Horseshoe Bend National Military Park

Horseshoe Bend National Military Park is located in central Alabama, near the town of Daviston. It was established in 1959 and covers an area of 2,040 acres. The park commemorates the Battle of Horseshoe Bend, which took place on March 27, 1814, during the Creek War.

The historical background of the park dates back to the early 19th century when tensions arose between the Creek Nation and American settlers. Led by Chief Menawa, the Creek warriors fortified themselves in a horseshoe-shaped bend of the Tallapoosa River, creating a formidable defensive position. Andrew Jackson, commanding U.S. forces, launched an attack on this position, which eventually led to the decisive victory of the American forces and marked the end of the Creek War.

Visitors to Horseshoe Bend National Military Park can explore the battlefield and gain insight into this significant event in American history. The park features a museum that showcases exhibits on Native American culture, the Creek War, and military artifacts. Reconstructed and original structures, such as the 1885 Hillabee Mail Route, provide a glimpse into the past.

Nature lovers can appreciate the park's diverse ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, and the picturesque Tallapoosa River. Hiking trails, ranging from easy to moderate, offer opportunities to immerse oneself in the serene landscapes. Birdwatchers also flock to the park to spot a variety of resident and migratory species.

For those seeking additional attractions, the nearby town of Alexander City, just a short drive from the park, offers various dining and shopping options. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy boating, fishing, and swimming in nearby Lake Martin, known for its scenic beauty and recreational activities.

Overall, Horseshoe Bend National Military Park in Alabama offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore a significant historical site and appreciate the natural beauty of central Alabama.

Horseshoe Bend National Military Park is strategically nestled within the heart of Alabama, specifically in Tallapoosa County near the town of Alexander City. Located approximately 112 miles southeast of Birmingham, the park spans across a picturesque area that encompasses both the Tallapoosa River and the imposing, horseshoe-shaped bend from which it derives its name. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, this historical site offers breathtaking views of the winding river as it snakes its way through the verdant Alabama landscape. This unique geographic location not only provides visitors with a serene and tranquil ambiance, but it also allows them to immerse themselves in the vital historical events that took place on these hallowed grounds.

Address & Contact

11288 Horseshoe Bend Road
Daviston, AL 36256
Driving Directions
Phone: 256-234-7111
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Horseshoe Bend National Military Park is in the months of April, May, and October. During these months, the average maximum temperatures range from 75°F to 83°F, providing pleasant weather for outdoor activities. Additionally, the average monthly precipitation ranges from 3.5 in. to 4.4 in., reducing the chances of encountering heavy rain. These months also see a moderate number of visitors, allowing you to enjoy the park without large crowds.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Horseshoe Bend National Military Park are: Astronomy Stargazing Food Picnicking Guided Tours Self-Guided Tours - Walking Hands-On Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Park Film Museum Exhibits Shopping Bookstore and Park Store Gift Shop and Souvenirs Arts and Culture Biking Road Biking Hiking Front-Country Hiking Boating Fishing Paddling Canoeing Kayaking Auto and ATV Scenic Driving Horse Trekking Horseback Riding Living History Self-Guided Tours - Auto Reenactments Historic Weapons Demonstration Freshwater Fishing Bus/Shuttle Guided Tour Arts and Crafts Cultural Demonstrations Craft Demonstrations

Topics

Learn about these topics at Horseshoe Bend National Military Park: Animals Birds Night Sky Native American Heritage Tragic Events Fire River and Riparian Trails Military US Army African American Heritage Burial, Cemetery and Gravesite Forests and Woodlands Natural Sounds Astronomy Scenic Views Infantry and Militia Artillery Battlefields Monuments and Memorials Deciduous Forests Migrations Indigenous and Native Warrior Massacres Immigration

Visitor Centers

Horseshoe Bend National Military Park Visitor Center

Visit our newly renovated museum to learn more about the Muscogee (Creek) people who made Alabama their home for thousands of years. See the 23-minute park film to learn about events leading to the Creek War and the consequences still reverberating today. Discover young Andrew Jackson as he builds his reputation as a tough-as-nails fighter. Participate in Junior Ranger activities, get your Passport stamp, or shop in our bookstore for educational items for all ages. Rangers are available to assist you.

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Horseshoe Bend National Military Park Visitor Center.

Campsites within or near Horseshoe Bend National Military Park

This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).

Hotels within or near Horseshoe Bend National Military Park

The Hotel At Auburn University

With a stay at The Hotel At Auburn University in Auburn, you'll be within a 5-minute walk of Auburn University and Donald E. Davis Arboretum. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Planning an event in Auburn? This hotel has facilities measuring 22000 square feet (2044 square meters), including conference space. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 241 S College St, Auburn, Alabama 36830
Web: Link

Quality Inn University Area

With a stay at Quality Inn University Area, you'll be centrally located in Auburn, within a 10-minute drive of Donald E. Davis Arboretum and Louise Kreher Forest Ecology Preserve. Featured amenities include a business center, express check-in, and express check-out. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1212 Mall Pkwy, Behind Red Lobster, Auburn, Alabama 36831
Web: Link

Super 8 by Wyndham Alexander City

A stay at Super 8 by Wyndham Alexander City places you in the heart of Alexander City, a 4-minute drive from Wellborn MuscleCar Museum and 8 minutes from Lakewinds Golf Course. Featured amenities include a business center, express check-in, and express check-out. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 4335 Highway 280, Alexander City, Alabama 35010
Web: Link

Auburn Marriott Opelika Resort & Spa at Grand National

When you stay at Auburn Marriott Opelika Resort & Spa at Grand National in Opelika, you'll be on a lake and 14 minutes by car from Louise Kreher Forest Ecology Preserve. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a 24-hour business center, and express check-in. This hotel has 8 meeting rooms available for events. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 3700 Robert Trent Jones Trail, Opelika, Alabama 36801
Web: Link

Days Inn by Wyndham Alexander City

A stay at Days Inn by Wyndham Alexander City places you in the heart of Alexander City, a 4-minute drive from Wellborn MuscleCar Museum and 6 minutes from Lakewinds Golf Course. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, a 24-hour front desk, and multilingual staff. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 3146 Highway 280, Alexander City, Alabama 35010
Web: Link

Quality Inn Alexander City

A stay at Quality Inn Alexander City places you in the heart of Alexander City, a 3-minute drive from Wellborn MuscleCar Museum and 9 minutes from Lakewinds Golf Course. Featured amenities include complimentary newspapers in the lobby, laundry facilities, and a safe deposit box at the front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2945 Highway 280, Alexander City, Alabama 35010
Web: Link

Hampton Inn Alexander City

A stay at Hampton Inn Alexander City places you in the heart of Alexander City, a 3-minute drive from Wellborn MuscleCar Museum and 8 minutes from Lakewinds Golf Course. Featured amenities include a business center, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1551 Elkhatchee Rd, Alexander City, Alabama 35010
Web: Link

InTown Suites Extended Stay Auburn AL - Auburn University

When you stay at InTown Suites Extended Stay Auburn AL - Auburn University in Auburn, you'll be within a 10-minute drive of Donald E. Davis Arboretum and Louise Kreher Forest Ecology Preserve. Featured amenities include express check-out, laundry facilities, and a vending machine. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1188 Commerce Dr, Auburn, Alabama 36830
Web: Link

American Inn

Located in Alexander City, American Inn is a 4-minute drive from Wellborn MuscleCar Museum and 7 minutes from Lakewinds Golf Course. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 4000 US Highway 280, Alexander City, Alabama 35010
Web: Link

Key West Inn - Roanoke

Located in Roanoke, Key West Inn - Roanoke is within a 5-minute drive of Awbrey Public Library and Roanoke Mayor's Office. Featured amenities include a computer station, a 24-hour front desk, and a vending machine. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2983 Hwy 431, Roanoke, Alabama 36274
Web: Link