The Golden Sand Beach At This Underrated Alabama State Park Is A Lakeside Escape

Lake Lurleen State Park in Coker, Alabama, is an underrated state park perfect for campers. Just 9 miles northwest of Tuscaloosa and Northport, this park spans 1,625 acres, offering ample space for exploration and relaxation. The park boasts stunning golden sand beaches and a picturesque lake ideal for fishing, kayaking, or a peaceful lakeside picnic. Hiking enthusiasts can traverse the park's scenic trails that wind through lush forests and offer incredible views of the surrounding landscape.

For those looking to extend their stay beyond a day visit, Lake Lurleen State Park provides various camping options, from RV hookups to primitive tent sites. These allow visitors to enjoy the beauty of Lake Lurleen overnight. Birdwatchers will delight in the diverse species that call the park home, while families can make use of the designated picnic areas and playgrounds for a day of outdoor fun. With its beautiful golden sand beach, it can easily compete with any seaside spot. When you walk on the soft sand and let the cool water touch your feet, it will feel like you've found a little piece of heaven by the lake.

As the name suggests, Lake Lurleen's main draw for visitors is its 250-acre lake. The golden sand beach area is a popular spot for gatherings and sunbathers. The lake's location in the northwest part of central Alabama allows visitors to enjoy a beach-like atmosphere without having to drive several hours to the Alabama coast. In addition to the lake, there are over 23 miles of trails available for hiking, biking, or other exploratory activities. 

If hanging out and eating al fresco sounds fun, you'll find places for picnics as well as pavilions where groups can congregate. The pavilion is the only place visitors are allowed to use grills, and it must be rented in advance of your visit. For those who love a bit of adventure, several boating options are available for rent. Kayaks, canoes, paddle boats, and fishing boats can all be rented for hourly or daily rates. Visitors must also purchase a fishing license and must follow the park's rules about fishing equipment and regulations. If you find fishing too tame, this underrated southern destination for thrilling water adventures might be for you.

Visitors can purchase day-use passes or invest in an annual pass if they decide they will be visiting the park frequently. Day pass admission is free for veterans, military members, and children ages three and under. Those aged 12 to 61 pay $5 per person, while children aged 4 to 11 and adults over 62 shell out $2 each. For those interested in camping at the park, there are primitive and modern campsites available. Primitive campsites are for tent campers, and modern campsites are for those who wish to stay in a recreational vehicle or need electrical or sewer hookups. For more overnight opportunities, check out a stunning state park letting visitors camp at the highest point in Alabama.

The best way to visit Lake Lurleen and its golden sand beach is by car. The closest towns are Tuscaloosa and Northport, but the nearest city with a major airport is Birmingham, Alabama. If you are traveling by plane, renting a car will allow you to discover more about the area at your own pace. Lake Lurleen is a little over 1 hour west of Birmingham and about 20 minutes from Tuscaloosa.