Reviewed by: Ella Walton
Gulf State Park opens new RV resort
Reading time: 3 minutes
Officials gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony Monday, May 11, to celebrate the grand opening of a brand-new RV resort at Gulf State Park.
With the addition of 103 premium campsites, the park now officially hosts 607 RV sites, making it the largest state park-operated RV campground in the entire country, according to Alabama State Parks.
More than just a place to park
This expansion transformed a former golf course into a premier outdoor tourist destination, complete with modern amenities:
- Modern hookups: 103 new sites with water, sewer + electrical
- Clubhouse + snack bar: A new hub for meetings + quick bites
- Luxury bathhouses: Two new buildings featuring private, family-style suites
- Recreation: A saltwater pool, separate splash pad, putting green + pickleball courts
- Play + trails: An accessible playground + new mulched hiking trails.
The entrance was also designed with modern travelers in mind, featuring smooth paved roads and a four-lane entrance to accommodate some of the largest rigs on the road.
Meeting coastal demand
Chris Blankenship, commissioner of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR), said the campground stays at least 90% occupied year-round. This expansion was a necessary step to keep up with the love locals and tourists have for the Gulf Shores jewel.
“We knew we had to grow to meet the demand. Now that construction is complete, we’re confident visitors will be truly wowed by this expansion.”
Commissioner Chris Blankenship
Part of a statewide investment
This project was made possible by a $85 million state parks investment approved by Alabama voters back in 2022. While Gulf State Park is celebrating this week, the funding is busy working across the state:
- Lake Lurleen State Park recently completed a total renovation
- Cheaha State Park has plans to finish a new, 32-room bluff-side lodge later this year
- Joe Wheeler & Chewacla has new playgrounds and event centers
Whether you are a Baldwin County local looking for a family staycation or a cross-country traveler seeking memorable thrills, the new resort is ready to accommodate your needs.
