Buck's Pocket State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Buck's Pocket State Park |
|
|---|---|
.jpg)
Buck's Pocket State Park, August 2011
|
|
 Buck's Pocket State Park
Location in Alabama
Buck's Pocket State Park
Location in the United States
|
|
| Location | DeKalb, Jackson, Marshall, Alabama, United States |
| Area | 2,000 acres (8.1 km2) |
| Elevation | 764 ft (233 m) |
| Established | 1971 |
| Governing body | Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources |
| Website | Buck's Pocket State Park |
Buck's Pocket State Park is a fun outdoor area in the northeast part of Alabama. It's located on a place called Sand Mountain, about 2 miles north of Grove Oak. This state park covers about 2,000 acres.
The park is built around a natural "pocket," which is like a deep canyon. This canyon is part of the Appalachian Mountains. South Sauty Creek flows through it, leading to Guntersville Lake. One of the best things about the park is the amazing views from Point Rock. From there, you can see the wild and beautiful landscape stretching out below.
Contents
Discovering Buck's Pocket State Park
How Buck's Pocket Began
The idea for Buck's Pocket State Park started in 1966. A group called the Sand Mountain Booster's Club helped make it happen. They created the Tri-County Park Authority and bought land from a local farmer.
The Tennessee Valley Authority, a government agency, also helped. They added about 700 acres of land to the park. Finally, Buck's Pocket State Park officially opened its doors in 1971.
Changes Over Time
In 2015, the park faced some challenges. Due to less money for state parks, Buck's Pocket had to close its campground. It also had fewer staff members.
But good news came later! In June 2020, the campground was able to reopen. Now, visitors can once again enjoy camping and other activities at the park.
Stories and Legends of Buck's Pocket
What's in a Name?
The name "Buck's Pocket" has a few interesting stories behind it. One idea is that many deer, also known as bucks, used to live in the area. Another story says a brave buck jumped from Point Rock to escape Cherokee hunters.
There's also a legend about a man named Buck Berry. He supposedly used this hidden area to stay safe during the American Civil War. No one knows for sure which story is true, but they all add to the park's mystery!
The "Politician's Retreat"
Since the 1940s, there's been a funny story about Buck's Pocket. People say that politicians in Alabama who lose elections go to Buck's Pocket. It's a way of saying they go there to relax and get away from everything after a tough campaign.
The story doesn't say exactly what they do there. It just leaves it to your imagination! It's a lighthearted legend that shows how special and secluded the park feels.
Fun Things to Do at Buck's Pocket
Outdoor Adventures
Buck's Pocket State Park is a great place for outdoor activities. There are about 10 miles of trails perfect for hiking. You can explore the woods and enjoy nature.
Don't miss the Point Rock Overlook! It offers incredible views of the canyon below. It's a perfect spot for taking photos and enjoying the scenery.
Picnics and Water Fun
The park has a nice picnic area. It's located right on the edge of the canyon, so you can eat your lunch with an amazing view.
If you love water activities, there's a boat launch and fishing area. It's located about seven miles downstream at Morgan's Cove on Lake Guntersville. You can enjoy fishing or boating on the lake.
