Cabin camping near Gulf Shores, Alabama offers options ranging from basic shelters to fully-equipped lodging within 10-15 miles of the coastline. Most cabin rentals are situated around freshwater lakes or forested areas rather than directly on beaches. Water temperatures in the area average 72°F annually, with summer highs reaching 87°F, making cabin stays comfortable year-round when compared to tent camping.
What to do
Fishing for alligator spotting: Gulf State Park Campground features multiple lakes where visitors can fish while watching for wildlife. "Keep your eyes peeled for wonderful birds and alligators!" notes Hannah C., who enjoyed exploring the park's aquatic habitats.
Historical exploration: Fort Pickens Campground at Gulf Islands National Seashore offers extensive historic structures to explore. "We were able to use our senior national park pass to get in for free and a discount on our site... We walked about 30 minutes to the old fort," reports Deborah C., who visited in February.
Biking the trails: The paved trail network at Gulf State Park provides miles of scenic routes. According to Jon K., "This is a great park with lots of amenities including Pickle Ball, Pool, Restaurant, Trails, etc." The trails connect cabin areas to beaches and other park features.
Bird watching: Dauphin Island Campground offers cabins near a bird sanctuary with hiking trails. "The Ferry is on one side of campground...Sea lab and Fort Gaines on the other. One of the best features about the island is you can ride your bicycle from one end of the island to the other," explains Benjamin K.
What campers like
Private cabins with water views: Many cabins at Gulf State Park feature waterfront settings. "I loved my stay at Gulf State Park. We stayed in one of the bungalows and it was so pretty and had everything we needed. The restaurant in the park has great food," shares Hannah C.
Fishing opportunities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park offers lakeside cabin options with fishing access. "The lake is full of bream and each of my kids caught their first fish, definitely a memorable trip," says Ashley P., who visited with her family.
Clean facilities: Most cabin sites maintain well-kept bathhouses and facilities. "Bath houses were great! No campfires ☹️, but a great place!" explains Deborah P. about Dauphin Island Campground, noting the trade-offs between amenities and restrictions.
Family activities: Many parks schedule regular activities for families staying in cabins. "We had a lot of fun. The kids loved all of the Saturday activities. Campsites have a fire pit, so we made s'mores," reports Jaimee D. about her stay at Jellystone Park.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin rentals require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. One visitor to Pirates Cove RrrrV Park noted, "I had to reschedule our planned reservations and was able to do so with great customer service."
Insect preparation: Gulf State Park cabins may have issues with local insects. "Beware of the ants!!!!!! The whole campground is infested with stinging ants. There are ant piles all over the campsites," warns Marilyn G.
Beach access varies: While most cabin rentals advertise beach access, actual distances differ. At Dauphin Island Campground, "We camped a week in the tent sites. Very clean. Great bathrooms. Great staff. 24 hour access to the beach, which is just a short stroll away," reports Donna H.
Wildlife encounters: Cabins near water may include wildlife neighbors. Paul G. at Gulf State Park mentions, "Went hiking along the trails and found 3 baby gators hanging out! Had a few good tent spots and lots of RV spots. Just watch out where you swim!"
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Gulf Shores RV Resort offers cabin rentals with swimming facilities. "The pool was large and warm, my kids loved that. Fishing was fun even though they didn't catch a single fish," notes Mccoy, highlighting activities beyond beach trips.
Educational opportunities: Families staying in cabins can take advantage of ranger programs. "You can also join in for one of the rangers led educational walks to see wildlife around the park," suggests Asher K. about Gulf State Park.
Kid-friendly amenities: Jellystone Park focuses on family entertainment with their cabins. According to David C., they offer "activities, wagon rides, group s'mores campfire, fishing, crafts, super clean restrooms, well supplied camp store if you forgot something."
Beach proximity considerations: When booking cabins with kids, check actual beach walking distances. Jenny W. notes about Dauphin Island, "The actual campground is not great - it definitely could use some TLC. We had a beach back in spot, which is only a beach view in theory as the brush and forest was so thick that it blocked the view. However it was a short and pleasant walk to the beach."
Tips from RVers
Cabin access during weather events: Bella Terra of Gulf Shores provides cabins that remain accessible during coastal storms. "We were escaping Nicole and after 9 hours on the road we were trying to find a place in Gulf Shores... It was quite a find," shares Douglas T., highlighting the value of cabin rentals during weather events.
Off-peak benefits: Visiting cabin sites during slower seasons offers advantages. One reviewer mentioned, "This is a Motorhome only park with lots owned by individuals who rent their lots when they are away," explaining how Bella Terra's private cabins become available when owners are absent.
Space considerations: Most cabin sites provide adequate outdoor space. "Our site had nice separation from our neighbors with a big grassy area and a hedge between us," notes Nancy W. about Bella Terra, an important factor for those used to RV camping who prefer more privacy.
