Gulf State Park Nature Center: A Coastal Alabama Treasure
Explore native Gulf Coast wildlife at this interactive nature center in Gulf State Park. Free admission, educational programs, fun for all ages!
The Gulf State Park Nature Center in Orange Beach, Alabama, is a living museum showcasing the Gulf Coast's native plants and animals [3, 4]. It offers visitors of all ages exciting, hands-on experiences and educational programs designed to inspire environmental stewardship [5, 8].
A brief summary to Gulf State Park Nature Center
- Orange Beach, Alabama, 36561, US
- +1251-948-7275
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4 pm
- Friday 9 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Check the Nature Center's schedule for free programs like guided nature walks and animal encounters [15].
- Combine your visit with a hike or bike ride on the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail [6, 15].
- Bring comfortable shoes for exploring the walking trails [15].
- Don't miss the opportunity to see the animal ambassadors, including owls, turtles, and alligators [15].
- Be aware that there is a $3 per vehicle entrance fee to enter the Campground to access the Nature Center, unless you are staying at the lodge, cabins, or campsites within Gulf State Park [4, 8, 15].
Getting There
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Driving
From the intersection of AL-182 and AL-161 in Orange Beach, head north on AL-161 for approximately 2.5 miles [15]. Turn left onto Campground Road. Continue on Campground Road for about 1 mile [15]. The Nature Center will be located inside the Gulf State Park Campground on the right [8, 15]. Note that there is a $3 per vehicle entrance fee to enter the campground unless you are staying at the lodge, cabins, or campsites within Gulf State Park [4, 8, 15]. Parking is available near the Nature Center [15].
-
Public Transport
While direct public transportation to the Nature Center is limited, the Gulf State Park Tram offers a convenient option for visitors already within the park [15]. From various points within Gulf State Park, including The Lodge and the Interpretive Center, take the free Gulf State Park Tram to the Nature Center Tram Station located in the Campground [15]. Remember to factor in the $3 per vehicle entrance fee to enter the campground if you are not a guest at the lodge, cabins, or campsites within Gulf State Park [4, 8, 15].
Discover more about Gulf State Park Nature Center
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Gulf State Park
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Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail - Rosemary Dunes Trailhead
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Joanna A. Boutique - Orange Beach
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