From its humble beginning as a 940-acre park atop Double Oak Mountain established by the Alabama State Lands Act of 1927, Oak Mountain State Park has grown to 9,940 acres making it Alabama’s largest state park. With the largest land-area, one of the widest varieties of outdoor activities of any state park, and its proximity to Birmingham, Oak Mountain is a perfect stop while traveling to and from the state’s largest city. Topping it all off is the park’s stunning physical landscape, which alone makes for an unforgettable experience.
Oak Mountain State Park has once again been awarded the coveted "Certificate of Excellence" from Tripadvisor!
From jct I-65 (exit 246) & Hwy 119: Follow signs.
The kings chair trail makes for a moderate hike. Distance is about 7.89 km with a detour @ the Overlook. It took us almost 3 hours. A swim at the lake And a picnic was the best way to conclude a successful day with family.
Good walking/ hiking shoes highly recommend.
The best way to get to the kings chair is to Start Blue trail at North Trailhead take to Kings Chair out and back continue on Blue trail to Red Blue connector. Then Red trail back to trailhead.
A glorious place to hike. The park is dog friendly, and kid friendly. There was plenty of parking, and the restrooms were very clean. Stay the path and you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views like these.
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Oak Mountain State Park in Birmingham, and it was an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Scenic Beauty: Oak Mountain is a true gem nestled in the heart of Birmingham. The park boasts stunning natural beauty with its lush forests, picturesque lakes, and scenic hiking trails. The diverse landscapes offer something for everyone, whether you're into hiking, biking, or just appreciating nature.
Activities Galore: This park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. I had a blast exploring the extensive trail system, from leisurely strolls to challenging hikes. The mountain biking trails are also fantastic, providing thrilling adventures for riders of all levels. Don't miss the opportunity to swim or paddle in the pristine lakes; it's a great way to cool off during the summer months.
Wildlife Encounters: Oak Mountain is teeming with wildlife. I spotted deer, various bird species, and even some playful squirrels during my visit. It's a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Family-Friendly: What's impressive is that Oak Mountain is incredibly family-friendly. There are well-maintained picnic areas, a petting zoo, and even a BMX track for the kids to enjoy. It's the perfect place for a family day out.
Clean and Well-Maintained: The park is impressively clean and well-maintained, making the overall experience enjoyable and comfortable.
Accessibility: Located just a short drive from Birmingham, Oak Mountain is easily accessible, making it a convenient escape from city life.
Overall, Oak Mountain State Park offers a
This is a beautiful, natural area just south of Birmingham. I was here in the winter and it was a very rainy day. I was still able to stroll around a little bit checking out the Nature Center with protected animals .
I can imagine in the summertime, the park is packed with people hiking, biking and swimming.
Take some time to go enjoy it.
We visited the park twice in October/2023. First time we hiked the Rattlesnake Ridge and we actually almost stepped in a rattlesnake in the trail. Second time, We did the Lake trail by bike and it was a great experience. That was a few Fall colors. It must be prettier by November.
The park is very well maintained, bathrooms were clean, there are showers and grills around. Great place to spend the day with family and kids too.