ROGERSVILLE-A recent visit to Joe Wheeler State Park shows exactly why guests are raving about the dining experience at the park’s waterfront restaurant, now operated by Lash’s Seafood.
Owner and chef Brenda Dison remembers a customer who asked for something special while dining at the park, a smothered chicken dish that’s not on the menu.
“Absolutely,” replied Dison, and the dish arrived on the table minutes later.
That kind of personalized, hometown hospitality has quickly made Lash’s Seafood a favorite among park visitors since
Lash’s became the park’s official restaurant operator in late 2025.
From Thursday through Sunday, guests can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner overlooking the scenic Tennessee River, with a menu featuring fresh seafood, hand-cut steaks, burgers, sandwiches and more. Every dish is prepared with the same care and attention that made Lash’s original restaurant a regional favorite.
Since Brenda and her husband, Tim Dison, became the park’s restauranteur last year, the response from visitors has been overwhelmingly positive.
“We want to offer a first-class experience at all of our State Parks, and the addition of Lash’s Seafood at Joe Wheeler State Park has definitely enhanced our guests’ experience,” State Parks Director Matthew Capps said. “Whether it’s the expanded menu options or the incredible service, Lash’s provides a ‘wow’ factor. That’s why it’s a win-win for everyone.”
The Disons first opened Lash’s Seafood in 2020 in Rogersville, and the opportunity to open a second location of their popular restaurant felt like a natural fit.
“We want people to come to the park,” Brenda said. “We want to be a place where people can enjoy a wonderful meal, relax and experience everything the park has to offer.”
And there’s plenty to enjoy. Visitors can spend the day hiking scenic trails, playing a round of golf, boating on the lake or relaxing at the lodge—then finish the day with a delicious meal by the water.
“We have a resort right here in our backyard that everyone should come see,” Dison said.
Business at the park restaurant has been strong, and the Disons are already looking toward the future. All the windows in the Lodge and restaurant were replaced last year and now offer a beautiful waterfront view. Plans are being considered to further remodel the dining area to add more seating as demand continues to grow.
As boating season approaches, they’re also exploring the possibility of adding a tiki-style hut near the water so boaters can grab a quick bite without leaving the shoreline. Live, local music may also be part of the experience in the future.
“We want to be a place where people come to relax, eat great food and have a good time,” Dison said.
Lash’s also offers catering for group bookings at the park’s convention center, which can accommodate 300 guests for a reception/banquet, 200 for classroom seating and 500 for theater seating. The park encourages groups to host their events at the lodge and enjoy Lash’s delicious food as part of their special occasion. For catering inquiries or to book an event, contact the JSWP sales department at (256) 247-5466, extension 2.
For visitors to Joe Wheeler State Park, that welcoming atmosphere—combined with fresh food and waterfront views—is quickly turning Lash’s Seafood into a must-visit destination.
Media Release/Josh Bean/Alabama State Parks
