The Alabama Coast is a treasure trove for nature lovers. Besides the obvious emerald green Gulf of Mexico with its white, sandy beaches, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach exhibit natural beauty in other ways. Below you will find some of the gems that make our area so special.
Gulf State Park
Gulf State Park is a 6,150 acre natural paradise that includes 2 miles of white sandy beaches along the Gulf of Mexico. Gulf State Park also includes tennis courts, an 18-hole golf course, camping, hiking trails, and a pier that extends 1,512 feet into the Gulf.
The park is really set up for campers with both modern and primitive campsites. You'll find 11 cottages, 20 modern cabins, and 496 campsites. Camping pads are paved and welcome RV's. Modern bathhouses are available to all campers. The park also offers a 900-acre lake for fishing, boating, and water sports.
There really is so much to find out about this landmark in Gulf Shores. Please visit the link above to learn more.
Fort Morgan
Fort Morgan is a National Historic Landmark that is located at the far west end of Gulf Shores at the mouth of Mobile Bay. Not only can you visit the fort itself, but there a number of other activities to take in, as well. Covering over 600 acres, Fort Morgan is surrounded on three sides by the Gulf of Mexico and Mobile Bay. Whether you just want to relax, fish, or go bird watching, there are a number of nature trails, a boat launch, and, of course, the beach to enjoy.
Alabama Coastal Birding Trail
Many people probably don't realize that lower Alabama has 6 birding loops in Mobile and Baldwin Counties totalling over 200 miles. Developed in the late 1990's, a big portion of these trails cover Fort Morgan, Gulf Shores, and Orange Beach, which give bird enthusiasts a wide diversity of bird species. You can go to the Alabama Coastal Birding Trail site and see maps for all of the locations.
Backcountry Trail
For hikers and bikers alike, the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail has been a staple at the beach since 2003. Wildlife and nature abound along the 15 miles that makes its way through Gulf State Park, Gulf Shores, and Orange Beach, covering 6 distinct ecosystems and 7 different trails. There's plenty of activities to keep you busy, including attractions like Boulder Park, Eco Tours, and even primitive campsites. Please visit Backcountry's website to get all of the information and trail maps.
Alabama Gulf Coast Reef and Restoration Foundation
The Alabama Gulf Coast is home to one of the largest artificial reefs in the world and that is due to the efforts of the Department of Conservation's Marine Resources Division. Artificial reefs off the Alabama Gulf Coast provide an excellent habitat for a variety of marine life, while giving great opportunities for diving and fishing.
