Van De Graaff Park and Arboretum

About Van De Graaff Park and Arboretum

Van de Graaff Arboretum and Historic Bridge Park is the first "nature park" of its kind for PARA to feature recreational nature at its best. While this rustic, semi-primitive style park is still under development, many amenities are available including fishing, hiking, and tent and RV camping.

With the benefit of being close to a population hub, this 141-acre property provides a taste of the great outdoors close to home. It is defined by 33 acres of multiple open freshwater ponds created by its former usage as a gravel pit and fed by Mill Creek. Although the park does not touch the Black Warrior River, the creek flows through and eventually feeds into the river. Ten acres of the park are classified as wetlands and support swamp, marsh, and bogs. This unique wetland ecosystem combines aspects of land and water to create a distinctive habitat where certain plant and animal species are protected and can flourish.

Camping: 10 RV campsites include water hook up. RVs must be self-contained. There is no electricity or dump station
6 Tent sites include tent pad and parking space
6 Walk-in tent sites include tent pad

Fishing: All patrons must obtain a valid fisting license.
Boating: A boat ramp for hand-carried and non-gas motor boat launch is available for registered campers.