RV Road Trip: Alabama’s Gulf Shores

Tucked between Mississippi and Florida is a sliver of paradise along the Gulf of Mexico. Thirty-two miles of soft, sugar-sand beach entice one to stroll endlessly along the turquoise water of Gulf Shores, Alabama.

Water defines the Gulf Shores area. Thin barrier islands protect Mobile, Bon Secour, and Perdido bays. This maze of waterways extends from the Gulf, some 50 miles north, to Mobile. The unique geography created multiple ecosystems that serve as a refuge for a great amount of biodiversity, including dolphins, nesting sea turtles, bald eagles, and migratory birds.

Sport fishing inshore (in the bay) and offshore (Gulf of Mexico) are popular pastimes. Sample fresh fish at a multitude of restaurants or grill your own catch of the day. Water activities aren’t the only things to do in Gulf Shores. Two Civil War-era forts guard the entrance to Mobile Bay. History buffs will enjoy touring the forts, military ships, and historic homes in the area.

Locals are friendly and look you in the eye. Southern hospitality and cooking reign in Alabama. Camping opportunities abound in this haven for snowbirds and vacationers alike. So come explore Gulf Shores!

Weekend Warriors

Off the Beaten Path

Visit The Wharf in the evening to enjoy their three nightly Spectra Laser Light Experience shows, where lights dance on the palm trees to surround sound. A ride on the Ferris wheel is a must. The Wharf has a wide variety of bars, restaurants, and shops to make your evening complete.

On the Menu

LuLu’s is all about fun, food, and music. Created by Lucy Buffett (Jimmy Buffett’s younger sister), the restaurant features nightly music, coastal cuisine with a southern flair, and a sandy beach area. Try the fried crab claws (with a margarita, of course) and top it off with a delicious slice of Key lime pie.

Stay Here

Gulf State Park campground is enormous, with 496 sites and 11 bathhouses. All paved sites are equipped with electricity. An extensive trail system winds through the park, perfect for hiking and biking.

Must-Do

Fort Gaines Historic Site on Dauphin Island stands as a sentinel guarding Mobile Bay along with Fort Morgan on the east side of the bay. The well-preserved forts were instrumental in the Battle of Mobile Bay during the Civil War.

Retired RVers

Off the Beaten Path

Captain Joe, a Gulf Shores native, will tailor a fishing trip to your needs, whether you are new to the sport or an expert. On a trip with Island Marine Charters catch sheepshead, black and white speckled trout, redfin, or black drum this time of year. Check out Fish Bump TV on YouTube to see what their trips are like.

On the Menu

Dauphin’s on the 34th floor of the Trustmark building wows visitors with an incredible view of Mobile Bay. The fine-dining experience will introduce you to a wide variety of savory French Creole flavors. Leave the jeans and flip-flops at the campground and enjoy a fancy night out on the town.

Stay Here

Wales West RV Park & Light Railway is a unique combination of campground and train depot. The park is Good Sam-approved and has a lake and heated pool. Step back in time and ride the narrow-gauge train on holidays and listen to live music at the Bluegrass/Gospel Live concert series January–March.

Must-Do

Tour the Condé-Charlotte Museum to learn about the house’s metamorphosis from a courthouse and jail to a family home to the present incarnation as a museum. The decorations feature period furniture that represents Mobile’s history of government under the French, English, Spanish, American, and the Confederacy.

Full-Time RVers

Off the Beaten Path

Go fishing on Alabama’s Gulf State Park Pier, one of the longest piers in the gulf. Gulf State Park has plenty to do with a great nature center, swimming pool, butterfly garden, kayaking, canoeing, and 2 miles of beautiful beaches.

On the Menu

The Flying Harpoon specializes in Cajun– and Creole-style food. Their unique eats include many types of Po’ Boy sandwiches and Fried Bayou Baskets that come with a choice of seafood, chips, and coleslaw.

Stay Here

Wilderness RV Park is a Good Sam Campground with many pull-through electric sites for easy parking. Amenities include a Wi-Fi hotspot in the clubhouse, a pool (closed in winter), and a fishing pond. Just 30 minutes east of Mobile, Alabama, and 35 minutes west of Pensacola, Florida, Wilderness puts visitors in the middle of the action, with easy access to golf courses, museums, and of course, the beaches.

Must-Do

You could easily spend an entire day at the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park. Tour the World War II ship, the submarine USS Drum, view more than 30 aircraft and even check out the bird observatory and fishing pier.

Family RVers

Off the Beaten Path

Tired of your sand creations looking more like blobs than castles? Sign up the family for a class from the pros at Sand Castle University and learn tips and tricks for making amazing sand designs. Classes are available at Gulf Shores and at nearby Orange Beach.

On the Menu

The Hangout takes “family-friendly” to the next level with a sand pile, tunnels, foam pit, and games. Mom and Dad can relax by the firepit, listen to live music, and eat great food while the kids burn off energy at the many fun attractions.

Stay Here

Sun Outdoors Orange Beach is a well-appointed RV resort with a hot tub, two heated pools, and a fitness center. Wander on the backcountry walking trail or nature trail on their 30 acres. Visitors are just minutes away from world-class beaches and attractions.

Must-Do

The Fun Boats have both daytime and sunset cruises. Dolphins are almost always spotted on the two-hour cruises. While aboard, touch sea creatures and experience an epic water fight with another Fun Boat. Those who wish to remain dry can take shelter within and watch the festivities.