Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park

This park is one of the best ever constructed. It’s historical value alone, added into the mystique and ambiance of the surrounding hills, teleports one or a family or group, back to a time in our nation’s not too distant past. The re-enactors (when present) add to the surrounding atmosphere. The little shops throughout the community, a working society, hand making, hand farming and selling their items, is a virtual reality of when times were simpler, albeit physically demanding.The numerous handhewn log buildings, strategically arrayed around the park, portray the past Traditional Family society in detail. Many donated structures including active churches, mills and forges, complete the realistic atmosphere. Bring bicycles and be prepared for hiking. This Campground takes time to fully explore. We spend many days camped in our RV at this choice location. Our campsite becomes our base of operation for our forays into Birmingham and other surrounding areas.Three streams converge in this campground. It is advisable to obey flood warnings. Fishing is encouraged by tournaments. Trade Days in the large common area near the Iron Forging shacks, attract locals from miles around, on scheduled time periods. Riding the little train around the large campground, adds to the mobility during Trade Days.Forging of iron objects is welcomed during evening demonstrations. Hand made items are available from the several iron working blacksmiths busily creating works of art. All at various times, depending on weather and season.The historic Bessemer designed forges creating pig iron, were restored and fired in 1976, to commemorate our nation’s birth. Still in place today, they are worth the time to hike and explore. A small store providing basics, is inside the office. Laundry, restroom facilities and a restaurant with periodic entertainment during tourist season, make the days even more enjoyable.Tannehill was so important, supplying iron for the Confederacy, that the Union Army sent a Cavalry unit to destroy it during the Civil War. It’s remnants lay as a ghostly reminder of what the federal govt is capable of when provoked. Restoration by volunteers and investors, in close association with the State of Alabama, have kept ongoing projects, making this historic site one of the best in the nation. Restored for use by the public, the gates have, in addition to Rangers, security staff and are kept locked during the night. Excellent Museum of period systems and rare machinery, faithfully restored to operating condition, , is another great feature. Descriptions and photography from the past, impress on the mind what the people of that time were capable of accomplishing. Their creativity, intelligence and perseverance are exemplified. Details of the entire system to create Iron from raw resources, of which Tannehill is located near, one of the scant few geologic locations on the earth, where all ingredients are at hand, is described in the museum.

Awesome place! They keep a ranger on duty all night. We rolled in around midnight on our cross-country road trip and when we got there, Ranger Wayne was there and had us follow him to where the campsites were. Also, Ranger Wayne is pretty much the man! He told us everything about the park and made us feel very welcome. I definitely suggest staying here. There were some great trails for running and a historic iron works foundry. Great stay!

If you like Flea Markets, Tannehill State Park is the place to be during one of the several Trade Days they have during the year. Artist and Craftsmen from all over the area are there displaying their work for all to see and purchase.