Gulf State Park: Things To Do, Stay & Savor On Alabama’s Coast

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I used to think beach trips meant sitting in the sand all day, but Alabama’s Gulf State Park completely changed that.

Tucked between Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, this coastal park is one of the most sustainably designed and adventure-filled state parks in the Southeast. With 29 miles of backcountry trails, three serene lakes, guided nature walks, boardwalks and piers, and a pristine stretch of coastline, this is not your average beach add-on.

I’ve biked through tall pines, looked for gators from the boardwalk, and picnicked steps from the waves. Last spring I joined a guided hike and spotted little Eaglets and tiny sundew sparkling in the sunlight. There are so many things to do in Gulf State Park, and everything is worth exploring!

Whether you’re planning a spring girls’ trip or just want more than a beach bum visit, here’s everything I’ve personally loved (and think you will too) about this coastal gem.

Table of Contents

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Visit Alabama’s Beaches; however, everything written is my own honest opinion. Thank you to the Visit Alabama’s Beaches team for hosting me!

Walk the Trails and Discover Rare Coastal Habitats

A paved trail winds through a sunlit forest of tall, slender pine trees at Gulf State Park in Gulf Shores. Long tree shadows stretch across the path, with lush green undergrowth lining both sides beneath a clear blue sky. — Flat, paved trails make walking accessible and easy in Gulf State Park.

One of the best ways to explore Gulf State Park’s ecosystems is simply by walking the trails. The park protects nine distinct habitats, and many of them are visible right from the paved paths and boardwalks.

You don’t have to hike a mountain to enjoy being out in nature; you can just wander and observe. I was surprised to see a wild muscadine grapevine winding through the brush alongside one of the boardwalks.

Along the coast, you’ll pass through a maritime forest, where oaks and magnolias grow wind-sculpted and salt-tough, anchoring the dunes and providing shelter for migrating birds. Inland, the trails cut through wet pine savannas, a fire-dependent ecosystem where grasses, wildflowers, and carnivorous plants thrive in open, sunny spaces.

Both are rare, and both are reminders that this park offers more than just a pretty view. It’s a living landscape worth protecting.

It’s the kind of place where getting sidetracked by the birds feels like the whole point.

Swim, Sunbathe, and Shell-Hunt Along the Coast

Gentle waves from the Gulf of Mexico wash onto the soft white sand at Gulf State Park beach in Alabama. The water shifts from clear turquoise near the shore to deep blue on the horizon under a cloudless sky. — Pristine water made possible by the sugar-soft quartz sand

Most people know Gulf Shores and Orange Beach for their pristine beaches, and to be fair, they are stunning. The sand here is powdery soft, made from crushed quartz that washed down from the Appalachian Mountains thousands of years ago.

The water is so clear it looks almost tropical in spring. Add in warm sun and a light breeze, and you’ve got the perfect beach day. As someone who grew up visiting beaches in South Carolina, I am always mesmerized (Charleston beaches, I still love you.)

There are several public access points to the beach within Gulf State Park, but the Beach Pavilion is the most popular. It has restrooms, outdoor showers, covered picnic tables, and space to spread out for a full day by the water. You can rent beach chairs and umbrellas or paddleboards here.

Before you swim, check the flag system at the pavilion or online for current safety conditions in the Gulf. Note that parking is $15 daily per vehicle at the Beach Pavilion.

In spring, the vibe is especially calm. Alcohol is usually prohibited during spring break (March through April), which helps keep the beaches family-friendly and relaxed.

And yes, it’s completely fine to be a little shell-fish here. Shelling is best early in the morning or after a storm, especially around the pavilion and smaller access points along the coast.

Stroll the Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier

View of the Gulf State Park Pier stretching over the blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico, with a wide expanse of white sand beach in the foreground. — Photo courtesy of Visit Alabama’s Beaches

Recently reopened after storm repairs, the Gulf State Park pier stretches out into the Gulf with open views, dolphin sightings, and interpretive signs about the local wildlife. It’s especially peaceful in spring, making it a great spot to watch the sunrise or sunset.

Fishing is popular here too. You’ll need a valid fishing license as well as paying a daily fee to fish from the pier.

There’s a smaller walk-on fee for visitors just looking to enjoy the view, which is free for guests staying at The Lodge. The wide, accessible walkway makes it easy for strollers, wheelchairs, or anyone who just wants a breezy walk over the water.

Self-parking is available at a nearby lot for $15 per vehicle, or more depending on size, trailers, etc.

Rent Bikes or Take a Segway Tour

A white and turquoise cruiser bike with a brown seat leans against a wooden railing on a boardwalk at Gulf State Park. The boardwalk overlooks a calm, reflective body of water surrounded by green marshland and tall grasses under a partly cloudy sky. — Rent a bike with Bloom for free and explore the trails

With 29 miles of paved backcountry trails, biking is one of the best ways to explore Gulf State Park. The terrain is flat and beginner-friendly, winding through marshes, pine forests, and coastal dunes.

Bloom Bike Share stations are located throughout the park and offer free rentals for up to 3 hours. Download the Bloom app before your visit to get started (Apple / Android).

During my stay at Timberline Glamping, I rented a bike and cruised down the Rosemary Dunes Trail to one of the boardwalks. The trail was easy and peaceful, with benches along the way to pause and soak it all in. There’s something surprisingly thrilling about zipping along a smooth trail with nothing but the sound of your tires and the nature surrounding you.

Segways are also available to rent, including guided tour options if you’d rather roll than ride.

Join a Free Guided Naturalist Hike

A long wooden boardwalk cuts through a dense pine forest in Gulf State Park, elevated above a lush green understory. Sunlight filters through the tall trees, casting sharp shadows and leading the eye toward the distance. — A guided nature walk is the perfect way to introduce yourself to the park!

Close-up of bright red carnivorous sundew plants growing among pine needles and moss on the forest floor. The plants are covered in glistening dewdrops that trap insects, surrounded by patches of green grass and other vegetation. One of the best things to do at Gulf State Park is taking a guided nature walk to learn more about incredible flora like these, hidden right underneath your feet. — Tiny but fierce, these glistening sundews are Gulf State Park’s natural bug catchers.

One of the best ways to experience Gulf State Park is to join a free guided nature hike. These short walks are led by local experts who bring the park’s ecosystems to life in a way that signs just can’t.

On one of my favorite spring visits, I spotted a baby Bald Eagle (called an eaglet) and saw sundew sparkling in the Alabama sunlight; a tiny carnivorous plant I first learned about in Disney’s Encanto. We also found delicate yellow flowers that were either bladderwort or butterwort. They were growing right under our feet.

The hike was easy and informative. Our guide happily answered questions about the park’s plants, wildlife, and sustainability efforts.

Beyond hikes, the park offers all kinds of free or low-cost activities, from dolphin talks and terrarium workshops to behind-the-scenes tours of the Interpretive Center.

Paddle, Picnic, or Walk Around the Park’s Lakes

Colorful kayaks stacked along the shoreline beside a tree with bare branches, overlooking a calm lake with elevated rental cabins in the distance. A peaceful spot for kayaking and enjoying fun outdoor activities in the Alabama Gulf region. — Rent kayaks, paddleboards, or canoes on Lake Shelby

Lake Shelby, Middle Lake, and Little Lake each offer a quiet escape from the beach crowds. The three lakes are connected by canals dug by the earliest ancestors of Native Americans, as long as 600 years ago.

You’ll find picnic areas with charcoal grills, kayak rentals, and peaceful boardwalks with views across the water. Middle Lake is home to the Nature Center and boat launch, and there’s a small $5 vehicle fee to enter by car. It’s worth it for a shady lunch spot or an easy place to launch a kayak.

The lakes are tea-colored from natural tannins, which give them a darker hue but are completely safe to swim or paddle in.

Heading out on more Alabama adventures?
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Visit the Gulf State Park Interpretive Center

Entrance signage for the Interpretive Center and Beach Pavilion at Gulf State Park in Alabama, featuring large wooden letters and a metal pedestrian bridge crossing above the road in the background. The scene is set on a sunny day with green grass and scattered trees.

A modern beach pavilion at Gulf State Park with a curved roof and open-air design, built from tan brick and weathered wood. A single palm tree stands nearby under a bright blue sky with scattered clouds. — Beach Pavilion

Located next to the Beach Pavilion parking lot, the Interpretive Center might not look exciting at first, but don’t skip it. Inside, you’ll find interactive exhibits about the park’s ecosystems and wildlife, along with some surprisingly cool examples of sustainable design.

The building uses solar power, recycled materials, and even features a composting toilet to show how infrastructure can support the environment.

Learn about the Longleaf Pine Savanna that makes up the forested side of the park, an ecosystem that once covered 90 million acres across the Southeastern US, and now only 3% remains, and how prescribed burning actually helps sustain them.

It’s an easy stop right off the beachside trails and a great way to learn more about what makes this park so unique.

Note: parking at the Beach Pavilion is $15 daily per vehicle.

Relax by the Lodge or Campground Pool

A spacious resort pool area at The Lodge Hilton Hotel overlooks a wide stretch of white sand beach and the Gulf State Park Pier extending into the ocean. Lounge chairs and umbrellas line the pool deck, with sand dunes and the calm blue Gulf waters creating a serene coastal backdrop. — Cool off at The Lodge’s infinity pool, beachside

If you’re staying at The Lodge, the pool is open year-round and sits right next to the coastal dunes, just steps from the beach. It’s not heated, so spring days can feel a little brisk, but it’s a peaceful spot to unwind with a view.

You can also grab a drink or snack at the Dragonfly Bar, located just off the pool deck.

In keeping with the park’s focus on sustainability, the hotel uses condensation from its AC units to replace pool water, and collects rain to help irrigate the landscaping around the property, small but smart ways to reduce waste and support the surrounding ecosystem.

There is also a pool and splash pad located at the Nature Center that is only available to RV and camping guests of the park.

Birding, Butterflies, and Gators (Oh My!)

An eastern bluebird perches on a bare pine branch between two tall tree trunks in Gulf State Park. Its vivid blue and rusty orange feathers stand out against the bright blue sky. Spotting birds like this is one of my favorite things to do in Gulf State Park, Alabama. — Spotted: a vibrant eastern bluebird perched perfectly between the pines.

Two laughing gulls stand on the white sand at the edge of the Gulf of Mexico in Gulf State Park. One gull faces forward while the other appears to call out, with calm green-blue waves in the background. — These two had a lot to say along the Gulf’s shoreline.

Gulf State Park is a great place for low-effort wildlife watching, especially during spring with bird and butterfly migrations. The trees and marshes attract a wide variety of birds, and there is a butterfly garden tucked among the trails.

The park is even on Alabama’s Coastal Birding Trail, known especially for excellent birdwatching in several locations throughout the park. Check out the list of known species on eBird for which birds are currently migrating or seasonally spotted.

On my last visit, I walked the Rosemary Dunes Trail hoping to spot Lefty, the park’s well-known alligator. I didn’t see her that day, but there were plenty of signs marking where she’s usually found.

Have a Catered Picnic on the Beach

A colorful charcuterie board sits on a wooden table at a beach picnic in Gulf State Park, topped with grapes, olives, cheese slices, cured meats, nuts, and pickles. The background shows blurred guests, decorative pampas grass, and a clear blue sky over white sand. — Charcuterie with a side of salt air, now *that’s* how you beach picnic.

A woman in red lipstick, large floppy sunhat, and black jumpsuit kneels next to a styled beach picnic table set with dishes, glasses, and coastal decor and surrounded by lush pillows. The white sand and turquoise Gulf water stretch endlessly behind her.

A low picnic setup on the beach features a wooden table with elegant place settings, blue napkins, and white floral centerpieces. A large white fringed umbrella shades the area, surrounded by soft pillows on the bright white sand near the Gulf shoreline.

Close-up of a boxed charcuterie assortment with sliced cheeses, salami, pepperoni, green grapes, pickles, and chocolate-covered almonds. A sprig of rosemary and small containers help organize the vibrant beach picnic snack. — Salt air breeze, soft pillows, and the prettiest beach picnic setup with Beachside Blankets.

For a spring trip that feels extra special, book a catered beach picnic right on the sand. It’s one of my favorite ways to enjoy the coast at Gulf State Park.

My most memorable experience was with Beach Moms, who created a gorgeous setup complete with cozy seating, floral accents, and a full charcuterie and hummus spread catered from Lauria’s By the Beach. We even toasted with champagne! (Note that alcohol isn’t allowed on the beach during spring break season.)

Another option is Beachside Blankets, which offers a simple yet complete picnic service that includes several thematic options, including cushions, florals, an umbrella and games, and a small charcuterie box. Note that didn’t come with bread or crackers when I tried it, so you may want to bring a few extras along.

The overall vibe, though, was still very Insta-worthy and lovely for a girls’ trip or a romantic afternoon by the waves.

Try Geocaching for a Treasure Hunt in Nature

If you want a different kind of adventure, consider geocaching in Gulf State Park. Geocaching is like a modern treasure hunt using GPS or a smartphone app to locate hidden containers called caches. The rules are simple: set up a free account at geocaching.com, choose a cache and go find it, then log your visit and trade goodies if you like.

There are geocaches hidden throughout the park’s trails and green spaces, which can add an extra layer of exploration to your hike or bike ride. The park even hosts occasional Geocaching 101 events to help beginners learn the basics before getting out on the trails.

Just remember to stay aware of your surroundings and follow all park safety recommendations, especially near water and wildlife habitat. Learn more about being a responsible traveler..

Looking for more things to do around Gulf Shores?

CLICK HERE for my guide on the best things to do beyond the park.

Where to Stay in Gulf State Park

The Lodge at Gulf State Park

A bright hotel room with a white bed, wooden headboard, and modern blue-and-white beach decor. A towel and pillow are arranged neatly on the bed. The Lodge at Gulf State Park is cozy and accessible place to stay in Gulf Shores Alabama. — See the Gulf from your bed, and better yet, leave the doors open to feel that saltwater breeze.

For a sustainable and scenic spring getaway, The Lodge at Gulf State Park is hard to beat. This beachfront hotel is LEED-certified, thoughtfully designed, and feels like a true extension of the park itself.

Rooms are modern but calming, with floor-to-ceiling windows and beach access just steps from the pool. One of my favorite things? Watching the sunrise from the balcony while sipping coffee, then walking the boardwalk straight from the hotel into the park.

The onsite restaurants highlight regional ingredients, and the property uses practices like storm water collection for irrigation, native landscaping, and turtle-safe lighting. If you’re curious, I shared a full review here:

Read my full review of The Lodge at Gulf State Park

🐚 Check prices and availability at The Lodge

Glamping at Timberline Orange Beach

A white canvas glamping tent with open flaps sits on a wooden platform surrounded by trees. Inside are cushioned chairs, a small table, and cozy decor. A stylish outdoor stay near the beaches at Gulf State Park in Orange Beach.

A glowing campfire burns in a metal fire ring with a cooking grate, surrounded by warm light and rising smoke at night. In the background, a lit canvas glamping tent and cozy outdoor seating area create a peaceful atmosphere in the woods at Timberline Orange Beach glampsite. — Campfire crackles and cozy tents, Gulf State Park nights done right.

If you’re looking for a more outdoorsy stay with a few extra comforts, Timberline Glamping at Young’s Hideaway is a beautiful option just outside the park, and right off the Rosemary Dunes Trail.

I stayed in one of their furnished safari tents during a spring visit and loved waking up to birdsong, zipping out for a bike ride straight from the site, and spending the evening around the firepit under string lights. The tents include cozy beds, A/C, lighting, and even mini-fridges making it feel like a luxury in nature. The tents have running water and full restrooms, complete with a shower, and it felt like the perfect mix of nature and ease.

Cooler temps and smaller crowds in spring make this glamping experience especially magical.

⛺️ Check prices and availability at Timberline Glamping

Campgrounds + Rustic Sites

Gulf State Park Campground sits about 1.5 miles from the sugar‑white beaches and offers a wide range of options, from RV and tent spots with hookups to more rustic choices among the trees. It’s one of the most popular campgrounds in the Southeast and even made a USA Today top 10 best RV campground list for 2025.

The main campground has:

Almost 500 full‑hookup RV and tent sites with paved pads, picnic tables, and grills
11 modern, air‑conditioned bathhouses and laundry facilities
A camp store and easy access to hiking and biking trails
A pool and splash pad, pickleball and tennis courts, and nature programming for families

There are also outposts and primitive tent‑only options tucked into the woods if you want a quieter experience closer to nature without hookups. The primitive sites give you a classic campsite feeling with a picnic table and campfire area but no power or water hookups.

Outposts include a canvas tent and running water (though not potable).

Cabins & Cottages

If you want more privacy and space while still staying inside the park, there are several cabin options.

Woodside Cabins sit among tall pines with easy access to trails and outdoor spaces.
Lakeside Cabins overlook Lake Shelby and come with screened porches, fire pits, and picnic spots that are perfect for morning coffee and evening stories by the fire.
Eagle Cottages are larger, multi‑room homes with roomy living areas and space for families or groups of friends. These cottages are great for multi‑generational trips or families looking for a bit more comfort and flexibility than a tent or RV site.

Browse additional lodging options in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

Where to Eat Near Gulf State Park

Inside the Park

A breakfast plate featuring a fluffy cheddar cheese omelet, a bowl of mixed fresh fruit, and a hot cup of coffee, with hot sauce bottles in the background on a sunlit table. — Start your day of exploring off right with a hearty breakfast at Woodside – I had a hard time choosing between sweet and savory but went with this omelet and fruit cup which hit the spot perfectly.

Right inside the park, Woodside is a relaxed spot with live music, indoor-outdoor seating, and a menu that works for any time of day. It’s especially lovely in spring when the patio is shady and breezy.

Bonus: there’s a bike rental station right outside, so you can grab breakfast or lunch before heading onto the trails.

There are also several farm-to-table restaurants in The Lodge, which offers paid or valet parking right on the beach.

Breakfast & Coffee Favorites

A fresh iced coffee in a clear cup labeled “Foam” sits behind a plate of avocado toast topped with vibrant microgreens and pickled onions in a cozy café. — Fueling up with iced coffee and colorful avo toast at Foam

A tall glass of boozy vanilla milkshake swirled with chocolate and topped with a cherry sits on a retro diner table next to a plate of waffles at the Sunliner Diner. Brunch with a Bushwacker is a classic activity in Gulf Shores. — Always say yes to Bushwackers at breakfast

Foam Coffee – A vibey little shop with good coffee and a cozy spot to recharge
Southern Grind – Bushwacker coffee and a side of shopping in their cute coastal boutique
Sunliner Diner – Retro-themed and fun, with breakfast all day and their take on a bushwacker (yes, it’s ok to have them for breakfast, this is vacation)

Drinks with a View

A hazy pint of craft beer rests on a wooden railing outside Big Beach Brewing in Gulf Shores, with the brewery’s colorful sign and leafy surroundings in the background. — Cheers to local brews on sunny afternoons at Big Beach Brewing

Close-up of a juicy cheeseburger topped with bacon jam and served on a toasted bun alongside crispy golden fries at The Hangout in Gulf Shores. — Nothing hits the spot after exploring like a loaded burger and crispy fries at The Hangout.

A hand holds a refreshing mojito garnished with lime and mint in a clear cup that reads “The Gulf.” Palm trees and the sparkling blue ocean frame the sunny beach scene in Orange Beach Alabama. — Fresh mint mojitos and mocktails with a view at The Gulf

Big Beach Brewing – The area’s only brewery, perfect for post-hike beers or a relaxed evening with trivia
LuLu’s – Huge space with water views, a ropes course, and family-friendly energy
The Hangout – Always a good time, right across from the beach with games and live music, and my personal favorite for Bushwackers (what? I had to choose!)
The Gulf – Farm to table and fresh seafood dining in the sand, with great cocktails, and I’ve even spotted dolphins from the outdoor waterfront dining area.

Seafood Picks

A metal tray filled with seasoned shrimp, corn on the cob, and red potatoes sits on a turquoise picnic table. A paper tray of sauces and utensils reads “Picnic Beach.” This is a casual meal called Seafood Boil the southern US. — Don’t even worry about napkins, just grab your bib with this seafood boil tray.

A tray of freshly shucked oysters served on the half shell with lemon wedges and cocktail sauce, ready to enjoy at a Acme Oyster House in Gulf Shores, AL. — Fresh oysters, lemon wedges, and a little hot sauce… yes please!

Picnic Beach – Known for their laid-back vibe, and get the seafood boil!
Acme Oyster House – Affordable po’ boys and sweet tea in a casual, come-as-you-are setting. Check out the open-air kitchen to watch local Gulf Oysters being shucked.
De Soto’s Seafood Kitchen – A local favorite with generous portions and classic Gulf Coast dishes

Map of Things to Do in Gulf State Park

FAQs About Gulf State Park

What’s the best time of year to visit?

Spring is my favorite. The weather is warm but not too hot, wildflowers are blooming, and the beaches and trails are still quiet before peak summer crowds arrive. Fall is another great option if you prefer cooler hikes and golden light.

Is Gulf State Park worth visiting?

Absolutely. Whether you’re into biking, hiking, wildlife, or just relaxing by the water, this park offers so much more than a typical beach trip. It’s beautifully maintained, thoughtfully designed, and full of ways to connect with nature, even if you only have a day.

How much is the fee to visit or park at Gulf State Park?

Most of the park is free to enter and park in, including trailheads, beaches, and general day-use areas.
Note that the pier charges a small walk-on or fishing fee, and the Nature Center and campground area requires a $5 per vehicle day-use fee.

Are pets allowed in Gulf State Park?

Yes – pets must be on a leash at all times while in the park, and are not allowed on the beach.

What’s Next

Gulf State Park is one of the most surprising and satisfying places to explore on Alabama’s coast. In spring, it feels calm and alive all at once. The beaches are peaceful, the trails are blooming, and there’s something new to discover around every corner.

Book your stay now to make the most of the season.

Still planning your trip?
Check out my full guide to Things to Do in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach for more local favorites.

Gulf State Park: Things to Do, Stay & Savor on Alabama’s Coast