Gulf State Park Nature Center: Coastal Alabama's Living Museum
Explore native Gulf Coast wildlife at this living museum in Orange Beach, offering interactive exhibits and nature programs for all ages within Gulf State Park.
Discover the wonders of Alabama's Gulf Coast at the Gulf State Park Nature Center, a 'living museum' showcasing native plants and animals. Engage with interactive exhibits, enjoy guided nature walks, and encounter fascinating animal ambassadors, including owls, turtles, and alligators. It's an educational adventure for all ages, nestled within the scenic Gulf State Park Campground.
A brief summary to Gulf State Park Nature Center
- Orange Beach, Alabama, 36561, US
- +1251-948-7275
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check the Nature Center's schedule for free programs like guided nature walks and animal encounters.
- Combine your visit with a hike or bike ride on the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail.
- Bring comfortable shoes for exploring the walking trails.
- Don't miss the opportunity to see the animal ambassadors, including owls, turtles, and alligators.
- 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.
Getting There
-
Driving
From the intersection of AL-182 and AL-161 in Orange Beach, head north on AL-161 for approximately 2.5 miles. Turn left onto Campground Road. Continue on Campground Road for about 1 mile. The Nature Center will be located inside the Gulf State Park Campground on the right. Note that a $3 per vehicle entrance fee is required to enter the campground, unless you are staying at the lodge, cabins, or campsites within Gulf State Park. Parking is available near the Nature Center.
-
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. 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. 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.
-
Walking/Biking
From the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail, access the Gulf State Park Campground via the Catman Road Trailhead. Follow the paved road into the campground. The Nature Center will be on your right, approximately 0.5 miles from the Backcountry Trail entrance. Be mindful of vehicle traffic within the campground. Note that if you are entering the campground by vehicle, a $3 per vehicle entrance fee is required, unless you are staying at the lodge, cabins, or campsites within Gulf State Park.
Discover more about Gulf State Park Nature Center
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Original Romar House B & B Inn
1.9 km
Discover the charm of Original Romar House B & B Inn, a serene retreat on Perdido Beach, blending Southern hospitality with coastal relaxation.
Escapes! To The Shores
2.8 km
Experience the beauty of Orange Beach at Escapes! To The Shores, your premier vacation home rental agency offering stunning beachfront properties.
Beachside Mini Golf
2.9 km
Experience the joy of mini-golf at Beachside Mini Golf in Orange Beach, Alabama, where fun meets family-friendly entertainment in a stunning coastal setting.
Grass Island
2.9 km
Escape to Grass Island in Gulf Shores: An uninhabited coastal paradise offering pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and abundant wildlife for a serene and unforgettable nature retreat.
Souvenir City of Orange Beach
3.7 km
Explore the Souvenir City of Orange Beach for unique crafts, personalized gifts, and a vibrant shopping experience that captures the spirit of the Gulf Coast.
The Axe Hole - Orange Beach
3.8 km
Experience the thrill of axe throwing at The Axe Hole - Orange Beach, where fun meets precision in a vibrant beach atmosphere.
Alvin's Island - Orange Beach #22
4.2 km
Discover an exciting variety of beach-themed gifts and apparel at Alvin's Island in Orange Beach, your one-stop-shop for unforgettable souvenirs.
Pottery Central World Headquarters
4.3 km
Discover handcrafted pottery and artistic expression at Pottery Central World Headquarters, a Gulf Shores gem since 1982.
BeachFlight Aviation
4.4 km
Experience Gulf Shores from a new perspective with BeachFlight Aviation, offering unforgettable gyroplane flights over Alabama's stunning coastline.
Tallulah's Treasures
4.4 km
Explore Tallulah's Treasures in Orange Beach, Alabama for unique gifts, local art, and charming souvenirs that embody the spirit of the coast.
Beach Shutters Photography
4.5 km
Experience the magic of Orange Beach through the lens of Beach Shutters Photography, where your moments become timeless works of art.
Souvenir City of Orange Beach #2
4.7 km
Explore Souvenir City of Orange Beach for unique gifts that capture the essence of Alabama's Gulf Coast, from local art to beach-themed treasures.
Orange Beach Tattoos
4.8 km
Experience artistry like never before at Orange Beach Tattoos, where your unique story meets skilled craftsmanship in a vibrant seaside setting.
Souvenir City
4.8 km
A Gulf Shores tradition since 1956, Souvenir City offers a wide array of souvenirs, beachwear, and unique gifts, all under the iconic shark's mouth.
Brick & Spoon - Orange Beach
4.9 km
Experience the best of Southern brunch at Brick & Spoon in Orange Beach, where delightful flavors meet coastal charm.
Unmissable attractions to see
Gulf State Park Pavillion
0.9 km
Enjoy convenient beach access, modern amenities, and beautiful scenery at Gulf State Park Pavilion in Gulf Shores, Alabama.
Gulf State Park
1.0 km
Explore Alabama's Gulf Coast paradise: pristine beaches, scenic trails, and abundant wildlife await at Gulf State Park in Gulf Shores.
Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail - Rosemary Dunes Trailhead
1.0 km
Discover Alabama's Gulf Coast: Hike or bike the scenic, ADA-accessible Rosemary Dunes Trail, a gateway to the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail.
Gulf Oak Ridge Trailhead West
1.6 km
Discover a serene escape amidst ancient oaks and diverse wildlife on Gulf Oak Ridge Trail, a gem within Gulf State Park's natural beauty.
Branyon Beach
1.7 km
Discover a serene coastal escape at Branyon Beach in Gulf Shores, AL, with soft sands, clear waters, and access to scenic trails.
Orange Beach Welcome Center
2.2 km
Your first stop for exploring Alabama's Gulf Coast: maps, tips, attractions, and local insights for an unforgettable Orange Beach vacation.
Gulf State Park Pier
3.0 km
Experience the thrill of fishing and breathtaking Gulf views at Alabama's iconic Gulf State Park Pier, a landmark of resilience and beauty.
Dolphin & Sailing Tours by Cetacean Cruises
3.4 km
Discover Orange Beach's marine life with family-friendly dolphin and sailing tours, offering scenic cruises and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Sunny Lady Dolphin Cruises at The Wharf
3.5 km
Experience the magic of dolphin encounters and breathtaking sunsets with Sunny Lady Dolphin Cruises at The Wharf in Orange Beach.
Ferris Wheel
3.5 km
Experience breathtaking Gulf Coast views from 112 feet high on one of the Southeast's tallest Ferris wheels at The Wharf in Orange Beach!
Adventure Island
3.5 km
Experience thrilling rides, classic arcade games, and a five-story erupting volcano at Adventure Island in Orange Beach, Alabama.
The Wharf
3.6 km
Discover the charm of The Wharf in Orange Beach, Alabama, where entertainment, dining, and shopping converge for an unforgettable coastal experience.
Outer Limits VR Game Room
3.6 km
Experience immersive virtual reality rides and games for the whole family at Outer Limits VR Game Room in Orange Beach, Alabama.
Fat Daddy's Arcade
3.6 km
Experience family-friendly fun at Fat Daddy's Arcade in Orange Beach, AL, with 80+ games, awesome prizes, and a lively atmosphere for all ages!
Breakout Games - Orange Beach
3.7 km
Experience thrilling escape room adventures at Breakout Games in Orange Beach, perfect for unforgettable fun with friends and family!
Essential places to dine
Pier House Restaurant Bar Orange Beach
0.8 km
Experience coastal dining at Pier House Restaurant Bar in Orange Beach - where fresh seafood meets stunning ocean views!
Hunters Bend
0.9 km
Experience Southern hospitality and coastal cuisine at Hunters Bend in Orange Beach - where every meal tells a story.
The Flying Harpoon 2
1.8 km
Experience authentic Cajun cuisine at The Flying Harpoon 2 in Orange Beach – where great food meets Southern hospitality.
The Dragonfly
2.5 km
Discover delightful dishes and refreshing drinks at The Dragonfly in Gulf Shores - where coastal cuisine meets inviting atmosphere.
Perch
2.6 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining with breathtaking Gulf views at Perch in Gulf Shores, Alabama.
Foodcraft
2.6 km
Experience fresh coastal cuisine at Foodcraft in Gulf Shores - where local flavors meet culinary creativity.
Wolf Bay Restaurant at Orange Beach
2.8 km
Experience fresh seafood delights with stunning waterfront views at Wolf Bay Restaurant in Orange Beach.
Niki's Seafood & Thai
2.8 km
Experience an unforgettable blend of authentic Thai flavors and fresh seafood at Niki's Seafood & Thai in Orange Beach.
Ruby Slipper
2.9 km
Experience Southern-inspired brunch at Ruby Slipper in Orange Beach - where flavor meets warmth in every bite.
Doc’s Seafood and Steaks
3.0 km
Experience the best of coastal dining at Doc’s Seafood and Steaks in Orange Beach with fresh seafood and delicious steaks.
Live Bait Restaurant
3.1 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining at Live Bait Restaurant in Orange Beach—where fresh flavors meet vibrant nightlife.
Mile Marker 158
3.4 km
Experience fresh Gulf Coast seafood at Mile Marker 158 in Orange Beach—where every bite tells a story of coastal tradition.
Woodside Restaurant
3.6 km
Experience delightful American cuisine with live music at Woodside Restaurant in Gulf Shores - perfect for families and food lovers alike.
Dick's Last Resort - Orange Beach
3.6 km
Discover the fun-filled dining experience at Dick's Last Resort in Orange Beach, where humor meets delicious Southern cuisine in an unforgettable atmosphere.
The Sugar Shack & Cafe
3.6 km
Experience delightful American cuisine and mouthwatering desserts at The Sugar Shack & Cafe in Orange Beach.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Merry Market Unique Gifts And Arts & Crafts Expo
3.3 km
Explore unique gifts and artistic creations at Merry Market in Orange Beach, Alabama, a charming destination for memorable souvenirs.
Sand Dollar Lifestyles
3.5 km
Experience the charm of Sand Dollar Lifestyles in Orange Beach, Alabama, a premier shopping destination for clothing, grill items, and shoes.
Joanna A. Boutique - Orange Beach
3.6 km
Discover stylish women's fashion at Joanna A. Boutique in Orange Beach, where beachside charm meets chic elegance in a delightful shopping experience.
Tickled Pink
3.6 km
Explore the charming Tickled Pink gift shop in Orange Beach, AL, where local treasures and unique gifts await every visitor.
Bungalows
3.6 km
Discover Bungalows in Orange Beach - your go-to gift shop for unique souvenirs, local crafts, and delightful greeting cards.
Ooh La La
3.7 km
Discover unique women's fashion at Ooh La La in Orange Beach, Alabama – your go-to boutique for stylish outfits and accessories.
Khloe and Kate Children’s Boutique
3.7 km
Explore trendy and high-quality children's clothing at Khloe and Kate Boutique in Orange Beach, Alabama, where style meets comfort.
Lucca
3.7 km
Explore Lucca in Orange Beach for fashionable women's clothing and accessories that elevate your style while you travel.
High Cotton Bath Co.
3.7 km
Discover unique bath products and clothing at High Cotton Bath Co. in Orange Beach, where local artisans meet Southern charm in a delightful boutique experience.
Fish On A Dish
3.7 km
Explore Fish On A Dish in Orange Beach - a charming gift shop offering handcrafted treasures and local art that capture the spirit of the Gulf Coast.
The Wharf Store
3.7 km
Explore The Wharf Store in Orange Beach for unique local gifts, souvenirs, and a taste of Alabama's coastal charm.
Glow Boutique
4.0 km
Explore Glow Boutique in Gulf Shores for unique gifts and local treasures, perfect for tourists seeking a memorable shopping experience.
Trading Co.Orange Beach
4.1 km
Explore a charming store in Orange Beach, Alabama, offering unique local treasures, perfect souvenirs, and an inviting shopping experience.
Surf Style
4.1 km
Discover the ultimate surfwear and beach accessories at Surf Style in Orange Beach, where coastal fashion meets vibrant style.
Paradise Isle Shopping Center
4.3 km
Explore Paradise Isle Shopping Center, a vibrant shopping mall in Gulf Shores offering diverse shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences for every tourist.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Roasted Oak
2.5 km
Discover Roasted Oak, a delightful bar and coffee shop in Gulf Shores, offering exquisite drinks and stunning views in Gulf State Park.
Live Bait Night Club
3.1 km
Discover the energetic ambiance and delicious dining at Live Bait Night Club, the perfect spot for a night of dancing and fun in Orange Beach.
The Port
3.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Port in Orange Beach, Alabama - the perfect bar for relaxation and socializing.
8 Reale OBAL
3.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at 8 Reale OBAL in Orange Beach, where refreshing drinks and a lively atmosphere await every tourist.
Sandshaker at the wharf
3.7 km
Discover the lively Sandshaker at the Wharf, a premier bar in Orange Beach offering delicious drinks, live music, and stunning waterfront views.
Red Or White at The Wharf
3.8 km
Experience the art of wine at Red Or White, where local flavors meet an exquisite selection in the heart of Orange Beach.
Pour Smart Bar
3.8 km
Discover Pour Smart Bar in Orange Beach, AL, where delightful drinks and a lively atmosphere await you at this coastal gem.
Island Time Daiquiris & Pizza at The Wharf
3.8 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Island Time Daiquiris & Pizza, where mouthwatering meals and refreshing drinks create the perfect beachside experience.
San Bar at the wharf
3.8 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and live music at San Bar at the Wharf, the ultimate bar and grill in Orange Beach, Alabama.
The Galway Irish Public House
4.2 km
Discover the heart of Ireland in Gulf Shores at The Galway Irish Public House, a cozy pub with delicious food, drinks, and live entertainment.
Big Beach Brewing
4.2 km
Explore the craft of local brewing at Big Beach Brewing in Gulf Shores, where every sip tells a story of passion, quality, and community spirit.
Hooters
4.4 km
Experience the thrill of sports and flavor at Hooters in Gulf Shores, your go-to destination for American cuisine and lively atmosphere.
Mudbugs Dive Bar
4.6 km
Discover Mudbugs Dive Bar in Gulf Shores, Alabama – a vibrant pub offering karaoke, sports, and arcade fun for an unforgettable night out.
High Tide Daiquiris & Mimosas LLC
4.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Gulf Shores at High Tide Daiquiris & Mimosas, where every cocktail is a celebration of coastal living.
Ice House Taproom
4.7 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at Ice House Taproom in Gulf Shores, a must-visit for food and beer lovers.
