Dothan, Alabama is known as the “Peanut Capital of the World”, but this city in southeast Alabama also has some beautiful and interesting parks for visitors and locals alike. From historic state parks with links to the Civil War to community parks with playgrounds and walking trails, Dothan has a diverse offering of outdoor recreational spaces to discover and enjoy.
| Park Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Landmark Park | A historic state park with a museum and nature trails. |
| Girard Park | Offers playgrounds, sports courts, and walking trails. |
| Water World | A family-friendly water park. |
| Fort Rucker Forest | Features hiking trails and historical sites. |
| Westgate Park | Includes sports facilities and a water park. |
| Walton Park | A historic downtown park for community events. |
| Santa Fe Park & Splash Pad | Features a splash pad and recreational facilities. |
| Eastgate Park | Known for its dog park and recreational amenities. |
| Jones Park & Splash Pad | Offers a duck pond, playground, and splash pad. |
| Deerwood Country Club | A golf course set in a scenic southern setting. |
| Alabama Adventure Theme Park | An amusement park with various attractions. |
| Dothan Area Botanical Gardens | Showcases regional plants in a serene setting. |
There are 12 notable parks located in and around Dothan to check out. Each park has its own unique attractions, environments and amenities for different interests and ages. Families will appreciate the large community parks with playground equipment, walking trails, sports facilities and space to run around. Nature lovers will want to explore the pine forests and wetland habitats that make southeast Alabama so scenic. And history buffs will enjoy learning about Dothan’s role in the Civil War at Fort Rucker and Landmark Park.
No matter what brings you to Dothan, make sure to spend some time outdoors by visiting one of these top 12 parks. Here’s what to see and do in each one.
Landmark Park
Name and Location: Landmark Park Agricultural Museum located in Dothan, Alabama
History and Significance: This 135-acre living history museum opened in 1990 to preserve the agricultural heritage of southeast Alabama. Through exhibits, demonstrations and special events it brings to life the farm life, industry and crafts of the Wiregrass region across the eras. Significant collection of historic buildings and artifacts.
What to Expect: Explore the museum trails, farmsteads, 1890s town, planetarium, nature center and antique equipment. Frequent demonstrations showcase blacksmithing, butter churning, quilting and more. Special events include tractor shows, car shows and seasonal celebrations.
Visitor Information: Open Tuesday-Saturday 9am-5pm, Sunday 12 pm-5pm. Cafe on grounds. Picnic tables available.
History and Nature Meet at Landmark Park
Landmark Park is one of Dothan’s top attractions, offering visitors both cultural and natural experiences in one place. As a history museum and botanical garden hybrid, it educates on the area’s past while also creating an oasis of natural beauty and tranquility within the city.
The park’s museum centerpiece focuses on life in southeast Alabama during the late 1800s to early 1900s. Inside are exhibits on topics ranging from farming and textile production of the era to logging and peanut farming. Vintage trains, tractors and printing presses help bring the history lessons to life. Kids can play old-time games and try on historically-accurate costumes too.
But there’s more to Landmark Park beyond its indoor museum galleries. Miles of woodland walking trails lead visitors through scenic pine forests, wetlands and fields within the park’s 135 acres of protected green space. Bird watching is popular along the Wetland Way trail that winds over elevated boardwalks through cypress swamps and along ponds. The trails also provide access for fishing and observing native wetland plant species and wildlife. From wild turkeys to water lilies, there’s ample natural beauty to discover.
Between its indoor and outdoor facilities, Landmark Park truly offers a well-rounded educational and recreational experience for visitors of all ages while in Dothan.
Address: 430 Landmark Dr, Dothan, AL 36303
Girard Park
Name and Location: Girard Park located in Phenix City, Alabama
History and Significance: 24 acre public park created in 1898 featuring picnic pavilions, 1.3 mile scenic walking trail encircling a lake, tennis courts, 18-hole disc golf course and amusement park with vintage 1901 Dentzel Carousel, kiddie rides and an arcade. Hosts community concerts and events.
What to Expect: Stroll or jog along the tree lined paved trail around lake. Have a picnic, play on the playgrounds and fields, ride the carousel and mini amusement park rides like the teacups, flyers and tilt-a-whirl. Paddleboat rentals available as well during open seasons.
Visitor Information: Park open daily 8am-10pm. Some attractions and rides require fee. Swimming prohibited.
Sports and Play for Families
Nestled between neighborhoods just north of downtown Dothan, Girard Park serves as a community green space where local families gather for play and recreation. Its leafy grounds are anchored by playground equipment, walking trails, baseball diamonds, tennis and basketball courts catering to children and adults alike.
Two playground areas give kids places to swing, slide and climb to their hearts’ content. Nearby picnic pavilions offer shade and seating for parents watching over the fun. Adults and older children can enjoy friendly games of tennis on one of the park’s six courts or shoot hoops at the basketball court. Five baseball/softball fields provide space for both league and pick-up games in this sports-centric park.
When it’s time for a break from the playing fields, Girard Park invites visitors to stretch their legs on its peaceful walking trails that wind beneath canopies of tall pine trees. The loop trails get frequent use from neighborhood walkers getting in their daily exercise with a dose of nature as well.
With playgrounds, trails, courts and ball fields all in one beautiful park setting, it’s clear why Girard Park is such a valued recreational asset within Dothan’s local community.
Address: Corner of Girard Ave & Fortner St, Dothan, AL
Water World
Name and Location: Water World water park located in Dothan, Alabama
History and Significance: Family operated seasonal water park that originally opened in 1986. Recently expanded to over 10 acres offering 20 different water slides and attractions surrounded by shady oak trees. Great way to cool down and have fun in the summer Alabama heat.
What to Expect: Classic water park features like speed slides, tube rides, rip tide racer, splash pads for toddlers and a massive bucket tower dump gallons of water on laughing kids below. Grab food at the Snack Shack, float the Lazy River or relax poolside.
Visitor Information: Generally open annually Mid May to early September. Hours vary by month. Check website for ticket pricing.
Seasonal Fun at Water World Water Park
When summertime temperatures climb into the 90s and 100s, Dothan locals and visitors alike know the place to cool off is Water World water park. Conveniently located in Westgate Park just off the Ross Clark Circle southwest of downtown, this family-friendly water park provides wet, splashy fun all summer long.
Water World takes classic water park attractions like speed slides, tubing rides and a wave pool then adds a few unique surprises too. Adrenaline seekers will find their thrill seeking satisfied at Python Pit with four high-speed slides twisting and turning on their plunge to the pool below. The park’s massive 800-foot longlazy river provides a more relaxed pace for tubing along beneath sun or shade as preferred.
One of Water World’s special claims to fame is the Montego Multiplier canal system. Individual rapids allow tubers to spin, splash and bump along while controlling their own ride experience via smaller side channels. It provides interactive fun for all riders. Kids also delight in shallow play pools, including one lined with sprinklers and another with a giant dumping bucket.
Family changing rooms, lockers, lounge chairs and snack bars round out Water World’s amenities for care-free summer days playing in the water. With weekly kids’ camps, a swim team and frequent evening music events, it truly serves as a community gathering place focused on water fun.
Address: 2001 Westgate Pkwy #2, Dothan, AL 36303
Fort Rucker M.C. Blanchfield Forest
Name and Location: Fort Rucker M.C. Blanchfield Forest, near Ozark in Dale County Alabama
History and Significance: Nearly 11,000 acre forest region located on the Fort Rucker U.S. army post near Ozark Alabama. Made up of mixed pine and hardwood forest, streams and home to diverse wildlife. Serves as training area for aviation training site and offers recreational access.
What to Expect: Miles of trails for hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, hunting and fishing. Scenic creek suitable for kayaking. Primitive campsites available. Visitors Center located at entrance with information on recreational access and programs like guided nature tours that are offered.
Visitor Information: Daily open sunrise to sunset. Recreational passport required, obtainable at Visitor Center. Seasonal hunting restrictions apply.
Hiking Through Military History
Though an active U.S. Army base may seem an unlikely place for a nature park, Fort Rucker’s outdoor recreational areas welcome respectful civilian visitors to enjoy miles of scenic forest hiking trails just west of Dothan. Home to the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence and Museum, Fort Rucker has strong ties to local history as well that outdoors enthusiasts can discover while exploring the post’s trails.
Known as the M.C. Blanchfield Forest, over 11,000 acres of woodlands provide ample room for Fort Rucker’s training operations and recreational opportunities alike. Civilians can access certain areas to hike, mountain bike and horseback ride over trails winding through pine and hardwood forests, marshes and lake shorelines within the base’s sprawling property. Trails range from easy and smooth to challenging with hills for all levels of adventure seekers.
But it’s not just natural scenery visitors to Fort Rucker can experience. Remnants of south Alabama’s involvment in the Civil War also hide within Blanchfield Forest in the form of historic fortifications along some trails. Follow the three-mile Hancock Battery Trail and you may spot earthwork bunkers used for Confederate defense still standing over 150 years later amidst the dense forest growth.
Between the trails, nature encounters and history, Fort Rucker’s M.C. Blanchfield Forest offers a uniquely Alabama wilderness experience conveniently accessed from downtown Dothan.
Address: Fort Rucker, AL 36362
Westgate Park
Name and Location: Westgate Park located in Dothan, Alabama
History and Significance: 85 acre wooded public park created in 1953 featuring picnic pavilions, walking trails, playgrounds, athletic fields and an 18-hole disc golf course. Hosts many community events and leagues year-round. Recently renovated with new inclusive playground, splash pad and fitness stations surrounding a scenic duck pond.
What to Expect: Outdoor recreational activities like walking or jogging the trails, having a picnic, playing disc golf, tennis or pickleball on the lighted courts. The playground and splash pad is popular with families. Enjoy views of the scenic duck pond.
Visitor Information: Park open daily dawn until dusk. Some areas can be reserved for events. Visitor Center on site for info and restrooms.
Community Gathering Spot
Westgate Park provides plenty of room for community gatherings, recreational facilities and special events on Dothan’s west side, conveniently located right off the Ross Clark Circle. The park’s ample open greenspace accommodates frequent festivals, sporting events and city ceremonies throughout the year while also offering everyday play and fitness opportunities for locals.
Several youth baseball and softball diamonds make Westgate Park a hub for Little League games and tournaments in Dothan. Football and soccer fields see frequent weekend use as well. A regulation-size basketball court with bleachers allows for pickup games in both informal and organized play. Jogging paths circle the park for runners and walkers to exercise with nice views across theopen grounds.
One unique highlight within Westgate Park is Talking Trees, an accessible art exhibit allowing vision impaired visitors to experience sculptures through touch. It’s part of an inclusive playground project currently in development that will provide opportunities for all children to play together.
Of course, Westgate Park also houses Water World waterpark, ensuring there’s no shortage of family water fun during the summer months alongside the park’s usual sports and community event offerings the rest of the seasons. With so much packed into one public park, Westgate truly provides something for everyone in Dothan.
Address: 2867 Recreation Rd, Dothan, AL 36301
Walton Park
Name and Location: Walton Park located in Dothan, Alabama
History and Significance: Historic city park once part of 19th century Metairie Cemetery, converted for public use in 1910. Today the park spans 37 acres featuring walking trails, Miracle League baseball fields, playgrounds, picnic pavilions and hosts beloved events like Christmas Tree lighting.
What to Expect: Stroll the paved trails and grounds dotted with mature oak trees draped in Spanish moss. Kids enjoy the playground and adjacent skate park. Baseball fields in use on weekends. Individual and group picnic facilities available to rent year round.
Visitor Information: Open daily dawn till dusk. Restrooms available seasonally. Some areas available to reserve for events.
Historic Downtown Gathering Place
Residents and visitors of Dothan have gathered at Walton Park in the very heart of the city’s historic downtown for over a century. Though just a small public square spanning barely a full city block, Walton Park has outsized importance as a longstanding community gathering place and living piece of local history.
While the park grounds themselves offer little beyond brick walking paths, benches beneath shady trees, and patches of grass, it’s really the lively downtown atmosphere surrounding the square that draws people in. The retail shops, restaurants, civic buildings and cultural destinations facing Walton Park combine to create a quintessential southern downtown scene perfect for people watching, resting weary feet or meeting friends.
Frequent public events bring locals flocking to the park as well, especially during spring and fall weekends. Art and jazz festivals fill Walton Park with music, vendors and colorfully dressed crowds. The park provides front row seats to Dothan’s annual Peanut Festival parade too, when marching bands, giant floats and decorated tractors roll down the street before huge audiences.
Though just two centuries old, little Walton Park has witnessed immense change as Dothan grew into the bustling city it is today. It remains a cherished public space keeping community and history thriving at Dothan’s core.
Address: Corner of Troy St & Main St, Dothan, AL
Santa Fe Park & Splash Pad
Name and Location: Santa Fe Park & Splash Pad located in Dothan, Alabama
History and Significance: Newly updated community park featuring inclusive playgrounds, walking trails, basketball court, open greenspace and a splash pad water play area. Hosts community events and youth sports regularly. Named after the former Santa Fe Catholic School that once stood on grounds.
What to Expect: Kids enjoy cooling off running through the musical splash pad. Playground built for all abilities and ages. Have a picnic, walk the trail or play pickup basketball games. Greenspace frequently used for community events, festivals and youth sports practices.
Visitor Information: Park open daily 8am to 8pm. Restrooms and parking onsite. Some facilities available to reserve.
Family Fun on Dothan’s South Side
Families living in southern parts of Dothan don’t need to travel all the way to Girard or Westgate parks to enjoy recreational amenities. Santa Fe Park offers playground equipment, sports fields, walking trails and the city’s second splash pad all conveniently located off Montgomery Highway on the south side of town.
For hours of cool, wet play on hot summer days, Santa Fe Park’s splash pad can’t be beat. More than 30 individual water features spray, squirt, dump and deluge happy children beneath the summer sun. When they’ve had their fill of aquatic antics, kids can burn off spare energy climbing the park’s large playground structure tucked into a shady grove of soaring pine trees. Nearby picnic pavilions provide parents and guardians places to oversee the fun.
Adults accompany their kids to enjoy Santa Fe Park’s amenities too. Well-maintained walking paths skirt the playground and splash pad areas, offering flat terrain for getting in mileage within the park’s peaceful natural setting. Multiple baseball and softball diamonds also accommodate casual and league play in the evenings and weekends.
With playground equipment for the kids plus walking trails, splash pad and ball fields for the whole family to enjoy, Santa Fe Park has everything needed for an easy outdoor getaway without leaving Dothan’s south side.
Address: 365 Fortner St, Dothan, AL 36301
Eastgate Park
Name and Location: Eastgate Park located in Dothan, Alabama
History and Significance: Heavily wooded public park spanning over 200 acres featuring picnic areas, charity fundraising Veterans Memorial Walk, 18-hole disc golf course, 5k running trail and an animal sanctuary. Hosts community events like Easter egg hunt annually.
What to Expect: Outdoor recreational activities like jogging or walking the trails, playing disc golf on wooded course or having a family picnic. Visit the animal sanctuary filled with exotic birds, deer, llamas and more. The memorial walk lined with engraved bricks pays tribute to local veterans.
Visitor Information: Park open daily from dawn till dusk. Some facilities can be reserved for events.
Dog Park Day Trips
Tucked into an unassuming neighborhood east of Dothan off East Main Street, Eastgate Park packs an unexpected highlight for local dog lovers: it’s home to Wiregrass Waggers dog park. The fenced off-leash area provides pups a dedicated space to play and owners to meet within the larger city park grounds.
Though certainly not limited to just dog lovers, Wiregrass Waggers gives Eastgate Park unique appeal for pet-toting visitors. The dog park occupies its own separate fenced section filled with obstacles and agility equipment to mentally and physically stimulate energetic canines. Dogs large and small get to romp freely while under their owners’ supervision. People enjoy the social scene too, chatting with fellow dog devotees as their pups play.
Beyond the dog park, Eastgate Park contains further recreational amenities to round out an afternoon visit. Shady walking trails allow dog owners to get in their own exercise after Fido has worn himself out playing. Families utilize the park’s large playground, picnic pavilions and green space when spending time together as well. Pickup basketball, volleyball and tennis are all popular at Eastgate too.
For east side residents, Eastgate Park provides the ideal neighborhood spot for enjoying leisure time with or without dogs in tow. But those seeking a dog park getaway around Dothan will find Eastgate’s Wiregrass Waggers worth a special cross-town trip as well.
Address: 895 Columbia Hwy, Dothan, AL 36303
Jones Park & Splash Pad
Name and Location: Jones Park & Splash Pad located in Dothan, Alabama
History and Significance: Recently updated 25 acre park featuring large playground with modern equipment, walking trail, greenspace used for community events and a splash pad water play area. New facilities opened in 2022 provide more public recreation.
What to Expect: Kids enjoy cooling off running through the splash pad water features. Playground includes climbing structures, slides, monkey bars, swings and more set on soft rubber ground. Have a picnic or stroll the walking path that circles the park.
Visitor Information: Park open daily 8am to 8pm. Newly paved parking lot and restroom facilities on site. Some facilities available for event rental.
Convenient City Escape Close to Downtown
Though one of Dothan’s smaller neighborhood play parks, Jones Park packs plenty of family fun into its compact size located conveniently just one mile northeast of downtown. Ringing a duck pond and historic farmstead, the park provides modern recreational amenities amidst scenic pastoral scenery reminiscent of Dothan’s bygone days. Visitors delight in lazy afternoons feeding ducks, playing on swings, fishing by the pond and cooling off beneath the splash pad’s spray.
Tree-shaded walking paths encircle Jones Park’s central duck pond, a lovely place for a morning stroll or family picnic. Benches situated along the water make prime spots for visitors to sit while sharing a snack with feathered friends drifting atop the pond below. An adjacent playground offers swings, slides and climbing equipment tucked amidst the park’s many mature shade trees.
When Dothan’s summer heat hits peak intensities, locals flock to Jones Park’s splash pad for some cool wet relief. Dozens of fountains, sprays and water jets entertain kids for hours beneath the safety of parents’ watch from shaded picnic tables nearby. Families also frequent the fishing pier jutting into the park pond, hoping to nab a bite or just appreciate the peaceful scenery.
Though mostly frequented by neighborhood regulars, anyone seeking convenient outdoor recreation just beyond downtown Dothan will delight in all Jones Park has to offer for play and relaxation near the city center.
Address: 312 N Bell St, Dothan, AL 36301
Deerwood Country Club
Name and Location: Deerwood Country Club located near Dothan, Alabama
History and Significance: Member owned semi-private country club situated on over 700 acres just outside Dothan since 1970. Features an 18-hole golf course, driving range, clubhouse dining and variety of family focused social events throughout the year.
What to Expect: Scenic, challenging golf course with tree-lines fairways, well maintained greens and picturesque views. Casual dining room offers lunch and weekend breakfast. Pool, splash park, gym and tennis courts available for member use. Social events open to the public.
Visitor Information: Golf course open to public with paid green fees. Tennis courts also available for hourly rental. Scheduled member dining events open for public booking.
Golf in a Scenic Southern Setting
Golf enthusiasts visiting Dothan looking to play a round or two should look no further than Deerwood Country Club, consistently ranked one of the top public golf courses in Alabama thanks to its stunning scenery, challenging play and first-rate amenities. Winding through 500-acres in a former plantation 19 miles north of Dothan, Deerwood’s golf course incorporates natural wetlands, pine forests and lakes for a quintessentially Southern golf experience.
The Arthur Hills-designed course features sweeping views across cypress swamps and Muchahatchee Lake as golfers navigate their balls amidst indigenous wildlife over eighteen holes of championship play. But scenic vistas and spotting blue herons aren’t the only unique elements awaiting Deerwood golfers. The course also incorporates three different 18th century plantation manor houses into its design as picturesque backdrops to several holes.
Yet the rich natural environment and historic architecture aren’t meant to distract from Deerwood’s world-class golf amenities. The Champion Bermuda fairways and Tifeagle greens ensure plush, consistent terrain all year long. A fully-stocked pro shop, professional instruction and club caddies make it easy to play your best round. And a 19th hole lounge overlooking lake views with Southern fare on the grill provide the perfect capper to an afternoon of playing golf from a bygone era into today at the Deerwood course.
Address: 3000 Club House Dr, Ozark, AL 36360
Alabama Adventure Theme Park
Name and Location: Alabama Adventure Amusement & Water Park near Dothan
History and Significance: Large theme park established in 1998 spanning over 100 acres featuring roller coasters, amusement rides and a seasonal water park. Known for hosting Fright Nights haunted house scare fest in October. Rides suitable for families and thrill seekers alike all surrounded by lush landscape.
What to Expect: Signature coasters like the hi-speed Rampage and twisting Zoomerang join classic rides like bumper cars, a carousel, log flume and more. Water park offers slides, raft rides, wading pools and tube float lazy river. Separate kids section caters to little ones.
Visitor Information: Season runs March thru October. Hours vary. Single and multi-day tickets available. Height restrictions on some rides.
Family Thrills and Nostalgia
Combining today’s polished theme park thrills with throwback charm harkening to roadside attractions of yesteryear, Alabama Adventure delivers smiles across generations over 300 acres conveniently located just 10 miles west of Dothan. This local amusement park packs enough roller coasters, water rides, stage shows and family entertainment to fill a whole day or weekend visit.
Families with children and youth take full advantage of Alabama Adventure’s many ride attractions spread across distinct themed lands reflecting different eras. The Rock n Roller coasters’ thrill rides, arcade games and rock memorabilia bring the 1950s alive while kids can mine for gems in a recreated 1890s mining town. The park’s water attractions like huge wave pools transport guests to tropical islands too.
Yet while featuring many modern amusements, Alabama Adventure also celebrates the history of old-fashioned tourist traps once gracing many highways leading to the park’s location. Vintage billboards advertising forgotten attractions, an authentic service station and even a towering rocket sculpture pay homage to 20th century roadside diversions for passing motorists. It blends past and present into one nostalgic, entertaining theme park.
Easy to access right off US-231 north of Dothan, Alabama Adventure amusement and waterpark provides families hours of ride-filled fun you won’t find anywhere else in the area or state. It’s classic road trip entertainment evolved for 21st century family travel and thrills.
Address: 2511 Alabama Adventure Pkwy, Millbrook, AL 36054
Dothan Area Botanical Gardens
Name and Location: Dothan Area Botanical Gardens located in Dothan, Alabama
History and Significance: These exquisite public gardens spanning 50 acres opened in 2013 on grounds owned by local utility company. Features cultivated gardens, nature trails, butterfly house, outdoor classroom spaces surrounded by native pine forestscape. Education focused displays change seasonally.
What to Expect: Relaxing natural setting with winding mulch trails past vibrant flower gardens, under canopy trees and views of swan lake. Visit greenhouse and butterfly house. Frequent gardening lectures, bird walks, educational tours and community events held on grounds.
Visitor Information: Open Tuesday through Saturday 8am to 4pm year-round. Trails remain accessible on off days. Admission reasonable with discounts for seniors, military families and groups.
Scenic Sanctuary Close to Downtown
Nestled along the wooded banks of Campbell Creek just five minutes east of downtown Dothan, the Dothan Area Botanical Gardens offers visitors a natural escape in the heart of the city. Wander shaded brick pathways through 25 acres of cultivated gardens showcasing the region’s native plants and flowers in elegant landscapes and exhibits. It’s a scenic urban oasis perfect for an easygoing afternoon stroll away from city noises and bustle while remaining conveniently close by.
Interpretive signs educate visitors on the species and habitats they explore across the Botanical Gardens’ diverse themed gardens. Cottage-style plots demonstrate plants well-suited for home cultivation in the area. Formal parterre geometries display traditional garden design aesthetics. Arbors, vines and fragrant magnolias transport you to the Deep South through sight and scent within the Southern Heritage section. Even a carnivorous plant bog inhabited by Venus flytraps can be experienced up close.
Special garden attractions help make the Botanical Gardens a community gathering space as well. The interactive Rain Garden invites play and discovery with its musical flowers and instruments designed to delight children. Seasonal butterfly releases occur within the open-aired Butterfly House. And various garden structures provide intimate venues for small weddings, gatherings or just personal relaxation while immersed in natural beauty a quick drive from Dothan’s city center.
Address: 5130 Headland Ave,
Conclusion
Beyond peanut farming, Dothan offers these 12 diverse and engaging parks for locals and visitors to play, explore history and discover the area’s natural beauty and charm. From riding rapids at Water World to strolling beneath blooms at the Botanical Gardens to hitting the links at Deerwood Country Club, there are outdoor adventures to appeal to all ages and interests within easy access around town. So take advantage and escape into one of Dothan’s top parks whenever needing some recreation during your time in Alabama’s peanut capital.