Discover the Best Parks and Trails in Auburn: Top Outdoor Spots for Families, Hikers, and Nature Lovers

Auburn, Alabama, is a charming destination renowned for its rich history, vibrant community, and most notably, its exceptional outdoor spaces. Often called “the loveliest village on the plains,” Auburn offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities that make it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, Auburn’s parks and trails provide a refreshing escape into nature, catering to hikers, families, dog owners, and anyone looking to enjoy fresh air and scenic surroundings.

In this guide, you’ll discover the best parks in Auburn and explore some of the most popular Auburn hiking trails that showcase the city’s diverse landscapes—from serene lakes and wooded preserves to well-equipped playgrounds and dog-friendly areas. We’ve curated a list of family-friendly parks in Auburn that offer accessible trails, picnic spots, and engaging activities for visitors of all ages. Along with detailed descriptions of each park, you’ll find key features and practical tips for making the most of your visit, including the best times to go and what to bring. Whether you’re planning a leisurely walk, a vigorous hike, or a fun family outing, this guide will help you navigate Auburn’s top outdoor destinations with ease and confidence.

Auburn’s Outdoor Recreation Scene: A Vibrant Tapestry of Nature and Activity

Auburn, Alabama, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, accessible green spaces, and a welcoming climate that encourages year-round exploration. The city’s commitment to preserving its parks and trails, combined with its diverse landscape, makes Auburn an ideal destination for anyone seeking adventure, relaxation, or family fun in the great outdoors.

Why Auburn Is Ideal for Parks and Trails

Mild, Inviting Climate:

Auburn enjoys a temperate climate with warm springs, long summers, and mild autumns, making it possible to enjoy outdoor activities for most of the year. The best times to visit for outdoor recreation are typically from late April to early June and from mid-September to early November, when temperatures are comfortable and the scenery is at its most vibrant.

Natural Beauty:

The city is surrounded by lush forests, rolling hills, sparkling lakes, and scenic creeks. Parks like Chewacla State Park and Kiesel Park showcase Auburn’s diverse landscapes, from tranquil woodlands and wildflower meadows to dramatic waterfalls and serene ponds. The Donald E. Davis Arboretum and Kreher Preserve & Nature Center further highlight the region’s rich biodiversity, offering immersive experiences among native plants and wildlife.

Accessibility for All:

Auburn’s parks are thoughtfully designed to be inclusive and accessible. Many feature paved or well-maintained trails, ADA-compliant playgrounds, and accessible picnic areas. The Town Creek Inclusive Playground, for example, is surfaced with poured rubber and accessible turf, ensuring that children and adults of all abilities can enjoy the space together6.

Types of Outdoor Activities Available

Hiking:

Miles of trails wind through Auburn’s parks, ranging from easy, shaded walks to more challenging routes for seasoned hikers. Chewacla State Park is especially popular for its variety of hiking options and scenic waterfall views.

Biking:

Mountain biking enthusiasts will find dedicated trails at Chewacla State Park, with routes designed for all skill levels. The city’s greenways and multi-use paths also welcome cyclists looking for a leisurely ride.

Dog Walking:

Kiesel Park is a favorite for dog owners, featuring off-leash areas and pet-friendly trails. Many other parks also welcome leashed pets, making Auburn a great place for four-legged companions.

Picnics and Family Gatherings:

Shaded pavilions, open fields, and scenic lakeside spots provide perfect settings for picnics, reunions, and outdoor celebrations. Parks like Town Creek and Kreher Preserve offer ample space for families to relax and play.

Wildlife Watching and Nature Study:

The city’s arboretum and preserves are living classrooms, ideal for birdwatching, photography, and learning about local flora and fauna.

Auburn’s outdoor recreation scene is as diverse as its community, ensuring that everyone—from avid adventurers to families with young children—can find their perfect spot to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors.

Kiesel Park

Kiesel Park is Auburn’s largest and most beloved green space, spanning over 200 acres and offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational amenities. Located at 520 Chadwick Lane, this park is a favorite destination for dog owners, families, and casual walkers alike. One of its standout features is the 2.25-mile walking trail, which meanders through shaded areas, gardens, and around a peaceful pond, providing a scenic and tranquil environment for exercise and relaxation.

Dog lovers especially appreciate Kiesel Park’s off-leash dog area, a spacious, fenced section where dogs can roam freely and socialize safely. This area is thoughtfully divided to accommodate both small and large dogs, ensuring a comfortable experience for all pets. The park’s well-maintained grounds and responsible dog owners contribute to a clean and welcoming atmosphere, making it one of Auburn’s top-rated dog parks.

Accessibility is another key strength of Kiesel Park. The walking trails are designed to be wheelchair accessible, and the park includes paved paths and restrooms that accommodate visitors with disabilities. Shaded paths lined with pecan trees and other native plants provide comfort during warmer months, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

Besides walking and dog activities, Kiesel Park offers picnic areas and a pavilion that can be reserved for special events such as weddings, family gatherings, and community celebrations. The park also hosts popular annual events like Auburn CityFest and the Fall Sundown Concert Series, making it a vibrant hub for local culture and outdoor entertainment.

In summary, Kiesel Park is ideal for anyone seeking a versatile outdoor space in Auburn. Whether you’re taking a leisurely stroll, letting your dog run off-leash, enjoying a family picnic, or attending a community event, Kiesel Park provides a welcoming, scenic, and accessible environment for all visitors.

Chewacla State Park

History and Background of Chewacla State Park

Chewacla State Park, located just south of Auburn, Alabama, is a treasured outdoor destination spanning 696 scenic acres. Established in 1939, the park’s rich history dates back to the late 1800s when Wright’s Mill operated nearby, and locals would swim in the mill’s natural pool. In the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) transformed the area by constructing roads, foot trails, stone cabins, and an iconic arched masonry bridge, many of which remain today. The CCC also built a dam on Moore’s Mill Creek, creating the 26-acre Lake Chewacla, a central feature of the park that offers fishing, swimming, and non-motorized boating opportunities.

Extensive Hiking and Biking Trails

Chewacla’s natural beauty and diverse terrain make it a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts. The park boasts over 25 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, ranging from easy strolls like the Sweet Shrub Trail to challenging routes crafted by the Central Alabama Mountain Pedalers (CAMP). These trails wind through forests, alongside creeks, and past unique rock formations, providing excellent wildlife viewing opportunities including deer, red foxes, and turkeys.

Family-Friendly Facilities and Camping

Families and campers are drawn to Chewacla’s well-equipped facilities, which include playgrounds, picnic shelters with grills, and modern campgrounds offering full hookups and primitive sites. For a more luxurious experience, visitors can opt for glamping in furnished safari tents with amenities such as heating, cooling, and mini-fridges.

Why Chewacla State Park is a Top Attraction

Chewacla State Park also hosts a variety of events, including mountain biking competitions and local races, enhancing its reputation as a vibrant community hub. Its blend of historical significance, recreational diversity, and natural charm makes Chewacla a beloved attraction for families, campers, and outdoor adventurers alike.

Donald E. Davis Arboretum

The Donald E. Davis Arboretum is a serene 13.5-acre botanical garden located on the Auburn University campus, dedicated to showcasing native plants of the Southeastern United States. Established to promote education, conservation, and research, the arboretum offers visitors a peaceful retreat where they can immerse themselves in the natural beauty and diversity of regional flora. It’s an ideal destination for botany enthusiasts, students, families, and anyone seeking a quiet place for reflection and learning.

Native Plants and Educational Experience

The arboretum features a carefully curated collection of native trees, shrubs, wildflowers, and grasses arranged in naturalistic settings that mimic their native habitats. Visitors can explore various themed gardens, including a wildflower garden, a wetland area with ponds and streams, and a butterfly garden that attracts pollinators throughout the year. Informational signage along the walking paths provides educational insights into plant species, their ecological roles, and conservation importance, making it a valuable resource for both casual visitors and serious learners.

Accessibility and Family-Friendly Features

One of the arboretum’s standout qualities is its commitment to accessibility. The walking paths are paved and wheelchair accessible, allowing visitors of all abilities to enjoy the tranquil environment. Water features such as ponds and fountains add to the calming atmosphere and provide habitats for local wildlife, including frogs, turtles, and birds. For families, the arboretum offers a kid-friendly environment where children can explore nature safely and engage with interactive exhibits during special events and educational programs.

Ideal for Quiet Strolls and Educational Visits

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll surrounded by native plants or an educational outing to deepen your understanding of Southeastern ecosystems, the Donald E. Davis Arboretum provides a unique and enriching experience. Its blend of natural beauty, accessibility, and educational value makes it a must-visit spot for anyone interested in nature, conservation, and outdoor learning in Auburn.

Kreher Preserve & Nature Center

Kreher Preserve & Nature Center: A Natural Oasis in Auburn

The Kreher Preserve & Nature Center is a stunning 120-acre nature preserve located just north of Auburn, Alabama. Donated to Auburn University’s School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences in 1993 by Dr. Louise Kreher Turner, this preserve is dedicated to environmental education, conservation, and outdoor recreation. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore diverse natural habitats while enjoying a peaceful and family-friendly setting.

Diverse Natural Habitats and Trails

The preserve features more than six miles of well-maintained trails that wind through seven distinct natural habitats, including pine forests, hardwood bottomlands, wetlands, and wildflower gardens. Visitors can hike or stroll along these accessible paths to discover special points of interest like the Longleaf Pine Demonstration Forest, Boulder Ridge, Hidden Falls, and Turtle Pond. The trails are designed to accommodate visitors of all ages and abilities, with wheelchair-accessible sections and interpretive signage that educates about the local ecosystem.

Family-Friendly Amenities and Educational Programs

Kreher Preserve is especially popular with families, thanks to its nature playground—a creative, naturalistic play area featuring logs, tunnels, a beaver lodge, and an eagle’s nest that encourages imaginative outdoor play. Picnic areas scattered throughout the preserve provide perfect spots for relaxing meals surrounded by nature. The preserve also includes the Frank Allen Turner Amphitheater, a 150-seat, wheelchair-accessible venue used for educational programs, community events, and fire pit gatherings.

Throughout the year, the center hosts a variety of environmental education programs and guided nature walks tailored for all ages, making it an excellent outdoor classroom for schools and nature groups. It is also part of the Alabama Birding Trails, attracting birdwatchers eager to spot over 80 species of birds, including migratory and raptor species.

Ideal for Families, Nature Lovers, and Educational Outings

With its free entry, accessible facilities, and rich natural diversity, the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center is an inviting destination for families seeking outdoor fun, nature lovers wanting to explore Alabama’s ecosystems, and educators looking for hands-on learning experiences. Whether hiking, birdwatching, or enjoying a picnic, visitors will find a welcoming sanctuary that celebrates and preserves the region’s natural heritage.

Town Creek Park & Inclusive Playground

Town Creek Park is a cherished community park in Auburn, offering a beautiful natural setting centered around a scenic pond and surrounded by walking trails. This park is especially known for its Inclusive Playground, a thoughtfully designed play area that embraces children of all abilities, making it a standout destination for families seeking accessible and engaging outdoor experiences.

Scenic Pond and Walking Trails

The park’s peaceful pond provides a tranquil backdrop for visitors, attracting local wildlife and offering a serene spot for relaxation or casual strolls. The walking trails around the pond are well-maintained and accessible, allowing visitors of all ages and mobility levels to enjoy a leisurely walk while taking in the natural beauty. These paths are perfect for families pushing strollers, individuals using wheelchairs, or anyone looking to enjoy a quiet moment outdoors.

Inclusive Playground: Designed for Everyone

The Inclusive Playground at Town Creek Park is a highlight that sets this park apart. It features equipment and surfaces specifically designed to accommodate children with a wide range of physical and sensory abilities. The playground’s poured rubber surfacing and accessible turf ensure safe, smooth mobility for wheelchairs and walkers. Play structures encourage social interaction, imaginative play, and physical activity, with sensory panels, swings, slides, and ramps that invite children to play together regardless of ability.

Family-Friendly Amenities

In addition to the playground, Town Creek Park offers several picnic areas with tables and shaded spots, providing ideal locations for family gatherings, birthday parties, or simple outdoor meals. The park’s open grassy fields also allow for free play and recreational activities.

Ideal for Families and Accessibility-Focused Visitors

Town Creek Park & Inclusive Playground is a perfect destination for families with children, especially those seeking a welcoming, accessible environment. Its combination of natural beauty, accessible trails, and an inclusive play space ensures that every visitor can enjoy a fun, safe, and memorable outdoor experience in Auburn.

Additional Parks in Auburn: Don Lash Park, Memorial Park, and Thomas Park

Auburn offers several neighborhood parks that provide excellent outdoor spaces for fitness enthusiasts and local visitors seeking peaceful, accessible green areas. Among these, Don Lash Park, Memorial Park, and Thomas Park stand out for their well-maintained trails, scenic surroundings, and family-friendly amenities.

Don Lash Park

Don Lash Park spans approximately 15.4 acres and is a favored spot for walkers, joggers, and nature lovers. Named after the legendary American long-distance runner Don Lash, the park offers a tranquil setting with lush greenery and well-marked trails suitable for all fitness levels. Its gently rolling terrain and shaded paths make it ideal for both leisurely strolls and more vigorous runs. The park also features benches and open spaces, perfect for stretching or resting during exercise. Don Lash Park’s peaceful ambiance and natural beauty create a rejuvenating outdoor experience, making it a popular choice for neighborhood residents and fitness enthusiasts who want to combine exercise with nature.

Memorial Park

Memorial Park covers 13.1 acres and is located within Auburn’s city limits, providing easy access for families and individuals looking for a quiet retreat. The park features a network of well-maintained walking and hiking trails that wind through wooded areas and open fields. Its kid-friendly atmosphere includes playground facilities, making it a great destination for families with children who want to enjoy outdoor activities together. The park’s scenic trails are perfect for walkers and runners seeking a safe, inviting environment. The moderate climate in Auburn allows visitors to enjoy Memorial Park year-round, whether for brisk morning jogs or relaxing afternoon walks.

Thomas Park

Thomas Park is a smaller, yet charming 4.2-acre park that offers a peaceful escape for visitors. Its well-kept trails and natural landscaping provide an inviting space for walking, running, or simply enjoying the outdoors. The park’s compact size makes it ideal for quick workouts or casual strolls, with gentle slopes and shaded areas enhancing the experience. Thomas Park is especially popular among local residents who appreciate its quiet atmosphere and accessibility. Like other Auburn parks, it benefits from the city’s mild climate, encouraging outdoor activity throughout the year.

Ideal for Fitness Enthusiasts and Neighborhood Visitors

Together, Don Lash Park, Memorial Park, and Thomas Park offer a variety of trail lengths and terrains suitable for walkers, runners, and casual hikers. Their accessibility, combined with Auburn’s temperate climate, ensures these parks remain vibrant community hubs for outdoor fitness and relaxation. Whether you’re training for a race, enjoying a family outing, or seeking a peaceful place to unwind, these parks provide welcoming, scenic settings that enhance Auburn’s reputation as a city committed to preserving green spaces for all to enjoy.

Tips for Visiting Auburn Parks and Trails

Visiting Auburn’s parks and trails offers a wonderful way to connect with nature, enjoy outdoor activities, and spend quality time with family and friends. To make the most of your visit, consider these helpful tips:

Best Times of Year to Visit

• Spring (April to June): Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers make spring an ideal time for hiking and picnicking.
• Fall (September to November): Cooler weather and vibrant fall foliage enhance the beauty of parks like Chewacla State Park and Kreher Preserve.
• Summer: Early mornings or late afternoons are best to avoid the midday heat. Many parks offer shaded trails and water features to help you stay cool.
• Winter: Auburn’s mild winters allow for comfortable year-round visits, though some trails may be less lush.

What to Bring

• Water: Staying hydrated is essential, especially during warmer months or longer hikes.
• Sunscreen and Hat: Protect your skin from sun exposure, particularly on open trails and picnic areas.
• Bug Spray: In wooded or wetland areas, insect repellent helps keep mosquitoes and ticks at bay.
• Dog Supplies: If bringing your pet, pack waste bags, water, and a leash. Kiesel Park offers an off-leash area, but other parks require dogs to be leashed.
• Snacks or Picnic Supplies: Many parks provide picnic tables and grills, perfect for family meals outdoors.

Accessibility Considerations

• Many Auburn parks, including Kiesel Park, Donald E. Davis Arboretum, and Town Creek Park, feature wheelchair-accessible trails and restrooms.
• Check park websites or contact the Auburn Parks and Recreation Department for specific accessibility information before your visit.

Safety Tips and Park Etiquette

• Stay on marked trails to protect natural habitats and avoid getting lost.
• Observe posted rules, including leash laws and park hours (most parks are open from sunrise to sunset).
• Dispose of trash properly to keep parks clean and safe for wildlife.
• Respect other visitors by keeping noise levels down and supervising children.
• Be mindful of wildlife; do not feed or approach animals.

By following these tips, your visit to Auburn’s parks and trails will be enjoyable, safe, and respectful of the beautiful natural environment.

Auburn’s parks and trails offer a remarkable variety of outdoor experiences, combining natural beauty, accessibility, and a range of activities suitable for all ages and interests. From expansive state parks like Chewacla with its extensive hiking and biking trails to neighborhood gems such as Town Creek Park with its inclusive playground, Auburn truly caters to outdoor enthusiasts, families, and casual visitors alike. Whether you’re seeking peaceful strolls along shaded paths, adventurous mountain biking, or engaging educational visits at places like the Donald E. Davis Arboretum, the city’s green spaces provide something for everyone.

These parks not only showcase Auburn’s rich natural heritage but also emphasize accessibility and community engagement, with many featuring wheelchair-accessible trails, family-friendly amenities, and dog-friendly areas. The combination of scenic ponds, wooded preserves, and well-maintained picnic areas makes Auburn’s parks ideal destinations for both fitness-focused visitors and those looking to relax and connect with nature.

We encourage you to explore these outdoor gems and discover your favorite spots in Auburn’s vibrant park system. Whether you’re a local or planning a visit, spending time in these parks is a wonderful way to enjoy fresh air, stay active, and create lasting memories with family and friends.

If you’ve visited any of Auburn’s parks or trails, we’d love to hear about your experiences—share your stories and photos with us! For more guides on Auburn’s best outdoor destinations and local attractions, be sure to subscribe to our newsletter. Start planning your next outdoor adventure in Auburn today and embrace all the natural beauty this charming city has to offer.