Chilton County: Lakes, Festivals and History

Chilton County caters to a wide range of travel interests: waterways and fishing sit alongside motorized outdoor activities, trails, festivals and museums. To plan your visit, you can first decide whether to focus on water, nature, an event or local history.

Waterways and activities on the water

Lake Mitchell is a 5,850-acre reservoir on the Coosa River and a premier fishing destination for bass, crappie and catfish. It offers a clear focus for travelers who want to include fishing in their plans. Lay Lake borders Chilton County and is used for recreation. The waterways offer different experiences: Lake Mitchell stands out for its size as a reservoir, its location on the Coosa River and the fish species found there, while Lay Lake is notable for bordering the county and its recreational use.

Higgins Ferry Park offers a public, state-operated boat launch; there are also RV sites. The launch is useful for planning a boating trip, while the sites are relevant for RV travelers. Check site availability in advance if you plan to use this option.

Trails through parks and forests

At Minooka Park, miles of trails wind through 420 acres of wooded terrain and offer opportunities for ATV riding and off-road motorcycling. There is also an approximately one-mile walking trail around the pond. This means you can choose between motorized rides through wooded terrain and a walk around the water.

In southwest Chilton County, Talladega National Forest offers hiking trails and several scenic overlooks. The trails and overlooks offer different experiences: explore nature on foot or combine your visit with scenic views.

Festivals and local producers

Peach Jam Jubilee is a free outdoor festival that includes a farmers market. Its offerings may vary from one edition to another. If you plan to visit the market, check the date of the relevant edition before your trip.

The Chilton County Strawberry Festival features entertainment for all ages, as well as arts and crafts and antiques; these offerings may vary from year to year. Chilton County farmers and producers also showcase their work at the festival. To choose between the events, consider their respective focus: the farmers market at Peach Jam Jubilee, and arts and crafts, antiques and entertainment at the Strawberry Festival.

Museums and history

The museum at Confederate Memorial Park opened on April 28, 2007. It tells the life story of an average Confederate veteran from Alabama, from enlistment through old age. The museum includes hundreds of artifacts from the war and the former home. The park encompasses the original 102-acre site of the former home.

The Old Southern Depot houses a small picture museum about the history of Maplesville. The depot is also the centerpiece of the Maplesville Railroad Historic District, established in 2003. The museum focuses on Maplesville, while the historic district provides a broader connection to railroad history.

More destinations

Discover more destinations: Clanton, Lauderdale County, Barbour County, Fayette County, Lee, Lawrence County, Marshall County, Tuscaloosa.

For the main travel overview: Alabama.