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Paul M. Grist State Park

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Address

1546 Grist Rd. Selma , AL 36701

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Facts

Paul M. Grist State Park is a picturesque and tranquil destination located in Dallas County, Alabama. Spanning over 1,000 acres, the park features a beautiful 100-acre lake that is perfect for fishing, boating, and swimming. With an extensive network of hiking trails, horseback riding options, picnic areas, and modern campsites, there are plenty of activities to keep visitors of all ages and experience levels entertained. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife and is a featured site on the Alabama Black Belt Birding Trail. Overall, Paul M. Grist State Park offers visitors a unique and exciting outdoor experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Things To Do

With over 1,000 acres of natural beauty, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including swimming, fishing, boat rental, hiking trails, picnic areas, primitive camping, and modern camping. The park is perfect for water enthusiasts with Jon-boat, canoe, and pedal boat rentals available for exploring the 100-acre lake. Hikers can explore the park's 15 to 20 miles of trails, while horseback riding is also an option. The park offers both primitive and modern campsites, making it easy to enjoy a night under the stars. Whether you're a seasoned outdoorsman or just looking for a peaceful retreat, Paul M. Grist State Park has something for everyone.

Nearby:Talladega National Forest

 

 

Absolutely! Thank you for providing additional information about Paul M. Grist State Park. With this information, I can paint an even more vivid picture of what makes this park such a unique and exciting destination. Here are 8 paragraphs about the park, incorporating the information you provided:

Nestled in the heart of Alabama’s stunning natural landscape, Paul M. Grist State Park is an oasis of peace and tranquility. The park covers over 1,000 acres of land and features a picturesque 100-acre lake that offers visitors a variety of activities, from fishing to boating to swimming. The lake is well-stocked with a variety of fish, including bass, bluegill, and catfish, making it a popular spot for anglers of all ages and experience levels.

In addition to its beautiful lake, Paul M. Grist State Park also boasts an extensive network of hiking trails that wind through the surrounding forest. With 15 to 20 miles of trails available, there are plenty of options for hikers of all levels, from beginners to experienced trekkers. The park’s trails are also open to horseback riding, offering a unique and exhilarating way to explore the park’s natural beauty.

For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, the park offers a variety of picnic areas and pavilions where visitors can enjoy a leisurely lunch or host a family gathering or special event. The park’s modern campsites, which overlook the lake and offer 50-amp services, are a popular option for visitors who want to spend a night or two in the great outdoors.

As you explore the park, you may encounter a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, eastern wild turkey, and a range of amphibians and reptiles. The park is also a featured site on the Alabama Black Belt Birding Trail, offering bird-watchers the opportunity to spot a wide range of waterfowl, songbirds, raptors, and other species.

One of the unique features of Paul M. Grist State Park is its rich history and connection to the local community. The park is named after Paul Malone Grist, a well-known community leader and YMCA director who played a key role in developing the park. Today, the park serves as a testament to Grist’s legacy and commitment to promoting outdoor recreation and community engagement.

Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Paul M. Grist State Park is a destination you won’t want to miss. With its stunning natural beauty, diverse array of activities, and rich history and community connection, this park offers something for everyone. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to discover all that this hidden gem of Alabama has to offer.

Some other great recreation destinations  to consider on your Paul M. Grist State Park vacation:

  • Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail: This trail is a 54-mile route that follows the path of the 1965 Voting Rights March. The trail passes through historic sites and offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the civil rights movement.
  • Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge: Located approximately 30 minutes from Paul M. Grist State Park, this refuge offers visitors the chance to see a wide variety of wildlife, including migratory birds and river otters.
  • Six Mile Creek Nature Preserve: This 2,000-acre nature preserve is located about 40 minutes from the park and offers hiking trails, bird watching, and primitive camping.
  • Old Cahawba Archaeological Park: Located about 30 minutes from the park, Old Cahawba was Alabama’s first state capital and features the remains of the old town, including a cemetery, ruins of buildings, and a historic bridge.
  • Dannelly Reservoir: This 27,000-acre reservoir is located about 45 minutes from the park and is a popular destination for fishing and boating.
  • Choccolocco Wildlife Management Area: Located about an hour and a half from the park, this wildlife management area offers hunting, fishing, hiking, and bird watching opportunities.
  • Tuskegee National Forest: This 11,000-acre forest is located about an hour and a half from the park and offers hiking trails, bird watching, and camping.

Paul M. Grist State Park, Alabama State Park