Alabama's budget woes have unfortunately led to the announcement of shutting down 5 of the 22 state parks, starting October 15th.

Alabama Department of Conservation Commissioner Gunter Guy's reaction as quoted by a WFSA-TV report:

It is with great disappointment that we have to make this announcement today.  Due to these recurring administrative transfers by the legislature from our department and the impact they’re having on our state parks system’s budget, we are having to make some very difficult decisions to offset the loss of revenue.

Beginning October 15, the following five parks will be closed:

  1. Bladon Springs State Park in Choctaw County
  2. Paul Grist State Park in Dallas County
  3. Chickasaw State Park in Marengo County
  4. Florala State Park in Covington County
  5. Roland Cooper State Park in Wilcox County.

The state plans to keep our own Lake Lurleen State Park open. The City of Northport was ready to step in and take control, if the state abandoned the park, according to a WBRC-TV report. It's promising to see local officials willing to do whatever it takes to keep it open!

Those 17 remaining state parks across Alabama will see a price increase. Beginning October 1st, the fee will jump up a buck from $4 to $5 per adult.

More on our beautiful Alabama State Parks at www.alapark.com.

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