Jackson Lake Island — Attraction in Alabama

My husband, myself and mother-in-law took a day trip here, Veteran’s Day 2021. We called the number on the sign because we didn’t have exact change to get in. The website we looked at the information on said that it was $3 per person, not $5. The man who answered claimed he wasn’t on the property and that we could pay by scanning the QR code or go to a gas station and get change to put in the envelope. Well, since we had to use an app to pay, my husband didn’t get to ask for a military discount. It’s Veterans Day, most places are doing things for our nation’s heroes. We were able to shake that off, paid for ourselves to get in, got the gate code, drove in. The man that we talked to on the phone had the nerve to get on a golf cart and drive to us, although previously stated he was not on the property, because he didn’t get the payment notification on his phone yet. We’re talking about maybe 2 minutes from when my mother-in-law hung up with him. At first, I was thinking he was coming to see if we needed help. But, no. There is a camera at the front gate by where you get and put the envelopes so he can make sure he is paid. It definitely upset all 3 of us, making us feel like we did something wrong when we didn’t and put a sour taste in our mouths. The place doesn’t look like all of these beautiful pictures I see online. It’s very run down, dilapidated and in need of some major tlc. The church is the main location of interest to take photos at for 90% of people. Well, whoever is in charge of the goats decided to start feeding them behind the church. The front was covered in so much poop, it was almost unbearable to snap a quick photo. Someone should be there, making sure the place stays relatively sanitary! They’re charging admission, there isn’t an excuse not to take care of the grounds. We walked through the whole park, absolutely loved the goats but came across one with a broken foot, a little baby goat in need of doctor. My mother-in-law called the man again. He seemed annoyed with us and said he would try to get a veterinarian on the phone. We sat at a table nearby to wait for someone to come find this little baby but after 20 minutes, we gave up. It was very difficult to walk away from it but it isn’t our responsibility, we just care. I wouldn’t bother taking a trip there to look at the film set. It is not worth it. We drove almost 100 miles one way. Disappointed doesn’t...

Very peaceful, with plenty to do: from camping to getting married!

Jackson Lake Island offers full site hookups for RV camping and plenty of space to pitch a tent. For those relaxing weekends, bring the boat, kayaks, and/or bikes to take leisurely cruises around the island.

Many locals take advantage of the boat ramps, on Jackson Lake Island, as an entry to the Alabama River. A variety of freshwater fish continuously flow through the lake, attracting anglers as they attempt to land that big fish. Bank fishing is also permitted.

The Island is home to the Town of Spectre movie set from the film "Big Fish". It is fun to walk down the street to see the buildings and the shoes that are still being collected and tossed over the line.

While visiting the movie set, it is almost guaranteed you will be greeted by a goat or two. If you have little ones, they are sure to love on them as they roam freely around the island.

In addition to the movie set and the goats, the island is made up of rolling grassy hills with a private events pavilion to make the perfect space to host your special event (babyshowers, birthdays, weddings, family...

If you love the movie Big Fish you’ll find your story here ❤️ There is definitely something special about this island that stirs the heart. Beautiful place to picnic, fish, kayak, camp, play with baby goats or just hang around in a hammock. It feels like the place where every great story begins. My father and uncle had a few “fish tales” of their own so I felt a connection to this place, and of course the movie. The owners were the nicest people to talk to and made sure we would be ok even though we were the only campers that night. (There are full time residents there to keep things straight every night) Things to Know before you go: there are only a couple of places with electric hookup and you can camp near any of the fire pits but not in or around the movie set or picnic pavilion. Also keep in mind that there no grills available. If you like trains -it’ll be a great night but if you’re sleep sensitive, bring earplugs. With a bit of preparation and planning, you’ll get to experience one of Alabama’s best kept secrets. Our only regret is that we couldn’t...