Gulf Shores, Alabama sits along the Gulf of Mexico, boasting 32 miles of white sand beaches and subtropical climate with summer temperatures averaging 90°F. Proximity to the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge provides RV campers access to 7,000+ acres of protected coastal habitat. Winter camping offers mild temperatures around 60°F with reduced crowds during November through February.
What to Do
Fishing opportunities: At Bay Breeze RV on the Bay, campers have direct access to Mobile Bay with a long fishing pier. "We have been going here for years it is small but perfect. Close to gulf beaches and Gulf Shores," noted one reviewer. The park's bayfront location allows for immediate water access.
Wildlife viewing: The Bon Secour Wildlife Refuge across from Bay Breeze RV features hiking trails, sandy beaches on Little Lagoon, and a kayak launch. "Across the road is the Bon Secour Wildlife Refuge with hiking trails, sandy beaches on Little Lagoon and a kayak launch," reports a camper.
Biking excursions: Pandion Ridge Luxury RV Resort connects to 29 miles of biking trails through Gulf State Park. "Great hiking trails. There is even trails connecting to Gulf State Park," mentions one visitor. These paved trails wind through forest, wetlands, and around lakes.
Historical exploration: Fort Morgan is just 8 miles from several campgrounds, offering Civil War history exhibits and cannons. "Head west and you will find historic Fort Morgan and a public pier perfect for watching sunsets over the gulf," explains a camper at Bay Breeze RV.
What Campers Like
Sunset viewing spots: Fort Morgan RV Park provides direct bay access for watching spectacular sunsets. "Beautiful sunsets and wildlife everywhere. Far enough away to truly be camping, but close enough to other activities if you want on Fort Morgan Rd," notes a camper.
Waterfront access: Several campgrounds offer immediate water access without beach crowds. "Small and quiet campground on the bay. Fishing available off of the campground dock," says one reviewer about Fort Morgan RV Park.
Walking-distance amenities: Luxury RV Resort places campers within walking distance of restaurants, shopping, and beach access. "Walking distance to the beach, restaurants and stores. There is a pool, hangout area with cornhole, laundry and a gathering house for events," a visitor explains.
Fishing ponds: Gulf Shores RV Resort provides four dedicated fishing ponds within the property. "What we loved about this campground was that everything is so new, all of the RV sites were paved and level, they have a hot tub, four fishing ponds, and are only a few miles from the beach."
What You Should Know
Age restrictions: Some RV parks have strict rules about RV age and style. Bella Terra of Gulf Shores has "restrictions on age of RV (15 years) and size (32'+)," according to one camper. This Class A motorhome-only resort maintains specific standards.
Winter stays: Several parks offer special winter rates for longer stays. "We are staying here for 3 months during winter. This park is adding lots more sites. Will be huge," reports a visitor at Pandion Ridge.
Beach distance: Most parks are not directly on Gulf beaches but within short driving distance. "Close to beach (not on the beach). Close to restaurants and shopping," explains a reviewer about Bella Terra. Expect 10-15 minute drives to public beach access.
Booking windows: For rv sites near Gulf Shores, Alabama, advance planning is essential during peak season. "This was one of our stops on our roadtrip from Dallas to Disney," notes a camper, highlighting the popularity of Gulf Shores as a destination stop.
Tips for Camping with Families
Kid-friendly activities: Island Retreat RV Park organizes special events for children. "The front office even had ice cream parties and scavenger hunts for kiddos!" reports one family. These organized activities keep children engaged during downtime.
Bike path access: Some RV parks connect directly to biking trails suitable for family exploration. "My kids loved jumping on our bikes to go mini-golf and explore the area a bit. And they loved in the pool and playground," shares a parent about Island Retreat RV Park.
Space considerations: Families should research campsite layouts and spacing. "No room for the boys to throw a football, or to run and play tag. That's okay though, because we came for the beach," reports one family at Island Retreat RV Park.
Beach trip planning: Allow 10-15 minutes to reach Gulf beaches from most RV parks. "We went to the public beach (3 miles); Kayaked at Little Lagoon (5 miles); Spa day at The Beach Club Resort & Spa (2 miles); and Visited Fort Morgan (8 miles)," details one camper's itinerary.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For rv campgrounds near Gulf Shores, Alabama, site selection matters. "The sites have concrete pads but sand for your patio area. Sites are not to big but I've had a lot worse," advises an RVer at Luxury RV Resort.
Levelness: Most parks offer concrete pads that simplify setup. "The sites are level and clean with full hook, wifi is great," notes a camper at Pandion Ridge. "The park is all paved and sites have patios and paved," reports another.
Water system care: Gulf Shores RV Resort provides full hookups but care is needed. "They pick up your trash at your site. It's all paved and sites have patios and paved," explains a reviewer, highlighting additional conveniences.
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping offers value and space. "We stayed the end of November, December and left January 9, 2023. We had to move to another site after a wk as we decided to stay longer. There are no bad sites," reports a winter camper.
