The centerpiece of this beautiful 1,080-acre park is a 100-acre lake. Visitors enjoy the relaxing atmosphere surrounding the lake, which offers fishing, paddling and swimming.

Paul M. Grist is a featured site on the Alabama Black Belt Birding Trail. In the park, you are likely to see a wide variety of waterfowl, song birds, raptors, and both migrating and resident species. Other wildlife you might see include White-tailed deer, Eastern wild turkey and a varity of amphibians and reptiles.

Day use opportunities include picnicking and barbecue grills are available throughout the picnic area. Pavilions are available for family reunions, birthday parties and other special events. 15 to 20 miles of hiking trails offers excursions into the surrounding forest.

Boat Rentals

Rental boats are available for your enjoyment.

Must be 16 years or older to rent a boat.
Each person in boat must have a Coast Guard Approved life Jacket.
Children under the age of 8 must wear life jacket at all times.
Boats are not allowed in swimming area.
No swimming from boats.
Life jackets and paddles are provided.
We do not rent boats after 4 p.m.

Camping

Located on the 100-acre lake, the campground provides 11 RV sites with sewer, water,with 30 and 50-amp services. A bathouse is located nearby that is ADA accessible. The bathhouse is cleaned daily.

Picnic Area

Paul M. Grist State Park's day-use picnic facilities include a large picnic pavilion, serveral picnic tables, a beach swimming area, paddle boat rentals, large open playing fields and ample shoreline for bank fisherman.

Fishing

Paul M. Grist State Park's centerpiece is a 100-acre lake stocked with bass, bluegill, redear sunfish and catfish. No gasoline motors are allowed, but electric trolling motors are welcome. Jon-boats are available for rent and a launching ramp is provided for privately owned boats.

Public restrooms and picnic tables are located within the lake area. Fishing hooks and weights, as well as drinks and refreshments are available at the park office.

Hiking Trails

Paul Grist State Park has approximately 15-20 miles of  hiking trails that people can enjoy on a daily basis.

Swimming

A designated swimming area with grassy banks is available and is included in the park admission price.  There are no lifeguards and swimming is at Your Own Risk.