Continuing in the rustic tradition of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), mountainous Desoto State Park is nestled atop beautiful Lookout Mountain in scenic Northeast Alabama and accented by many rushing waterfalls and fragrant wildflowers that will simply take your breath away. Developed in the late 1930s, the hard-working and dedicated men of the CCC made many natural enhancements to the park that have withstood the test of time and will last for future generations. Come commune with Mother Nature as DeSoto State Park offers a family-friendly atmosphere that holds wonders for people of all ages!
DeSoto State Park is conveniently located only 8 miles northeast of Fort Payne, Alabama; and DeSoto Falls - also part of DeSoto State Park - is located about 7 miles north of the park heading towards Mentone, Alabama.
When traveling to the park, please be advised that GPS directions are NOT reliable (especially when pulling a large rig). Please see our written driving directions on the webpage Plan Your Trip. *Larger vehicles need to avoid Tutweiler Gap (off of Hwy 117), Wades Gap (Co. Rd. 604), Beasons Gap (off of Co. Rd. 89). Trailers or Rvs also need to avoid County Road 613(road to DeSoto Falls)
*If coming from I-59, we advise campers/larger vehicles to use Exits 218 or 222 and utilize AL Hwy 35.
Nature
Whether a nature hobbyist, outdoor enthusiast, or sporting fanatic - DeSoto State Park has plenty to do to keep you pleasantly entertained. Kayaking, fishing, swimming, hiking, biking, cycling, rappelling, bouldering, picnicking, wildflower expeditions, and just plain ole' exploring nature - we literally have it all! We cater to individuals, families, and small to large groups of all kinds.
Use the ADCNR Interactive Map to learn more about the Alabama State Parks.
Recreation
Other amenities include a restaurant, meeting rooms, pavilions, picnic area with playground, Olympic-size swimming pool (seasonal), the Benefield Interpretive Center featuring interpretive programs and live animals, a Civilian Conservation Corps museum, and more than 30 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails; we even have an ADA-accessible boardwalk trail dedicated to Talmadge Butler, a former park superintendent.
Accommodations
This 3,502-acre park provides lodging facilities including: Mountain Chalets, Log and Rustic Cabins, Motel Rooms, and an Improved Campground with 94 full-hookup tent and RV sites. For the more adventurous, there are also Primitive Camping sites for tents as well as two back country campsites with shelters. No matter what type of lodging you might prefer or have need of, we have it!
Area Attractions
Little River Canyon Nature Preserve, the 104-foot Desoto Falls, Alabama Band Fan Club, the Walls of Jericho Forever Wild Tract, and historic Fort Payne and Mentone, Alabama. Within a hour of Chattanooga, TN.
EFFECTIVE MARCH 1, 2020, THERE WILL BE AN ADMISSION FEE OF $4.00 PER VEHICLE AT THE DESOTO FALLS PICNIC AREA.
