Sandy white beaches, delicious seafood (served at Gulf Shores Seafood), and exciting outdoor recreation are just some of the highlights that draw visitors to Gulf Shores, Alabama.
In addition to its stunning natural scenery, this coastal gem is home to local attractions like Gulf State Park, Gulf Shores Museum, The Orange Beach Indian and Sea Museum, and the network of bike trails that is the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail system–meaning there’s a little something for everyone.
One way to explore the Golf Shore area in style is to stay at an RV park. But where exactly should you stay? If you want your first trip to the Gulf Shores to be a memorable one, check out one of these top-rated RV parks.
#6: Luxury RV Resort
Located in the heart of Gulf Shores, Luxury RV Resort is a high-end, pet-friendly facility with 97 full-hookup RV sites. Campers can easily walk to the beach from the resort or explore local restaurants and shops.
Although Gulf Shores has plenty of exciting activities waiting for you, you won’t need to leave Luxury RV Resort to keep busy. The resort hosts family-friendly events, such as Bingo, game nights, smores, and workout classes, which can be found in the park’s events calendar.
Here’s some more information about the park:
- Per night rate: $79 + tax
- RV restrictions: No pop-up campers, truck campers, horse trailers, conversions, and vehicles more than 15 years old (unless approved by management).
- Top Amenities: Full hookups, a swimming pool, laundry facilities, a clubhouse, and Wi-Fi.
#5: Island Retreat RV Park
Located less than three miles from the beach, Island Retreat RV Park is a family-friendly paradise. Kids will love the swimming pool, playground area, horseshoe game pits, and little library. Plus, there’s complimentary Wi-Fi, a clubhouse, and 24-hour laundry facilities.
All 173 RV sites have full hookups and concrete pads. The park is located in a quiet, peaceful area where campers can go for a walk or take advantage of biking trails. Just beyond the park, you’ll find restaurants and grocery stores within walking distance.
- Per night rate: Between $62 and $79 + tax
- RV restrictions: No pop-up campers, truck campers, horse trailers, conversions, and vehicles more than 15 years old (unless approved by management).
- Top Amenities: Full hookups, a swimming pool, outdoor games, clubhouse, Wi-Fi, and laundry facilities.
#4: Bay Breeze RV Park on the Bay
Bay Breeze RV Park on the Bay is another gem nestled on the Alabama coast. Located on the Bon Secour Bay, this park offers direct access to the Mobile Bay beach. Gulf State Park and Orange Beach are also only a short drive away.
Guests can select one of 25 RV sites–all with full hookups–or rent a house. Lots offer ample shade, and there is on-site laundry and an ice machine nearby.
There’s also a fishing pier from which campers can watch the sunrise or sunset.
- Per night rate: Between $59 and $76
- RV restrictions: None specified
- Top Amenities: Direct beach access, full hookups, laundry, and ice machine.
#3: Sun Outdoors Orange Beach
Sun Outdoor Orange Beach is an RV park with exceptional amenities. It features an outdoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, clubhouse, and over 330 luxury RV sites with full hook-ups. Some sites even have outdoor kitchens.
But what’s nearby? The resort is a short distance from Foley Beach Express, Orange Beach Sportsplex, The Wharf, and other popular attractions.
When you stay at Sun Outdoors Orange Beach, you’ll also have direct access to nearby trails and can rent E-bikes or golf carts.
- Per night rate: Starting at $64
- RV restrictions: None specified
- Top Amenities: Full hookups, pools, clubhouse, fitness center, bike and golf cart rentals.
#2: Gulf State Park
Gulf State Park Campground is the epitome of a beachside camping experience. This park boasts 496 full-hookup campsites just 1.5 miles from the beach. These sites have picnic tables, grills, and plenty of room for RVs with pull-outs.
Campers at Gulf State Park Campground have direct access to the beach and 28 miles of hiking trails. There’s also a camp store, a swimming pool, tennis and volleyball courts, and a nature center. Note that the bathhouses have recently been upgraded and now offer the comforts of central air conditioning.
- Per night rate: Approximately $51
- RV restrictions: None specified
- Top Amenities: Full hook-ups, camp store, pool, tennis and volleyball courts, nature center
#1: Buena Vista Motor Coach Resort
Buena Vista Motor Coach Resort is just a short distance from the beaches of Orange Beach and boasts spacious sites with full hookups. The whole property is beautifully landscaped, and amenities include a lazy river, hot tub, indoor swimming pool, fitness center, and a clubhouse.
Campers can also rent golf carts for $125 a night or enjoy water sports such as fishing and boating at the nearby beaches.
Buena Vista Motor Coach Resort is currently undergoing a construction project but will remain open throughout it.
- Per night rate: Standard sites starting at $93.50
- RV restrictions: No Class ‘B,’ Regular Class ‘C,’ travel trailers, fifth wheels, toy haulers, or tents are allowed. RVs must be Class ‘A’ or SUPER ‘C’ Motor Coach, 32 feet long or greater in length, and 15 years old or newer.
- Top amenities: Infinity-edge swimming pool, hot tub, clubhouse, fitness center, landscaped surroundings.
Tips for RV Camping
Unless you’re an RV pro, you’ll want to review basic safety procedures and general RV tips before hitting the road. Here are some helpful tips to prepare you for your adventure:
- Inspect Your RV: Before each trip, conduct a thorough inspection of your RV, including tires, brakes, lights, and fluids. Address any issues promptly to ensure your RV is in optimal condition for travel.
- Secure Your Cargo: Make sure the items inside the RV are properly secured. That way, they don’t shift during travel. Store heavy items low and secure lighter items to prevent them from rolling around during your drive.
- Plan Your Route: Research your route in advance and be prepared for road conditions, construction, and potential hazards. You may want to consider downloading an RV-specific navigation app, such as RV Trip Wizard or RV LIFE.
- Join RV Communities: Connect with fellow RVers by joining online forums, social media groups, or RV clubs. You’ll find plenty of RV-related groups on Facebook. Other options include membership-based organizations like Escapees RV Club or Family Motor Coach Association (FMCA) RV Club.
- Arrange RV storage: Where do you plan to keep your RV before/after your trip? This is an important question, as keeping an RV in a driveway can put you in violation of HOA guidelines. You may need to rent a self storage unit or consider options available through self storage marketplaces, such as Neighbor.
If you have any outstanding RV-related questions, the following links might be helpful:
- Where Can I Park My RV Long Term? How to Find the Best Long-Term RV Parking
- How to Tow a Car Behind an RV: The Complete Guide
- Master How to Level a Camper: Simple Steps for a Perfectly Flat RV Experience
- A Complete RV Setup Checklist
- Top 10 Best RV Apps to Enhance Your Road Trip Adventures
- 5 Best RV Shelter Ideas To Protect Your Motorhome
When You Arrive in Gulf Shores
The aforementioned RV parks will serve as a home base during your stay in Gulf Shores, Alabama. While you’re here, be sure to visit Gulf Shores Public Beach, Shell Beach, and Branyon Beach.
Outside of beach bumming, we recommend you explore the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail or try your hand at fishing at the Gulf State Park Pier. Check out the many restaurants and cafes that sprinkle the downtown area if you’ve worked up an appetite.
