Graham Creek Nature Preserve
A sprawling 600-acre natural haven in Foley, AL, offering miles of trails, disc golf, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful exploration
Graham Creek Nature Preserve
Best Time
Peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling 600-acre natural haven in Foley, AL, offering miles of trails, disc golf, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.
"Beautiful place to visit and we really enjoyed walking here! "
Grab a Trail Map! 🗺️
Trail signage can be confusing; get a map from the office for a smoother experience.
Pack for Adventure 👟
Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and biking. Bring bug spray, especially during warmer months.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Extensive Hiking & Biking Trails
Throughout the preserve
Wander through 10 miles of trails, perfect for nature walks, jogging, or cycling amidst native flora and fauna.
Disc Golf Courses
Designated disc golf areas
Challenge yourself on multiple disc golf courses, a popular activity for locals and visitors alike.
Kayak Launch & Creek Exploration
Creek access points
Paddle along Graham Creek, enjoying the serene waters and the surrounding natural landscape. Onsite rentals are available.
Archery Park & Playground
Designated activity zones
Engage in archery or let the kids burn energy at the playground, making it a great family-friendly destination.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Outdoors: What to Know Before You Go
Navigating the Trails and Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Grab a Trail Map! 🗺️
Trail signage can be confusing; get a map from the office for a smoother experience.
Pack for Adventure 👟
Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and biking. Bring bug spray, especially during warmer months.
Kayak Rentals Available 🛶
Enjoy paddling on Graham Creek with convenient onsite kayak rentals.
Check Event Schedule 🎉
The preserve hosts various events; check their calendar to participate or avoid crowds.
Tips
from all over the internet
Grab a Trail Map! 🗺️
Trail signage can be confusing; get a map from the office for a smoother experience.
Pack for Adventure 👟
Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and biking. Bring bug spray, especially during warmer months.
Kayak Rentals Available 🛶
Enjoy paddling on Graham Creek with convenient onsite kayak rentals.
Check Event Schedule 🎉
The preserve hosts various events; check their calendar to participate or avoid crowds.
Wildlife Spotting Opportunities 🦋
Keep an eye out for local wildlife like rabbits and butterflies.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Graham Creek Nature Preserve for its natural beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and free access to a wide range of activities like hiking, biking, disc golf, and kayaking. Many appreciate the abundance of plant life and the chance to spot local wildlife. However, some newcomers find the trail signage confusing, suggesting a need for clearer navigation aids.
"Very quiet. Huge grassy walkways with abundant plant life. It is free to walk the trails, play frisbee golf, bike or launch a kayak. There were archery fields and a playground. We did see rabbits, armadillos, and butterflies. Although there were many cars, we only saw 4 other people during the two hour walk."
Jen
"Beautiful place to visit and we really enjoyed walking here! Our family will definitely visit again. That said, as a new visitor it was a little confusing to know where the trails started and how to get to the one we wanted to take. I would have loved to see better signage. The map marks one trail orange, but I only saw yellow arrows for that path. And at one point the arrows pointed towards directions that weren't cleared paths like what we were on so I wasn't clear about if we were going the right way."
Star Kirby
"Leslie took us on a tour of the property and explained every single piece. Wow, impressive to say the least! She is so knowledgeable in her field and has brought her expertise to Elberta. This is a definite must see.
The Foley high school class of 1990 also used the interpretive center as our venue. That was also a smooth, organized, fun event. Highly recommend!"
Wyndi Fasciana
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Graham Creek Nature Preserve is located in Foley, Alabama. It's easily accessible by car and is a short drive from popular coastal towns like Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
Yes, there is ample parking available at the preserve, including areas near the visitor center and trailheads.
Yes, you can use GPS navigation systems. Search for 'Graham Creek Nature Preserve, Foley, AL' for accurate directions.
The preserve features two handicap-accessible boardwalks, making parts of the natural environment accessible to visitors with mobility challenges.
From Gulf Shores, take AL-59 North towards Foley. Turn left onto County Road 20 West, and the preserve entrance will be on your right.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Graham Creek Nature Preserve is free to enter. You can enjoy the trails, disc golf, and kayaking without any admission cost.
While specific hours can vary, the preserve is generally open during daylight hours for visitors to explore its outdoor amenities. It's best to check their official website or social media for any specific event hours.
For general visits to explore the trails or play disc golf, no advance booking is required. However, for special events or facility rentals, booking may be necessary.
While entry is free, there might be costs associated with specific activities like kayak rentals. Disc golf is generally free to play.
Yes, the preserve hosts various events throughout the year, including holiday trails and community gatherings. Check their schedule for details.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Graham Creek Nature Preserve offers approximately 10 miles of hiking and biking trails, including some boardwalks suitable for various fitness levels.
Absolutely! The preserve boasts multiple disc golf courses, making it a popular destination for disc golf enthusiasts.
Yes, there's a kayak launch, and you can explore Graham Creek by kayak or canoe. Onsite rentals are available for added convenience.
Yes, Graham Creek Nature Preserve features a playground, making it a great spot for families with younger children.
Visitors have reported seeing wildlife such as rabbits, armadillos, and various butterflies. It's a great place for nature observation.
Yes, dogs are allowed at the preserve, but they must be kept on a leash.
📸 📸 Photography
The preserve offers diverse photographic opportunities, from lush greenery and native plants to creek views and wildlife. The trails and boardwalks provide scenic backdrops.
Yes, with its abundant plant life, potential for wildlife sightings, and serene creek setting, it's an excellent location for nature photography.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best natural light for photography, creating a softer, more atmospheric feel.
Yes, many events are held here, and capturing the atmosphere can make for great photos, but always be mindful of attendees' privacy.
A versatile lens, like a 24-70mm, is great for landscapes and general shots. A macro lens can be useful for capturing the details of plants and insects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
During the holiday season, the Christmas Trail is a must-visit for families, offering a magical experience with lights, Santa, and festive treats.
👟 Outdoor Enthusiasts & Fitness Buffs
The varied terrain provides a good workout, and the natural scenery makes the journey enjoyable. Kayakers and canoeists can take advantage of the creek access, enjoying a peaceful paddle through the preserve's waterways.
With its extensive natural offerings, it’s an ideal spot for anyone looking to immerse themselves in outdoor recreation and fitness. 📸 Nature Photographers & Wildlife Spotters
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails and Waterways
Some visitors have noted that trail signage can be a bit confusing, so it's recommended to grab a map from the visitor center upon arrival.
Whether you're looking for a vigorous hike, a leisurely bike ride, or a serene kayak trip, Graham Creek Nature Preserve offers a variety of ways to connect with nature. The diverse terrain and water access make it a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds.
Activities for Everyone: Disc Golf, Archery, and More
For those interested in precision sports, the preserve also includes archery ranges. These facilities have hosted notable events, such as the USA Archery 3D Collegiate Nationals, highlighting the quality of the ranges.
The staff's dedication to ensuring participant comfort during these events has been particularly commended. Families will appreciate the playground area, providing a space for children to play and burn energy.
With such a wide array of activities, Graham Creek Nature Preserve truly caters to a diverse range of interests and age groups, making it a well-rounded destination for outdoor recreation. Seasonal Charm: The Christmas Trail
Families and friends gather to experience the holiday spirit, often enjoying treats like hot cocoa and even scented bubbles. The opportunity to take photos with Santa adds to the enchantment, making it a memorable outing.
This special event highlights the preserve's versatility, showcasing its ability to host unique and engaging experiences beyond its typical outdoor recreational offerings. It's a testament to the community spirit and the preserve's role as a gathering place.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit