When most people think of Alabama, the first thing that comes to mind is probably not a state park. It should be! Our state is home to over 21 well-maintained parks that allow visitors to get in touch with nature, and one of the most bio-diverse ecosystems in North America. One such park that should be on everyone’s list is Blue Springs State Park. This hidden gem is located in the small town of Clio, Alabama. The park is home to a beautiful spring-fed lake, hiking trails, and a variety of wildlife. Although it is not as well-known as some of the other state parks in Alabama, Blue Springs is definitely worth a visit!
The park is named for the blue-colored water that flows from the springs. The water gets its color from the minerals in the rocks that it flows over. The springs are also the source of water for a small lake in the park. The lake is a popular spot for fishing, swimming, and canoeing.
In addition to the lake, the park boasts several swimming pools that are all spring-fed with that refreshingly cool 68 degree water that’s perfect for a hot August day in Alabama.
Local Attractions Near Clio, AL
According to the state park services website, there are many local attractions near Clio and Blue Springs State Park, including:
- The National Peanut Festival in Dothan
- Ozark’s Claybank Jamboree In
- The Brundidge Peanut Butter Festival
- Lakepoint State Park in Eufaula
- The Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge
The History of Blue Springs State Park
Blue Springs State Park was originally developed as a recreational area for the workers of the nearby Anniston Army Depot. In the 1950s, the Army began to lease the land to the state of Alabama for use as a state park. The park officially opened to the public in 1962.
Prior to becoming a park, the area was once home to a Civilian Conservation Corps camp during the Great Depression. The camp was responsible for building many of the structures that can still be seen in the park today, such as roads, bridges, and picnic tables.
Today, Blue Springs State Park is a popular spot for swimming, picnicking, fishing, and hiking. The spring-fed lake is one of the cleanest lakes in the state and is stocked with bass, bream, and catfish. The park also has two hiking trails – one that winds through a scenic hardwood forest and another that leads to an overlook of the lake.
A variety of wildlife can be found in Blue Springs State Park, including deer, squirrels, rabbits, ducks, geese, and herons. The park is also home to a colony of bats that live in an abandoned mine shaft. These bats are important predators of mosquitoes and help control the insect population in the park!
If you are looking for a beautiful place to spend a day or two in Alabama, be sure to check out Blue Springs State Park. Whether you enjoy swimming, fishing, hiking, or just being outdoors, there is something for everyone at this hidden gem of a state park! Oh and if you visit in the summertime and it’s too hot outside, don’t forget about those cool, spring-fed pools!
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