PLAN YOUR VISIT:
Reservations | Cheaha
Activities & Events | Cheaha
PARK ADMISSIONS - DAY VISITORS
(includes admission to Mountain Park and Lake Recreation Area)
- Age 0-3: Free
- Age 4-11: $2
- 12 and older: $5
- Senior Citizen age 62 and older: $2 with ID
- Parks for Patriots Veterans and Active Military: Free with ID
ANNUAL PASSES FOR CHEAHA STATE PARK (not valid at other State Parks)
- Senior and Disability Passes: $55
- Individuals Pass 12 & Older: $105
- Family Pass up to 6: $155
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Discover the beauty of the highest point in Alabama on an island in the sky! Cheaha Resort State Park, which is located on the southernmost tip of the Appalachian Mountain chain, is the oldest park in Alabama (est. 1933) and is considered by many to be one of the most unique parks in the nation. Imagine 2,799 acres of granite boulders and wind-warped ancient trees at 2,407 feet above sea level, often above the clouds, and surrounded by 392,567 acres of the Talladega National Forest including 7,245 acres of Cheaha Wilderness.
Cheaha State Park seems to be far removed from civilization; however, this park is only 30 minutes away from several historic downtowns (Oxford, Heflin, Anniston, Talladega, Lineville, Munford, and Ashland) which are packed with shopping, dining, cultural arts, and recreational opportunities. Three main routes lead to Cheaha State Park. The park recommends traveling on the Talladega Scenic Drive (Alabama Highway 281), which is well-maintained, wide, and easily driven by large recreational vehicles. AL Hwy 49 is also a great route connecting with AL Hwy 281.
The scenic “road less traveled” is Cheaha Road (County Road 42) from Munford, AL, which winds its way through the Talladega National Forest with curves, roadside brambles, and uneven asphalt. Cheaha Road is a picturesque route through the forest; however, since it is not a refined road, the park does not recommend it for large recreational vehicles.
ACCOMMODATIONS
In addition to rock cabins and A-frame chalets, Cheaha offers improved camping in the park, primitive camping near the highest point, and CCC primitive camping near Cheaha Lake. Groups enjoy Cheaha's historic CCC Bald Rock Lodge, which has 12 bedrooms/baths with a beautiful grand hall for retreats, weddings, family reunions, meetings, and more! We do not have a hotel, but are in the process of building a new hotel, hopefully opening in the Spring of 2026!
Use this park map to help you make your plans.
Alabama State Parks Rules and Regulations
Insider Tips for Overnight Guests
Use this park Guest Guide to help you make your plans
Driving Directions to Cheaha State Park
Use the ADCNR Interactive Map to learn more about the Alabama State Parks
THE MOUNTAIN STORE AND MORE
The Mountain Store has snacks, camp fare, quick meal options, and a microwave on site. Grills and picnic tables are found throughout the park.
Mountain Store HOURS:
Winter Hours Nov 18 - February 28, 2024 -- Sun-Thurs 8am to 5pm, and Fri/Sat 8am-9pm
March 1 - Nov 14, 2025 - Sun - Thurs 8am-7pm. Fri/Sat 8am-9pm.
Park admission may be paid at the Store if the Park gate is closed.
There is not a restaurant at Cheaha State Park, but there are several dining options within 12-24 miles. This is not an inclusive list but it links you to a few local favorites to get started.
If you have questions, please contact our Cheaha State Park Manager at Cheaha.StatePark@dcnr.alabama.gov.
AREA ATTRACTIONS
Cheaha State Park is only thirty minutes from several historic downtown tourism locations, such as Heflin, Oxford, Ashland, Lineville, Munford, and Talladega. Cheaha State Park is located almost halfway between Birmingham, AL, and Atlanta, GA. Named by the Native American "Creek" nation in the Muskogee language, Cheaha means "high place." Cheaha State Park is truly a magnificent Alabama destination with a cliffside pool, a lake, a dog park, accessible and extreme trails, cultural heritage, and more!
Nearby attractions include Talladega National Forest, Pinhoti Trail, Cheaha Wilderness Area, Chief Ladiga Rails to Trails Bike Route (joins the Silver Comet in Atlanta), Coldwater Mountain Biking Trails, Historic Downtown Heflin, Wine Tasting Trail, Choccolocco Park, Freedom Riders Park, Oxford Center for the Performing Arts, Talladega Super Speedway, Dale Jarrett Racing Adventure, and historic Kymulga Grist Mill Covered Bridge and Park.
