Gulf State Park campgrounds, plenty of flora and fauna species, Gulf State Park pier, the lodge at Gulf State Park and diverse cabins makes the park popular. Cost of camping at Gulf State park is affordable and there are so many things to do at Gulf State Park.
This guide is a wholesome facts about Gulf State Park seeking to enhance you understanding of the popular Alabama Gulf State Park. Be ready to learn more about:
- Gulf State Park direction, contacts, reservations and camping rates
- Things to do at Gulf State Park
- Grocery stores near Gulf State Park
- Places to eat near Gulf State Park
- Restaurants and hotels near Gulf State park
- Pet dogs in Gulf State Park
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Gulf State Park Map, Contacts, and Reservations
Gulf State Park map directions is 20115 State Park Road, Gulf Shores, AL 36542. In order to make Gulf State park reservations, it is important to contact the park in advance especially when camping in peak season.
In order to make reservations at Gulf State Park use the following contacts depending on what you desire to reserve:
- Cabins & cottages reservations +1 251-923-3900
- Camping reservations +1 251-948-7275
- General park information +1 251-948-7275
- The lodge +1 251-540-4000
| Location | Coordinates | Area |
| Gulf Shores, Baldwin, Alabama, United States | 30°15′55″N 87°38′28″W (United Stated Geological Survey) | 6,500 acres (26km2) |
| Elevation | Founded | Operator |
| 7 ft (223 m) | 1939 | Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources |
Campsite Rates At Gulf State Park
Normally, the check in time at Gulf State Park is 4:00p.m and check out time is 11:00a.m. The charges Campsite rates at Gulf State park peak season from March 1st to October 31st can be different from park fee charges during off peak season from November 1st to February 28th.
Sites mentioned in the table include:
- Bear,
- Bobcat,
- Quil,
- Sumac,
- Raccoon,
- Rabbit,
- Live oak side streets,
- Off water gator.
Raccoon road is where the primitive sites are located.
Note that additional one time fee of $4.75 for transaction charges is to be paid and is nonrefundable. You can compare the rates to other RV parks in USA States for better deals or for long term RV camping.
Off Peak Season: How Much Does It Cost To Camp At Gulf State Park?
| Roads/Sites November 1st-February 28th (monthly rates through April) Rates per night | Weekday | Weekend | Weekly | Monthly |
| Standard Sites | $55.00 | N/A | $328.00 | $916.00 |
| Live Oak Across from water | $59.00 | N/A | $355.00 | $963.00 |
| Live Oak on water back in | $59.00 | N/A | $355.00 | $963.00 |
| Gator waterfront | $59.00 | N/A | $355.00 | $963.00 |
| Canal waterfront pull through | $72.00 | N/A | $433.00 | $1159.00 |
| The Outpost (year-round) | $62.38 | N/A | $346.46 | N/A |
Peak Season: How Much Does It Cost To Camp At Gulf State Park?
| Roads/Sites Rates Per Night -Peak Season Rates -March 1st-October 31st | Weekday | Weekend | Weekly | Monthly |
| Standard Sites | $55.00 | $59.00 | $354.00 | N/A |
| Live Oak Across from water | $59.00 | $63.00 | $381.00 | N/A |
| Live Oak on water back in | $59.00 | $63.00 | $381.00 | N/A |
| Gator waterfront | $59.00 | $63.00 | $381.00 | N/A |
| Canal waterfront pull through | $72.00 | $77.00 | $47.00 | N/A |
| Primitive (year-round) | $25.65 | $28.22 | $141.08 | N/A |
Discounted Campsite Rates At Gulf State Park
- Discounts is available for senior citizen of at least 62 years old and the disabled.
- November to February discounts is 15%
- March to October discounts is 10%
- Discounts is valid for daily rates only from Sunday to Thursday excluding weekly, monthly, and peak Alabama Gulf State Park Campground
Rules and Regulations of Gulf State Park Campground Reservation
- For special events on weekends and holiday should be booked at least 3 months early
- Nights booking for special weekends and holidays is minimum of 3 nights, nonrefundable payment
- 3 maximum of 14 nights per site can be booked
- Monthly reservations to be done at park headquarters or through phone
- Special sites such as for handicapped to be requested during reservation
- At least 18 years and above to rent a site
- 2 vehicles per site registered on arrival
- $2.00 fee per vehicle on daily visit as guests or sightseers
- Pets are allowed
- No open fires
- Possessing and drinking alcohol is prohibited
- Swim only at Lake Shelby
- Quiet hours from 10:00p.m to 6:00a.m
Things To Do At Gulf State Park
The diversity of things to do at Gulf State park makes the park a conducive place for families, couples, kids, physically challenged and pets. Here is an overview of what can you do at Gulf State Park.
Camping at Gulf State Park
Alabama Gulf State Park campground is located about 2 miles off the white beaches and turquoise waters. Depending with personal preferences and comfort desired, you can choose either modern camping or primitive camping at Alabama Gulf State park. The following are the common forms of camping at Gulf State Park.
Alabama Gulf State Park Amenities for Camping
The diverse presence of amenities in the camp makes it suitable for RV camping at Gulf State Park Alabama. The list of the campground amenities are plenty. However, here are a few key amenities:
- 11 bathouses
- Laundry facilities
- Trails
- Full RV hook ups
- Campstore for camping supplies, food, souvenirs, firewood, bike rentals and more
- Nature center with various species of plants and animals
- Splash pad swimming pools
- Pickle ball courts
- Tennis ball courts
- Horseshoe courts
- Volleyball courts
Campsites at Gulf State Park
There are a total of 496 campsites at Gulf State Park including:
- 11 Modern bathhouses
- Pull-thru sites
- Back-in sites
- Waterfront campsites
- ADA accessible sites
- 3 new glamping sites
- 11 primitive campsites
RV Camping Gulf State Park Alabama
You do not have to worry about the size of your RV. The RV campsite have been designed to fit all RV sizes with large pullouts.
Alabama Gulf State park RV campground with full hookups campsite totals to 496 campsites making RV camping at Gulf State Park conducive. The campground has pedestal grill tops, picnic tables, and air conditioned bathhouses.
Primitive Camping Gulf State Park
There are 11 primitive campsites at Gulf State Park. Tent camping in real nature is possible and safe. Primitive campsites have tents that have 4 cots, fire ring, and outdoor water station. The 11 bathouse makes shower convenient for primitive camping at Gulf State Park Alabama.
Cabins at Gulf State Park Alabama
You can rent Gulf State park cabins for camping. Cabins at Gulf State Park are about 20, beautifully decorated and modernized located at Lake Shelby banks. Small cabins are also available and blends well with nature.
The presence of 496 full hookups RV campsites at Gulf State Park makes RVers life cozy. Also, you can sleep in Eagle cottages and the 20 modern cabins. There also exists hotels near Gulf State Park you can spend a night.
The 19 Alabama Gulf State park cabins are well furnished with essential home amenities to suit your needs. The table below shows cottages and cabins at Gulf State Park amenities.
| Popular Amenities Pool Pet friendly Barbecue grill | Pool/Spa Outdoor pool Sun loungers | Kitchenette Refrigerator Stovetop Microwave Oven Cookware/utensils/dishes Tea/coffee maker | Bedrooms Bed sheets provided |
| Beach Near the beach Free beach shuttle Beach sun loungers Beach umbrellas | Parking and Transportation Free beach shuttle Accessible parking | Dinning 1 restaurant Living spaces Sitting area Work spaces Laptop workspace | Bathrooms Shower Toilet paper Shampoo Towels Soap Hair dryer |
| Outdoor areas Yard Barbecue grill Picnic area | Comfort Air conditioning Heating Safety Features Fire extinguisher First aid kit Smoke detector Professionally cleaned and disinfected | Pet friendly 2 per room weight up to 50 lbs Pets allowed in specific rooms | Accessibility Bathrooms Near toilet Shower Handicapped specials amenities |
Prices of Cabins at Gulf State Park
In order to know the exact prices of cabins at Gulf State Park, you need to know how many nights you will be spending at the park.
Check in date and check out dates would go a long way in determining the pricing. However, for cabins and cottages reservations or checking prices call +1 251-923-3900.
Eagle cottages at Gulf State Park
The 11 Eagle cottages at Gulf State Park located along Lake Shelby edges offers you a unique scene of the waters, fishermen, fish, birds, and more things to explore at the comfort of your cottage. You can also have a glimpse of eagles nest Gulf State park on a tall tree from your cottage.
Pets are also allowed at the Gulf State Park Eagles cottages at an extra $150 non-refundable fee. Maximum of 2 pets are allowed and they should not weigh more than 50lbs. To make reservations and know exact prices for eagles cottages Gulf State Park call +1 251-923-3900.
Cruises Gulf Shores Alabama
The beauty of nature makes the waters at Gulf State Park a place to long for cruising. You can tour the Orange beach and the Gulf shores and have a relaxing moment of admiration of nature. Cruising can include:
- Dinner Cruise
- Dolphin cruises at Gulf State Shores, AL
- Sailing cruise
Golf At Gulf Shores State Park
For both the pros and beginners, Gulf State Park golf courses are 14 courses. Besides, you can choose an area to play the golf such as at the Gulf Shores, nearby communities, or at the orange beach. Besides, when golfing at Gulf State Park you have access to:
- Chipping area
- Club house on-site
- Club rentals
- Driving range
- Walking allowed
- Foot golf
- Golf cart rentals
- Pro shop
- Putting green
- Restaurant on-site, and many more…
Spa At Gulf Shores Alabama
At the Gulf shores, Orange beach, and Fort Morgan, you can access spa and massage services to rejuvenate your body. The nearby hotels and resorts offer facials, full-service spas, professional massages, beauty salon, and well-stocked fitness. Actually, your overall health and beauty can be enhanced at the park.
Hiking
Hiking at Gulf State park entails using any of the 7 trails passing across 7 different ecosystems. More trails are being constructed. Furthermore, the trails have been designed in a manner that even the physically challenged can hike.
Fishing At Gulf State Park
There exists about 900 acres of fresh water lakes near the Gulf. Lake Shelby is a popular lake for fishermen and contains all sorts of fish species for fresh water. Gulf State Park pier, a long wide pier, is a great spot to do fishing with full view of the waters.
Salty water fishing is also available. Interesting part about fishing is that the local restaurants are more than willing to help prepare your fish for a great meal.
Biking Gulf State Park
Biking trails are available. You can come with your bike. Also, both bike rentals Gulf State Park and bike rentals near Gulf State Park are available. So many safe places to park your car as you enjoy biking in Gulf State Park. Biking at the beaches entails the use of beach bikes and beach wheelchairs that are available for rent.
Clubbing
For the love or extra nightlife, clubs and bars in Orange beach, Gulf Shores, and nearby communities got you covered. Facilities to enhance your stay are available including but not limited to clubs and bars having:
- Boat parking
- RV, car, truck, and bus parking
- Group friendly
- Handicapped friendly
- Pet friendly
- Access to Wi-Fi
Learn and Explore
Gulf State Park nature center is a place you can learn about the flora and fauna. With guided walks, learning can include various species of insects, plants, and animals. There are so many things you can explore including but not limited to:
- Freshwater marshes
- Coastal hardwoods swamps
- Native wildlife
- Seasonal flowers, and many more
Birding
There are so many species of birds in Gulf State park including but not limited to
- Waders
- Rails
- Grebes
- Ospreys
- Loons
- Blue herons
- Sparrows
- Wrens
- Eagles
- Loons, and more species on air, trees and the beaches
Swim in Lake Shelby
You can swim in the waters of Lake Shelby and relax on the beaches. Splash pad pools are also available for those who prefer swimming in the pools. There are a number of picnic areas and playgrounds to enhance fun relaxation. Skim board, surf boards, and paddle boards are available for rent if you do not have one.
Get married
Engagements and weddings at Gulf State Park can enhance your sweet memories with your love. The white beaches, the waters, beautiful flora and fauna, and the beautiful sunset makes Gulf State Park wedding venue colorful and memorable.
Grocery Stores Near Gulf State park
For all your grocery shopping and other camping shopping, consider these stores near Gulf State Park.
| Grocery Stores Near Gulf State park | Location | Contact |
| Gulf State Park Camp Store | Orange Beach | +1 251-948-7275 |
| Rouses Market | 1545 Gulf Shores Pkwy | +1 252-948-4715 |
| Walmart Neighborhood Market | Orange Beach | +1 251-974-1810 |
Places To Eat Near Gulf State Park
There are so many places you can eat from including but not limited to hotels near Gulf State Park, restaurant near Gulf State Park, inn at Gulf State Park and more. However, the place I found to be the best is The Lodge at Gulf State Park, A Hilton Hotel. The only limitation is that pets are not allowed.
Review of The Lodge at Gulf State Park, A Hilton Hotel.
As shown in the table below, the hotel commonly referred to as Hilton the lodge at Gulf State Park, is located 1.3 miles away from Gulf State Park.
The hotel is among the most commonly visited hotels in Gulf Shore as the services are good. Hilton the lodge at Gulf State Park AL has several amenities making the hotel the most suitable place to visit.
The Lodge At Gulf State Park Room
- Ocean view suites
- Family rooms
- Non-smoking rooms
The lodge at Gulf State Park a Hilton Hotel has the following amenities summary:
| Property Ammenities Valet parking Self-parking 24hr security Bicycle rental Bar/Lounge Restaurant Beach Conference facilities Meeting rooms Banquet room | Room types Ocean view Suites Family rooms Non-smoking rooms | Room Features Air conditioning Private balcony Safe Baggage storage Flatscreen TV Housekeeping Room service Laundry services Dry cleaning Refrigerator | Fun Things Pool Fitness center for Gym and workout Free high speed Internet (WiFi) Kid friendly Family friendly Sun umbrellas | Payment Options Visa MasterCard Discover Diner’s Club China Union Pay Carte Blanche Bankamericard American Express |
Here is a table to give you an idea of 10 places to eat near Gulf State Park arranged best on the shortest distance from Gulf State Park.
10 Best Hotels Near Gulf State Park
| Hotels Near Gulf State Park/ Restaurants Near Gulf State Park | Distance from Gulf State Park | Location | Contact |
| Hampton Inn Gulf Shores | 0.6 miles | 1701 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shore, AL | +1 251-958-1020 |
| Quality Inn Ft. Morgan Road-Hwy 59 | 0.7 miles | 213 W Fort Morgan Rd, Gulf Shores, AL | +1 251-967-3500 |
| Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Gulf Shores | 0.7 miles | 160 West Commerce Avenue, Gulf Shores, AL | +1 251-948-6191 |
| Comfort Inn & Suites | 1.1 miles | 536 E Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores, AL | +1 251-207-4009 |
| The Lodge at Gulf State Park, A Hilton Hotel | 1.3 miles | 21196 East Blvdm Gulf Shores, AL | +1 251-540-4000 |
| Motel 6, Gulf Shores, AL | 1.3 miles | 3025 W 1st St, Gulf Shores, AL | +1 251-968-8080 |
| Red Roof Inn Gulf Shores | 1.4 miles | 3049 W 1st St, Gulf Shores, AL | +1 252-968-8604 |
| Phoenix All Suites Hotels | 1.4 miles | 201 E. Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores, AL | +1 251-968-8300 |
| Phoenix All Suites Hotel West | 1.8 miles | 533 W Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores, AL | +1 251-968-4900 |
| Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Gulf Shores | 2.0 miles | 3600 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL | +1 252-298-8800 |
Hotels Near the Lodge At Gulf State Park
Here are 5 closest hotels near the Lodge At Gulf State Park, A Hilton Hotel. Contacts can be derived from the table above.
| Hotels Near the Lodge At Gulf State Park | Distance from the Lodge at Gulf State Park |
| Comfort Inn & Suites | 0.6 miles |
| Hotel Inigo Orange Beach –Gulf Shores | 1.9 miles |
| Phoenix All Suits Hotel West | 2.0 miles |
| Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Gulf Shores | 1.9 miles |
| Hampton Inn Gulf Shores | 1.9 miles |
Pet Dogs in Gulf State Park
Is Gulf State park pet friendly? Yes. Gulf State Park is pet friendly but your pet must always be on leash. Is the lodge at Gulf State park pet friendly? Yes. Remember to leash your pet.
Also, maximum of 2 pets are allowed at the cabins or eagles cottages of up to 50 lbs. A non-refundable pet fee of $150 will have to be paid during reservations.
Dog Park Gulf State park
At the shore of Lake Shelby is the dog park that also has a dog pond. Gulf State Park Dog Park is a place where you pet dog can have fun and play with other dogs.
The dog park has the needed facilities and equipment to enhance dog comfort but not all camping with dog essentials is not provided.
To know more about dog park Gulf State Park call +1 251-948-7275. Here are some dog park rules you should know
- Operation hours if from 8a.m to sunset
- Your dog must be vaccinated
- Owner identification tag must be clearly placed on the dog
- Leash to be used when entering and leaving the dog park
- Female dogs on heat and aggressive dogs are not permitted
- Owner cleans up their dog waste
- Injured dogs at the park is not a responsibility of Gulf State Park
FAQ
Does Gulf State Park have Wi-Fi? Yes. You can get connected to Wi-Fi while in the park. Wi-Fi is accessible in the cabins, and cottages. Specific locations have Wi-Fi coverages for RVers, backpackers, and other campers.
Does Gulf State Park have a pool? Yes. You can access a splash pad poll near Lake Shelby. At the cabins and cottages have a nearby pool.
Can you fish at Golf State Park? Yes. Fishing is allowed only in Lake Shelby
Conclusion
Camping at Alabama Gulf State Park can create sweet memories. Actually, while at the Gat to do at Gulf State Park. There are so many hotels near Gulf State Park and restaurants as places to eat near Gulf State Park. Besides, cabins at Gulf State Park makes sleeping and relaxation comfortable as you enjoy site seeing.