De Soto State Park

Did you know that when you vacation in the Lookout Mountain area, you can hike where intrepid Spanish explorers trod? If your curiosity is piqued, and it should be, you can experience such a trek at De Soto State Park.

The park is named after Hernando de Soto, the famous Spanish explorer who traversed this region in the 16th century. Today, De Soto State Park stands as a testament to the resilience of nature and the human spirit's hunger for exploration and discovery.

This expansive par spans over 3,500 acres and was officially opened in 1939 after a herculean effort led by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). 

The CCC, a program established during the Great Depression, provided jobs to unemployed men to develop public lands. De Soto State Park is one of their legacies, and what a testament it is.

De Soto State Park offers an escape from the mundane, a place to reconnect with nature and soak in the serenity. Here, the sound of the rushing waterfalls and the quiet rustling of leaves replaces the clamor of city life. Whether it's hiking the park's numerous trails, paddling down Little River, or simply marveling at the myriad of flora and fauna, there's no end to the adventures that await.

Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or outdoor enthusiast, experience a slice of Alabama's history at De Soto State Park.

Fun Facts & Cool Features

A unique feature of De Soto State Park is its diversity of flora. There are over 100 different varieties of shrubs, trees, and flowers, making it a paradise for botany enthusiasts. 

As mentioned, the De Soto State Park has deep ties to 16th-century history. Visitors are provided a unique opportunity to delve into the fascinating history of Spanish exploration in America, thus making their hiking experience educational and enlightening. 

And speaking of trails, the park boasts over 25 miles of hiking and mountain biking paths with varying difficulty levels. These trails wind through stunning landscapes featuring waterfalls, rivers, and forest views. 

The Lookout Mountain area park also offers a range of accommodation options, from camping and log cabins to a lodge with a restaurant, meeting rooms, and more.

A visit to De Soto State Park is like stepping into the pages of a history book, only much more entertaining. 

Getting There

To get to De Soto State Park from Lookout Mountain, follow these steps:

1. Start from the top of Lookout Mountain and head northwest on N Scenic Hwy toward W Brow Rd.
2. Take a slight left onto AL-63 N.
3. Continue onto AL-35 N.
4. After about 15 miles, turn right onto DeSoto Pkwy NE.
5. Continue on this road until you reach the De Soto State Park entrance.

Cost

Here are the current fees to enjoy De Soto State Park:

• Entry Fee: $4 per person for adults, $1 for kids aged 6-11, and free entry for kids aged 5 and below.
• Camping Fee: $20 per night for a tent site, $35 per night for a RV site.
• Cabin Rentals: Ranging from $75 to $130 per night, depending on the type of cabin.

Prices are subject to change. Always check their website for the most recent updates.