Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park5.0

Expansive historical park preserving 19th-century iron-making ruins, offering hiking trails, camping, museums, and seasonal cultural events across 1,500 wooded acres.

General Information

Hours:
Park: Open daily, sunrise to sunset
Visitor Center: Daily, 10am to 4pm
Fees:
Adults: $5
Children (6–11): $3
Children under 6: Free
Annual passes available
Pet Policy:
Pets allowed in outdoor areas; not permitted in buildings
Closest cities with hotels:
Bessemer, AL (12 mi); Birmingham, AL (30 mi)
Seasons:
All year; best in spring and fall for events and foliage
Location:
ttps://tannehillstatepark.org/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">tannehillstatepark.org

From Birmingham, AL (30 mi): Take I-59/20 S to Exit 100, turn left onto Tannehill Parkway, then follow signs to Confederate Parkway and the park entrance.

Overview

The Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park is a living museum of Alabama’s industrial past, where the remnants of 19th-century iron furnaces rise from the forest floor like monuments to a bygone era. Spanning over 1,500 acres, the park preserves the site of a once-thriving ironworks that played a vital role in the Confederate war effort. Today, visitors can explore the preserved furnace stacks, hike scenic trails along Roupes Creek, and visit the Iron and Steel Museum, which houses artifacts and exhibits detailing the region’s iron-making legacy. The park also features a working gristmill, pioneer farm, and restored cabins that host artisan demonstrations from spring through fall.

Beyond its historical significance, Tannehill is a hub for outdoor recreation and community events. With over 45 miles of trails, 195 improved campsites, and a miniature railroad, the park offers something for every age and interest. Seasonal highlights include Civil War reenactments, craft fairs, and the popular Tannehill Trade Days held monthly. Whether you're camping under the stars, learning about blacksmithing, or simply enjoying a picnic beneath towering oaks, Tannehill Ironworks blends history, nature, and Southern heritage into a uniquely immersive experience.

This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official tourism pages for the Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park, which are released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0.

Ryan Cragun, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons; Image Size Adjusted