Located in three counties (DeKalb, Jackson and Marshall), the Cherokee Indians once lived on what now is park land before the Trail of Tears. The area was also used for growing coffee and olives by the French during the 1700s and later for logging in the 1940s.  As local legend goes, Buck's Pocket also served as a retreat for defeated public officials after unsuccessful elections.

Fishing

Alabama's largest lake contains 69,100 acres and stretches 75 miles from Nickajack Dam to Guntersville Dam. Free boat ramps and private marinas dot the lake's perimeter. Fishing, boating, camping, hunting and eagle watching are popular sports in the area. Eagle watching centers on Guntersville State Park and the dam during the winter, though some bald eagles stay all year. The lake's fish habitat includes milfoil and hydrilla weed beds from which big bass explode on topwater baits.

Hiking Trails

Hiking Trails are plentiful in the park. With 15 miles of trails you will surely find a favorite. Maybe a short hike on the Indian House Trail to the rock overhangs used by the Indians for shelter, or a longer hike down to the lake for some awesome fishing on the Primitive Campground Trail; or up the mountain to the Point Rock Overlook where you could see a bald eagle flying and a spectacular view. All the trails hold a new adventure each time you visit.