Local leaders gathered to celebrate the latest addition to Chewacla State Park on Monday, while also looking forward to the construction of another exciting amenity coming to the park soon.
Local government and tourism officials joined State Parks personnel to cut a ceremonial ribbon and officially dedicate the park’s new state-of-the-art, accessible playground that opened earlier this year.
“We want our State Parks to offer amenities for all of our visitors, but especially for children,” said Chris Blankenship, Commissioner of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. “It’s wonderful to see this new playground at Chewacla State Park. It’s in a gorgeous spot where kids and adults can enjoy the park’s scenic beauty and make lifelong family memories. I’m so pleased to see this amazing addition to the park, and I know it will be well-used for years to come.”
The inclusive GameTime ramped play structure sits near Chewacla Lake and has nearby picnic tables. The new playground adds to a long list of amenities at Chewacla State Park, which features a 26-acre lake and waterfall, campground, swimming area, cabins and miles of trails that include some of the best mountain biking trails found anywhere in America.
The addition of the new playground at Chewacla State Park continues Alabama State Parks’ commitment to renovating children’s areas throughout the State Parks System. Officials unveiled a new playground in the renovated campground at Oak Mountain State Park in 2024, and another new playground is set to open soon at Rickwood Caverns State Park.
“Investing in our state parks is an investment in the people of our community,” said state Rep. Joe Lovvorn, whose district includes Chewacla State Park. “This new playground at Chewacla State Park is more than just a structure. It’s a place where families and friends will connect for a lifetime of memories.”
Added state Sen. Jay Hovey, “This new playground is a wonderful addition to the park, and I can’t wait to see the smiles of children enjoying it. The growth we’re seeing at Chewacla State Park is a strong reflection of Alabama’s commitment to fostering outdoor recreation and accessibility for all.”
Officials also provided an update on the construction of the park’s new Events Center, which will allow the park to host meetings and special events, and gave brief tours of the construction site.
“Chewacla State Park is a top attraction locally,” Auburn Mayor Ron Anders said. “We appreciate Commissioner Blankenship and the State Parks System for the investments they’ve made to make one of Alabama’s great state parks even better. The new playground is a welcome addition, and I can’t wait to see the new Events Center when it’s finished.”
About Alabama’s State Parks System
The Alabama State Parks is a division of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and maintains 21 state parks encompassing more than 50,000 acres of land and water in Alabama. The parks range from Gulf Coast beaches to Appalachian Mountains and provide opportunities and facilities from basic day-use activities to resort convention lodging, restaurants and golfing areas. These parks rely on visitor fees and the support of other partners like local communities to fund the majority of their operations. Learn more at Alapark.com.
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