Conecuh National Forest

Picnicking at Open Pond Recreation Area in the Conecuh National Forest.

The Conecuh National Forest in southern Alabama covers 83,883 acres. The forest has one developed campground and allows primitive camping with a permit throughout the forest except during deer hunting season. There are two developed picnicking areas.

The name Conecuh is believed to be of Muskogee Native American origin. It means "land of cane," which is appropriate because the trail runs through canebrakes in several sections.

The Conecuh Trail winds 20 miles through Alabama's coastal plain. The trail was built by the Youth Conservation Corps. Each year, beginning in 1976, the young people of the Corps extended the trail through park-like longleaf pine stands, hardwood bottomlands, and other plant communities of the Conecuh National Forest.

The Conecuh Trail crosses streams at several points. Bridges have been built for the convenience of trail hikers and mountain bikers.

The Conecuh Trail is open year round, but fall, winter and spring hiking is most pleasant when the weather is cooler and insects not so bothersome. Summers are hot and humid.

Anglers may fish in Brooks Hines Lake. A shooting range is open to the public at no charge.

The Blue Pond recreation site off AL 137 offers picnicking, fishing, swimming and hiking trails. Visitors can camp, picnic, fish and hike at the Open Pond site. There are 55 campsites, 32 with water and electric hook-ups. Only electric motors are permitted in both ponds.