By Marla Ballard

Reporter

FORT PAYNE - For five years Dustin and Dana Dobbins have been steadily

making their most recent  property purchase visitor friendly. There was no

plan in place when they purchased the property to one day turn it into a

public place for others to enjoy. It has turned out to be one of those "If

you build it, they will come" situations.

The 3.5-acres are bordered by Bear Creek, a spring-fed stream. "I feel like

God led me to this place," said Dana. "When we first purchased the land

there were no decent trails down to the creek, it has taken a lot of work to

create footpaths that are easy to navigate. It is a constant struggle

against the natural forces to keep things nice."

The creek hosts several separate water features. Most of the creek bed is

rock and the cascading water gently whispers tranquility as it softly snakes

its way to small waterfalls and a swimming hole. During higher water levels

Dana said kayakers paddle past their place.

"It is a great place to visit all year long," said Dana. "Each season has

its own beauty. Many flowering trees and bushes line the creek and the

varying levels of water throughout the year offer different opportunities

for relaxation."

To make the experience as pleasant and comfortable as possible there are

chairs, picnic tables, hammocks, and a porch swing peppered throughout for

guests to use. Dana places floats at the swimming hole which has a small,

zero-entry beach. Also, provided are a fire pit, a child's fishing pole, and

corn hole game. Reservations may be for a couple of hours or the day.

Location photography/filming is allowed with reservation and fee.

The layout of the land and creek allow for one group of guests to have

privacy from another group. Some guests choose the swing where they read or

meditate. Lower levels host the sounds of rushing water and a swimming area.

"When we rent out an area we don't rent the same spot to anyone else," said

Dana. "We explain what area they may use based on their reservation."

"It's just too relaxing and beautiful to not share with others," said Dana.

"The pandemic really showed us how much people need a place to retreat to

and find some peace, so we decided to share this peaceful place with

others."

For more information on pricing and reservations text 256-605-4009 or go

online to Facebook @ CreekFalls/The Secret Place and use messenger to

contact. Located at 302 Bear Creek Rd. S.E. Fort Payne. (Six minutes from

downtown Fort Payne).