National Parks in Alabama & The Gulf Coast

The Gulf Coast has bountiful natural resources, and Gulf Shores is right at the heart of it all. The following resources are maintained by the federal government, to be enjoyed by visitors who wish to experience all that natural Alabama has to offer. Check out the national refuges and national parks in Alabama.

Gulf Islands National Seashore

While the beaches of Gulf Shores & Orange Beach are without parallel for sunbathing and swimming, the Gulf Islands National Seashore near Pensacola provides a fun outdoor experience well worth the 45 minute drive. The Gulf Islands have been attracting curious visitors for hundreds of years, and have played a significant role in naval defense throughout our nation's history. Visit Historic Fort Barrancas, Fort Massachusetts, Fort McRee, and Fort Pickens, all of which were active during the Civil War. You can also explore the many trails in the Naval Live Oak Area section of the park. Bring a sandwich at one of our Gulf Shores condos or Orange Beach rentals and have a picnic at this wonderful national resource.

Dog River Scenic Blueway

If you love canoeing or kayaking, visit Dog River for a clean and peaceful float through local waters. Widely thought to be one of the most beautiful stretches of water in the region, Dog River is an 8 mile long aquatic trail.

Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge

Just a 15 minute ride from Gulf Shores, Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge is paradise for any nature lover. Established in 1980, the Refuge overs over 7,000 acres of wild space that functions as territory for hundreds of varieties of migratory birds, the endangered Alabama beach mouse, sea turtles, and more. You can also spot armadillos, red foxes, coyotes, and more. The dunes area glimpse into Alabama's wilder past, and one of the reasons it's regarded as one of the ten natural wonders of Alabama.

You can visit the Wildlife Refuge year-round. Fall is a great time to visit if you love bird watching (in fact the Alabama Coastal BirdFest holds several special events at Bon Secour each year). For sea turtles, hatching season takes place from late May to early August.

If you love being outdoors, rent one of our Orange Beach condos or Gulf Shores rentals and experience the Gulf Coast in all its splendor! Contact us today to make a reservation.