De Soto State Park - Fort Payne, AL - a natural wonder of the South

Named for Hernando de Soto, De Soto State Park is near Fort Payne in Northeast Alabama. In 1930's after the Great Depression the Civilian Conservation Corps developed it. The park's scenery is made up of over three thousand acres of mountain terrain, waterfalls, rivers and forests. There are cabins, a lodge, campsites, chalets, a swimming pool, tennis courts, a nature center and hiking trails for the enjoyment of visitors.

The Little River which is the United States longest flowing river on a mountaintop borders the De Soto State Park. The headquarters for the park are located at 13883 County Road 89. The park lodge is at 265 County Road 951. The lodge was built at the same time as the park was established and originally used as a dance hall and group lodge.

In the late 1970's the De Soto Lodge had additions added to the main portion and a hotel was built beside it. The main lobby still has the word "Lodge'' carved into the front center stone. The original portion of the lodge is still in operation as the Mountain Inn Restaurant. The restaurant, country store, lodge lobby and office at the park all offer free Wi-Fi.

De Soto State Park allows pets in the campground and on the trials as long as they are kept on leashes at all times. The park facilities such as the chalets, cabins, motel rooms, lodge, Nature Center and store do no t allow pets in them. The only cabin dogs are allowed in is rustic cabin 9 and the fee is $15 each night, each pet. There are some rules that those with pets are asked to abide by while in the park.

The clerk has to be notified of how many dogs are with you when you check into the facility and there is a limit of two dogs. Dogs must remain in the dog friendly areas and guests are asked to reserve specific facilities in advance. A deposit has to be left in the form of a credit card on file in the event of damages. If damages occur guests will be notified of them and the charges to their cards.

The management of De Soto State Park has the right to prohibit any dog from being on the premises. The dog and the owner can be asked to leave and pay for the entire reservation if the animal is objectionable to any of the visitors to the park. Intimidating, noisy, destructive or dangerous animals cannot stay in the park. When leaving dogs unattended in the cabin they have to be in a crate or pet carrier. Owners are responsible for the dogs and expected to clean up after them. Each animal must have all of their vaccinations, documentation or tags.

Those with an interest in beauty and a relaxing vacation should make it a point to visit the De Soto State Park in Fort Payne, Alabama. Those requiring directions, needing additional information or wanting to make reservations should inquire with the park management.