Sunlight shining on back-lit leaves on a branch.

National Military Park · Alabama

Horseshoe Bend National Military Park

On March 27, 1814, Major General Andrew Jackson ‘s army of 3,300 men attacked Chief Menawa’s 1,000 Red Stick Creek warriors fortified in a horseshoe shaped bend of the Tallapoosa River. Over 800 Red Sticks died that day. This battle ended the Creek War, resulted in a land cession of 23,000,000 acres to the United States and created a national hero of Andrew Jackson.

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Things to do

  • Arts and Culture
  • Craft Demonstrations
  • Cultural Demonstrations
  • Auto and ATV
  • Scenic Driving
  • Astronomy
  • Stargazing
  • Biking
  • Road Biking
  • Boating
  • Fishing
  • Freshwater Fishing
  • Food
  • Picnicking
  • Guided Tours
  • Self-Guided Tours - Walking
  • Self-Guided Tours - Auto
  • Bus/Shuttle Guided Tour
  • Hands-On
  • Arts and Crafts
  • Hiking
  • Front-Country Hiking
  • Horse Trekking
  • Horseback Riding

Weather & when to go

Summers can be extremely hot and humid and winters can be damp, wet, and cold, with occasional hard freezes. During the summer season visitors should dress in light, comfortable clothing, wear comfortable shoes and use sunscreen and insect repellant. Stay hydrated to avoid risk of heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heatstroke. A bottle refill station is available in the visitor center. In the spring and fall visitors should have a light jacket available as temperatures can drop suddenly.

Operating hours

Horseshoe Bend National Military Park Hours

Park grounds, trails, and picnic areas, are open from 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. CST. The Visitor Center is open from 9:30 A.M. - 4:30 P.M. The tour road is open. The boat launch closes at sunset.

FAQ

Is Horseshoe Bend National Military Park free to visit?
Horseshoe Bend National Military Park does not charge a standard entrance fee. Check the official NPS page for the latest details on any activity or permit fees before you go.
What are the hours at Horseshoe Bend National Military Park?
Park grounds, trails, and picnic areas, are open from 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. CST. The Visitor Center is open from 9:30 A.M. - 4:30 P.M. The tour road is open. The boat launch closes at sunset.
Do I need a reservation for Horseshoe Bend National Military Park?
No timed-entry reservation is currently required to enter Horseshoe Bend National Military Park. Campgrounds and permits may still need to be booked separately on Recreation.gov.