Horseshoe Bend Boat Ramp

Informational Waysides

• Learn more about the Muscogee Creek with the introduction of "Three Sisters."
• Learn more about the Harold Banks Canoe Trail.
• To learn more about the Harold Banks Canoe Trail online, follow the link below:
• Harold Banks Canoe Trail on the Tallapoosa River - Alabama Cooperative Extension System

Miller Covered Bridge

• Also learn about the history of the Miller Covered Bridge.

Picknicking

• Come and enjoy a picnic by the river with the tables provided.

Boating

• Use our boat ramp for a point of entry for the Tallapoosa River. The current river levels can be checked with the link below:
• Tallapoosa River NR New Site, Al.(horseshoe Bend) - USGS Water Data for the Nation
• Over 15,000 people launch vessels at the Miller Bridge Boat Ramp each year to explore the winding Tallapoosa River. Primarily used by canoeists, the area near this boat ramp is extremely rocky with depths and currents dependent on adjacent Lake Martin.
• The Harold Banks canoe trail covers the 25-mile stretch of the Tallapoosa River that runs through Tallapoosa and Chambers Counties, including the section that flows through Horseshoe Bend. Remember that camping is not permitted along the Tallapoosa River within the park.

Fishing

• Shorefishing is allowed at the Miller Bridge Boat Ramp only. An Alabama state fishing license is required.
• To find out more information on acquiring this license, follow the link: DCNR Hunting and Fishing - General Information

Water Safety

• Personal flotation devices (PFDs or lifejackets) are required for passengers on watercraft.
• Children under 13 years of age must wear a PFD or lifejackets while above a moving vessel include a boat, canoe, or inner tube.
• Don't drink alcohol when operating a boat! Approximately half of all boating and swimming deaths in the United States involve alcohol.
• Learn how to "read" a river. Water riffles means that rocks lie dangerously close to the surface. Follow the smooth water shaped like a "V" pointing downstream.
• Keep the bow of a canoe headed downstream with the current. If the canoe is sideways, it will tip if it strikes a wave or rock. In areas of high motorboat traffic, canoe near the shore and head into the wake to avoid capsizing.
• Do not swim alone. Consider wearing a lifejacket.
• Never leave children unattended.
• Lightning may occur so keep an eye on the weather. Because water attracts lightning, be sure to get to shore and away from the water quickly.
• Stay clear of overhanging and downed trees.
• Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat – even on overcast days.