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Alabama
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Alabama State Parks

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Alabama
Southeast Region
Geneva State Forest
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GENEVA STATE FOREST
GENEVA STATE FOREST
1119 Forest Area Rd
Kinston, Alabama   36453-6063
(lat:31.1195 lon:-86.1641) map location

Phone: (334) 898-7013
The Geneva State Forest, located in Alabama, is a picturesque natural haven that encompasses over 7,000 acres of diverse landscapes. This enchanting forest offers a serene escape from the bustling city life, with its towering pine trees, tranquil lakes, and winding trails. Nature enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the beauty of this protected area while engaging in various recreational activities such as hiking, camping, birdwatching, and fishing. The Geneva State Forest not only serves as a sanctuary for wildlife but also provides an idyllic setting for visitors to reconnect with nature and find solace in its peaceful ambiance.
History of the Area
The Geneva State Forest is located in southern Alabama, near the town of Geneva. Established in 1937, it covers an area of approximately 7,120 acres.

The forest was created as part of the state's reforestation efforts during the Great Depression. At that time, agriculture was the predominant industry in the area, and it suffered greatly from soil erosion and deforestation. The Alabama State Planning Committee identified the region around Geneva as a prime candidate for reforestation and conservation due to its poor soil conditions.

Under the supervision of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), young men were employed to plant trees, build firebreaks, construct roads and trails, and perform other conservation activities. The CCC played a crucial role in developing the forest, and their efforts greatly contributed to the successful reforestation of the area.

Over the years, the Geneva State Forest has also played a significant role in providing timber resources for the state. The forest management activities focus on sustainable forestry practices, including selective harvesting and maintaining a healthy ecosystem.

In addition to its economic importance, the Geneva State Forest has become a popular recreational area for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy various activities such as hiking, birdwatching, hunting, fishing, and camping. The forest is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including deer, turkey, quail, and various species of birds.

The Geneva State Forest continues to serve as a vital natural resource for Alabama, providing both economic benefits and recreational opportunities while preserving and protecting the region's environmental health.
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Location
Geneva State Forest is located near Enterprise, Opp

Trails
1. Open Pond Trail: This is a 2-mile loop trail that starts and ends at the forest's main entrance. It offers scenic views of an open pond, dense forests, wildflowers during springtime, and wildlife such as deer or birds.

2. Piney Woods Loop: A moderate difficulty level hike spanning about 3 miles in length with beautiful pine trees lining up along the path providing shade for hikers on sunny days.

3. Geneva State Forest Lake Trail: An easy to navigate flat terrain around the lake within this state forest offering stunning water views over its course of approximately one mile distance.

4. Turkey Creek Nature Preserve Trails: These trails cover nearly six miles through diverse ecosystems including hardwood forests, wetlands and alongside creeks making it ideal for bird watching enthusiasts who can spot various species here throughout different seasons.

5. Bear Branch Horseback Riding & Hiking Trail: Approximately five miles long horse-friendly hiking trail featuring picturesque landscapes like rolling hills covered by lush greenery which makes it perfect not only for equestrians but also nature lovers looking forward to peaceful hikes away from city hustle-bustle.

6. Beaver Dam Boardwalk: Short yet enchanting boardwalk style walking route stretching across half-a-mile where you could witness beavers building dams while enjoying serene ambiance created by surrounding swamp area filled with cypress trees.

7. Bluebird Meadow Pathway: Easy rated pathway covering two:and-half-miles amidst meadows attracting numerous bluebirds hence named so; great choice if seeking quiet walks observing these lovely creatures.

8. Red Fox Run: Another short walk measuring just under a mile, however provides ample opportunities spotting red foxes especially during early morning hours when they are most active hunting their prey.

9. White Tail Deer Track: Three Mile track winding through mixed deciduous-coniferous woodlands known habitat white tail deers ; best visited either dawn dusk increase chances sighting these graceful animals.

10. Geneva State Forest Overlook Trail: This trail is a bit more challenging, stretching over 4 miles and leading to an overlook that offers panoramic views of the entire forest. It's perfect for those seeking adventure and breathtaking scenery.

11. Wild Turkey Way: A two:mile loop through hardwood forests where wild turkeys are often seen roaming freely; ideal for birdwatchers or anyone interested in wildlife observation.

12. Bobcat Ridge: Approximately three mile long moderately difficult hiking path offering chances spotting bobcats along with other small mammals native this region making it exciting choice adventurous hikers who love exploring wilderness closely while on their hikes.

13. Butterfly Garden Path: Short but beautiful half-a-mile walkway passing through specially designed butterfly garden attracting various species butterflies during blooming season adding colorful charm overall experience walking here.

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Directions
1. Start by heading east on W Magnolia Avenue toward N Commerce Street.
2. Continue straight onto AL:52 E/W Maple Avenue and drive for about 3 miles.
3. Turn left onto County Road 4/County Rd 45 (signs for Samson).
4. After approximately 5 miles, turn right to stay on County Road 4/County Rd 45.
5. Drive for another mile before turning left onto Co Hwy:17/North St/East Ave S/Old Coffee Springs Highway.
6. Continue driving northbound on Co Hwy:17/North St/East Ave S/Old Coffee Springs Highway until you see signs indicating the entrance to the state forest.

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Alabama
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Alabama State Parks

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