As summer winds down, T-Town remains a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with warm temperatures lasting into fall with fun water activities in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Locals and visitors alike can enjoy Tuscaloosa’s unique water activities, highlighting its natural charm without the need for beaches or mountains. Dive into our list of five exciting water activities to create lasting memories and embrace the extended summer season in Tuscaloosa.
Lake Harris is a swimmer’s paradise! From the parking lot, follow the short trail alongside the hill, cross the dam, and continue until you reach a naturally formed pool perfect for swimming. This circular pool has plenty of space, with rock walls lining its perimeter. The creek running into the pool is smooth enough to slide down into the water! Grab your friends, pack a cooler, and take a hike to your very own natural swimming pool at Lake Harris!
Fishing on the Black Warrior River
If you’re an angler seeking adventure, the Black Warrior River is your ultimate destination! Renowned for its incredible fishing opportunities, this river is home to over 120 different species of freshwater fish just waiting to be caught! There are many spots for you to put in a boat or fish off a pier, such as Riverview Boat Landing located only minutes from Downtown Tuscaloosa. Black Warrior River has been the home of previous world and state records for striped bass, blue catfish, and more. If you’re looking to get hooked, the Black Warrior River is the catch of a lifetime!
Captain’s Club at Lake Tuscaloosa
If an elevated water experience is more up your alley, head out to Lake Tuscaloosa! Welcome to the Captain’s Club! This new, exclusive marina features brand-new boats available for rent and a vibrant marketplace, now serving Bushwackers and a wonderful California wine selection! You don’t have to be a member to enjoy these amenities. You can still explore the marketplace and discover everything the Captain’s Club and Lake Tuscaloosa has to offer with their pontoon boat, paddle board, kayak, and water hammock rentals! Lake Tuscaloosa also has three public landings for other access points: Rock Quarry, Sharpe’s Landing, and Binion Creek.
Kayak and Sightsee at Lake Nicol
Lake Nicol is celebrated for its tranquil waters and diverse wildlife, making it the ideal spot for renting a kayak or paddleboard. Glide across the lake and marvel at its stunning cliffs and islands, and make sure to keep an eye out for the beautiful Alabama wildlife as you explore! End your adventure by witnessing the breathtaking sunset between the cliffs—one of the best sights in Tuscaloosa!
Please note that due to dam maintenance, the water levels at Lake Nicol are lower than usual.
Lake Lurleen State Park Boat Rentals
Want to rent a boat? Lake Lurleen State Park is the place to be! Lake Lurleen offers fair-priced deals on all types of boats. Choose from a simple paddle boat to a motorized fishing boat, or anything in between! If you prefer beaching over boating, Lake Lurleen has that too! Enjoy some fun in the sun at the lake’s sandy shore. Lake Lurleen State Park is also home to beautiful hiking trails that will please any outdoor enthusiast.
Tuscaloosa offers countless ways to cool off and make the most of the rest of your summer. No matter which adventures you choose, you’re guaranteed fun memories and great experiences in Tuscaloosa County!
From hiking and fishing to biking, boating and more, Tuscaloosa County is the perfect playground for outdoor enthusiasts. If you’re looking for things to do in Tuscaloosa – or around the community – you’ve come to the right place for outdoor options!
Whether you’re chasing adrenaline-fueled adventure or a leisurely stroll in the sun, Tuscaloosa’s proximity to countless lakes, rivers and trails gives visitors easy access to the great outdoors. Discover how to experience the best of Mother Nature.
RIVER RANGERS
The heart of Tuscaloosa is the Black Warrior River, and the Tuscaloosa Riverwalk is a testament to the city’s adoration of this waterway. With 4.2 miles of woodsy, pet-friendly paths along the river’s southern bank — plus a playground and splash pad for the littles — there’s fun to be had around every bend.
The new Randall Family Park and Trailhead along the northern bank of the Riverwalk adds to the excitement, offering additional places to play, explore and revel in the river’s beauty. Tuscaloosa’s neighboring city, Northport, also offers a paved path connecting guests to its historic downtown.
PLAYTIME PROS
Thanks to the city’s array of parks and playgrounds, playtime is never far away. At the sprawling Sokol Park, discover bike trails, playfields and Mason’s Place, the city’s first public all-inclusive playground, designed to allow children of all ages and abilities to play together.
Hurricane Creek Park is home to a creek with multiple swimming holes, rope swings and waterfalls, plus about 7 miles of hiking trails. To check out more parks and playgrounds, visit tcpara.org.
If a round of golf is more your speed, head to Ol’ Colony Golf Course. Fun fact: The 18-hole, public course is also home to the UA golf teams.
LAKE LOVERS AND CAMPING CONNOISSEURS
Lake Lurleen State Park is only 9 miles from Tuscaloosa, but this scenic retreat feels worlds away from the hustle of Tuscaloosa on game day. The park features 91 campsites with water and electric hookups, but the real star of the show is the lake itself and its 23 miles of shore-hugging trails that beckon hikers and bikers alike.
Other local favorites include Lake Nicol, which is popular with bird watchers and paddleboarders, and Harris Lake, where you’ll often find locals going for a swim or relaxing in a hammock. Venture a bit further afield to discover Deerlick Creek Campground, where 46 campgrounds are nestled in a forest along the shores of Holt Lake. Need a Paddleboard rental? Check out Tuscaloosa Paddleboard for a convenient option! Need a pontoon boat rental? Check out Pier 43 on Lake Tuscaloosa.
FISHING FANATICS
Anglers in Tuscaloosa don’t have to travel far to find a place to cast their lines. The Black Warrior River runs right through town and contains thousands of spotted bass per river mile, making it a dream destination for fishing. Just 5 miles north of town is Lake Tuscaloosa, a man-made reservoir with nearly 180 miles of shoreline perfect for fishing. When you’re ready to put a boat in the water, check out this blog for some boat landings in the area.
Still looking for things to do in Tuscaloosa? Continue to explore our website or contact our office today for personalized suggestions!