Park Headquarters, Gulf Shores Travel Guide

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Discover Alabama's Gulf Coast: Pristine beaches, scenic trails, and endless outdoor adventures await at Gulf State Park.

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Park Headquarters

The Gulf State Park Headquarters serves as the central point for accessing and exploring the vast natural beauty of Gulf State Park in Gulf Shores, Alabama. It provides information, resources, and assistance for visitors looking to enjoy the park's diverse range of activities and amenities.

A brief summary to Park Headquarters

20115 State Park Rd, Gulf Shores, Alabama, 36542, US
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Monday 8 am-4 pm
Tuesday 8 am-4 pm
Wednesday 8 am-4 pm
Thursday 8 am-4 pm
Friday 8 am-4 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Park Headquarters.

Pick up a trail map at the Headquarters or Visitor Center to navigate the extensive Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail system.
Check the park's website for a schedule of educational programs and guided nature walks at the Nature Center.
Consider purchasing an annual parking pass if you plan to visit Gulf State Park frequently.
Be aware of wildlife, such as alligators, and maintain a safe distance.
Visit during the spring or fall for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Gulf Shores Public Beach

Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge

Gulf Shores Museum

The Track - Gulf Shores

Fort Morgan State Historic Site

Explore Park Headquarters on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Park Headquarters, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

From Gulf Shores, head north on Highway 59. Turn right onto State Park Road (Highway 135) and follow it to the Park Headquarters, which will be on your left. Parking is $10 per day, with pay stations accepting cash and credit cards. An annual parking pass is available for $100 at the Park Headquarters.
Biking

From many points in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, you can access the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail and bike to the park headquarters. Several trailheads surround the park's perimeter. Bike rentals are available within the park.

Discover more about Park Headquarters

Gulf State Park Headquarters is the administrative hub of Gulf State Park, a 6,150-acre natural wonderland on Alabama's Gulf Coast. The park itself is a destination within a destination, offering a diverse landscape encompassing beaches, marshes, forests, and freshwater lakes. Established in 1939, the park has a rich history, with early facilities constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression.Today, Gulf State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore over 28 miles of paved trails ideal for hiking and biking, including the award-winning Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail. Lake Shelby, a 900-acre freshwater lake, offers opportunities for swimming, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier, stretching over 1,540 feet into the Gulf of Mexico, is a prime spot for anglers.The park is also dedicated to education and conservation. The Nature Center provides interactive exhibits showcasing the region's unique flora and fauna. Gulf State Park has a variety of accommodation options, including a campground with full hook-up campsites, cabins, and The Lodge at Gulf State Park, a Hilton Hotel.Whether you're seeking a relaxing beach getaway, an active outdoor adventure, or an educational experience, Gulf State Park offers something for everyone. The Headquarters is the perfect starting point to plan your exploration of this coastal treasure.