Families heading to Rickwood Caverns State Park will find it easier to reach one of Alabama’s most popular natural attractions following the completion of a new access road and the addition of a new playground.
State and local officials gathered Monday at the park near Warrior to celebrate the opening of a new access road connecting Rickwood Caverns to Poplar Road. The project was completed through a partnership with the Blount County Commission and includes bike lanes designed to provide easier access to the 380-acre park.
For years, visitors traveling from the interstate had to drive on winding roads before reaching the park. State leaders said the new roadway should provide a more direct route while making travel easier for families, tourists, and RV owners.
“Rickwood Caverns State Park sits so close to the interstate, but visitors have for too long needed to take winding roads to access the park’s beauty,” said Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Commissioner Chris Blankenship. “The new access road opens the door to more exploration, more family memories and more opportunities to experience Alabama’s breathtaking natural beauty.”
Officials also celebrated the opening of a new accessible playground that replaces one of the oldest in the Alabama State Parks System. The project was funded by the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham through the Alabama State Parks Foundation.
Other recent upgrades at state parks include the addition of playgrounds at Joe Wheeler State Park in Rogersville and Chewacla State Park in Auburn.
According to state officials, the new access road was funded through a General Fund appropriation approved by the Alabama Legislature. Blankenship credited State Rep. David Standridge and other lawmakers for supporting projects to improve visitor access to Alabama’s state parks.
The upgrades at Rickwood Caverns are among a series of improvements taking place across Alabama’s state parks. Funding from an $85 million bond issue approved by voters in 2022 has supported projects such as the new RV Resort at Gulf State Park, renovations at Lake Lurleen State Park, and the construction of a 32-room lodge at Cheaha State Park that is expected to open later this year.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham, the Alabama State Parks Foundation, and our partnership with Blount County for their efforts to improve the experience for every visitor to Rickwood Caverns State Park,” Alabama State Parks Director Matthew Capps said. “These upgrades are helping attract more visitors, strengthen the local economy and showcase one Alabama’s best outdoor destinations.”
Rickwood Caverns State Park is located in Blount County and is known for its underground cave system, hiking opportunities, swimming facilities, and outdoor recreation amenities. State officials said the latest upgrades are intended to make the park more accessible while enhancing the visitor experience for years to come,
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
