Chewacla State Park

With most of the state parks that I want to visit over a 3 hour drive, I get up between 4 – 4:30 a.m. to be on the road no later than 6 a.m. One of the perks of going to bed early, so that when I hit the road, I’m not tired.

Chewacla State Park is about a 3 and 1/2 hour drive from me; one way. Keep reading for my review.

It’s a $4.00 entrance fee. I drove directly to where I wanted to go when I arrived, so I didnt get a chance to check out the campground. Once I arrived at my first stop at the park, I changed into warmer clothes and then set off. The only downside that I saw to this park, is that the trails arent clearly marked like the ones at Oak Mountain; there are markers though. This is why it’s important to get a map and find your bearings before you set off.

I’m always aware of my surroundings. I carry emergency items and here’s a website to visit for your Day hiking checklist. I always have a map of the park/trails and I let someone know where I’m at. Here is a helpful site if you are going solo as a woman. If I feel as though something is way out of my level of expertise or I start feeling uncomfortable, I dont risk it. As much as I enjoy hiking, I love my life a little bit more.

Now that the important stuff is out the way. The hike to the waterfall was a bit slippery due to the falling leaves being so wet. Not sure if it would be the same during the summer months. Chewacla Falls is 30 foot waterfall formed by the spillway of the Chewacla dam. I didnt make it to the other waterfall. The park is about 700 acres. Mountain biking seems to be a huge thing there.

Once I made it down, I took it all again because I love just being surrounded by nature. I was out there by myself for the longest before heading back after taking some pictures. My next destination was to the area where the cabins are, another trail, a playground, swimming area (at your own risk since there is no lifeguard) and youre also able to fish there. The bathrooms were really clean.

The trail I walked here, went around the lake area and then brought you to the other side of Chewacla Falls. This trail (unlike the previous one) was a bit more defined and was a nice, relaxing walk for me.

Overall, I’d definitely go back to do a day trip or to camp. Check out their website for more information. Chewacla State Park

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