Lake Martin is a lake lover’s dream playground-with almost 900 miles of shoreline and more than 40,000 acres of stunning views. With so many great places to see and things to do at Lake Martin, it may be difficult to even know where to start. One stop you absolutely have to put on your list through is D.A.R.E. Power Park, which is located right on the shores of Lake Martin, and is maintained by Alabama Power.
Alabama Power puts a big focus on protecting our area’s natural resources, and creating areas for recreational engagement. We are very thankful for all of the free opportunities that they give us to enjoy the outdoors, and D.A.R.E. Power Park is definitely one of the coolest ways to spend at day at Lake Martin. And even better-it won’t cost you a penny. Here’s a few of the things to look forward to when you visit D.A.R.E. Power Park!
The Beach
D.A.R.E. Power Park is home to one of Lake Martin’s only public access beaches. The beautiful white sand glistens against the sparkling water of the lake, and you will feel like you have taken a much needed escape to paradise. As you sit there in your aquatic wonderland, with your toes in the water and bottom in the sand, you will likely even get to enjoy the small fish playing in the clear waters along the shore. Pack the beach towels and chairs, as well as the very important sand castle building tools. And make sure to bring the sunscreen!
The Playground
If the kiddos need a break from the water, and want to work off some energy, there is a wonderful playground right there on site. From climbing to swinging to sliding, the Double D.A.R.E. You Playground has it all and the little ones will have a blast. This playground is also ADA accessible and is there for everyone to enjoy.
The Fishing Piers
Fishing is a favorite pastime here in these parts, so make sure to bring your fishing pole and tackle box along for your day at D.A.R.E. Power Park. There are a couple of great fishing piers right there on site at the park that are available for you to use. Lake Martin is known for largemouth, spotted, and striped bass. It’s also home to bream, catfish, and crappie. You can always keep up with our latest tips on the monthly Lake Martin Tourism Fishing Report found here.
Boat Ramp at D.A.R.E. Power Park
While fishing from the pier is great within the park, if you are headed to the lake with your boat, and want to get out on the water, they have you taken care of as well. Since the boat ramp is adjacent to the park, and not actually in it, you have access to the ramp 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, year round. This makes it perfect for those early mornings when you want to hit the water at sunrise to get a start on fishing, or just enjoying your day on the water. They have great parking also, and since they are right next to the park, it is easy to hit the park for a little more fun time once you return from boating.
The Walking Trail
D.A.R.E. Power Park has a scenic walking trail that goes through the park and right along the shores of Lake Martin. The walking trail is paved and is mostly flat. It is an easy trek, and if you came out to the park in flip flops instead of hiking boots, you will be totally ok on this one. It is a very pretty walk though, and I highly encourage you to take the opportunity to check this out. You will likely have a chance to meet some of the park’s residents on this stroll. The park’s many birds and squirrels are there in abundance and often like showing off for visitors.
Picnics
If you are coming to spend a day at D.A.R.E. Power Park, make sure you pack a picnic lunch for your crew. There are several picnic tables scattered throughout the park, but the one thing that they all have in common is that every single one offers spectacular views of Lake Martin. That peanut butter and jelly sandwich will never taste as good as it does when you are lakeside with your family taking in the beauty of the lake. If PB and J is not your thing, and you want to step it up and show off your grilling skills, you can do that too. Many of the picnic tables also have table side charcoal grills. Our tips are to get there early though to scope out your spot, as these are available on a first come, first serve basis.
Free Pavilion Rentals for Your Private Events
While there are several private picnic tables available throughout the park that are perfect for smaller groups, there are great options available for larger groups as well. If you have a birthday party, family reunion, office outing, or any other type of group event, and want to have seating together for your entire crew, you will definitely want to check out the pavilion rentals. Like the private picnic tables, these also offer great views of Lake Martin. Also, pavilion rental is 100% FREE. It is available on a first come, first serve basis though, so make sure to make your reservations as far in advance as possible. To inquire about free reservations for a private pavilion for your group event, call 256-825-8286.
How to Get to D.A.R.E. Power Park:
By Car: 4633 Young’s Ferry Road Jacksons’ Gap, AL 36861
By Boat: 32.82205. -85.85467
When to Go to D.A.R.E. Power Park:
While the public boat ramp is open year round, the park does have varying hours throughout the year.
May: Saturday-Sunday 9am-8pm
June-August: Monday-Sunday 9am-8pm
September: Saturday-Sunday 9am-8pm
October-April: Closed
Admission to D.A.R.E. Power Park:
FREE