DeSoto State Park~Fort Payne, Alabama

09/12/2026

DeSoto's Civilian Conservation Corps Museum will be open today!
Swing by while in the park to visit this interesting little museum located at the 'contact station' which was originally the only entrance into the park. Take a step back in time to learn about this Depression-era program that developed DeSoto State Park and other parks all over the U.S.A.

Info: www.alapark.com/parks/DSP-CCC-museum

Saturday-September 12th-12:00 to 4:00 (CST), or by appointment anytime

09/12/2026

9/12 10 AM-4 PM (drop in anytime)
DeSoto's Country Store on County Road 89

Demo: Twining & Natural Fibers
Art & Education Inspired by Nature & History!

Join living historian Monica Newman Moore for an engaging demonstration of twining, an ancient finger-weaving technique with roots stretching back over 9,000 years. Using natural fibers, Monica brings history to life by sharing the cultural significance, practical uses, and timeless beauty of this traditional craft. Through hands-on insight and storytelling, all ages will gain a deeper appreciation for the skills and materials our ancestors relied on.

More info: https://reserve.alapark.com/register/DSP-SSS-NaturalFibers

09/10/2026

9/12 10 AM-4 PM (drop in anytime)

Demo: Twining & Natural Fibers
Art & Education Inspired by Nature & History!

Join living historian Monica Newman Moore for an engaging demonstration of twining, an ancient finger-weaving technique with roots stretching back over 9,000 years. Using natural fibers, Monica brings history to life by sharing the cultural significance, practical uses, and timeless beauty of this traditional craft. Through hands-on insight and storytelling, all ages will gain a deeper appreciation for the skills and materials our ancestors relied on.
More info: https://reserve.alapark.com/register/DSP-SSS-NaturalFibers

09/10/2026

Calling all Girl Scouts!
Girl Scouts Love State Parks weekend is almost here!

Come and explore our State Parks to celebrate the national event, Girl Scouts Love the State Parks! Over 25,000 Girl Scouts around the USA will be participating with their troops and families. Your troop or family can bring their own picnic style lunch to enjoy at the park.

DeSoto State Park ON your Own-There are many ways Girl Scouts can enjoy THEIR state park. Take a hike, go birding on a walk along the Talmadge Butler Boardwalk Trail, kayak the river, go waterfall hunting, go mountain biking, take a dip in Little River.

SCHEDULED PROGRAMS:
9/12 Bartram's Wake Guided Paddle
9/12 DeSoto Scout Trail Guided Hike
9/12 Wildflower Watercolors-Fall Blooms

For more info and to register, visit the link below:
https://reserve.alapark.com/register/DSP-Girl-Scouts-Weekend

09/10/2026

This Friday night, 9/11 8 PM
*Will be located under the CCC Pavilion, which is in the picnic area across the road from DeSoto's Country Store*

Campfire Talk: Native American Twining: Craft, Food, and Tradition
Come gather around the campfire with living historian Monica Newman Moore, a Black Belt artist who brings ancient traditions to life. She’ll share the 9,000-year-old art of twining—an intricate finger-weaving technique—and show how Native Americans took plants, processed them into cordage, and wove them into everyday items. Along the way, you’ll hear stories and learn about Native American foods, skills, and traditions that connect culture, craft, and daily life.
More info: https://reserve.alapark.com/register/DSP-CT-Native-America-Twining

09/06/2026

9/5

Campfire Talk: Gardening for Wildlife
By nurturing the natural world in your own backyard, you become a steward of biodiversity, creating a haven for wildlife and a sanctuary for yourself. A wildlife-friendly habitat garden replaces manicured lawns with native plants that attract birds, butterflies, and other wildlife seeking food and shelter. Join guest naturalist Michelle Reynolds to discover proven ways to create an inviting home environment that attracts and protects birds, butterflies, insects, and many other species.

More info: https://reserve.alapark.com/register/DSP-CT-Wildlife-Gardening

09/04/2026

9/4
Campfire Talk: Fierce Flyers-The World of Loggerhead Shrikes

The Loggerhead Shrike has some extraordinary habits that make it one of the most unique birds in North America! You might have seen this small, unassuming bird perched on a fence post or utility wire, but don't let its modest appearance fool you. Despite its size, this bird is a fierce predator, earning it the nickname "Butcher Bird." One of their most fascinating behaviors is impaling their prey on thorns, barbed wire, or sharp twigs. Join guest naturalist Michelle Reynolds to discover the fascinating world of the Loggerhead Shrike.

More info: https://reserve.alapark.com/register/DSP-CT-Fierce-Flyers

08/25/2026

Watch to learn why we are one of Alabama's standout natural destinations! Then book your next adventure with us by calling the park or checking the comments for our reservation link.

https://tinyurl.com/WHNTatDeSotoStatePark

WHNT News 19

For over a quarter of a century, visitors have made the trip through DeKalb County and up the mountain to DeSoto State Park.

08/14/2026

BATS: MYTH vs. FACT!
Think you know bats? Think again! Join us around the campfire for a fun, interactive trivia game and discover the surprising truth about Alabama’s amazing bats!

Saturday, August 15th 8:00 p.m.
Free & open to everyone!
More info: https://reserve.alapark.com/register/DSP-CT-Bats

08/13/2026

WHO-WHO’S READY FOR OWLS AFTER DARK?
Join guest naturalist Jamie Rogers and DeSoto State Park staff around the campfire to discover the amazing owls of DeSoto State Park! Learn how they see, hear, and fly through the night—then stick around for an optional night hike to listen for them!

Friday, August 14 | 8:00 p.m.
Free & open to everyone!
More info: https://reserve.alapark.com/register/DSP-CT-Owls