Summer Fun on the Cheap: The Beach at Joe Wheeler State Park

Summer Fun on the Cheap: The Beach at Joe Wheeler State Park

 

I am always looking for cheap ways to get out of the house during the summer. Living in Alabama, that isn’t always easy with the heat. Often the ideal recreation comes with a hefty price tag. My family looks for cheaper alternatives. The “Beach” at Joe Wheeler is the perfect example of a cheap, family friendly day out of the house.

Entry to the beach area is $1 for adults and 50 cents for children. There is an attendant waiting at the entrance for you to pay. The hours state 6 AM to 10 PM, but they only leave the gates open for entry to this area during daylight hours. If you use the main entrance to Joe Wheeler, it’s a bit of a drive back to this area.

I had heard reviews from others in the past that the beach wasn’t the cleanest so I had my doubts before the visit. However, I found that this was not true. I did not see one single piece of litter on the beach or in the water. The water is from the Tennessee River so don’t expect to see very far down.

My six year old had a blast, and she isn’t always the happiest to please. The area is extremely safe and generally family friendly. There is not a life guard on duty, so be sure to bring floats for the little ones. We brought sand toys as well, and it went over great. With the river sand, there are lots of “treasures” they can dig for. Also, it seemed to be much more of an excitement to find a shell or a neat looking rock than at the actually beach where you’re crowded with pieces of debris.

All in all, I certainly recommend the trip if you are in the North Alabama/South Tennessee area. It makes a great day trip or longer with the golf course and other amenities Joe Wheeler has to offer.

Have you been this beach? If so, let me know what you thought!