Who knew there was a private islet called Jackson Lake Island outside of Montgomery in Millbrook, Alabama? Even better, this little piece of paradise contains the movie set from the “Town of Spectre”. This fictional town is from Tim Burton’s 2003 movie called “Big Fish”. It based on book with the same name by Birmingham native, Daniel Wallace. It was so surreal to walk the abandoned town from the film.
“Big Fish” is about reconciliation between the son, Will and his dying father, Edward. His father told very colorful and larger than life stories as fact. Will believed these stories his father told all his life to be lies which caused tension in their relationship. Will explores the veracity of his father’s outrageous tales and discovers there is some truth to it. I do not want to give anymore spoilers. But in the fictional town of Spectre, shoes are not allowed. Tourists come to the island to throw their shoes on a line that hangs above the road going into town to pay homage to the film.
After filming, the movie set was left on the island. One of the houses was destroyed due to the flooding from the Alabama River. The commercial district of Spectre was lost in a fire when the owners were burning trash. Sparks accidently set the buildings on fire. Two Styrofoam trees were left from the movie that visitors can cross under that leads into the imaginary town. These trees were created by Stan Winston Studio. This studio also provided makeup and effects for the film. Several of the crumbling houses still stand that lead up to the little white chapel at the end of the road. Designer Dennis Gassner built this small town. The scenes in the picture-perfect town were filmed first, then Tim Burton had the designers to age the buildings to make the town look derelict. The buildings were constructed for filming the outside. So, these houses are not completed from the inside.
Goats and sheep freely wander the island and through the mystical town. They are very friendly and will let you pet them. The goats love a good scratch behind the ears. The Bright Family own the 60-acre property. They allow the public to enjoy the island for the day or for overnight camping. It is also a great place to catch your own big fish, and to boat and kayak. Admission is $5.00 over the age of 10. Children under the age of 10 are $3.00 and under 2 years are free. Camping fees are $15.00 per person per night with children 10 and under $5.00. And under 2 years are free.
Jackson Lake Island is breathtaking, and so peaceful. I did not want to leave this magical place. I highly recommend this location to anyone who needs a quiet getaway. Do not forget your shoes to throw upon the line. Jackson Lake Island is located on Cypress Lane, Millbrook, Alabama. They can be reached at (334)-430-7963 for directions, camping reservations and cost.