I absolutely love picnics! Who doesn't? Picnics are one of those simple pleasures in life that can really take place anywhere, whether it be at a park, alongside a river, on the beach, etc. Picnic locations really are endless. Now that summer has officially begun, people are packing their baskets and heading out the door to have the perfect picnic. Let's take a look at 10 of the best places in Alabama to have a picnic.

1. Birmingham Botanical Gardens - Birmingham, AL

Birmingham Botanical Gardens is Alabama's largest living museum, and it's also the state's most visited free attraction. The beautiful scenery is what makes this place the perfect spot for a picnic. For those of you who don't want to pack a lunch, there's a delicious cafe inside the gardens called The Gardens Café by Kathy G. They can prepare you a lunch to enjoy in the gardens. Birmingham Botanical Gardens is located at: 2612 Lane Park Rd, Birmingham, AL 35223.

2. Big Spring Park - Huntsville, AL

This gorgeous park is located in downtown Huntsville and it received its name from "Big Spring" - the original water source that Huntsville was built around. At this park, you'll get to enjoy a beautiful fountain and a canal that runs alongside the Von Braun Center. There are several places throughout the park to have a picnic. It just depends on whether you want to eat at one of their tables or spread a blanket on the grass. Whatever you choose, you can't go wrong having a picnic at this park. Big Spring Park is located at: 200 Church St. SW, Huntsville, AL 35801.

3. DeSoto State Park - Fort Payne, AL

You'll enjoy the beautiful views of many rushing waterfalls and lovely wildflowers while picnicking in DeSoto State Park. The wonderful picnic area includes a playground the kids will absolutely love! DeSoto State Park is located at: 7104 DeSoto Parkway NE, Fort Payne, AL 35967.

4. Joe Wheeler State Park - Rogersville, AL

Joe Wheeler State Park is located on Wheeler Lake and is a great place for not only rest and relaxation, but also the perfect place to have a picnic. The park's picnic facilities include large picnic pavilions, but if you'd rather have a picnic down by the sandy beach swimming area, that's also an option. Joe Wheeler State Park is located at: 201 McLean Drive, Rogersville, AL 35652.

5. Noccalula Falls Park - Gadsden, AL

What makes this 250-acre park the perfect place for a picnic is the beautiful 90ft waterfall, Noccalula Falls, that cascades into a lush ravine. It's such a gorgeous view to have while picnicking with your friends or family. Noccalula Falls Park is located at: 1500 Noccalula Rd., Gadsden, AL 35904.

6. Vulcan Park & Museum - Birmingham, AL

If you choose to have a picnic at Vulcan Park & Museum, you'll get to enjoy the spectacular view of Birmingham's skyline. The park grounds are free daily from 7am-6pm, but there's a charge for the museum and observation tower. Vulcan Park & Museum is located at: 1701 Valley View Drive, Birmingham, AL 35209.

7. Riverfront Park - Montgomery, AL

Riverfront Park is an entertainment destination on the banks of the Alabama River in Montgomery. This park is also a fun and exciting place for a family picnic. The kids will absolutely love the splash pad! Riverfront Park is located at: 355 Commerce St, Montgomery, AL 36106.

8. Park at Manderson Landing - Tuscaloosa, AL

The Park at Manderson Landing, located in Tuscaloosa near the University of Alabama's student center, offers a wonderful view of the Black Warrior River and is the perfect location for a picnic. For students, this park is a great place to be when you're looking to escape the busyness of college life.

9. Railroad Park - Birmingham, AL

What makes Railroad Park the perfect place for a picnic is the luxurious landscaping and the nine acres of open lawn. While picnicking at this park, you'll also get to enjoy the beautiful skyline view of Birmingham. Railroad Park is located at: 1600 1st Ave South, Birmingham, AL 35233.

10. Gulf State Park - Gulf Shores, AL

You can't go wrong having a picnic at the beach. The beaches in Gulf State Park provide wonderful areas to spread a blanket for a picnic. If you'd rather have some shade, you can always set up an umbrella or use their new beach pavilion. Gulf State Park is located at: 20115 State HWY 135, Gulf Shores, AL 36542.

If you can think of any other great places in Alabama to have a picnic, let us know in the comments below!