Barton’s Beach/Perry Lakes Park

Barton's Beach, managed by The Nature Conservancy, and the adjacent Perry Lakes Park combine to form a premier birding and outdoor recreation destination in the heart of Perry County, Alabama. Birdwatchers will find the area especially rewarding, with diverse habitats supporting a wide variety of species year-round. Paddlers can explore the scenic oxbow lakes by canoe, and for those seeking a true backcountry experience, primitive canoe-in camping is permitted at Barton's Beach. Hikers can explore the trail system, immersing themselves in the landscape. Guests should also be aware that there are no working restroom facilities on site, so packing accordingly and practicing Leave No Trace principles is essential for a comfortable and responsible visit.

More About Barton's Beach

More About Perry Lakes

Details

Dawn to dusk

No fee

Fishing
Swimming
Camping
Picnic Facilities
Potable Water Available
Restroom Facilities
Campfires Allowed
Canoe Access
Hiking Trails
Bicycle Friendly
Open to the public
Pets Allowed on a Leash
Available with no reservation

Destination Address
- Perry Lakes Park, Hwy 183, Marion, AL 36756
Google Maps Link
- https://maps.app.goo.gl/RySfdBGJBkBkcze46
Latitude/Longitude for destination entry (if needed)
- 32.69128, -87.23749

Traveling south on AL-5 from Brent-Centreville, watch for AL-175 on the left (18 miles from the intersection of AL-5 and U.S. 82). Turn left onto AL-175 and proceed to the entrance to Perry Lakes Park.

Traveling north from the intersection of AL-5 and 183 in Marion, follow AL-183 for 3.4 miles. Turn left onto AL-175 north and continue for 2.2 miles.

The entrance to Perry Lakes Park is a dirt road to the right (east) immediately after passing the administration building for the Alabama Aquatic Biodiversity Center.

Barton’s Beach is accessible through Perry Lakes Park.

The closest gas, restaurants, and services are 8-10 miles away in Marion, AL. Perry Lakes Park has potable water available seasonally, but you will need to bring everything else for your visit.

Spotty

The walk from the parking lot to the canoe access is lengthy, so visitors should plan accordingly and come prepared. Most trails are primitive, but there is a wooden boardwalk to the birding tower. The birding tower has stairs that require significant effort to climb.