Alabama State Parks Celebrate New Pool House at DeSoto State Park
This week, officials in Alabama reached another milestone in enhancing the state’s park system by inaugurating a new pool house at DeSoto State Park in Fort Payne. This facility is part of the larger initiative involving over $220 million in upgrades across 21 state parks in Alabama.
On July 2nd, local leaders and state representatives gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new facility, which includes changing rooms for guests, lifeguard stations, and newly paved ADA-compliant sidewalks to improve accessibility from parking areas to the pools.
“When I took on the role of commissioner at the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources eight years ago, our goal was to ensure our state parks provide top-tier amenities and experiences,” stated ADCNR Commissioner Chris Blankenship. “It’s great to see this new addition come to fruition and support that vision.”
With the approval of an $85 million bond measure by voters in 2022, the state is channeling more than $220 million into renovation and construction at state parks, supported further by park revenues, the Deepwater Horizon Settlement Fund, and federal resources from the American Rescue Plan Act.
Major projects currently underway include plans for a new lodge in Chiaha State Park, the comprehensive renovation of Luleen Lake State Park, and the expansion of the popular campground at Gulf Coast State Park. Additionally, over 20 water and wastewater improvement projects were highlighted, many utilizing locally-produced ductile iron pipes.
Blankenship expressed gratitude for the backing from Governor Kay Ivey, the Legislature, and local officials across Alabama, emphasizing that without their steadfast support, these vital upgrades wouldn’t be possible.
House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter and Senate Majority Leader Steve Livingston attended the ceremony, underscoring the importance of ongoing investments in public recreational spaces.
“DeSoto State Park draws many visitors to our mountainous regions, and tourism is a significant economic driver for us,” Ledbetter noted. “This new pool facility will undoubtedly enhance the visitor experience. It’s encouraging to see how our efforts can lead to improvements for both residents and visitors in Alabama.”
“Alabama State Parks attract millions of visitors annually, and it’s fulfilling to witness projects like this coming to life at DeSoto State Park,” added Matthew Caps, director of Alabama State Parks. “These parks are a cherished asset for all Alabamians, and these enhancements will only strengthen their appeal.”
Other state parks in Alabama also offer swimming options, including Gulf State Park, Oak Mountain State Park, Chiaha State Park, Lake Guntersville State Park, and Blue Springs, Rickwood Cavern State Parks.
Various events are scheduled this week for Independence Day, including DeSoto’s annual celebration, a fire display on Oak Mountain’s waters, a scavenger hunt at Chihuakura, a community gathering at Lake Guntersville, and a firewalk from the pier at Gulf State Park. Details for these events can be found online.
“I encourage everyone to venture outdoors and explore Alabama State Parks during holiday weekends,” Capps remarked.
The Alabama State Parks System, managed by ADCNR, comprises 21 parks that collectively cover over 50,000 acres, extending from the Gulf Coast to the Appalachian Mountains. These parks offer various daytime amenities and full-service accommodations and recreational options.
