30 and at dusk, a feature movie presentaion will be played on the giant inflatable movie screen! Bring your lawn chairs and picnic baskets (or purchase concessions sold on site) and come out to Heritage Park for an evening under the stars.  
 
 

This hike crosses wooden walkways, walks along the bluff above the West Fork of the Little River, and offers spectacular views along the way. DeSoto State Park staff leads this moderate walk along the Rhododendron trail to Indian Falls and Lodge Falls. Moderate due to rocky terrain and some hills. Bring water, wear appropriate clothing & footwear.
Date: Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Where: DeSoto State Park’s Nature Center
Time: 10:00-12:00 noon
Fee: Free to the Public; Great for all ages!

For more information or to register, contact Katie@FreshAirFamily.org, or call 256-701-1046
 

Location: Meet at Gulf State Park Nature Center/Education Building

Time: 10:00 a.m.

Free to the public

Video: Seashore (35min) This Eyewitness video dives into the explosive frontline between land and sea.  From crashing waves and blasting winds to placid tide pool, discover what makes our coastlines so alluring to the masses of wildlife and humans who gather there.  

Location: Meet at Gulf State Park Nature Center/Education Building

Time: 2:00 p.m.

Free to the public

Video: Cougar: Ghost of the Rockies:  (50 min.)  The cougar is secretive and solitary, inhabiting the remote regions of the Rockies where man never ventures.  In this spectacular video, the elusive cougar is revealed as both predator and guardian – truly part of nature’s hidden world.
 

Location: Meet at Gulf State Park Nature Center/Education Building

Time: 10:00 a.m.

Free to the public

Video: Planet Earth: Ocean Deep  Feast or famine – it’s the governing principle of ocean life.  From the three-meter-long, rapier-billed sailfish to the exquisitely shelled Nautilus to the threatened blue whale, this journey into the most unexplored part of the planet reveals the extraordinary survivors of this immense and barren realm. (50 min.)

Location: Meet at Gulf State Park Nature Center/Education Building

Time: 2:00 p.m.

Free to the public

Video: Amphibian (35min)  Leap into a fascinating world of frogs, toads, and salamanders, and get a close-up look at the amazing variety of colors, shapes, and sizes in the amphibian family.

Location:  Meet at Gulf State Park Nature Center

Time: 10:00 a.m.

Free to the public.

Learn new and exciting facts about some of the animals that live in Gulf State Park.  This one hour program is suited for people of all ages and allows you to get close and personal with some of the educational animals at the Nature Center.
 

Location: Meet at Gulf State Park Nature Center/Education Building

Time: 2:00 p.m.

Free to the public

Video:Webs of Intrigue (45min)  Enter the world of an ancient creature that has become an expert weaver, a consummate hunter, and with more than 30,000 faces—a master of adaptation. 

Location: Meet at Gulf State Park Nature Center/Education Building

Time: 10:00 a.m.

Free to the public

Video: Butterfly & Moth  Take a flight of fancy with nature’s most beguiling creatures.  See their miraculous transformation and learn why these delicate insects have long entranced and inspired us. (35 min.) 

Enjoy a drive, hike or bike ride around the park as you take photo's for our hunt!

Canyon Fiesta: A festive fun day in Little River Canyon National Preserve
Where: Little River Canyon Center in Fort Payne. (10 minutes from DeSoto State Park)
Date: Saturday, May 26, 2012
Schedule:
11:00 am- 12 Noon Growing up Wild for Preschool - Kindergarten (Story-time & Flower Making)
12:30 pm Piñata Time/Fun with Percussion (for children Preschool- 6th grades)
1:00 - 2:00 pm River Rhythms for 1st - 6th Grades (Story-time & Flower Making)
On-going: Self-guided Hikes on Path to Learning, Little River Canyon: Center of the Universe Film, Shaved Ice Vendor
Fee: Free Admission (Canyon Center hours: 10 am - 4 pm daily) Call 256.782.5697 for details.
 

Legends on the Lookout History Series: History of DeSoto Falls & the A. A. Miller Dam
Join us for a fun campfire talk in the great outdoors!
The historic dam located above DeSoto Falls in Dekalb County was built in the 1920s by Arthur A. Miller & was one of the earliest hydroelectric dams in Alabama.
 Learn about the history of the DeSoto Falls area with Bill Wise, grandson of A.A. Miller.
Date: Saturday, May 26, 2012
Where: DeSoto State Park’s  Campfire Ring in the Improved Campground
(In case of inclement weather will be located in Nature Center)
Time: 8:00-9:00 p.m.
Fee: Free & open to the Public
Call 256.997.5025 or email Brittney.Hughes@dcnr.alabama.gov for more details.
 

TAKE OFF AND WEIGH IN AT LAKEPOINT STATE PARK MARINA 334-687-6026.

Expecting 30 boats.  Weigh in at 3pm.

For more information contact Deacon Collins.

 

You won't believe some of the things that are made from rocks. Alabama has some of the oldest and coolest rocks around. Come join us to learn about them, where they can be found, and what can be found on them.

 

Meet at 10a.m. at the Campground Pavilion (B-side).

 

Free after admission to Park.

 

This trail follows the circumference of the golf course and crosses a small stream. Meet at the Pro Shop.

Are bats scary? Do bats hurt people? Come learn the truth about some very unique mammals. Bats are interesting, important creatures and they are often misunderstood. Did you know the Little Brown Bat, one of the most common North American bat species, can catch and eat as many as 1,200 mosquitoes in one hour?

 

Meet at 7p.m. at the Campground Pavilion (B-side).

 

Free after admission to Park.

 

Russell Lands on Lake Martin Summer Concert Series at the Lake Martin Ampitheater, Memorial Day Weekend Concert featuring Blackberry Smoke.Gates open at 5 p.m. Show starts at 6 p.m.

Come race some bugs at the 2nd Annual Memorial Day Bug Race. On your mark, get set,.....GO!

 

Come to Treetop Nature Trail (Terrace Drive) at 10a.m. to race bugs.

 

Free after admission to Park.

 

 

Gulf State Park Lake Shelby
Gulf Shores, AL 36542
 

This Gulf Shores farmers market is located at Gulf State Park Lake Shelby. Come visit and take a look. Call to find out about its selection of vegetables, fruits, local specialties, crafts and organic food. Hours are May 30-June 27 Saturday, 7:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Medicinal & Edible Plants Workshop & Hike
For centuries, local residents have used the hundreds of different species of medicinal plants found in our forests. Come learn about them with Alabama Botanist Francine Hutchinson. This workshop will include demonstrations, short hikes, and instructions on how to make herbal preparations. Sustainable, legal collection is emphasized, along with guidelines from herbalist organizations. Participants should bring a lunch and other light-hike needs. Pre-registration is required.
Date: Saturday, June 2, 2012
Where: Meet at DeSoto State Park Nature Center
Time: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
Fee: $10/adult; $5 child; Pre-registration is required.
Call 256.782.8010 or email fieldschool@jsu.edu for more details.

Campfire Talk: Edible Plants of Little River Canyon
There are many wild plants that have a wide range of uses—some taste great, some can cure your ills, but some can kill! Join Francine Hutchinson for a presentation on what’s safe and tasty, and what’s not.
Seating is limited, so bring your own comfortable camp chair if you wish.
Date: Saturday, June 2, 2012
Where: DeSoto State Park’s Campfire Ring in the Improved Campground
(In case of inclement weather will be located in Nature Center
Time: 8:00-9:00 p.m.
Fee: Free to the Public; Great for all ages!
Call 256.997.5025 for details.

 

TAKE OFF AND WEIGH IN AT LAKEPOINT STATE PARK MARINA 334-687-6026.

Expecting 30 boats.  Weigh in at 3pm.

For more information contact Deacon Collins.

 

LAKEPOINT STATE PARK MARINA

EXPECTING 25-35 BOATS  WEIGH IN AT 3PM CST

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT WES MEADOWS

Tiny Wonders of Little River Canyon
Join us for a fun campfire talk in the great outdoors!
Richard Watkins will explain how the creatures you can’t see affect you every day! Meet the tiny microbes of Little River Canyon, who really run things!
When: Friday, June 8, 2012
Where: DeSoto State Park’s Campfire Ring in the Improved Campground
(In case of inclement weather will be located in Nature Center)
Time: 8:00-9:00 p.m.
Fee: Free to the Public; Great for all ages!
Call 256.997.5025 or see www.alapark.com/desotoresort  for more details!

Two Nights of great music. Friday June 8 in Strand Park in Downtown Alex City, and Saturday June 9 at the Lake Martin Amphitheater.

As part of a nationwide observance, Joe Wheeler State Park Marina is celebrating National Marina Day on June 9, 2012 from 10 am til 3:00 pm.

 

National Marina Day is an annual celebration of the important role marinas play in waterfront communities all across America.

A 26 year tradition will continue on June 9, 2012 at Oak Mountain State Park with the running of the Buster Britton Memorial Triathlon.

Take a Hike!

CCC Historic Hike:The Quarry Trail
Join DSP Staff on a moderate to mildly-strenuous hike to the CCC Quarry. Learn how the Civilian Conservation Corps constructed the original structures that you can still see in the park today. Moderate hike along mountainous terrain, mildly strenuous due to rocky terrain.
Date: Saturday, June 9, 2012
Where: Meet at the Nature Center (Next to DeSoto’s Country Store)
Time: 10:00-12:00 Noon
Fee: Free to the public; registration appreciated but not required.
Call 256.997.5025 or see www.alapark.com/desotoresort for more details!

 

Birds of Prey Show-DeSoto State Park
Join us for a great campfire talk in the Great Outdoors!
Join David Haggard, naturalist from TN state parks, for a showcase of a American Bald Eagle and various birds of prey to demonstrate each bird’s unique abilities, adaptations, predator/prey relationships, specific characteristics, natural histories, and the personal histories of each bird.
Date: Saturday, June 9, 2012
Where: DeSoto State Park-Fort Payne, Alabama. Interpretive Campfire Ring in the Improved Campground. (In case of inclement weather, program will be moved to the Nature Center) Gate will open 30 minutes before program. Seating is limited, so bring your own comfortable camp chair if you wish.
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Fee: Free & open to the public & great for all ages!
Call 256.997.5025 or email Brittney.Hughes@dcnr.alabama.gov for more details.
 

Parasites of Little River
Join us for a fun campfire talk in the great outdoors!
For all those who love to splash around in local creeks and rivers, this could be important information! Richard Watkins returns to talk about more creepy crawlies that would like to make a home—inside you!
When: Saturday, June 9, 2012
Where: DeSoto State Park’s Campfire Ring in the Improved Campground
(In case of inclement weather will be located in Nature Center)
Seating is limited, so bring your own comfortable camp chair if you wish.
Time: 8:00-9:00 p.m.
Fee: Free to the Public; Great for all ages!
Call 256.997.5025 or see www.alapark.com/desotoresort for more details!
 

Welcome to the Buster Britton Memorial Triathlon!

This great triathlon tradition continues, celebrating 26 years in 2012. Join us at this beautiful Alabama State Park Venue for one of the longest running triathlons in Alabama. The race honors the life of Buster Britton - one of the Birmingham area's original triathletes that lost his life in a fun run after completing the Hawaii Ironman only a short time earlier. Buster was a true inspiration for triathletes as the sport began to take shape in Alabama.

This race is a great place for veterans of the sport to test their speed and for a beginner racer or weekend warrior to enjoy challenging but not long race distances. The swim is particularly inviting for those doing their first open water swim or that may view the swim as intimidating - Double Oak Lake is very calm and the swim is a very reasonable 400 yards.

TAKE OFF AND WEIGH IN AT LAKEPOINT STATE PARK MARINA 334-687-6026.

Sponsored by the Lee King Foundation.

Expecting 200 boats.  Weigh in at 2pm.

For more information contact Sam Williams 334-687-4000.

 

Walk the Service Road with our Park Naturalist and see what types of wildlife and plants you will see. Meet at the treatment pond.

Campfire Talk: Can Snakes Crawl Backwards?
JSU biologist Dr. Chris Murdock will teach you all about amphibians and reptiles of Alabama...& will bring along some live creatures as well!
Date: Friday, June 15, 2012
Where: DeSoto State Park Nature Center, Fort Payne, Alabama
Time: 8:00-9:00 p.m.
Fee: Free to the Public; Great for all ages!
Call 256.997.5025 or see www.alapark.com/desotoresort  for more details!
 

Location : Foley Sportspark,18507 U.S. Highway 98, Foley, AL 36535
                South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce, 18507 U.S. Highway 98, Foley, AL 36535

Fifty brightly colored hot air balloons are the starts of the festival and visitors can enjoy seeing them in the air at sunrise (6 a.m.) Saturday and Sunday morning and at sunset (7-9 p.m.) Friday and Saturday night (weather permitting). Enjoy great live music throughout the weekend, visit the arts and crafts village or let the kid’s play at our free Kid’s Village featuring Babin’s House of Party, Alligator Alley exhibits and activities. The Disc-Connected K9’s World Famous Frisbee Dogs will entertain guests with their high energy acts and the ever popular Antique Tractor’s will be on display with live demonstrations. There are a variety of food booths featuring great local cuisine from homemade ice cream to local seafood. Free shuttles are available from 3 convenient downtown locations including Tanger Outlets, Foley Elementary School, and Foley’s Heritage Park from 2p.m.-10p.m. on Friday and 9 a.m.-10 p.m. on Saturday. Download our full schedule of entertainment and events on our website.

 

Admission: Free admission! Free shuttle service! Festival ground parking is $5 per vehicle.

Campfire Talk: Venomous Snakes of Alabama
JSU biologist Dr. Chris Murdock returns to talk about venomous reptiles: the facts, the myths and the misunderstandings of these interesting reptiles. Meet some live creatures!
Date: Saturday, June 16, 2012
Where: DeSoto State Park Nature Center, Fort Payne, Alabama
Time: 8:00-9:00 p.m.
Fee: Free to the Public; Great for all ages!
Call 256.997.5025 or see www.alapark.com/desotoresort  for more details!
 

Lightening, rain, snow, sleet! Are you fascinated by weather? Want to know a little more about it? Come find out about weather, what causes it, what makes it change, and what it can do.

 

Meet at 10a.m. at the Campground Pavilion (B-side).

 

Free after admission to Park.

Campfire Talk: Spiders!
Join us for a fun campfire talk in the great outdoors!
Join State Park Ranger Mark Jackson to learn about common spiders of Northeast Alabama & how to identify the beneficial spiders from the ones that are dangerous to humans.
Seating is limited, so bring your own comfortable camp chair if you wish.
Date: Friday, June 22, 2012
Where: DeSoto’s Campfire Ring in the Improved Campground
(In case of inclement weather will be located in Nature Center)
Time: 8:00-9:00 p.m.
Fee: Free to the Public; Great for all ages!
Call 256.997.5025 or email Brittney.Hughes@dcnr.alabama.gov for more details.
 

Campfire Talk: Snakes of Northeast Alabama
Join us for a fun campfire talk in the great outdoors!
Learn about the different snake species of NE Alabama, both venomous & non-venomous; & learn how to tell the difference between the two!
Seating is limited, so bring your own comfortable camp chair if you wish.
Date: Saturday, June 23, 2012
Where: DeSoto’s Campfire Ring in the Improved Campground
(In case of inclement weather will be located in Nature Center)
Time: 8:00-9:00 p.m.
Fee: Free to the Public; Great for all ages!
Call 256.997.5025 or email Brittney.Hughes@dcnr.alabama.gov for more details

 

Growing Up WILD for Preschool Children: BUGS
Join Canyon Center staff and volunteers every fourth Saturday of the month for fun nature and art programs for preschool age children.
Date: Saturday, June 23, 2012
Where: Little River Canyon Center in Fort Payne, AL
Time: 11:00 am - noon
Fee: No fee; some programs may have limited space so pre-registration is encouraged
Call 256.782.8010 or email fieldschool@jsu.edu for more details.

River Rhythms Family Fun Programs: Dragonfly Eye
Join Canyon Center staff and volunteers every fourth Saturday of the month for fun nature programs including hikes, crafts, games, nature talks, activities and more. Kids will be led along a trail to find the objects that do NOT belong there. Families will learn how to tune their observation skills to observe natural objects and creatures.
Date: Saturday, June 23, 2012
Where: Jacksonville State University’s Little River Canyon Center in Fort Payne, AL
Time: 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Fee: No fee; some programs may have limited space so pre-registration is encouraged
Call 256.782.8010 or email fieldschool@jsu.edu for more details

TAKE OFF AND WEIGH IN AT LAKEPOINT STATE PARK MARINA 334-687-6026.

Sponsored by American Bass Anglers.

Expecting 100 boats.  Weigh in at 2 or 3pm.

For more information contact Billy Benedetti.

 

Learn about some of the wildflowers you can see during the summer months. Meet in the Azalea 3 room at the Lodge at 1:00 p.m.

Campfire Talk: Rare Plants and Animals of Little River Canyon
Little River is home to over 100 rare species. National Park interpreter Larry Beane will introduce you to a number of them. Children will get to feed a model of a local carnivorous plant, the endangered Green Pitcher Plant.
Date: Friday, June 29, 2012
Where: DeSoto’s Campfire Ring in the Improved Campground
(In case of inclement weather will be located in Nature Center)
Time: 8:00-9:00 p.m.
Fee: Free to the Public; Great for all ages!
Call 256.997.5025 or see www.alapark.com/desotoresort for more details!
 

Campfire Talk: Playing it Safe (formally 13 Ways Not to Die at Little River Canyon)
As part of the NPS safety program, National Park Ranger Miranda Brown will share stories of the rescues, misadventures and incidents that occur every year in and around Alabama's deepest gorge.
Date: Saturday, June 30, 2012
Where: DeSoto’s Campfire Ring in the Improved Campground
(In case of inclement weather will be located in Nature Center)
Time: 8:00-9:00 p.m.
Fee: Free to the Public; Great for all ages!
Call 256.997.5025 or see www.alapark.com/desotoresort   for more details!
 

You’re invited to a “WildThyme Tea” served by the REAL Mad Hatter! 
Prepared with ingredients gathered from Mother Nature’s Pantry: watercress sandwiches, wild preserves, pastries, etc. and of course, a variety of teas (and coffee substitutes).  Explore the world of teas: their health benefits, and how to create herbal tea blends from one’s own herb garden or woodlands. As the rufous-sided Towhee sings - "Drink your Tea!" 

Celebrate Independence Day at DeSoto State Park on June 30, 2012!

Are reptiles slimy? Are snakes bad? Find this out and much more when we discuss reptiles.

 

Come to the Fishing Center (located at the Back Gate of Park) at 10a.m.

 

Free after admission to Park.

TAKE OFF AND WEIGH IN AT LAKEPOINT STATE PARK MARINA 334-687-6026.

Sponsored by C&R Outdoors.

Expecting 15-40 boats.  Weigh in at 3pm

For more information contact Clay Johns.

Let's celebrate our freedom and those that have given us the opportunity to have that freedom. Come make a flag or other patriotic craft, then parade through the campground showing off our flags.

 

Meet at 10a.m. at the Campground Pavilion (B-side).

 

Free after admission to Park, but donations accepted to cover cost of craft materials.

Wendnesday July 4, Gates open at 4:30 p.m. Show starts at 6 p.m. Fireworks at 9 p.m.

What is a wetland? Are wetlands beneficial to us? What can be found in a wetland? Come learn about wetlands. They are interesting ecosystems.

 

Meet at 10a.m. at the Campground Pavilion (B-side).

 

Free after admission to Park.

TAKE OFF AND WEIGH IN AT LAKEPOINT STATE PARK MARINA 334-687-6026.

Expecting 30 boats.  Weigh in at 3pm.

For more information contact Deacon Collins.

 

 

DeSoto State Park invites you to our annual Independence Day events atop Lookout Mountain!

Educator & Teacher Workshop: Exploring Alabama’s Grand Canyon
July 10 – 13, 2012 – Desoto State Park & Little River Canyon National Preserve, Fort Payne
Explore the natural wonder of Alabama’s Little River Canyon by navigating unfamiliar wilderness, paddling Terrapin Creek, hiking and other canyon-specific activities. During a visit to JSU's Little River Canyon Center participants will take part in a variety of hands-on activities such as learning about the wildlife, ecology, geology, botany, water quality and cultural heritage of this southern leg of the Appalachian Mountains. All Legacy workshops) require a $40.00 nonrefundable application fee for Non-Partners ($15.00 of this deposit will give the applicant a one year membership in Legacy’s Partnership Program) or a $25.00 nonrefundable application fee for all Legacy
Partners.
The Partnership Program allows environmentally aware individuals to assist us in providing balanced, fact-based environmental education programs and materials to citizens throughout our state. Remember your contribution to Legacy is tax deductible. As a Legacy Partner you will receive discounts on our annual partnership conference and the remaining Legacy workshops for that year.
• Lodging, meals, and materials for the workshops are provided. Expenses not covered are substitute teachers and travel
expenses to and from the workshop location.
• Any K-12 educator currently teaching within the State of Alabama, any person about to or who has already graduated with an Education Degree, graduate students with an Education Degree or other environmental educators may apply to attend.
• Applications can be downloaded from the Legacy Website at www.legacyenved.org.
• Contact Toni Bruner at 1-800-240-5115 or toni@legacyenved.org for more informati

Civilian Conservation Corps Historic Hike
Join DeSoto State Park Staff on this historic hike to the Civilian Conservation Corp’s ‘unfinished’ Bridge. Learn why the CCC left it ‘unfinished’ and see several original structures. Moderate to Strenuous walk on old CCC roadbed. Not for children under the age of 5. Almost 4 miles round trip. Bring lunch and water; wear appropriate footwear & clothing.
Date: Saturday, July 14, 2012
Where: Meet in Lobby of DeSoto’s Lodge.
Time: 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Fee: Free to the public; registration appreciated but not required.
Call 256.997.5025 or see www.alapark.com/desotoresort for more details.
 

Native American Pottery Workshop
Join nationally renown potter, Tammy Beane, to learn how pottery was made on Lookout Mountain thousands of years ago. We’ll provide the clay as well as bone needles and paddles to make designs on your pots. This workshop is very popular and fills with a
long waiting list. Pre-register early to assure your place.
Date: Saturday, July 14, 2012
Where: Little River Canyon Center in Fort Payne, AL
Time: 10:00 am – 12:00 noon or 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Fee: $15 adult/$5 child; Pre-registration is required
Call JSU Field Schools at 256.782.5697 or email fieldschool@jsu.edu
 

Sponsored by Mead Westvaco at Lakepoint State Park Marina

Expecting 25 boats

Weigh in at 2 pm EST

For more information contact Larry Bettison

Come find out what plants you can eat and which ones have medicinal uses. Meet in the Azalea 3 room at the Lodge at 1:00 p.m.

LAKEPOINT STATE PARK MARINA

EXPECTING 25-35 BOATS  WEIGH IN AT 3PM CST

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT WES MEADOWS

Beautiful Antique Wooden Boats are displayed in front of the lodge during this annual event. 

Campfire Talk: "Creepy Crawlies: How Reptiles Move"
Join Dr. George Cline for a program about the Creepy crawlies that we know…& love/hate! Learn how they move, how they camouflage themselves, & much more!
Seating is limited, so bring your own comfortable camp chair if you wish.
Date: Friday, July 20, 2012
Where: DeSoto’s Campfire Ring in the Improved Campground
(In case of inclement weather will be located in Nature Center)
Time: 8:00-9:00 p.m.
Fee: Free to the Public; Great for all ages!
Call 256.997.5025 or see www.alapark.com/desotoresort  for more details!
 

 Campfire Talk: "Voices of the Night; Frog Calls of Alabama
Experience “love” from a frog’s point of view! Join the one-and-only, “Dr. Frog” George Cline, for an unforgettable evening of romance and songs from the first amphibian voices of the season. Great for all ages!
Seating is limited, so bring your own comfortable camp chair if you wish.
Date: Saturday July 21, 2012
Where: DeSoto’s Campfire Ring in the Improved Campground
(In case of inclement weather will be located in Nature Center)
Time: 8:00-9:00 p.m.
Fee: Free to the Public
Call 256.997.5025 or see www.alapark.com/desotoresort  for more details!
 

Food, fun and music on the patio at Joe Wheeler Lodge.

Growing Up WILD for Preschool Children: Water Wonders
Join Canyon Center staff and volunteers every fourth Saturday of the month for fun nature and art programs for preschool age
children.
Date: Saturday, July 28, 2012
Where: Little River Canyon Center in Fort Payne, AL
Time: 11:00 am - noon
Fee: No fee; some programs may have limited space so pre-registration is encouraged
Call JSU Field Schools at 256.782.5697 or email fieldschool@jsu.edu
 

River Rhythms Family Fun Programs: Water Wonders
Join Canyon Center staff and volunteers every fourth Saturday of the month for fun nature programs including hikes, crafts, games,
nature talks, activities and more. Kids will learn about identifying creatures by looking at the tracks they leave behind. Each child will
make his or her own track as a keepsake.
Date: Saturday, July 28, 2012
Where: Little River Canyon Center in Fort Payne, AL
Time: 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Fee: No fee; some programs may have limited space so pre-registration is encouraged
Call JSU Field Schools at 256.782.5697 or email fieldschool@jsu.edu
 

Come learn about the butterflies of Lake Guntersville State Park. Meet in the Azalea 3 room at the Lodge at 1:00 p.m.

TAKE OFF AND WEIGH IN AT LAKEPOINT STATE PARK MARINA 334-687-6026.

Sponsored by C&R Outdoors.

Expecting 15-40 boats.  Weigh in at 3pm.

For more information contact Clay Johns.

2012 South Eastern Regional Championship series (SERC) / US Cup East Series #9-DeSoto State Park
http://www.goneriding.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=604&Itemid=300

World’s Longest Yard Sale
August 2nd-5th
Running from Gadsden, Alabama to West Unity, Ohio, this yard sale travels more than 650-miles of scenic beauty with a lot of shopping opportunities! A section of this annual event runs atop Lookout Mountain & goes straight thru DeSoto State Park.
For more info, see: http://www.discoverlookoutmountain.com/yardsale.shtml
 

Let's take a look at how much we waste and use those materials to make a garbage pizza. Do you know how long it takes for a diaper to decompose? How about a glass bottle? Or a soda can? Come find this out.

 

Meet at 10a.m. at the Campground Pavilion (B-side).

 

Small donation requested to cover cost of materials.

Park admission - $3 adults, $1 children (6 to 11)

 

Sponsored by Mead Westvaco at Lakepoint State Park Marina

Expecting 25 boats

Weigh in at 2 pm EST

For more information contact Larry Bettison

Little River Ecology Hike
Join JSU’s stream ecologist, Dr. Lori Tolley-Jordan for a brief lecture and an interpretive hike in the Little River of Little River Canyon National Preserve. Learn what makes this area one of the most unique rivers in the world!
Date: Saturday, August 11, 2012
Where: Meet at the Little River Canyon Center. Please bring a daypack with plenty of water/snacks & wear comfortable shoes/clothes and (optional) prepare to WADE IN THE WATER!! Not recommended for children under 8 years of age.
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Fee: $5 per person; pre-registration required
Call 256-782-5697 for more information or to pre-register
 

LAKEPOINT STATE PARK MARINA

EXPECTING 25-35 BOATS  WEIGH IN AT 3PM CST

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT WES MEADOWS

Campfire Talk:  Insects of Little River Canyon
Join National Park Service staff for this fun program about the flying, crawling, & creeping insects that can be found on Lookout Mountain.
Date: Friday August 17, 2012
Where: DeSoto’s Campfire Ring in the Improved Campground
(In case of inclement weather will be located in Nature Center)
Time: 8:00-9:00 p.m.
Fee: Free to the Public; Great for all ages!
Call 256.997.5025 or see www.alapark.com/desotoresort  for more details!
 

Campfire Talk:  Animal Camouflage
Many animals at Little River mimic backgrounds or other more threatening critters to survive the challenges of their environment. Some are pretty nifty; others become almost invisible for defense or attack. Join Little River Canyon National Park staff to learn more about animal camouflage.
Date: Saturday, August 18, 2012
Where: DeSoto’s Campfire Ring in the Improved Campground
(In case of inclement weather will be located in Nature Center)
Time: 8:00-9:00 p.m.
Fee: Free to the Public; Great for all ages!
Call 256.997.5025 or see www.alapark.com/desotoresort  for more details!
 

Have you ever wondered about what the animals do after we go to sleep? Here's your chance to find out. Come take a look & listen to what the animals are doing at night. You can learn what type of animal it is by the color of its eyes or by the sounds it makes. The animal world comes alive at night.  Hike to find some of these guys.

 

Meet at 7:30p.m. at the Campground Pavilion (B-side). Bring a flashlight for the hike.

 

Free after admission to the Park.

 Campfire Talk: Canyon Constellations
Learn more about the summer night sky with JSU astronomer Dr. Laura Weinkauf.
Date: Friday, August 24, 2012
Where:  DeSoto State Park's CCC Pavilion (In case of inclement weather will be located in Nature Center)
Time: 8:00-9:00 p.m.
Fee: Free to the Public; Great for all ages!
Call 256.997.5025 or see www.alapark.com/desotoresort  for more details!

Growing Up WILD for Preschool Children: Animal Tracks
Join Canyon Center staff and volunteers every fourth Saturday of the month for fun nature and art programs for preschool age
children.
Date: Saturday, August 25, 2012
Where: Little River Canyon Center in Fort Payne, AL
Time: 11:00 am - noon
Fee: No fee; some programs may have limited space so pre-registration is encouraged
Call 256-782-5697 for more information or to pre-register
 

River Rhythms Family Fun Programs: Animal Tracks
Join Canyon Center staff and volunteers every fourth Saturday of the month for fun nature programs including hikes, crafts, games,
nature talks, activities and more!
Date: Saturday, August 25, 2011
Where: Little River Canyon Center in Fort Payne, AL
Time: 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Fee: No fee; some programs may have limited space so pre-registration is encouraged
Call 256-782-5697 for more information or to pre-register
 

Campfire Talk: Stars, Moons and Planets
Learn more about the summer night sky with JSU astronomer Dr. Laura Weinkauf.
Date:      Saturday, August 25, 2012
Where:  DeSoto State Park's CCC Pavilion (In case of inclement weather will be located in Nature Center)
Time:  8:00-9:00 p.m.
Fee: Free to the Public; Great for all ages!
Call 256.997.5025 or see www.alapark.com/desotoresort  for more details!
 

TAKE OFF AND WEIGH IN AT LAKEPOINT STATE PARK MARINA 334-687-6026.

Sponsored by C&R Outdoors.

Expecting 15-40 boats.  Weigh in at 3pm.

For more information contact Clay Johns.

 

Let's get creative and do some crafts. Let's try to use some natural materials from the Earth around us.

 

Meet at 10a.m. at the Campground Pavilion (B-side).

 

Small donation requested to cover craft materials.

Park admission is $3 adults, $1 children (6 to 11)

History of Little River Canyon
Little River Canyon was first recorded by Hernando DeSoto's scribes.  Cultures continued to live here, enjoying the canyon in their own ways.  History here includes the Indians, Trail of Tears, the beginnings of electricity, and the building of parks.  Join the National Park Service interpretive staff for a program on the history of the land that became the park.
Date: Friday, September 1, 2012
Where: DeSoto’s Campfire Ring in the Improved Campground
(In case of inclement weather will be located in Nature Center)
Time: 7:00-8:00 p.m.
Fee: Free to the Public Great for all ages!
Call 256.997.5025 or see www.alapark.com/desotoresort  for more details!
 

A neat way to learn about nature is to keep a journal of what you see, hear, smell, and touch while outside. Come make a Nature Journal, then we'll go on a walk to start filling it up.

 

Meet at 10a.m. at the Campground Pavilion (B-side).

 

Free after admission to the Park.

Let's take a walk. Let's take time to stop and smell the dogwoods. Slow down over this holiday weekend & relax by taking a walk looking for all kinds of things in nature from birds to trees to signs of animals that we can't see. Many things in nature are often taken for granted.

 

We will meet at 10a.m. at the Campground Pavilion (B-side) and head out for a walk throughout the campground.

 

Free after admission to the Park.

Blast off at safe light, weigh in around 3 p.m.

TAKE OFF AND WEIGH IN AT LAKEPOINT STATE PARK MARINA 334-687-6026.

Sponsored by American Bass Anglers.

Expecting 100 boats.  Weigh in at 2 or 3pm.

For more information contact Billy Benedetti.

 

Identifying Butterflies
Join lepidopterist and photographer, Vitaly Charny, to learn more about the fascinating life-cycle of Alabama’s butterflies. Stunning photographs to see!
Seating is limited, so bring your own comfortable camp chair if you wish.
Date: Friday, September 21, 2012
Where: DeSoto’s Campfire Ring in the Improved Campground
(In case of inclement weather will be located in Nature Center)
Time: 7:00-8:00 p.m.
Fee: Free to the Public; Great for all ages!
Call 256.997.5025 or see www.alapark.com/desotoresort  for more details!
 

Campfire Talk: Beautiful Butterflies
Join lepidopterist and photographer, Vitaly Charny, to learn more about Alabama’s butterflies. Stunning photographs to see!
Seating is limited, so bring your own comfortable camp chair if you wish.
Date: Saturday September 22, 2012
Where: DeSoto’s Campfire Ring in the Improved Campground
(In case of inclement weather will be located in Nature Center)
Time: 7:00-8:00 p.m.
Fee: Free to the Public; Great for all ages!
Call 256.997.5025 or see www.alapark.com/desotoresort  for more details!

 

Growing Up WILD for Preschool Children: Butterflies
Join Canyon Center staff and volunteers every fourth Saturday of the month for fun nature and art programs for preschool age
children.
Date: Saturday, September 22, 2012
Where: Little River Canyon Center in Fort Payne, AL
Time: 11:00 am - noon
Fee: No fee; some programs may have limited space so pre-registration is encouraged
Call 256-782-5697 for more information or to pre-register

River Rhythms: Butterflies
Join Canyon Center staff and volunteers every fourth Saturday of the month for fun nature programs including hikes, crafts, games,
nature talks, activities and more!
Date: Saturday, September 22, 2012
Where: Little River Canyon Center in Fort Payne, AL (4 miles from DeSoto State Park)
Time: 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Fee: Free; some programs may have limited space so pre-registration is encouraged
Call 256-782-5697 for more information or to pre-register
 

In order to survive changing weather conditions, animals have to adapt. Come learn about some methods animals use to survive.

 

Meet at 10a.m. at the Campground Pavilion (B-side).

 

Free after admission to Park.

Come learn about many of the birds you will see in your backyard during the year and how to keep them coming back. Meet in the Azalea 3 room at the lodge at 1:00 p.m.

TAKE OFF AND WEIGH IN AT LAKEPOINT STATE PARK MARINA 334-687-6026.

Sponsored by C&R Outdoors.

Expecting 15-40 boats.  Weigh in at 3pm.

For more information contact Clay Johns.

 

4th Annual XTERRA Alabama 6.2 Mile Trail Race at Cheaha State Park
This is great single and double track off-road running experience. The race will start on a street (required for spacing) but will soon lead into the woods. The terrain is made up of a little bit of everything, rolling hills, climbs, single track, double track, roots, along with some technical sections. The course is beautiful and offers something for every runner truly wishing to ´ditch the city´.
http://www.dirtyspokes.com/tr_races.php?trraceid=2&trpageid=1

 

Mountain Dulcimer Workshop
Intro to mountain dulcimer taught by musician Mickey Luck. Workshop is four weekly sessions.
Dates: September 29, October 6 and October 20, 2012.
Where: Little River Canyon Center
Time: 10:00 am – 2:00 pm (brown bag lunch)
Fee: $100 per participant for the four week workshop; bring your own dulcimer and lunch; teacher may have instruments to loan.
Call 256-782-5697 for more information or to pre-register
 

The JSU Field Schools offer these easy storytelling hikes “from the deepest canyon to the highest mountain” each first Monday of the month (September – December) for those who are too busy with family, grandchildren and friends to spend a weekend day in the woods.

Campfire Talk:
Spanish Exploration of NE Alabama
Join us for a fun campfire talk in the great outdoors!
JSU's Dr. Harry Holstein will take you through the amazing adventures of Hernando DeSoto, the first European explorer, as he searches for the ancient town of "Coosa".
Seating is limited, so bring your own comfortable camp chair if you wish.
Date: Friday, October 5, 2012
Where: DeSoto’s Campfire Ring in the Improved Campground
(In case of inclement weather will be located in Nature Center)
Time: 7:00-8:00 p.m.
Fee: Free to the Public; Great for all ages!
Call 256.997.5025 or see www.alapark.com/desotoresort  for more details!
 

Campfire Talk:
Stone Structures of NE Alabama &
the Southeast US.
Join us for a fun campfire talk in the great outdoors!
Join Dr. Harry Holstein for a presentation about the stone structures found on several sites in Alabama & the SE United States that were thought to be built by the Welsh during the 12th Century.
Seating is limited, so bring your own comfortable camp chair if you wish.
Date: Saturday October 6, 2012
Where: DeSoto’s Campfire Ring in the Improved Campground
(In case of inclement weather will be located in Nature Center)
Time: 7:00-8:00 p.m.
Fee: Free to the Public; Great for all ages!
Call 256.997.5025 or see www.alapark.com/desotoresort  for more details!
 

Campfire Talk:
Corn~A truly a-maize-ing Plant!
Join us for a fun campfire talk in the great outdoors!
Join geographer Kelly Gregg in a discussion of the origins of Native American corn, how it shaped American culture and cuisine, and how it went on to help feed the world!”
Seating is limited, so bring your own comfortable camp chair if you wish.
Date: Friday, October 12, 2012
Where: DeSoto’s Campfire Ring in the Improved Campground
(In case of inclement weather will be located in Nature Center)
Time: 7:00-8:00 p.m.
Fee: Free to the Public Great for all ages!
Call 256.997.5025 or see www.alapark.com/desotoresort  for more details!
 

Dutch Oven Demonstration
Saturday, October 13, 2012~From 4:00 to 6:00?
Dutch ovens have been in use for hundreds of years; especially when our country was expanding and families were on the move. Unable to bring their large cook stoves with them, women learned how to cook entire meals from stews & soups to bread & desserts, in their Dutch ovens. Learn the basics about Dutch ovens, how to clean & care for your cookware, AND cook (& eat!) dinner & dessert at the same time!
Starts around 4:00 p.m, located at the DeSoto State Park Campfire Ring in the Improved Campground. This is a demostration, so the best part is when food is just coming off the fire!
Seating is limited, so bring your own comfortable camp chair if you wish. Drop in whenever you like & check out the food
 

Campfire Talk: ‘Moonshine’
Moonshining began very early in American history & for early moonshiners, making and selling alcohol wasn't just for fun or a few extra bucks — it was a means of survival. Learn about the history of moonshining in the Appalachian Mountains.
Seating is limited, so bring your own comfortable camp chair if you wish.
Date: Saturday, October 13, 2012
Where: DeSoto’s Campfire Ring in the Improved Campground
(In case of inclement weather will be located in Nature Center)
Time: 7:00-8:00 p.m.
Fee: Free to the Public Great for all ages!
Call 256.997.5025 or see www.alapark.com/desotoresort  for more details!
 

Blast off at safe light.

Come out and enjoy the festivities at the 2nd Annual Fall Festival from 10a.m. to 2p.m. at the Dogwood Pavilion.

 

We will have a dunking booth, face painting, cake walk, hayrides, and more.

 

Park admission is $3 adults, $1 children (6 to 11), 5 & under free, $1 seniors (62+).

 

Activities require 1 ticket each, and they can be purchased under the Dogwood Pavilion for $1 each.

'Reading the Signs' in Weather
Some people can sense a storm coming their way without ever tuning into the local weather station.
The many clues that give away Nature's plans have inspired bits of lore throughout the ages -- and are still used today to define the meanings of atmospheric changes and how they affect us.
Join Ila Hatter, naturalist and ‘Wildcrafter’ from the Smoky Mountains for some folklore about 'reading the signs'
Date: Saturday, October 19, 2012
Where: DeSoto’s Campfire Ring in the Improved Campground
(In case of inclement weather will be located in Nature Center)
Time: 7:00-8:00 p.m.
Fee: Free to the Public Great for all ages!
Call 256.997.5025 or see www.alapark.com/desotoresort  for more details!
 

Come join us at Wind Creek for our Annual Halloween Carnival.With fun and Games for the kids and a Haunted Hayride the Night of the 20th.

More details as they become available.

'Meet the Natives' Plant Hike
Join Ila Hatter, "The Lady of the Forest", for a walk to "Meet the Natives" personally.  Learn plant species that were used medicinally in different cultures & the folklore of different plants.
Date: Saturday, October 20, 2012

Where: Meet at the Nature Center (Next to DeSoto’s Country Store)
Time: 1:00 p.m.-2:30 p.m.
 Free to the public; no registration required. Great for all ages!
Call 256.997.5025 or see www.alapark.com/desotoresort  for more details!
 

Uptown Foley Halloween Party

 

Located in the streets of downtown Foley from 5:30-8:30pm.

Local businesses line the streets with booths featuring games and free treats. There is also a cake walk, a balloon artist, a food court, bounce houses, and a costume contest for all ages.

Fun for the entire family…snacks, treats, costumes, and excellent slap-your-knee-&-shiver storytelling!
Join us here at DeSoto State Park for a weekend of fun events guaranteed to run shivers up and down your spine! Movies, treats, games, storytelling & more are in store during this popular annual event.Grab your favorite costume, bring the family, & come stay with us!
All events are free to the public & great for all ages!
 Be sure to save the date, and more info coming soon!

Come learn about some of the bats you can find here at the park. Meet in the Azalea 3 room at the Lodge at 3:00 p.m.

Elberta German Sausage Festival

 

Located in Elberta Town Park from 10am - 5pm.

 

Free admission, 230 arts and crafts booths, sausage cooked onsite, carnival rides.

 
 

TAKE OFF AND WEIGH IN AT LAKEPOINT STATE PARK MARINA 334-687-6026.

Sponsored by C&R Outdoors.

Expecting 15-40 boats.  Weigh in at 3pm.

For more information contact Clay Johns.

Sponsored by Mead Westvaco at Lakepoint State Park Marina

Expecting 25 boats

Weigh in at 2pm EST

For more information contact Larry Bettison

Christmas in the Park

 

Located in Heritage Park beginning at 6pm.

 

Come out to hear Christmas carols, sip cocoa, witness the city Christmas Tree lighting, and visit with Santa! Free popcorn and cocoa for all. 
 

Let It Snow

 

Located in Heritage Park from 11am - 3pm directly following the Christmas Parade.

 

Festivities include live entertainment, food booths, Children's Art Village, inflatable bounce houses, storytelling by Mrs. Claus, and SNOW!!

Cheaha State Park invites Senior Citizens to enjoy a day in the park. Come and sing christmas songs at the wedding chapel eat our special priced buffet! This day is for you!  Musicians welcome! Contact Mary if you would like to come and help us! 11:00 - 3:00 pm 

TAKE OFF AND WEIGH IN AT LAKEPOINT STATE PARK MARINA 334-687-6026.

Sponsored by C&R Outdoors.

Expecting 15-40 boats.  Weigh in at 3pm.

For more information contact Clay Johns.

Cheaha Restaurant will have its annual New Years Buffet.  11:30 am  - 3:00 pm.  This buffet has all kinds of Traditional items that will help you start your year. Our menu will help you know what to eat to help you have money in your pocket next year!

5K ⁄ 15K Trail Run at Monte Sano State Park

This special weekend fills up fast so call now! Each room will have a bottle of sparkling cider for you to toast each other. With a chill in the air the mountain is a perfect place for couples to hike and snuggle. Our Sweetheart Buffet on Saturday Night  and Buffet Breakfast Buffet Saturday and Sunday morning are one reasons people travel to Alabama's Highest point!

We hope you wear green as it's the color of the weekend!  Join our Dance contest and win a prize. Saturday  of St. Patricks Day Weekend at Cheaha Restaurant we have our "Can you Dance a Jig contest!"  Irish music and a contest. We will serve Irish specials at Cheaha Restaurant and Green Beer (or sprite) so come on up!

Start Easter on Friday night with our Puppet show & Family singing contest!  On Saturday Enjoy our annual all day event that begins at Bald Rock Lodge at 10 a.m.  Events include an Easter party, dancing, pictures with the Easter Bunny and of course and Egg Hunt & race.  Make reservations and stay the weekend.  Our traditional Easter Sunday  buffett  available at the Cheaha Restaurant from 11:30 a.m until 3 p.m.  Enjoy Real easter eggs on our buffets!