DeSoto State Park Makes a Splash with New Pool House!

Get ready to cannonball into fun! Alabama's State Parks are getting a serious upgrade, and DeSoto State Park in Fort Payne just unveiled its brand-new pool house. This is just one piece of a massive $220 million project sprucing up all 21 of Alabama’s state parks!

A Refreshing Addition

State and local bigwigs gathered on July 2nd to snip the ribbon on the sparkling new DeSoto facility. Think snazzy new changing rooms, a dedicated lifeguard station, and accessible walkways that meet ADA standards – making the whole pool area way easier to navigate.

Parks Boss Speaks!

"Our State Parks were showing their age, especially the pool house at DeSoto," said ADCNR Commissioner Chris Blankenship. "We want top-notch amenities for everyone, and this new building totally nails it!"

Money, Money, Money!

Where's the dough coming from? An $85 million bond approved by voters in 2022, combined with park revenue, Deepwater Horizon settlement funds, and the American Rescue Plan Act, are fueling these awesome improvements.

What's Next for Alabama Parks?

DeSoto isn't the only park getting love. A new lodge is rising at Cheaha State Park, Lake Lurleen State Park is undergoing a total glow-up, and the campground at Gulf State Park is expanding its award-winning awesomeness. Plus, tons of water and wastewater projects are in the works!

Leaders Love Parks

Alabama House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter and State Senate Majority Leader Steve Livingston stressed the importance of investing in our public playgrounds. "DeSoto State Park draws tons of tourists," Ledbetter said. "This new pool house boosts everyone's experience!" Livingston added, "Our parks are a treasure, and these upgrades make them better than ever!"

More Than Just DeSoto!

Alabama State Parks Director Matthew Capps reminds us that other state parks have stellar swimming spots, like beaches at Gulf, Oak Mountain, Cheaha, and Lake Guntersville, plus pools at Blue Springs, Lake Guntersville, and Rickwood Caverns!

July 4th Fun!

Don't forget to check out the July 4th events happening across the state! From DeSoto's annual celebration to "Fire on the Water" at Oak Mountain, there's something for everyone.

Get Out There and Explore!

"Hit up our beaches, pools, or campgrounds," urges Capps. "We've got activities for the whole family, so come explore our beautiful parks!" Alabama's State Parks offer everything from day trips to full-blown vacations, so get planning!