Camping in Gulf Shores, AL

Camping in Gulf Shores, AL
Photo Credit Gulf Shores Sunset image by Wendy Lea Morgan from Fotolia.com

Gulf Shores, Alabama, is located on the white sand beaches of the Gulf of Mexico. Known for its pristine beaches and laid-back vibe, this gulf location has many kinds of accommodations for the outdoors enthusiast, including several campgrounds and recreational vehicle parks. Whether you rough it in a tent or take a cozy RV, you will find many activities to suit your style in Gulf Shores.

Beach Access

Chances are if you stay a while in Gulf Shores, you will want to spend some time on the beach. Before you select your campground, check its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico. While all the local campgrounds and RV parks are within minutes of a beach, some are within walking distance while others require a drive. On the beaches, you can enjoy a number of activities, including swimming, jet skiing, fishing and parasailing.

Amenities

All campgrounds and RV parks are not created equal. Make a list of your must-have amenities and search for a campground accordingly. For instance, Luxury RV Resort and Island Retreat RV Park both have wireless Internet available, while others do not. Other amenities worth checking out include pools, boat ramps, laundry facilities and cable. If camping in a more rustic environment is more your style, look for parks with tent camping available.

Nearby Attractions

No matter where you choose to camp, be sure to enjoy the abundance of exciting activities around you. Gulf State Park offers more than just the nearby beach. You can also enjoy tennis courts, playground, fishing pier and nature center. Other Gulf Shores attractions include shopping, golfing, boat and dolphin cruises and the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo.

Local Food

Whether you catch your own fresh fish for the day or you want to venture out to one of many Gulf Shores restaurants, the seafood on the Gulf Coast is delicious. Seafood hot spots offer the freshest and healthiest fare, from shellfish such as oysters, scallops, shrimp and crab to a variety of fish. If your own fresh catch is on the menu, consider a campground with pier access for fishing. If campsite cooking is preferred over dining out, choose a campground that offers a grocery store on site.

Freshwater Fun

If you tire of the sand and saltwater, spend some time on Lake Shelby at Gulf State Park. This 900-acre lake offers freshwater fishing, swimming and water skiing. Visit for the day or bring your tent or RV and stay there for the duration of your vacation. If you have a crowd, you might also enjoy use of the picnic tables and pavilions for gathering and eating.

References

Article reviewed by Michael Last updated on: Dec 8, 2010

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