Explore A Little-Known Arboretum In This Small Alabama Country Town

Some of Alabama's best experiences are tucked away off the beaten path in our smallest towns, like the William Bartram Arboretum in Wetumpka, Alabama. Even with a small population of around 7,500 residents, Wetumpka is so big on charm it's been named one of the South's best small towns. The city also has a relatively large variety of local restaurants from which to choose. Trying the local fare and then choosing a trail to walk or hike after is a personal favorite strategy when I explore a town. You get a taste of local flavor, a chance to immerse yourself in the area's natural surroundings, and the added bonus of working off at least a few calories from the meal. The one-mile trail through the 30-acre William Bartram Arboretum fits perfectly into that kind of plan. Read on for more about what you can expect to see along the way.

The William Bartram Arboretum is part of the Fort Toulouse-Fort Jackson Park, which contains several historic structures, markers, and reconstructions.

The Alabama Historical Commission operates the entire site, which includes a replica of the 1751 Fort Toulouse and the partially restored Fort Jackson, which dates to 1814. The park has living history reenactments for both periods. You'll also see Creek Indian homes and an Indian mound that is over 1,000 years old.

The arboretum is named for the noted 18th-century naturalist William Bartram, who visited the site in 1776. Bartram's purpose for visiting was to document and study the area's plants and creatures.

Speaking of creatures, keep your eyes trained on the trees within the forested portions of the trail, where you're likely to spot deer and other woodland fauna. The arboretum is also known as an excellent place for birding.

As for bringing your own animals, well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome. As always, be prepared to pick up after your pet.

The arboretum trail includes primitive trails, grassy paths cutting through fields of wildflowers, and boardwalk over bogs.

A particularly scenic spot along the arboretum's trail offers beautiful views of the Tallapoosa River.

The entire park is situated where the Coosa and Tallapoosa rivers meet.

Guests can visit this little-known arboretum in Wetumpka from sunrise to sunset - two times of day that are hard to beat for beauty.

If you prefer, you can stay on the property by taking your pick among the campground's 39 RV sites, which all include a grill, picnic table, and electric and water hookups. For tent campers, there is a reservation-only group site.

If a quaint cottage is more your speed, take a look at this charming vacation rental close to the park and convenient to town. Another option that takes the entertainment up a notch is the Wind Creek Casino & Hotel, which regularly hosts top music artists. You can keep up with the latest news and special programming at Fort Toulouse-Fort Jackson and the William Bartram Arboretum on the park's official website and the Fort Toulouse-Fort Jackson Facebook page.

Let us know if you've had a chance to visit this gem of an arboretum in Wetumpka, Alabama, or any other experiences and tips you'd like to share about our state.