During winter, spring, and early summer, it is possible to canoe/kayak from Parker Lake to Kimbell Lake and other smaller lakes. In late summer and fall and during periods of drought, this may not be possible. The maze of interconnected lakes can be tricky to navigate. A compass or GPS is recommended for those who want to explore the more remote areas reachable from this site.

Parker Lake offers an excellent wildlife area for birding, wildlife watching and hunting. Located in Clark County between Thomasville and Coffeeville, the Scotch Wildlife Management Area encompasses 18,207 acres. Deer, feral hog, turkey, dove, squirrel, quail, rabbit, raccoon, and fox are hunted in season. For more information about this beautiful wild area, contact manager John W. Reid, 790 Fire tower Road, Coffeeville, AL 36524; call 251-626-5474. Permits are required for all hunting and trapping. Gun deer permits are issued daily from the management area headquarters. No dog deer permits are issued after 7:00 a.m. If applying for a permit by mail, include current hunting license numbers and a self addressed stamped envelope. Contact: John Reid 251-626-5474.

Birding around the Parker Lake boat ramp can be productive, but a canoe or kayak is needed to fully enjoy this site. Paddling slowly through the twilight of the dense tupelo and bald cypress forest that lines the margins of the lake in spring and summer provides close-up views of Blue-gray Gnatcatchers, Northern Parulas, and Prothonotary Warblers. Learn more about this Piney Woods Birding Trail site here.

GPS: N 31° 30.675’ / W 87° 55.164’ (Boat ramp)

Directions: From the intersection of US Highway 43 (mile marker 59.6) and Alabama Highway 177 in Jackson go 1.1 miles south on Alabama 177. Turn right onto the unpaved road after the Parker Lake RV Park sign. Drive past the RV park and through the gate to the parking area at the boat ramp.

Contact: City of Jackson Parks and Recreation
PO Box 1096
Jackson, AL 36545

Phone: 251-246-2461

Amenities: Parking, Camping (RV hook-ups), Canoeing, Fishing