Hidden in North Alabama is DeSoto State Park. It has plentiful waterfalls, an abundance of activities and an extraordinary history, all just a little over an hour from Huntsville.
Hidden atop Northeast Alabama’s Lookout Mountain is DeSoto State Park, a 3,502-acre park that boasts many wildflowers, waterfalls, mountains and activities. With an extraordinary history and an abundance of activities to explore, there is never a better time to venture out to DeSoto. And you can find it a little over an hour east from the booming tech hub of Huntsville, Alabama. (Sounds like a great post-work weekend trip to us!)
Get ready to lose yourself in the serene beauty of this North Alabama gem.
Rooted in history
DeSoto State Park, first known as State Park #5, was developed in the late 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps—a government program created in the Depression era to bring jobs and preserve and maintain fish, habitats, forests, parks and campgrounds.
While the corps might no longer exist today, its impact on DeSoto is still ever present. Many of the railroads, bridges, shelters and cabins are still around today. Those interested in history will inevitably find their way into the CCC museum, a great way for people of all ages to learn more about the Depression era and the program that brought Alabama its beloved state park.
Guests can visit the museum, free of charge, in the “Contact Station” at the original entrance to DeSoto State Park on Country Road 618.
There’s so much to explore
In addition to its history, DeSoto is a family-friendly park with fun and activities for all ages. Want to take part in some of the fun? Here’s how you can join in.
Fly Fishing
DeSoto State Park is a great place to fly fish. Lying in the West Fork of the Little River, the North Alabama opportunities for fly fishing are endless. Within the park, the crystal-clear mountain river water is teeming with game. Anglers can easily catch Red-Eye Bass and a variety of Pan Fish on traditional flies and poppers during the spring, summer and fall months in the water.
With numerous points of access within the park, fishers can find locations, maps and guides for fly fishing on DeSoto’s website.
Swimming
If you’re heading to DeSoto during the summer months, you might want to bring a bathing suit—especially if you love swimming in nature.
The park allows swimming in Laurel Creek, in the West Fork of Little River (the river that runs through the park) and above the A.A. Miller Dam, which is above DeSoto Falls. None of these areas have lifeguards on duty, so guests are advised to swim at their own risk.
DeSoto also offers an Olympic-sized swimming pool that also boasts a diving board, for those willing to take a plunge, and an ADA-accessible lift to expand access. More information about access and pricing can be found on their website.
Kayaking
Paddle on Little River through DeSoto and take in the scenery. An onsite paddle shack is accessible for anyone interested in renting equipment before hitting the water. Any small watercraft, like kayaks or canoes, can be launched at the boat ramp.
For more information on renting paddle equipment or getting out on the water, head to their website.
Hiking, Biking, Riding & Camping
There truly is so much to do at DeSoto, but we could never forget the hiking, biking, horseback riding and camping opportunities within the park. Discover new routes every time you visit with more than 35 miles of trails and more than 11 miles of mountain biking trails.
There are also countless ways to camp in the park. The park boasts primitive camping sites, backcountry campsites and 94 full-hookup RV and tent sites. You can also find cabins. If you head out to camp, be sure to go prepared and stay in the know.
Here, you can find more about DeSoto’s trail system. And, if you’re heading out on a hiking trip, be sure to freshen up on some of our best tips for hiking in Alabama.
Falling in love with the falls
Did you know that DeSoto has eight rushing waterfalls within its park boundaries? That’s more than any other state park in Alabama. While some are more accessible than others, if you’re itching to see some beautiful falls in our state, DeSoto is the place to be.
The best time to visit all of the waterfalls in the park is during spring, late fall and winter. All of the falls are typically dry in the summer. Some falls, like the Lodge Falls and Lost Falls are very rain dependent. Others, like Indian Falls and Little River Falls, flow more powerfully during their peak seasons.
But the big showstopper at DeSoto is DeSoto Falls—one of the tallest and most-visited waterfalls in Alabama, towering at 104 feet. Located just off the Lookout Mountain Parkway, this triumphant waterfall is a great place to take in the peaceful sounds of nature and roaring waters. The historic A.A. Miller Dam and upper end of the falls are accessible by all ability statuses. However, accessing the lower or main waterfall requires a walk down concrete stairs or a hike downward.
If you want to picnic at the falls, the park provides a number of picnic tables, allowing guests, families and friends to enjoy a day in the peaceful outdoors.
You can find more about each of the waterfalls within the park and how to find them on DeSoto’s website.
When in Mentone…
And while we’re at DeSoto, why not continue exploring? There is so much to do in and around Mentone, Alabama. Here are a few things to discover:
Start Exploring
While there is a $4 admission fee per vehicle, the experience is truly worth the cost. And, besides, who would want to lose yourself in the sweet, serene beauty of DeSoto State Park?
Regardless of what you set out to see, there is so much waiting for you within this Northeast Alabama park. From casting a line in the water to marveling at numerous rushing waterfalls, there’s something for everyone. So, whatever you’re looking for, and whenever you want it, you can find it all right here in sweet home Alabama.
