Point Mallard Park | Decatur AL

Point Mallard Park in Decatur, Alabama, is one of the city’s signature attractions, combining recreation, history, and natural beauty along the Tennessee River. Opened in 1970, it is best known as the site of the nation’s first wave pool, but over time it has grown into a sprawling 750-acre public park that offers year-round entertainment and outdoor activities.

Historical Background

The park was conceived in the 1960s as part of Decatur’s effort to expand tourism and recreation along the Tennessee River.

In 1970, Point Mallard introduced the United States’ first public wave pool, making national headlines and attracting visitors from across the region.

Over the decades, new features were added, turning it into a multi-attraction destination for both locals and tourists.

Layout and Features

The park’s facilities are spread across wooded land and riverfront property, creating a mix of water recreation, camping, and open green spaces. Its highlights include:

1. Point Mallard Water Park

Wave Pool: The first of its kind in the U.S., still the centerpiece of the water park.

Lazy River & Flume Slides: Classic summer attractions for families.

Speed Slides and Water Playground: Options for thrill-seekers and children.

Olympic-sized Swimming Pool & Diving Complex: Once hosted national competitions and remains a training and recreational site.

2. Campground and Outdoor Recreation

Point Mallard Campground: More than 200 shaded campsites for RVs and tents, many with full hookups.

Walking and Biking Trails: Paths wind along the Tennessee River and through wooded areas, linking the campground to the water park and golf course.

Golf Course: An 18-hole championship course designed by Bill Bergin, open year-round.

Driving Range and Pro Shop: For golf enthusiasts.

3. Additional Facilities

Ice Complex: One of the only ice rinks in north Alabama, offering public skating, hockey, and lessons.

Soccer Fields and Tennis Courts: Used for local leagues and tournaments.

Festival Grounds and Amphitheater: Hosting concerts, special events, and community gatherings.

Signature Events

Point Mallard is the site of several major annual events that draw regional attention:

Spirit of America Festival: One of the South’s largest Fourth of July celebrations, featuring fireworks, live music, and patriotic programming. The festival began in 1967 and moved to Point Mallard after the park opened.

Alabama Jubilee Hot Air Balloon Classic: Held each Memorial Day weekend, it is one of the oldest hot air balloon festivals in the South, with dozens of balloons filling the sky.

Concerts and Sports Tournaments: From soccer championships to holiday festivals, the park’s grounds are busy year-round.

Community and Regional Role

Point Mallard has long been a tourism anchor for Decatur, drawing visitors from across Alabama and neighboring states. For locals, it is a year-round recreation hub, with the water park in summer, the ice rink in winter, and camping and trails in all seasons. Its mix of attractions makes it unique among city parks, more comparable to a resort or recreation complex than a traditional park.

Visitor Experience

Seasonality: The water park operates seasonally, typically from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Other facilities, like the campground, golf course, and trails, remain open year-round.

Best Times to Visit: Summer for water attractions and events; Memorial Day and July 4th for the balloon classic and fireworks.

Accessibility: Located just minutes from downtown Decatur, with easy highway access and parking.

Significance

Point Mallard Park stands out for its combination of historical innovation (home to America’s first wave pool), community spirit (hosting beloved festivals like the Spirit of America), and multi-use facilities (offering everything from camping to skating). It reflects Decatur’s ambition to be a cultural and recreational hub in north Alabama, while also preserving riverfront land for public use.

It remains one of the most popular destinations in the Tennessee Valley, celebrated for its tradition of family fun, community festivals, and outdoor adventure.