Central Loop, North Alabama | Madison | Best Seasons: Fall | Spring | Winter
Madison County Public Lake (Site # 28, Central Loop) is best known for its fishing, but it also serves as an excellent introduction to northern Alabama’s birdlife. Scan the lake for wintering waterfowl or perhaps a family of resident Canada Geese and their downy young. The woods around the lake host a variety of warblers and vireos during migration while resident favorites include Northern Cardinals and Blue Jays. From time to time, Ospreys may drop in for some fishing, and you never know when a vagrant gull or tern may show up unexpectedly.
GPS: N 34.8111, W 86.3940
Fee: Free
Amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Handicap Access, Canoeing, Boat Access, Fishing, Picnic Area
Contact Info:
ADCNR
2501 County Lake Road
Gurley, AL 35748
(256) 776-4905
In Huntsville from the intersection of I-565 and US 431/231 (Memorial Parkway), take I-565 east (it soon becomes US Highway 72) for 7.5 miles to Ryland Pike Road. Turn left on Ryland Pike Road for 6.5 miles (through Maysville where it becomes Hurricane Creek Road) to County Lake Road. At County Lake Road turn right and drive 1 mile to Madison County Lake. After turning off US 72 it is also possible to follow the Madison County Public Lake highway directional signs.
Amenities Available:
Nearby Sites
Chapman Mountain Nature Preserve
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Hays Nature Preserve
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Monte Sano State Park
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Wheeler NWR – Blackwell Swamp
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Winfred Thomas Agricultural Research Station
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