In Red Bay, a firsthand look at the present meets the history of Franklin County: Tiffin Motorhomes offers guided factory tours. They begin at the visitor center by the main entrance. Anyone interested in manufacturing will find a distinctive activity here, one that is clearly different from the county’s historic sites and nature experiences.
Local History and a Lively Stage
Alabama Iron Works Cedar Creek Furnace was built in 1815 and was the first blast furnace in Alabama. In Russellville, the publicly accessible Hurley Cemetery is the burial place of Major William Russell, the city’s founder. The historic Roxy Theatre has been part of downtown Russellville since 1949 and now serves as a venue for concerts, performances and talent competitions. It is also located within the Americana Music Triangle.
Overton Farm is among the earliest surviving records of pioneer life in northwest Alabama. The farm is also a living history museum and event center that offers programs to its guests. Outdoor activities on offer include hiking and horseback riding. Historical interpretation and outdoor recreation go hand in hand here, though each offers a different kind of visit.
The festivals also offer insights into a range of local traditions. The Red Bay Founder’s Fest takes place every September and celebrates the town’s history. Its recurring program includes arts and crafts, a classic car and vehicle show, tours of the Red Bay Museum, and a contest to find the best fried pies. The museum features reconstructed interiors of the Red Bay Hotel lobby and historic business premises. For specific trip planning, it’s worth checking the date of the festival.
Another historical milestone is the Franklin County Watermelon Festival, which began in 1981. In Phil Campbell, the annual Downtown Hoedown grew out of the Phil Campbell Convention; its date may change. The Spirit of Hodges Festival takes place every year in early October and features arts and crafts, food vendors and live music. Individual offerings may change, so it’s recommended that you check the current date and program before your visit.
Canyon, Water and Trails
Dismals Canyon is a natural sandstone gorge and is designated a National Natural Landmark. The canyon is about six miles west of Phil Campbell on Highway 8. A 1.5-mile hiking trail follows Dismals Branch and passes waterfalls and boulders. The canyon, stream and trail provide a specific way to explore the landscape on foot.
At Cedar Creek Reservoir, the water and access points take center stage. At full pool, the reservoir covers 4,200 acres of water, and there are five public access points in total. A campground is also located at the Slickrock site. The reservoir is particularly known for fishing for black bass, including largemouth and spotted bass, as well as crappie. Anyone planning to fish, camp or use one of the designated access points can choose between these options according to their interests.
Birdwatching also has a designated point of reference: Cypress Cove Farm in Red Bay is the Franklin County location on the North Alabama Birding Trail. The county therefore offers several distinctly different nature experiences—from a trail through a sandstone gorge to fishing at the reservoir and a stop on a regional birding route.
The Bear Creek Education Center at Overton Farm offers accessible, nature-based outdoor learning experiences. The center provides accessible access across about 400 acres and is surrounded by access points to Bear Creek. Since operating details may change, it’s recommended that you check them before your visit.
Horse-riding enthusiasts have other independent options: Hodges Equestrian Park has 50 miles of trails through forests and canyons, past waterfalls and natural rock bridges. Its operating details may change; check them before planning your visit. Rock Bridge Canyon Equestrian Park offers guided horseback rides through Rock Bridge Canyon. Vina Park, meanwhile, has sports facilities, a loop trail, a picnic pavilion and restrooms.
Discover more destinations: Russellville, Madison, Macon, Baldwin, Calhoun County, Talladega, Pike, Walker.
For the broader travel overview: Alabama.
