ROGERSVILLE – A brand-new, state-of-the-art, accessible playground has officially arrived at Joe Wheeler State Park, bringing an exciting new destination for families at one of the Tennessee Valley’s most beloved outdoor getaways.
Designed to inspire play for visitors of all abilities, this vibrant addition enhances the park experience and invites even more unforgettable moments in the great outdoors.
Celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday that included community leaders and State Parks staff, the new playground represents a dynamic transformation of one of the park’s most popular gathering spaces — reimagined to better serve today’s visitors and future generations.
“This new playground at Joe Wheeler State Park represents more than just a place to play—it’s a place where families can connect, children of all abilities can explore, and lasting memories are made,” Alabama State Parks Director Matthew Capps said. “We’re proud to introduce a vibrant, inclusive space that enhances the visitor experience and ensures everyone can stay, play and explore all the beauty and adventure our parks have to offer.”
This milestone project was made possible through the incredible generosity of the Alabama State Parks Foundation and its dedicated partners. Lead contributions included $100,000 from the Daniel Foundation and $50,000 from the Thompson Foundation, along with an additional $50,000 investment from the Foundation itself — demonstrating a powerful commitment to enriching Alabama’s outdoor spaces and creating memorable experiences for all.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Alabama State Parks Foundation, the Thompson Foundation, and the Daniel Foundation for their outstanding generosity and shared vision in bringing this project at Joe Wheeler State Park to life,” said Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Commissioner Chris Blankenship. “Their support helps us elevate the visitor experience and reinforces our commitment to delivering first-class adventures in every state park in Alabama. It’s truly inspiring to partner with organizations that believe in our mission and invest in creating memorable outdoor experiences for all.”
The Alabama State Parks Foundation has been involved in a number of other enhancement projects in recent years, including:
