We spent a long weekend RV camping at Alabama’s Gulf State Park nestled between Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama. Here are a few notes from the trip:

• The park is more like a private resort than a state park. It offers free bike rentals and a free tram service to park restaurants and the beach.
• It’s a short trip into Gulf Shores or Orange Beach for additional dining options. But while in the park you do feel like you’re in nature, tucked away from civilization.
• There are 28 miles of paved or boardwalk trails in the park.
• A dog park sits on Shelby Lake with open access to the water for your pet. One of the better dog parks we’ve visited, with plenty of shade.
• The lodge is run by Hilton and sits directly behind the dunes on the Gulf of Mexico and has a mid-century vibe. It’s worth a visit and the restaurants are great, with water views. Because it’s in the park, you’re not sitting in the shadows of condominums.
• If you only ever visit this state park in Alabama, don’t be fooled into thinking they are all this nice. While many have beautiful natural features, no other park in the state is even close on amenities. This is the flagship and it looks like it.
• If you want to go, book early. The park is popular with snow birds and families and books fills up about a year in advance. 🗺