Gulf Shores, Alabama—a coastal haven where the sand is as white as my lies about “just one more day” on the road. As someone who measures time by sunsets and coffee refills, I decided to dive into the world of Gulf Shores campgrounds.
Here’s my take on the five best spots to park your home on wheels, complete with all the pros, cons, and sardonic musings you never knew you needed.
1. Gulf State Park Campground
Address: 20115 State Highway 135, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Approximate Price: $50–$60 per night
Distance to Downtown Gulf Shores: 3 miles
Gulf State Park Campground is the overachiever of Gulf Shores—think valedictorian with a perfect attendance record. Sprawling over 6,500 acres, it’s got more amenities than a cruise ship and just as many retirees. With over 400 full-hookup sites nestled among longleaf pine forests, it’s nature’s way of saying, “Here’s everything you could possibly want, you insatiable human.”
The campground offers access to Lake Shelby, where you can kayak, fish, or ponder why you thought kayaking was a good idea. There are paved hiking and biking trails, which are perfect for avoiding because you’re on vacation. And let’s not forget the swimming pool, nature center, and even a zip line for those days when you feel like risking it all.
Pros:
- Extensive amenities that could make a hotel blush.
- Proximity to the beach and enough activities to keep boredom at bay.
Cons:
- It’s popular—like, Disney World on a holiday weekend popular.
- Booking a site requires either luck or a time machine.
Would We Stay Again? Yes, if we can remember to book before the next solar eclipse.
2. Luxury RV Resort
Address: 590 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Approximate Price: $70–$90 per night
Distance to Downtown Gulf Shores: 1 mile
Luxury RV Resort is where you go when you want to feel fancy without committing to actual luxury. Located a mere hop, skip, and a jump from downtown, it’s the epitome of convenience wrapped in a veneer of opulence. Paved sites and manicured lawns greet you upon arrival, as does a list of rules longer than War and Peace.
The resort boasts a heated pool and a clubhouse, which is great if you enjoy small talk with strangers named Earl. The Wi-Fi is strong enough to stream your favorite shows, assuming you can ignore the buffering. It’s pet-friendly, but don’t expect Fido to frolic freely—leash laws are enforced with the zeal of a mall cop on a Segway.
Pros:
- Prime location near restaurants, shops, and the beach.
- Clean facilities that scream “we hire professionals.”
Cons:
- Sites are cozier than you’d like; hope you enjoy your neighbor’s taste in music.
- The price tag might make you question your life choices.
Would We Stay Again? Only if we develop a sudden appreciation for rules and close quarters.
3. Bay Breeze RV on the Bay
Address: 1901 Bay Breeze Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Approximate Price: $45–$65 per night
Distance to Downtown Gulf Shores: 6 miles
Bay Breeze RV Park is the hidden gem you tell your friends about—if you want them to join you next time. Tucked away on the shores of Bon Secour Bay, it’s a small, family-owned operation that oozes charm like a leaky faucet. The private beach is a nice touch, assuming you don’t mind sharing it with the local crab population.
The sites are shaded by ancient oaks draped in Spanish moss, giving the place a Southern Gothic vibe that makes you half-expect to see a ghost sipping sweet tea. Amenities are minimal, but who needs a game room when you have sunsets that could make a grown man weep?
Pros:
- Stunning bay views that almost make you forget about emails.
- A tranquil atmosphere perfect for contemplating your next snack.
Cons:
- Limited amenities; bring your own entertainment—or your own boredom.
- Mosquitoes that view bug spray as a seasoning.
Would We Stay Again? Absolutely, with a citronella candle in one hand and a fly swatter in the other.
4. Island Retreat RV Park
Address: 18201 AL-180, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Approximate Price: $50–$70 per night
Distance to Downtown Gulf Shores: 4 miles
Island Retreat RV Park is the Switzerland of campgrounds—neutral, efficient, and unlikely to start a war. It’s clean and orderly, with concrete pads that make leveling your rig a non-event. The pool is adequately wet, and the laundry facilities exist, which is about as exciting as laundry facilities can get.
The park is pet-friendly, so your dog can join you in pondering the existential dread of another perfectly average day. It’s close enough to the action without being in the thick of it, which is great if your idea of nightlife is binge-watching shows until your eyes bleed.
Pros:
- Well-maintained grounds that scream “we care, but not too much.”
- Quiet environment ideal for early bedtimes and silent contemplation.
Cons:
- Lacks personality; it’s the vanilla ice cream of campgrounds.
- Amenities are basic; don’t expect a massage therapist on-site.
Would We Stay Again? Sure, when we need a break from excitement.
5. Doc’s RV Park
Address: 17595 State Highway 180, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Approximate Price: $40–$55 per night
Distance to Downtown Gulf Shores: 5 miles
Doc’s RV Park feels like that old pair of jeans you can’t throw away—comfortable, familiar, and a bit worn around the edges. The sites are a mix of shady and sunny spots, much like the park’s Wi-Fi connection. There’s a swimming pool, but calling it “Olympic-sized” would be an Olympic stretch.
The park has a friendly vibe, with regular potlucks and gatherings that are charming if you enjoy casseroles and conversations about weather patterns. It’s not fancy, but it doesn’t pretend to be, which is refreshing in a world obsessed with Instagram perfection.
Pros:
- Affordable rates that leave room in the budget for ice cream.
- A community atmosphere that makes you feel like part of the family—whether you like it or not.
Cons:
- Facilities could use a facelift; think vintage without the hipster appeal.
- Limited activities unless you count people-watching as a sport.
Would We Stay Again? Yes, if we’re craving comfort over style.
These Gulf Shores Campgrounds Are Worth a Try
Gulf Shores offers a spectrum of camping experiences, from the borderline opulent to the charmingly simple. Whether you’re a fan of packed schedules and amenities or prefer to do nothing in a new location, there’s a spot for you.
Just remember, no matter where you stay, you’re still in Alabama—so adjust your expectations accordingly.
PRO TIP: 5 Affordable (and Amazing) Restaurants in Gulf Shores, Alabama
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