Is Paul Grist State Park first-come first-served or reservation?

Paul Grist State Park operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, to secure a spot.

Are there showers at Paul Grist State Park?

Yes, Paul Grist State Park has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

How many campsites does Paul Grist State Park have?

Paul Grist State Park has 11 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Paul Grist State Park?

Yes, pets are allowed at Paul Grist State Park. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Paul Grist State Park?

Paul Grist State Park offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Electrical Hookups, Water Hookups, Sewer Hookups, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Paul Grist State Park

4.53

26 reviews

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Top 15%Spring

Scenic ViewsSummer Destination

Featured in:Hiking Camping

Quick Facts

482 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

11 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Full HookupsShowers

Book on Paul Grist State Park Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

482 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

11 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Full HookupsShowers

Book on Paul Grist State Park Official Website

Get Directions

Paul Grist State Park

No fees available

Campsite Fees

No paid fee categories listed.

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Weather at Paul Grist State Park

Best Time to Camp at Paul Grist State Park

Best season: spring. Spring offers the best combination of mild weather, active wildlife, and peak shoreline scenery — daytime highs are typically in the mid-60s to mid-70s°F with cool nights (mid-40s to low-50s°F), making hiking and lakeside camping comfortable. Wildflowers and dogwoods bloom across the rolling hills, bass are active in the shallows (good for anglers), and boating at the 100-acre lake is most pleasant before summer humidity peaks. Crowd levels are generally low to moderate (local weekend visitors), Peak months: April, May, March, October

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.5 / 5

Top 15% in US

Identified as best season: mild temps, active wildlife and peak shoreline scenery.

Planning Tips

About Paul Grist State Park

Paul Grist State Park is a small, state-operated campground in central Alabama along the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail corridor. The park sits on a 100-acre lake surrounded by rolling hills and offers full-hookup RV sites, tent camping, and primitive options. Visitors come for fishing, hiking maintained trails, and quiet lakeside stays with clean facilities and minimal crowds.

Paul Grist State Park accommodates various camping preferences, including primitive, RV, and group camping. However, it is a small campground, described as one of Alabama's 'best-kept secrets.'

Weather and SeasonsBest season: spring. Spring offers the best combination of mild weather, active wildlife, and peak shoreline scenery — daytime highs are typically in the mid-60s to mid-70s°F with cool nights (mid-40s to low-50s°F), making hiking and lakeside camping comfortable. Wildflowers and dogwoods bloom across the rolling hills, bass are active in the shallows (good for anglers), and boating at the 100-acre lake is most pleasant before summer humidity peaks. Crowd levels are generally low to moderate (local weekend visitors), Peak months: April, May, March, October

Elevation482 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe park centers on a 100-acre lake created by a small dam, with fishing docks extending into calm water. Oak and pine forests surround the lake, and trails wind through the woods to hidden coves. Clay-rich soils support thick vegetation. Reviewers mention clean shorelines and good fishing spots, especially for bass in the shallows. Elevation sits at 482 feet in the rolling hills of central Alabama.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

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Guests Allowed Per Site

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Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations cannot be made in advance as the campground operates on a first-come, first-serve basis.

AccessibilityThe campground layout does not include detailed accessibility features, but some reviews highlight that the park is generally clean and well-maintained.

Site SizeThe campsites range from tent-friendly primitive spots to RV sites with full hookups.

PrivacyThe campground is described by users as quiet and secluded, with some sites located near the lake offering scenic views.

Total Campsites11 campsites

Recommended SitesVisitors recommend arriving early to secure lakefront sites and checking in before 7 PM to get the gate code.

Best CampsitesLakefront sites get the most praise in reviews. They offer water views and direct access to fishing docks. Arrive before 7 PM to get the gate code.

Amenities available

Paul Grist State Park offers basic amenities that cater to both RV and tent campers. The campground is situated by a 100-acre lake, making it a popular choice for those seeking a quiet and secluded natural experience. Visitors have access to RV sites with full hookups, picnic areas, fire pits, and a playground. However, some facilities, like the playground and boats, are noted by users to be in need of updating.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Water hookups

Sewer hookups

Flush toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Paul Grist State Park is a versatile location for a variety of activities, offering options for fishing, hiking, boating, and wildlife observation. It is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking tranquility.

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Trip Planning Tools

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.5

26 reviews

Top-Rated

Paul Grist State Park is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Paul Grist State Park is highly praised for its peaceful environment, scenic lake, and versatile outdoor activities. Many users appreciate its quietness, natural beauty, and the opportunity to disconnect from technology.

Review Summaries

Based on 26 reviews

What Campers Love

Reviewers frequently mention the serene and secluded atmosphere, clean facilities, excellent fishing opportunities, and well-maintained hiking trails.

Based on 26 reviews

Common Concerns

Several users note outdated facilities, such as the playground and boats, and the lack of cell phone service. Some also mention aggressive geese as a minor inconvenience.

Based on 26 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

RV sites are highlighted for their full hookups and proximity to the lake. Primitive lakeside campsites are praised for their spaciousness and tranquility.

Based on 26 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend arriving before 7 PM to get the gate code and note that the lack of cell service is great for those seeking a retreat. They suggest exploring the trails and fishing spots as...

Based on 26 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The park is most enjoyable during the warmer months when fishing and hiking are more accessible. However, occasional reports of aggressive wildlife, such as geese, were noted regardless of the season.

Based on 26 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'It's actually a jewel; not too many people know about it. Awesome hiking trails and scenery.' - Tj Frye 2. 'Small quiet campground with only 11 spots with full hookups and a 100-acre lake.' -...

Based on 26 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but one user noted aggressive interactions between geese and dogs.

Based on 26 reviews

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Paul Grist State Park

No fees available

Campsite Fees

No paid fee categories listed.

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Go if

You want peaceful lake access, solid fishing, and maintained trails without the crowds of larger state parks.

Skip if

You need reliable cell service or expect modern playground equipment and rental boat fleets.

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Paul Grist State Park

About Selma To Montgomery National Historic Trail

Context for the broader area surrounding Paul Grist State Park, sourced from the federal Recreation.gov rec-area record.

Established by Congress in 1996, the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail commemorates the people, events, and route of the 1965 Voting Rights March in Alabama. Led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Black and White non-violent supporters fought for the right to vote in Central Alabama. Today, you can connect with this history and trace the events of these marches along the 54-mile trail.

Directions

March Route - The National Historic Trail follows the actual march route which began at Brown Chapel, A.M.E. Church in Selma, AL, located on Martin Luther King, Jr. Street. Follow the Trail markers to U.S. Hwy. 80 through Lowndes County, AL. Continue on U.S. Hwy. 80 to Montgomery concluding at the Alabama State Capitol in Montgomery, AL, located on Dexter Avenue.

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