Congo Falls Park - Congo Alabama

Congo Falls is located inside Congo Nature Preserve and borders Little River Canyon National Preserve in Cherokee County Alabama. Congo Nature Preserve was developed to protect area lands along the canyon within Congo, Alabama.

Congo, Alabama is a recently discovered, lost historical community from the late 1800s named Congo. Congo Falls Park is formally known as Johnny’s Creek Mill Hole. In the 1800s this area was owned by the McClung brothers, J.B. and Thomas. The two brothers harnessed power from water that flowed over the falls to operate a sawmill and grist mill. The McClung's two mills and blacksmith shop played an important role for families in the Black Oak and Tucker's Chapel during the depression. Because of the scarcity of money, the people in the community returned to the barter system; Goods and services were traded for goods and services. Some of the rock foundation of the mills are still visible from the top of the falls.

Congo Nature Preserve now has trails open to the public. Congo Falls Park was officially opened to the public May 2021. Congo Nature Preserve is in the process of developing a Nature Walk and Bird Sanctuary within its boarder. What was once ATV hunting trails will now be converted to build a safe place for all ages to explore.

Access for swimming, hiking, sightseeing, picnicking, or parking at Congo Falls Park requires a single use permit from May 1st to October 1st. Season permits are only available from September 13th to April 30. Boater/Kayaker permits are also available at no charge but only from September 13th to April 30th and subject to approval.

Permits are not required during the off season of October 1st to May 1st.