Natural swimming hole
Payne Lake Recreation Area - Talladega National Forest
Lake · Alabama
About this swimming hole
Payne Lake Recreation Area in the Oakmulgee district of the Talladega National Forest offers a quiet 110-acre lake with a swimming beach and two bathhouses with restrooms and showers. Camping is permitted at 26 developed shoreline sites, each with a picnic table, fire circle and tent or trailer pad. The Forest Service lists the area as open year-round with boating, fishing, picnicking and swimming.
Good to know
| Water type | Lake |
|---|---|
| Best season | May-September |
| Fees | $3 per vehicle day-use pass (reported) |
| Reservations required | No |
| Hours | Daylight hours; open year-round |
| Parking | Recreation area parking at 581 County Road 71, Moundville |
| Amenities | restrooms, campground, picnic tables |
| County | Hale County |
| Nearest town | Moundville |
| Safety notes | No lifeguard; swim at the designated beach only |
Map
Official information
Official park / agency page ↗ — check current conditions, fees, and reservations here before you go.
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Payne Lake Recreation Area - Talladega National Forest?
Yes — Payne Lake Recreation Area - Talladega National Forest is listed as a natural swimming spot in Alabama. Heads-up: No lifeguard; swim at the designated beach only. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Payne Lake Recreation Area - Talladega National Forest require reservations?
No reservations are required at Payne Lake Recreation Area - Talladega National Forest based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Payne Lake Recreation Area - Talladega National Forest?
Reported fee info: $3 per vehicle day-use pass (reported). Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Payne Lake Recreation Area - Talladega National Forest?
The best season is typically May-September.