20115 State Park Rd
Gulf Shores, AL

Gulf State Park has become a mecca for lovers of the great outdoors vacationing on the Alabama Gulf Coast. A destination within the destination, there’s so much to see and do within the park’s 6,150 acres and 28 miles of trails. Continue watching to learn all the Gulf State Park has to offer!

20115 State Park Rd
Gulf Shores, AL

Swipe up and click on the links below anytime to learn more about the Gulf State Park!

20800 E Beach Blvd
Gulf Shores, AL

With 2,448 ft. of fishing space, the Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier is the largest pier in the Gulf of Mexico. It’s also Alabama’s only public pier in the Gulf. On the pier you will find an indoor retail store, concession area and plenty of shaded seating. You can also purchase a saltwater fishing license as well as bait and tackle.

22250 E Beach Blvd
Gulf Shores, AL

If you’re wanting to enjoy the park’s public beach access, then the Gulf State Park Beach Pavilion is the spot for you. Located just six miles east of Hwy. 59, this access point provides visitors with three miles of spacious beaches, allowing guests room to spread out safely. The pavilion was recently renovated and now features air-conditioned restrooms. Additional improvements are currently underway to better accommodate events. All-day parking at the pavilion is $10 and $5 for four hours for most vehicles. There is also plenty of room for RV parking.

Hugh S Branyon Backcountry Trail

Orange Beach, Alabama, United States

The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail is an award-winning 28+ mile paved trail system that takes visitors throughout the 6,150 acres of Gulf State Park. USA Today named the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail the best recreational trail in the country for 2024. The trails are multi-use, meaning they are suitable for hikers and cyclists and are ADA-accessible. Trailheads surround the park's perimeter, making it easy to find and access while vacationing on our shores. While many enjoy walking and hiking on the trails while taking in the views, we suggest biking or booking a Segway tour if you want to cover more ground Segway tour.

Gulf Shores, AL

Lake Shelby lies at the center of Gulf State Park, making it a beloved landmark on our island. The large freshwater lake is ideal for swimming, fishing, boating and kayaking. Kayak rentals and fishing licenses are available at the park’s main office next to Lake Shelby. The lake features a boat launch for anglers or boaters to head out into the water.

20115 State Park Rd
Gulf Shores, AL

Located right next to the Gulf State Park Beach Pavilion is the park’s Interpretive Center. The center is pursuing both LEED Platinum and Living Building Challenge certifications, making it the most environmentally friendly building in the state. The Learning Campus is a robust facility built for educational day and overnight programs. Their trained field naturalists ensure that the activities are fun, safe and informative for groups of all ages. Some of their programs include nature walks, arts and crafts, and solar cooking lessons. Learn everything you need to know about the flora and fauna in Gulf State Park at the Nature Center. This is a living museum that showcases plants and animals that are native to the Gulf Coast region. The center’s knowledgeable staff are available to answer all of your questions.

20249 State Park Rd
Gulf Shores, AL

Woodside Restaurant is a relaxing eatery with creative Southern-style dishes. Come for the food and stay for the views at Foodcraft, located at The Lodge at Gulf State Park. This casual beachfront restaurant serves coastal classics while utilizing seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients. Also at The Lodge is Perch, the hotel’s fine-dining experience. Overlooking the sugar-white sand beaches and pristine Gulf waters, this eatery is one you’ll be craving to return to year after year.

20115 State Park Rd
Gulf Shores, AL

The Gulf State Park offers multiple lodging options right inside the park! Choose from a hotel, cabins, campgrounds and more.

20115 State Park Rd
Gulf Shores, AL

Click the links below to learn more about the Gulf State Park and start planning your Alabama's Beaches vacation.