Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — A traveling exhibit celebrating 18th-century explorer William Bartram's journey through Alabama has begun its tour of state parks. The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources' State Parks Division partnered with Auburn University to create the display. It honors Bartram's extensive documentation of the region's plants, animals, and native tribes. The exhibit is currently at Lake Guntersville State Park.

William Bartram explored central and south Alabama from 1775 to 1778 during a three-year expedition. His travels also took him through North and South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida. The exhibit will visit 12 Alabama State Parks through January 2027. It will remain at Lake Guntersville until February 1, 2026.

"Alabama State Parks are living classrooms," said Renee Raney, Alabama State Parks' Chief Naturalist. "This has been our theme over the past few years as we increase our education outreach and bring more field trips and K-12 teachers into our parks."

Raney explained that the parks provide perfect settings to connect Bartram's observations from over 250 years ago to today's living ecosystems. The exhibit allows guests to encounter Bartram as a fellow explorer rather than a distant historical figure. Dr. Mark Wilson invited Alabama State Parks to host "William Bartram and Alabama."

"Bartram's work not only helped lay the foundation for the study of natural history in America, but his observations in 1775 as he traversed Alabama inspired the very roots of our own interpretive program and the mission of our state park naturalist team," Raney said.

The exhibit includes special programming called "In the Footsteps of Bartram: Discovering Alabama's Natural Heritage." Activities include guided hikes, kayaking, nature journaling, and Junior Ranger programs. These hands-on experiences transform visitors from spectators into naturalists.

State Parks Director Matthew Capps emphasized the division's commitment to enhancing visitor experiences. The Bartram exhibit demonstrates how the team shares the story of Alabama's biodiversity and natural wonders. Visitors to Lake Guntersville can also enjoy peak eagle-viewing season while viewing the exhibit.

For those interested in following Bartram's route, the Bartram Canoe Trail traverses the Mobile-Tensaw Delta. Known as "America's Amazon," the delta is the nation's second-largest river system. It encompasses 250,000 acres of wetlands, swamps, and bottomland hardwoods, supporting over 50 rare and endangered species.

Exhibit Schedule:

 • Lake Guntersville State Park: Now through February 1, 2026
• Gulf State Park: February 6-28, 2026
• Meaher State Park: March 3-30, 2026
• Rickwood Caverns State Park: April 2-23, 2026
• DeSoto State Park: April 29-May 28, 2026
• Chewacla State Park: June 3-24, 2026
• Monte Sano State Park: July 1-29, 2026
• Joe Wheeler State Park: August 4-18, 2026
• Cheaha State Park: September 1-22, 2026
• Lakepoint State Park: October 1-23, 2026
• Oak Mountain State Park: October 27-November 30, 2026
• Wind Creek State Park: December 3, 2026-January 15, 2027