School’s out, the days are long…bored yet? We have some wonderful outings that aren’t far from home but will feel like they’re miles away. First up, Oak Mountain State Park (OMSP). Located in Pelham, OMSP is a quick trip for most of us and full of fun for almost anyone. There are numerous hiking trails (of all skill levels), beaches, playgrounds, camping facilities and fishing areas. You (yes you!) really can make a fun morning, day or weekend out of it and not stretch your budget. It’s a great place to let the kids burn off some of that extra summer energy that they seem to have and a peaceful place for you to, ahem, “collect yourself” 🙂 So, if you’re hoping for a nice day at the park, think outside of the usual and head out to one of our states most beautiful natural treasures!
Oak Mountain State Park
200 Terrace Dr.
Pelham, AL 35124
http://www.alapark.com/OakMountain/
Next on our outdoor treasures list is Rickwood Caverns (RC). This place is beautiful! Concealed behind the shady trees awaits a wonderful state park filled with caverns to explore at your leisure. “Experience the thrill of Rickwood’s miracle mile of underground caverns! The 260 million-year-old limestone formations, blind cave fish and underground pool are just a few of the natural wonders exhibited in the colorful cavern. The park features an Olympic-size swimming pool, snack bar, picnic area, large and small picnic shelter, hiking trails, playground, campground and gift shop.”
Rickwood Caverns
370 Rickwood Park Rd.
Warrior, AL 35180
http://www.alapark.com/RickwoodCaverns/
And lastly (but not hardly all to offer around here) is Tannehill Historical Ironworks State Park. Tannehill has much to offer as far as scenery, fishing, camping and hiking. In addition, you can tour historic landmarks and visit the ironworks museum. “Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park has more than 1,500 acres in three counties set aside for hiking, camping and outdoor recreation. A miniature railroad chugs through the pines. From spring through fall, the blacksmith, miller and craftsmen demonstrate their trades. Craft shops occupy restored pioneer cabins and artisans chat with visitors from their front porches. Steeped in history, Tannehill feels timeless. The cotton gin, pioneer farm and working gristmill preserve a long-gone way of life. Hiking trails retrace historic roadways. Artifacts of Alabama’s 19th century iron industry displayed in the Iron and Steel Museum put in perspective the massive stone furnaces, Tannehill’s awe-inspiring centerpiece.”
