Alabama State Parks - RVing with Rex

The Complete Guide to Gulf State Park

Gulf State Park has become a mecca for lovers of the great outdoors vacationing on the Alabama Gulf Coast. A destination within the destination, there’s so much to see and do within the park’s 6,150 acres and 28 miles of trails.

Gulf State Park is a wonderful destination for experiencing nature and enjoying the beach. You can engage in a wide range of activities such as saltwater fishing, sunbathing on the beach, hiking and biking on the fantastic trails, and learning about the environment at the nature center. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or education, this state park has something for everyone.

Where Is Gulf State Park?

Gulf State Park is a beautiful natural oasis in the heart of Gulf Shores, Alabama. This stunning park spans over 6,500 acres and boasts some of the most breathtaking natural scenery in the region. It’s near major cities in Alabama and Florida including Orange Beach and Pensacola Beach.

Gulf State Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Gulf State Park opening hours and seasons

Gulf State Park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The trails and picnic areas are only open from sunrise to sunset. The main office is open on weekdays from 8 am-4 pm. Facilities within the park have varying operating hours throughout the year.

Tip: To avoid disappointment, call ahead to confirm facility hours of operation before visiting the park.

Driving to Gulf State Park

The park is conveniently located close to I-10. From I-10, take exit 44 which will lead you through several communities and then to the park. Alternatively, you can take the Foley Beach Express toll route for a faster arrival.

Getting around Gulf State Park

The most convenient way to explore the state park is by parking your vehicle at a designated parking area and then walking to the different points of interest. Additionally, more than 29 miles of hiking trails and boardwalks are available for exploring on foot or by bicycle. The park provides a map to assist you in planning your adventures.

What to see and do in Gulf State Park

Gulf State Park offers abundant adventure and natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy camping, fishing, hiking, nature centers, and beaches.

Angler Academy

Angler Academy is a seasonal program available at Gulf State Park from May to August. It is designed for those interested in saltwater fishing to learn the basics. The lessons on the pier cover fundamental concepts, techniques, rules, and regulations for saltwater fishing in Alabama and the necessary tools and equipment to catch big fish.

To participate in this program, you must have a temporary fishing license. It can be a fun group activity for 2 to 12 people. The cost per person is $15.

Beaches

Immerse yourself in the sub-tropical paradise of Gulf State Park where over 3.5 miles of pristine, ivory-sand beaches await your arrival. Whether you seek a serene escape or an adventure-filled day with your loved ones, these family-friendly beaches are the perfect spot to bask in the sun and create unforgettable memories.

Depending on when you go, you might encounter gentle, still water that’s perfect for wading in or you might experience more waves if you want to go surfing.

Since the campground is only 1.5 miles away from the beach you can easily walk back and forth. Since the beach is part of a state park, there are plenty of educational activities during the summer for young families.

The water usually doesn’t start getting warm enough to swim in comfortably until June but it can stay at a comfortable temperature until well into November. Even when it’s too chilly to swim, you can still take a leisurely walk on the sand.

Dog Pond

Visitors traveling with furry friends should check out the Dog Pond at the Lake Shelby Picnic Area. This area is open from 8 am to sunset and offers dogs the chance to run and play off-leash. The area has playground pieces allowing dogs to explore tunnels, jump through hoops, and enjoy the lake’s green grass and cool water. It’s an excellent spot for your pup to have fun and exercise.

Fishing

This park is perfect for anglers as it offers various fishing options. You can enjoy saltwater fishing off the pier or freshwater fishing from Lake Shelby. The park has several fish species including bass, bream, catfish, croaker, king mackerel, speckled trout, and redfish. Fishing is an excellent activity for those who want to experience the park’s natural beauty, view the wildlife, and even catch dinner.

Tip: Should you fish during your visit, a fishing license is required.

Hiking and biking

This state park has more than 29 miles of paved trails and boardwalks. These trails exhibit the park’s several unique ecosystems. The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail system connects Orange Beach and Gulf Shores and several trails are part of this system.

Recreational opportunities along the trail include biking, hiking, wildlife watching, playgrounds, fishing, and camping.

For the second consecutive year USA Today named the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail the best recreational trail in the country for 2024.

The trails are open daily from dawn to dusk. Along them, you can see spectacular sights including live oak trees draped in Spanish moss and amazing wildlife such as bobcats and alligators.

The park provides a map to help you plan your hikes during your stay and the trails vary in length and difficulty offering options for every age and ability. The most popular trails include Rosemary Dunes, Gopher Tortoise Trail, and Lakeview Trail.

The park has made biking easier for its guests by implementing a free bike share program. There are 50 bikes available to rent at stations scattered throughout the park. To ride, download the Bloom Bike Share App and scan the code at the station. The first three hours are free of charge. And, when you’re done, return the bike to the nearest station.

If you’d like to travel the trails by Segway, contact Coastal Segway Adventures at the main park office near Lake Shelby. They offer two-hour guided tours throughout the park. Their knowledgeable staff will first run through some safety drills and information. Then, they’ll guide you along the trails sharing information about the park and its wildlife. Most tours also include a stop to say “hi” to the park’s resident alligator, Lefty.

Nature Center

If you’re looking for an exciting and educational experience, plan to spend some time at the Nature Center. Located in the campground, the center is open Monday through Saturday from 9 am-4 pm. Visitors can explore an interactive living museum featuring diverse plants and animals native to the Gulf Coast region.

The Nature Center offers various weekly programs including beach walks, pier walks, nature walks, and nature time. These programs provide opportunities to learn about the unique flora and fauna of the region and are suitable for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or just looking for a fun outing with the family, the Nature Center is a must-visit destination.

Visitor Center

The Gulf State Park Visitor Center is an excellent starting point for your visit to the park. It’s located in the Lake Shelby Picnic Area and provides visitors with trail maps, parking passes, and a chance to chat with knowledgeable staff. You can also purchase official gear here. The center is open from Monday to Saturday, from 10 am-4 pm.

Best times to visit Gulf State Park

If you ever get a chance to visit Gulf State Park, you’re in for a treat! However, it’s essential to plan your trip carefully. Some times of the year are better than others depending on the event or activity you’re interested in.

There are various reasons why some people prefer to travel during the winter season. Should you want to visit the park during wintertime, February is the best month. It’s the driest winter month with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to the mid-60s. With a jacket, exploring and enjoying the park this month is comfortable.

Many travelers yearn to explore this park in a peaceful environment. The ideal time to visit the park to evade crowds is in November. A visit during this month will enable you to explore the park at your own pace without worrying about long lines, traffic, and crowded areas.

The best time to visit the park for ideal weather is in October. This month, the temperature typically ranges from the upper 50s to the low 80s, perfect for outdoor activities. Another advantage of visiting in October is that there are usually only 4 days of precipitation making it an excellent time for an adventurous trip.

Annual events in Gulf State Park

This park hosts various events throughout the year including family days, holiday celebrations, and educational activities. Some events are held annually.

First Day Hike

The First Day Hike is an annual event on January 1 in the park. This fun and adventurous event allows visitors to explore the park’s beautiful trails while getting in their first workout of the year. A naturalist will lead the hike and take visitors to various park highlights such as Lake Shelby and Branyon Beach.

Shark Week

Shark Week is an annual event held in early July. It offers various fun and educational activities for visitors of all ages. You can attend the Marine Fisheries Ecology Program presentations, interact with stingrays in touch tanks, and take guided tours of shark habitats. It’s a great opportunity to learn more about these fascinating creatures and their role in the ocean ecosystem.

Where to stay in Gulf State Park

Deciding on accommodations is one of the most important tasks when planning a vacation. Fortunately, this park offers you a wide range of options both inside and in the vicinity of the park.

Inside the park

There are many accommodation options available within the park’s boundaries. Whether you prefer camping under the starry sky, staying in a luxurious hotel, or residing in a cabin near the lake, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Camping

This state park is an excellent location for campers who enjoy a comfortable, convenient outdoor experience. With 496 sites available for tents and RVs, the park provides a scenic natural backdrop for nature enthusiasts. The campground offers various sites including waterfront, pull-through, and back-in sites with modern amenities.

All full hookup camping pads are at least 45 feet (most back-ins) to 65 feet (most pull-throughs) long with more than enough room for big rig RVs with pullouts, have picnic tables, and pedestal grill tops (no fire rings are available but you are welcome to bring your own that are above ground). There are 11 modern, air-conditioned bathhouses throughout the Campground.

Recently, the park added three glamping sites and 11 primitive sites to cater to the preferences of contemporary campers. The glamping sites provide a luxurious camping experience with upscale amenities, including king-sized beds, air conditioning, and outdoor kitchens. The primitive sites are perfect for those who prefer a more traditional camping experience.

Cabins

There are 20 cabins visitors can stay in at Gulf State Park. The two styles offered are the woods cabins and lakeside cabins. These cabins provide unmatched views of Lake Shelby, longleaf pines, and the palmetto forest of coastal Alabama. Cabins have various bedroom choices and feature full kitchens, dining areas, outdoor seating, and more.

Cottages

Gulf State Park has a beautiful set of Eagle Cottages available for rent. These well-equipped cottages have modern amenities to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. Each cottage has a unique design and is surrounded by lush greenery, offering a serene environment. The Eagle Cottages are perfect for families and groups of friends who want to enjoy the park’s natural beauty while staying in a cozy and private cottage.

The Lodge at Gulf State Park

The Lodge at Gulf State Park, a Hilton Hotel, truly captures the essence of Gulf Shores. It’s an eco-friendly property located in the heart of the park. The Lodge offers a unique blend of rustic charm and modern luxury.

There’s something for everyone at The Lodge. The breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico, miles of pristine white sand beaches, and endless outdoor recreation opportunities make it the ultimate destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. You can explore the park’s hiking and biking trails, go fishing or kayaking, or simply relax by the pool.

The hotel’s on-site restaurants and bars offer dining and entertainment options that will satisfy even the most discerning guests.

Towns near Gulf State Park

Whether you prefer the bustling atmosphere of beach towns or the charming tranquility of quaint communities, there’s an ideal place just a short drive from the park.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Gulf State Park is an exceptional natural asset in Gulf Shores. As a means of optimizing your visit, Gulf Shores makes an excellent base of operations given its immediate proximity to the park.

This delightful city presents a perfect location for exploring the park’s awe-inspiring beauty in conjunction with its copious recreational opportunities. Gulf Shores provides an extensive range of accommodation options to suit your needs, whether you prefer a camping experience, a cozy bed and breakfast, a sumptuous resort, or a budget-friendly hotel.

In terms of dining options, the city offers a diverse array of restaurants with culinary delights, from succulent seafood dishes to delectable barbecues.

Orange Beach, Alabama

Orange Beach is an optimal choice for visitors seeking to stay near the park, a mere 2.5 miles away. This coastal city offers a wide array of dining, lodging, and recreational options catering to its visitors’ varied interests and budgets.

Tip: Orange Beach offers an extensive range of recreational activities such as fishing, boating, kayaking, and hiking allowing visitors to take in the picturesque beauty of Alabama’s Gulf Coast.

Where to eat in Gulf State Park

You have various dining options to choose from at Gulf State Park. Here are some popular choices whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal in an upscale setting.

Foodcraft

Foodcraft is an upscale restaurant located on the picturesque coast within the park. It serves delectable American cuisine focusing on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu also includes a wide selection of regional craft beer, wine, and signature cocktails.

The cherry on top is breathtaking views of the sun setting over the Gulf of Mexico which can be enjoyed from the restaurant’s spacious outdoor patio.

Roasted Oak

Roasted Oak is a charming establishment that caters to caffeine and wine enthusiasts alike. During the daytime the cozy space transforms into a bustling coffee shop offering a wide range of hot and cold brews, delicious pastries, and breakfast items to start your day off right.

As the sun sets, the atmosphere changes and Roasted Oak becomes a sophisticated wine bar serving a selection of fine wines from around the world, tasty appetizers, shared plates, and grab-and-go items, perfect for a romantic evening out or a catch-up session with friends. With convenient hours from 6 am-10 pm daily, Roasted Oak is the ultimate destination for a satisfying and memorable experience.

Perch

Perch is a magnificent restaurant nestled inside the park where you can indulge in the most heavenly cocktails and cuisine. The menu offers a tantalizing selection of coastal seafood and classic American favorites cooked to perfection by expert chefs. To accompany your meal, you can choose from a unique selection of wines or one of the handcrafted cocktails.

While you unwind from a day exploring the park, you can also enjoy the breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico from the restaurant’s elevated position. It’s an experience sure to leave you with a lasting memory.

Gulf State Park facts

1. The park was among the first in Alabama

Gulf State Park, one of the first five parks created in Alabama, opened on May 20, 1939.

2. The Eagle cottages are noteworthy

The 11 Eagle Cottages were listed in National Geographic’s Unique Lodges of the World in 2019.

3. The CCC built the park

In the past, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) constructed the initial 16 cabins at Gulf State Park. What’s interesting is that cabins 3, 7, and 11 were constructed sideways facing the east and these are considered lucky dice numbers. This has led many to question whether the designer of this area was an avid gambler.

4. It has the largest pier on the Gulf

Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier is the only public pier on the Gulf of Mexico and the largest pier in the Gulf.

5. There are ecosystems galore

There are nine distinct ecosystems at Gulf State Park including pine savannas, maritime forests, fresh and salt marshes, dune ridges and sand scrub habitats, freshwater and brackish lakes, dunes, the beach and gulf, and coastal swales.

Final thoughts

Gulf State Park is a captivating destination that allows visitors to escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life and indulge in the breathtaking natural beauty of Alabama’s Gulf Coast. The spotless beaches, exhilarating trails, and exciting events appeal to every visitor. With so much to offer, it’s no wonder that this state park attracts over 600,000 annual visitors.

FAQs

How much does it cost to visit Gulf State Park?

An all-day parking fee is $10. Additional fees apply for park amenities and activities.

How much time should I spend at Gulf State Park?

It is recommended that you spend 5 to 7 days exploring Gulf State Park due to the park’s abundance of activities and sights.

Are there sea turtles at Gulf State Park?

Sea turtles nest in Gulf State Park and regular turtle festivals and programs offer a great opportunity to learn more about these magnificent creatures. If you’re lucky, you may even spot one during your visit.

Most recent Alabama travel stories

Worth Pondering…

Sweet home Alabama
Where the skies are so blue
Sweet home Alabama
Lord, I’m coming home to you

—Lynyrd Skynyrd, 1974

6 Bucket List Hikes in State Parks

Skip the national park crowds and adventure in your own backyard

No matter how you slice it, I love state parks. According to search results over 9.2 million visitors explored forests, canyons, beaches, and deserts at more than 8,500 state parks in 2023. And those parks comprised of more than 18.6 million acres which hosted 14,672 trails covering more than 52,000 miles in total length (more than two trips around the Earth’s equator).

With so many trails and so much beauty, it can be tough to know where to start. Fortunately, you don’t have to. I’ve rounded up five of the best bucket-list hikes in state parks throughout the U.S. from the deserts of Southern California and West Texas to the Black Hills of South Dakota to the Alabama Gulf Coast.

Walk among slot canyons, native palm groves, deep river gorges, alpine lakes, and vast desert views all on beautiful under-the-radar public lands.

First, a confession: I, like many hikers I know, have been guilty of viewing state parks as merely the backyard option. Even as I’ve ticked off visits to nearly half of the 63 national parks, I’ve only recently come to fully appreciate nature’s bounty in state parks.

The hiking opportunities are virtually endless and there’s an incredible mosaic of experiences in America’s state parks. Collectively, these protected areas generate a whopping 850 million visits annually across nearly 7,000 park units encompassing over 19 million acres.

You might even say that America’s Best Idea—creating national parks—was a knockoff of state conservation and recreation efforts. The state park system was born in 1862 with California’s Yosemite Valley and Mariposa Grove of giant sequoias; it was ten years later that Yellowstone mostly in Wyoming became the first national park. Sequoia and Yosemite in California were second and third both in autumn of 1890.

State parks have long protected some of America’s most prized wild places. Based on buzz from fellow hikers, state park staff picks, and personal experience here’s a short list of great state parks for hiking—and primo hikes there.

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

1. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, California

Although many state parks are smaller than their federal counterparts there are monsters in this group as well.

At 585,930 acres, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is the largest of California’s state parks and one of the biggest in the country. It invites hikers into the mountains, slot canyons, palm groves, and wildflower meadows and its diverse habitat is home to everything from bighorn sheep and jackrabbits to the chuckwalla (a rotund lizard) and red-diamond rattlesnake.

Entrance fee: $10 per vehicle

Best time to visit: Late winter for the mild temperatures and wildflowers which peak around the last week of February and the first two weeks of March.

Best hike: To check out seasonal wildflowers and see a rare palm oasis where groundwater has been forced close to the earth’s surface by the rock underneath it you can’t beat Borrego Palm Canyon Loop.

Distance: 3.25-mile loop

Here are some helpful resources:

Big Bend Ranch State Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

2. Big Bend Ranch State Park, Texas

It kind of goes without saying that Texas would have a massive state park and this one—the state’s largest—covers 311,000 acres of high desert. Located due west of Big Bend National Park the state park encompasses the rugged mountains and steep canyons along the U.S. side of the Rio Grande as well as the Chihuahuan Desert.

Entrance fee: $5 per person

Best time to visit: Late winter to spring when temperatures are moderate is perfect. Summertime temperatures can be dangerously hot rising to more than 100 degrees before noon and reaching as high as 130. Always carry loads of extra water and avoid or reduce activity from late morning through the afternoon.

Best hike: The Fresno West Rim Overlook Trail heads to the edge of Fresno Canyon and offers vistas of the Flatirons of the Solitario (similar to their counterpart in Boulder, Colorado but more desolate). The views are seemingly endless providing a sense of scale that might otherwise be difficult to appreciate in this vast landscape.

Distance: 5.1 miles round trip

Snow Canyon State Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

3. Snow Canyon State Park, Utah

Snow Canyon State Park is filled with great hiking, beautiful Navajo sandstone formations, ancient lava rock (basalt), and out-of-this-world view.

Cut by water, sculpted by wind and time, Snow Canyon’s Navajo sandstone cliffs share the same history and geology as Zion National Park to the east.

Snow Canyon State Park is one of those state parks often overlooked by people touring Utah. While Utah is obviously known for The Mighty Five and as a prime destination for winter recreation as well, there are also 43 state parks. Many of these parks are just as majestic as the national parks but without the crowds. Also, state parks are generally dog friendly.

Hiking is the prime activity in the canyon. As soon as you drive in, you can quickly see why. Gorgeous red and white sandstone streaks together with black lava flows spilling along the canyon floor- create a perfect playground for exploring on foot. Along with slot canyons to enter and lava tubes to explore, the sweeping vistas and overlooks might have you grabbing for your camera. You’ll need more than one day to do a thorough job of exploring the park’s 18 hiking trails

Entrance fee: $10 per vehicle (Utah resident); $15 per vehicle (non-resident)

Best time to visit: Spring and fall have average high temperatures of 80 degrees and 73 degrees respectively creating a sweet spot for active adventures at Snow Canyon. Summer can get pretty warm with very little shade available but getting out early in the day is ideal. Winter packs mild temps and all activities remain available.

Best hike: Hike through a jumbled lava field, the vivid remains of a long ago volcanic eruption.

The Lava Flow Trail, also known as the Lava Tubes is a 2.5 mile, family-friendly trail that takes you back in time. The trail takes you past three lava cave entrances. Entering the caves can be a little dangerous as it can get dark and slippery at times. There is a dedicated parking for the trail head.

Distance: 2.5 miles round trip

For more inspiration check out The Ultimate Guide to Snow Canyon State Park

Custer State Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

4. Custer State Park, South Dakota

Encompassing 71,000 acres in the Black Hills, Custer State Park is home to plentiful wildlife and adventure; camping, hiking, biking, swimming, fishing, or relaxing, there’s something here for everyone. With its combination of rolling hills, stunning granite peaks, and abundant wildlife, Custer is a uniquely beautiful location

The park offers many hiking opportunities that allow visitors to get off the beaten path and explore the park in an up close and personal way. In addition to the designed and marked trails, off-trail hiking also is encouraged in Custer and visitors are allowed to hike wherever they would like. Depending on the area of the park in which you hike, the trails differ greatly in their topography and geography.

Park entrance fee: $20 per vehicle; valid for 7 consecutive days

Best time to visit: May through September

Best hike: The heart of the Black Elk Peak Loop is Black Elk Peak, the highest natural point in South Dakota. That’s certainly enough of a draw but the surrounding beauty and wildlife make this a majestic in Custer State Park and the Black Hills National Forest.

Long before arriving at Black Elk Peak stroll through quiet woodlands with views of the rolling Black Hills region and rock formations (including Little Devils Tower). Though you may already expect wildlife on your hikes, Custer State Park ups the ante: Wild bison, pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, elk and several species of deer may be spotted along the trail.

Distance: 7.9–mile loop

Check this out to learn more:

5. Gulf State Park, Alabama

There is something for everyone at Gulf State Park. The beach pavilion provides picnic tables as an escape from the beach, the nature center is a great place for the kids to learn, the swimming pool provides refreshment for visitors, and the Lake Shelby day use area offers kayaking and canoeing. For a change of pace while visiting check out the fishing and education pier, miles of hiking and biking on the Backcountry trail, beautiful flowers in the butterfly garden, and additional education at the learning campus, interpretive center in the near future.

The Park features 29 miles of paved trails or boardwalks that inspire visitors to explore the nine distinct ecosystems within park boundaries. These trails are also included as part of the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail system that connect Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, Alabama.

Enjoy the serenity of Gulf Oak Ridge trail as you stroll underneath Live Oak trees draped in Spanish moss. Take a hike on Rosemary Dunes and be on the look out for the elusive Bobcat. If you’re hoping to see an Alligator, explore Gopher Tortoise trail along the edge of Lake Shelby!

Entrance fee: Varies depending on activity; trails are free

Best time to visit: Summer is the most popular time to visit Gulf State Park. To avoid the busy summertime visit March through May and September through November for pleasant weather. The park is also popular with snowbirds during the winter months.

Best hike: Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail system consists of 26 trails among nine distinct ecosystems that make up more than 28 miles of paved trails within the 6,150 acres of land inside the park. The trail winds through the park and connects the cities of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Throughout the trail, locals and visitors can enjoy biking, jogging, walking, skating, rock climbing, wildlife watching, plant and tree identification, photography and connecting to nature.

Picacho Peak State Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

6. Picacho Peak State Park, Arizona

Visitors traveling along I-10 in southern Arizona can’t miss the prominent 1,500-foot peak of Picacho Peak State Park. Enjoy the view as you hike the trails that wind up the peak and often in the spring overlook a sea of wildflowers. The park and surrounding area are known for its unique geological significance, outstanding and varied desert growth, and historical importance. The unique shape has been used as a landmark by travelers since prehistoric times. One of the first recordings was in the 1700s by the Anza Expedition as it passed through the area.

The park offers a visitor center with exhibits and a park store, a playground, historical markers, a campground, and picnic areas. Many hiking trails traverse the desert landscape and offer hikers both scenic and challenging hikes. Hike prepared and know your limits. Bring plenty of food and water and wear proper footwear. Enjoy the beauty of the desert and the amazing views.

Park entrance fee: $7 per vehicle

Best time to visit: Spring is the best time to visit when the wildflowers are in bloom and the weather is mild and pleasant. The park is also popular with snowbirds. Summer can bring temperatures in excel of 110 degrees F.

Best hike: There are two routes to reach the summit. The first and shortest route is the Hunter Trail. It is rated difficult and steeply ascends the north face of Picacho Peak. The second is the Sunset Vista trail. It is approximately a mile longer and considered moderate for the first two miles. After that it gets steep and difficult especially after intersecting with the Hunter Trail. The total distance to reach the peak via the Sunset Vista Trai is 3.1 miles (6.2 miles round trip) and via the Hunter Trail is 2.0 miles (4.0 miles round trip). These trails are not recommended during the hot summer season.

Here are some articles to help:

Honorable Mentions

Many other deserving state parks didn’t make this list. Those include Vogel in Georgia, Dead Horse Point in Utah, and Shenandoah River in Virginia. The hiking options go on and on—like the trails themselves—no matter which agency manages the land.

Worth Pondering…

As soon as he saw the Big Boots, Pooh knew that an Adventure was about to happen, and he brushed the honey off his nose with the back of his paw and spruced himself up as well as he could, so as to look Ready for Anything.

—A. A. Milne, Winnie-the-Pooh

State Parks and National Parks: Here’s Everything You Need to Know

A comprehensive guide to choosing the perfect camping experience

State parks and national parks offer standout RV camping experiences, each set in unique, natural landscapes. While there are key differences between them, the main distinction comes down to ownership.

National parks, large areas of untouched nature, belong to all Americans. Because of this, any changes or developments in these parks require federal government approval. Essentially, every citizen has a say in how these parks are managed.

On the other hand, state parks are owned by the residents of a specific state and are managed by that state’s government. They are funded by the state which also sets the rules for the park’s use. This includes who can use the park and how it can be used. A recent example of this is a law in Florida that prioritizes state residents over visitors from other states when making camping reservations in Florida State Parks.

Considering these basic differences between the national and state park systems, it’s clear that each can offer a unique camping experience. Each type of park has its pros and cons, so understanding these can help you plan a great RV camping trip. Use this article as a guide in your decision-making process, helping you plan a wonderful camping experience.

Lovers Key State Park, Florida *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

State parks

Advantages

State parks offer a host of appealing benefits for families seeking a retreat from the daily hustle without the need for a substantial road trip. With more than 6,600 state parks scattered across the U.S., chances are there’s one conveniently located near you. This proximity to home can often make camping at a state park more cost-effective than venturing to a national park. Additionally, state parks tend to charge lower fees and in some cases entrance is free.

In terms of amenities, state parks typically offer more developed facilities than national parks. You’re likely to encounter well-maintained camping sites, picnic tables, and multiple access points. What you probably won’t find, however, are massive crowds vying to witness one of the iconic natural wonders often protected within national parks.

Palmetto State Park, Texas *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Disadvantages

On the downside, state parks, as a general rule, are smaller than their national counterparts. Their compact size and easy accessibility can make them popular camping destinations so depending on the park and the season you might need to book your spot several months or more in advance.

The smaller scale of state parks also means they house fewer unique ecosystems or natural attractions. Multi-day back-packing expeditions may be off the table but you can still expect a range of wonderful trails and spectacular sights that can be explored within a few hours.

Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

National parks

Advantages

The most famous offerings of the National Park Service (NPS) are the 63 national parks including Arches, Great Smoky Mountains, and Grand Canyon. But 424 NPS units across the country also include national monuments, national seashores, national recreation areas, national battlefields, and national memorials.

All told, national parks span thousands of acres and sometimes cross multiple state borders. Depending on where you live, a national park may take longer to get to than a state park. However, chances are, it will have at least one or two spectacular and unique attractions within its expansive boundaries.

Because of their size, you’ll find amazing, epic experiences in national parks that you won’t find anywhere else. From wildlife viewing opportunities to multi-day hikes or horseback riding trips through a variety of ecosystems, national parks provide many activities that you won’t find in state parks.

In addition, national parks often provide educational opportunities and visitor programs. For example, at Carlsbad Caverns National Park in New Mexico, you can book a guided tour of the massive cave.

U.S. national parks frequently make it onto the bucket lists of people from around the world. There’s a certain prestige to ticking a park such as Joshua Tree or Zion off your to-dos. Expect them to be popular and you won’t be disappointed.

If you are looking for a back-to-nature camping experience, you can find it in a national park. Campsites at national parks are basic so you can unwind in a beautiful and peaceful natural environment without interruption.

White Sands National Park, New Mexico *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Disadvantages

Undoubtedly, each national park with its unique features and attractions offers a spectacular and singular experience. However, it’s important to consider some potential drawbacks of these awe-inspiring locations.

For instance, they are typically more expensive to visit compared to state parks due to their remote locations resulting in greater travel distance and higher entrance fees. This distant placement could deter campers with limited vacation time.

Furthermore, the qualities that make national parks so endearing also render them exceedingly popular. This popularity can make securing a campsite during the busy season from May to October particularly challenging. National parks tend to offer limited camping, if at all.

Some campers may also perceive the lack of amenities at more rustic national park campsites as a disadvantage. If you’re hoping for comprehensive facilities such as hookups, you’re not likely to find it here.

What you should consider when choosing between state parks and national parks

Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site, Pennsylvania *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

How much time do you have?

Your choice between a state park and a national park for your RV camping trip will hinge on several considerations. Firstly, how much time can you allocate?

If you have only a week of vacation, the journey to a national park might not be feasible. In such cases, a local state park could present the perfect getaway. Conversely, if you have the luxury of several weeks or more, an RV camping trip to a national park can create memories that will last a lifetime.

What’s your budget?

Inevitably, money also has to factor into your decision-making process. What’s your budget including travel expenses, park entrance, and camping fees? If you’re on a tighter budget, camping at a state park makes better sense than traveling to a national park and paying higher fees when you get there.

Gulf State Park, Alabama *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

What’s important to you?

What do you want from your camping experience? Are you simply looking for a base camp while you explore nearby attractions? Do you want to immerse yourself in the wonders of nature for a few days or a week? Do you want state park amenities like a playground or splash park for the kids or a cafe where you can enjoy an icy cold brew coffee or ice cream? State parks will give you more amenities while national parks offer a more immersive natural experience. Consider what’s important to you before you book a vacation at either a national or state park.

Conclusion

Choosing between national parks and state parks for your camping trip involves considering various factors. Let’s organize these considerations for each.

Joshua Tree National Park, California *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

National parks

Size and experience: National parks are vast areas of protected land that provide unique and immersive experiences with nature. Despite a higher cost, the exceptional sights and features usually justify the expense.
Amenities: National parks generally offer fewer amenities than state parks.
Crowds: Popular park attractions often draw large crowds during the summer months leading to potential traffic jams and challenges in finding parking or a campsite.
Mitigation strategies: You can avoid the crowds by traveling during off-peak seasons or using less crowded access points. Additionally, consider exploring less popular attractions within the park.

Vogel State Park, Georgia *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

State parks

Accessibility and variety: State parks are generally easier to access than national parks and can offer a wide range of natural experiences at a lower cost.
Park rules: Since each state manages its parks differently, rules can vary from park to park.
Amenities: If amenities are a priority, state parks usually offer a broader selection. It’s recommended to check with the specific park for available facilities.

One of the fantastic aspects of the U.S. is the ability to choose from diverse camping experiences. The vast expanses of national parks offer unforgettable adventures while state parks provide convenience and a distinctly regional experience. Exploring both allows for a broad spectrum of camping experiences, each with its unique charms.

State parks to visit

When most people think about America’s parks, they think of national parks like Zion and the Grand Canyon but many state parks can rival even some of the best national parks. The U.S. is home to more than 6,600 state park sites which protect over 14 million acres of diverse landscapes from arid deserts to coastal forests and soaring mountains. If you were to explore one every day, it would take you over 18 years to see every state park. Don’t know where to start? Check out these five standout state parks around the country and the features that make them well worth the visit.

Custer State Park, South Dakota

Many visitors come to Custer State Park—covering over 70,000 acres in South Dakota’s Black Hills—to swim, paddle boat, fish, or simply admire the view of the incredibly picturesque Lake Sylvan. However, the park is perhaps best known for its herd of approximately 1,500 free-ranging bison, one of the world’s largest bison herds. Drive the 18-mile Wildlife Loop Road and there is a good chance you’ll come to a halt when bison cross in front of you. Watch out for wild turkey, deer, elk, wild burros, pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, and mountain goats, too.

My Old Kentucky Home State Park, Kentucky

One of Kentucky’s more quaint state parks, this site centers around the former plantation that inspired the imagery featured in My Old Kentucky Home which is recognized as the official state song and arguably best known for its ties to the Kentucky Derby.

My Old Kentucky Home State Park offers tours of the historic Federal Hill mansion, though tickets are required ($16/adult; $14/senior). Guests can also hit the links on the park’s 18-hole golf course and in the summer visit the outdoor theater to catch a production of The Stephen Foster Story music which features more than 50 songs from the creator of My Old Kentucky Home.

Hunting Island State Park, South Carolina

Hunting Island State Park is a popular vacation destination located in the South Carolina Lowcountry and attracts nearly one million visitors a year. The park features five miles of beachfront, a saltwater lagoon, and the state’s only publicly accessible lighthouse.

Located on 5,000 acres of the barrier island, Hunting Island State Park offers a variety of activities. In addition to the beach, you can enjoy hiking trails, fishing, and boating. The park also includes a visitor center, a theater, and interactive exhibits.

Hunting Island State Park campgrounds feature full hookups, water, and electricity. Some sites feature gravel pads while others are paved. There are also cabins available. There are also restroom facilities, a shower house, a grocery store, and a dump station.

The campground has an excellent range of sites with campsites able to accommodate RVs from 28 to 40 feet. However, a two-night minimum is required. Most sites are located near the beach and are easy to maneuver.

Hunting Island State Park also features a fishing pier. The pier extends 1,120 feet into Fripp Inlet. You can fish in the saltwater lagoon, Johnson Creek, and the harbor river.

Dead Horse Point Park, Utah *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Dead Horse Point State Park, Utah

Dead Horse Point is located at the end of a mesa 2,000 feet above the Colorado River on the edge of Canyonlands National Park. The vista offers outstanding views of the river and surrounding canyon country. Many excellent photos are taken here. It’s also a certified International Dark Sky Park.

There are a few short hikes around the edge of the mesa with stunning views into the deep canyons. The Intrepid Trail System offers 16.6 miles of hiking and biking trails with varying degrees of difficulty.

Nestled within a grove of junipers, the Kayenta Campground offers a peaceful, shaded respite from the surrounding desert. All 21 campsites offer lighted shade structures, picnic tables, fire rings, and tent pads. All sites are also equipped with RV electrical hookups (20/30/50 amp). Modern restroom facilities are available, and hiking trails lead directly from the campground to various points of interest within the park including the West Rim Trail, East Rim Trail, Wingate Campground, or the Visitor Center.

New in 2018, the Wingate Campground sits atop the mesa with far-reaching views of the area’s mountain ranges and deep canyons. This campground contains thirty-one 31 campsites, 20 of which have electrical hookups that support RV campers while 11 are hike-in tent-only sites. RV sites will accommodate vehicles up to 56 feet and there is a dump station at the entrance to the campground.

Catalina State Park, Arizona

Catalina State Park sits at the base of the majestic Santa Catalina Mountains. The park is a haven for desert plants and wildlife and nearly 5,000 saguaros. The 5,500 acres of foothills, canyons, and streams invite camping, picnicking, and bird watching—more than 150 species of birds call the park home. The park provides miles of equestrian, birding, hiking, and biking trails that wind through the park and into the Coronado National Forest at elevations near 3,000 feet.

The park is located within minutes of the Tucson metropolitan area. This scenic desert park also offers equestrian trails and an equestrian center provides a staging area for trail riders with plenty of trailer parking. Bring along your curiosity and your sense of adventure as you take in the beautiful mountain backdrop, desert wildflowers, cacti, and wildlife.

Worth Pondering…

“Would you tell me, please, which way I ought to go from here?”
“That depends a good deal on where you want to get to,” said the Cat.

—Lewis Carrol

Alabama: 15 Road Trips Ideas for Every Interest

No matter what your interest is, Alabama has a trail for that

Take a journey back in time, explore Alabama’s rich cultural heritage, see the wonder of the spring or fall bird migration, or just enjoy a peaceful drive through a blend of brilliant autumn foliage. Alabama has great adventures for every interest on the many tours and trails just waiting to be discovered.

Alabama Welcome Center *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

No matter what your interest is, Alabama has a trail for that. I’m not talking about hiking, biking, or walking trails. I’m talking about road trips that wind their way across the state and highlight the state’s diversity and history. There is a trail for every interest. Are you into art? There is a trail for that. History? There is a trail for that.

The Alabama Department of Tourism has established 19 different trails that take visitors to incredible history, natural wonders, dining, and more. Let me introduce you to the fabulous trails of exploration in Alabama.

Audubon Bird Sanctuary on Dolphin Island *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Nature Trails

We’ll begin with a collection of stops that highlight Alabama’s incredible beauty and wildlife.

Dauphin Island Sea Lab *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

1. A Circle of Colors Trail

As the greens of summer surrender to glittering yellow poplars, scarlet dogwoods, orange maples, and golden hickories, Alabama unfolds its patchwork quilt of color. Fall colors begin showing in the mountains of North Alabama in early October and then sweep across the region. Colors will be at their peak from late October to early November.

The Circle of Colors Trail is a winding circuitous route that takes you across the northern half of the state from Oak Mountain State Park in Birmingham to the Bankhead National Forest near Huntsville and points in between to experience glorious fall colors in the Southern Appalachians.

Audubon Bird Sanctuary *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

2. Alabama Birding Trail

Alabama is a birding paradise with forests, mountains, meadows, swamps, and beaches creating a plethora of avian habitats. Even if you aren’t a diehard birder, you will love visiting one of the 280 stops along the Alabama Birding Trail that takes you to some breathtaking landscapes and of course, opportunities to spot over 430 species of birds—bald eagles, osprey, a variety of tanagers, well, you get the idea.

The birding trail has been divided up into eight separate geologic regions: the Appalachian Highlands, Black Belt, Coastal, North Alabama, Piedmont Plateau, Piney Woods, West Alabama, and Wiregrass Regions.

Flower Trails

Alabama is dotted with gorgeous botanical gardens that brighten every season with brilliantly colored and fragrant blooms. And there is a trail for that.

Alabama Gulf Coast *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

3. Alabama Garden Trail

Gorgeous, immaculately-maintained landscapes are on display all across the state, and thanks to the wide range of climates and types of soil in Alabama, you will find a variety of stunning settings as you travel.

The Alabama Garden Trail takes you to six spectacular gardens from Bellingrath Gardens near Mobile where over 300 species of azaleas light up the 35-acre estate and rows of live oak bring a Southern charm to the grounds of the Huntsville Botanical Garden in the north where limestone columns from the old historic courthouse act as the focal point for the expansive grounds.

The trail also makes stops at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens, Mobile Botanical Gardens, and Dothan Botanical Gardens as well as Aldridge Gardens in Hoover near Birmingham.

Art and Antique Trails

Whether you are looking to purchase antiques, collectibles, or an inspiring work of art, travel the backroads of Alabama on these aptly named trails.

Alabama mural *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

4. Alabama Mural Trail

Towns and cities big and small across Alabama have embraced mural art to grace the sides of buildings and bring a sense of community to the town.

The Alabama Mural Trail leads you to a diverse set of detailed mural art that brings to life moving moments in the town’s history like a depiction of the Freedom Rider’s bus from the height of the Civil Rights Movement in Anniston, historical figures like the almost photo-like mural of the Temptations lead singer Eddie Kendricks who was born in Union Springs, or the dazzling nightlife of Mobile brought to life in the Bar Light mural along the city’s Dauphin Street.

5. Alabama Antique Trail

From upscale galleries to multivendor malls, the Alabama Antique Trail provides a mixture of antiques and vintage collectibles throughout the state. Discover items from Alabama family estates, original pieces from antebellum homes, and European and Oriental imports selected from abroad by antique dealers or brought by early settlers. The trail offers glassware, pottery, silver, porcelain, military items, books, art, signs, historical papers, and American, French, Japanese, Chinese and English furnishings from the 18th, 19^th, and early 20th centuries.

Stop highlights include visits to the Antique Mall of Memories in Alexander City, rummaging through the aisles in the historic 1935 Bank of Dadeville at Old Bank Antiques, and Winter Valley Antiques in Cullman that spans two buildings, one of which was once a chicken coop.

Fort Toulouse *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

History Trails

Alabama’s many history trails lead to spectacular ornate antebellum homes, sites from the Civil Rights Movement, Native American historical sites, and more, all with helpful and knowledgeable guides.

Mobile walking tour© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

6. April Walking Tours

Many of the towns across the state hold annual historic walking tours annually in April where you will visit historic antebellum mansions such as the Oakleigh and Conde-Charlotte mansions in Mobile, centuries-old cemeteries including the Florence City Cemetery that was established in 1819, and sites of the Civil Rights Movement such as the Rosa Parks bus stop and the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church in Montgomery.

Community leaders will guide these free tours through the historic districts or courthouse square areas of their hometowns. The hour-long tours start at 10:00 a.m. on April 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30.

Creek Indian houses *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

7. Civil War Trail

The Alabama Civil War Trail not only includes battlefields but also many other historic locations that bring the story of those tumultuous years to life.

Stops along the route include visits to the Alabama State Capitol in Montgomery where Jeff Davis was sworn in as the president of the Confederacy, the Winter Building (also in Montgomery) where the order to fire on Fort Sumter in South Carolina was sent by telegraph thus beginning the war, and Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park in McCalla where the enormous stone furnace that once made munitions for the Confederacy has been completely rebuilt.

Along the coast, the Battle of Mobile Bay Civil War Trail spotlights Fort Morgan and historic Fort Gaines.

Jasmine Hill Gardens *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

8. Native American Trail

For thousands of years before white settlement, the place that is today called Alabama was home to many different cultural groups of Native Americans.

The history of Native Americans in Alabama is bittersweet. The Native American Trail allows us to explore their bittersweet history in the state from its earliest residents 10,000 years ago at Russell Cave National Monument in Bridgeport and Mound Island in Mobile to the tragedies that led to the Creek Indian War at Fort Mims in Stockton and the eventual start of the Trail of Tears with the Battle of Horseshoe Bend.

Fort Jackson *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

9. Covered Bridge Trail

Along the dusty backroads of Alabama, you will be treated to a rare sight. The state once had many covered bridges that took horses and pedestrians across narrow gorges. Today, the number has dwindled but these bridges are still exciting pieces of history to view.

Some have been moved to historic locations like the oldest bridge, the 1850 Coldwater Creek Covered Bridge in Calhoun County while others remain in place where they have stood the test of time including the longest remaining in the state, the 324-foot Swann Bridge over the Black Warrior River in Blount County.

The Covered Bridge Trail takes you to these and several other bridges in the northern half of the state. Be sure to make plans to attend the annual Covered Bridge Festival (October 8, 2022) where the three bridges of Blount County are celebrated—Swann, Easily, and Old Horton—with a good old-fashioned fall festival featuring plenty of music, arts, and crafts, and food.

Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

10. U.S. Civil Rights Trail

The U.S. Civil Rights Trail spans the country but is primarily centered in the Southeast where marchers and activists challenged segregation and social injustice in the 50s and 60s, often facing violence and death in the process as they tried to make the country live up to its promises.

11. Alabama Civil Rights Museum Trail

The Alabama Civil Rights Trail is part of the larger, nationwide trail, leading you to a collection of historic sites from that period including the infamous Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church from where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. led the historic Montgomery Bus Boycott, and the incredibly moving National Memorial for Peace and Justice that honors the over 4,000 blacks who were murdered across the South. The memorial features giant steel columns hanging from the ceiling with the names of victims listed by county.

Auburn *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Sports Trails

There is more to sports in Alabama than football. These sport trails show you what I mean.

Fishing at Meaher State Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

12. Alabama’s Hunting and Fishing Trail for People with Disabilities

The state has made it possible for people with physical disabilities to hunt and fish by joining together state and private landowners to establish this string of outdoor locations called the Alabama Hunting and Fishing Trail where they can enjoy their favorite sports just like everyone else.

Each location has special ramps and access points and when it comes to hunting, days are restricted to only allow those with disabilities to participate. Hunting and fishing licenses are required.

13. Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail

A golf trail is just that—a collection of courses that together promote a certain state to the world as a golf destination. Just about every state has them from California to New York, from Wisconsin to Florida, and every state in between. But there had to be a first—the granddaddy of them all—Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail!

The trail features 26 courses and 468 incredible holes across the state with each course designed by the famous course architect Robert Trent Jones Sr. to fit that particular region’s stunning landscape.

Jim ‘Nick’s BBQ *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Dining Trails

College football and barbecue are probably the first things that come to mind when Alabama is mentioned. But there’s so much more to the local food scene. In a state that is home to rich farmland and game hunting and is also bordered by the Gulf of Mexico, food and mealtime are a semi-sacred part of life.

Lambert’s Cafe in Foley *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

14. Food and Wine Trail

Any way you slice it—be it the fried green tomatoes at the Irondale Cafe in Irondale, crawfish pie at Ca-John’s Bar and Grill in Faunsdale, or meatloaf at G’s in Huntsville—Alabama has culinary boasting rights to some of the most distinctive cuisine in the country.

Dreamland in Tuscaloosa and Big Bob Gibson’s in Decatur top Alabama’s list of award-winning barbecue joints where you will never get tired of licking your fingers. When it comes to deliciously different you’ve got choices ranging from freshly squeezed lemonade at Toomer’s Drugs in Auburn, key-lime milkshakes from Stacey’s Old Tyme Soda Fountain in Foley, and orange rolls at All Steak in Cullman.

Music

Fusing the sounds of Rock, Country, Blues, and other genres, Alabama possesses a distinctive musical identity all its own.

15. Hank Williams Trail

Hank Williams was born in Mount Olive on September 17, 1923. By the time of his death 29 years later, he had left behind a monumental legacy of such hits as “Hey, Good Lookin’,” “I Saw the Light,” “Jambalaya” and “Cold, Cold Heart.”

With his band the Drifting Cowboys, he played engagements across the South. Hank became country music’s first superstar selling 10 million records from 1947 to 1953.

Meaher State Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

For more on Alabama, check out these articles:

Worth Pondering…
Sweet home Alabama
Where the skies are so blue
Sweet home Alabama
Lord, I’m coming home to you

—Lynyrd Skynyrd (1974)

History Comes Alive At Fort Toulouse-Fort Jackson State Historic Site

History comes alive at Fort Toulouse-Fort Jackson State Historic Site where Creek Indians, French Marines, and American Soldiers all left their marks

Good morning on the last day of May. Or is it June? Are we in 2022 yet? What is time? Honestly, the only thing we know is that it’s Saturday. Have a great weekend everyone—thanks as always for reading.

Located just south of Wetumpka on a forested bluff where the Coosa and Tallapoosa rivers meet to form the headwaters of the Alabama River, we enjoyed 165 acres of living history and natural beauty. The park showcases recreated Creek Indian houses, a 1751 French fort, the partially restored 1814 American Fort Jackson, a nature trail, and a campground. This historic site is operated by the Alabama Historical Commission.

Graves House Visitor Center *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

After paying our $2/person admission fee, our first stop was the early 19th-century Graves House Visitor Center. Restored to its original appearance, the building now houses a small gift shop and museum.

Creek Indian houses represent two primary types of domestic structures used in the historic period. The fully enclosed buildings are winter houses and the open structure is for summer use. Until 1763, the lands within the park boundaries were home to the Alabama. This tribe was a member of the Creek Confederacy and eventually left with the French at the end of the Seven Years War (French and Indian War). The state of Alabama was named after this tribe.

Creek Indian homes *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

In 1717, when this region was part of French Louisiana, the French built a fort near the strategically vital junction where the Tallapoosa and Coosa Rivers form the Alabama River. The fort was primarily a trading post where Indians exchanged fur pelts for guns and household items. There were no battles at the post as French diplomacy forged allies with the natives. The surrounding Indians wanted peace so they could trade with both the French and British.

We wandered Fort Toulouse, a re-creation of the last or 3rd French fort built between 1749 and 1751. A National Historic Landmark, the outside walls are constructed of split timbers that were not strong enough to stop a cannon shot but were ample protection against musket fire. Fences enclose the sides and rear of the building. On the inside, posts sunk into the ground were joined with mortise and tenon joints. There were two barracks in the fort each had four rooms for use by the troops. Along the southern wall is an igloo-shaped bread oven.

The French lost the French and Indian War and the fort in 1763. The site was abandoned by the French and the lands reverted to native occupation. Few vestiges of the French post were visible when a new large earthen fort was erected in 1814 and named by General Thomas Pinckney for his subordinate General Andrew Jackson.

Following the French abandonment of Fort Toulouse in 1763 at the end of the French and Indian War, the river valley was peaceful as first the British and then the American nations claimed the region but few white men came to the area. Relations between the white settlers and Native peoples deteriorated in the first decade of the Nineteenth Century. The U. S. and Great Britain were at odds and by late 1813 the Creek War and the War of 1812 were underway.

Fort Jackson had a moat that was seven feet deep and dirt walls ranging in height from 7 ½ feet to 9 feet high. When finished the fort contained barracks space to house 200 soldiers. A garrison was kept here as the focus of these armies changed to the war with the British and activities occurring on the Gulf Coast. During this time thousands of troops passed through the site on their way south.

In August of 1814, the Treaty of Fort Jackson was signed officially ending the Creek War. The Creeks agreed to give the U. S. more than twenty million acres as reparations for the war. This land was the majority of what became the State of Alabama.

The one-mile-long William Bartram Nature Trail winds along the ridgeline and river bottoms at the southern end of the park. Of particular note along its path is a marker dedicated to Sergeant Jean Louis Fontenot who served at Fort Toulouse from 1735 to 1754. Next, we saw a cemetery just off the trail. Only one marker remains. There is also a marker dedicated to William Bartram, the famous naturalist who passed through this area in 1775, further down the trail. The nature trail offers wonderful bird-watching opportunities. During the spring and fall, migrants are present thought out the site.

Fort Toulouse-Fort Jackson State Historic Site *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

A 39 site RV campground overlooks the Coosa River. Each site includes an electric and water hook-up, a grill, and a concrete picnic table. There is a centrally located shower and bathhouse, plus a refuse facility at the campground entrance. Current RV Rates are $20.00/night; $18.00/night for seniors age 65+ and active or retired military with ID.

Worth Pondering…

Traveling is almost like talking with men of other centuries.

—René Descartes

I’m Dreaming of a State Park Christmas…

Christmas gifts ideas for outdoor lovers

Christmas is a great time to get out and visit a state park. There’s something for just about everyone this time of year when you visit a state park. Celebrate the chill in the air, the smell of a campfire, and quality time with friends and family.

What do you get for the person who has it all? Sometimes the best gifts aren’t things, but experiences. Make this the year you give the gift of outdoor recreation with any one of these state park options.

Vogel State Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Georgia State Parks Membership & Gift Cards

Share the gift of the great outdoors at the 60 Georgia State Parks and affiliated sites which span a variety of landscapes from mountains to coast to marsh. The parks system also includes historic sites like the retreats of presidents, battlefields, and Native American sites. The parks have amenities like hiking trails, ziplining, and camping. You can purchase Georgia State Parks gift cards to be used throughout the parks. You also can purchase Friends of Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites gift memberships which include a year’s worth of entry into affiliated parks. Extended passes include free nights of camping, discounted lodging, and discounts on picnic shelters.

Jekyll Island

Just north of the Florida border, this bite-sized barrier island off the coast of Georgia was once the wintering grounds of banking elites with surnames like Rockefeller and Morgan. Today Jekyll Island is 100 percent state park: beautiful, bikeable, and blissfully chill. Days are best spent on the island’s many bike trails, exploring maritime forests and driftwood-covered beaches, and eating all the shrimp and grits you can handle.

Now through January 3, Jekyll packs a ton of Christmas spirit into its small acreage. And while programming looks different this year due to the pandemic, they’ve got parades, fireworks, drive-in holiday movies, and a few Santa sightings on tap. Even if you skip the events, the island’s atmosphere is straight-up magical: Its historic houses and oak-lined lanes are decked out with over a half a million twinkling lights.

Stephen C. Foster State Park

Known across the country because of its International Dark Sky Designation, this breath-taking park is the western entrance of the Okefenokee Swamp—one of Georgia’s seven natural wonders. It is a can’t-miss attraction for astronomy fans. As the temperature continues to drop, head for Stephen C. Foster State Park for the abundance of stars that illuminate the sky after the sun sets. Reserve a guided pontoon boat tour of the swamp, kayak out on your own, or bundle up for a cool walk on 1.5 miles of hiking trails. You’ll get an intimate look at the variety of wildlife that calls this park home. Visitors can stay overnight in a wooded campground or fully equipped cabins.

Catalina State Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Arizona State Parks Annual Pass & Gift Cards

Give the gift of adventure this holiday season with an Arizona State Parks and Trails Annual Pass or Gift Card for those hard to shop for outdoorsy friends and family members who love spending time in nature. An annual pass or Gift Card is a gift that keeps on giving, all year long. These outdoor related gifts are designed to continually provide excitement, entertainment, and adventure throughout this amazingly beautiful state. By providing a gift of adventure and fun for your friends and family, your gift will help create memories.

Arizona State Parks Gift Cards may be purchased online in denominations of $25, $50, $100, and $200. Gift Cards are accepted at Arizona State Parks for entry, camping, and reservations fees so your gift of the outdoors can be used all year long at all the state parks.

Red Rock State Park

Red Rock State Park offers a classic Southwestern outdoor experience for visitors to Sedona and Red Rock Country. The beautiful red rocks and local wildlife can be viewed and enjoyed as you hike the 5-mile trail network around this 286-acrenpark. Nearby attractions include Red Rock Scenic Byway, Slide Rock State Park, Oak Creek Canyon, Coconino National Forest, and Prescott National Forest.

Alabama State Parks gift cards

Looking for a different Christmas gift this year? How about an Alabama State Parks gift card? From hiking and biking to dining and lodging, these gift cards are the gift that keeps on giving. This is a great idea for introducing someone new to all the outdoor recreational opportunities available in the state parks.

Blanco State Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Texas State Parks Special Events & Christmas Ornaments

Let Texas State Parks add something special to your winter holidays. Try your hand at a craft project, go on a holiday scavenger hunt, decorate a campsite, or sip some hot cocoa on a hike. Take part in a special event or choose a unique gift.

Goose Island State Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Join the Buffalo Soldiers at LBJ State Park and Historic Site, as they bring in the Christmas holiday with engaging stories and displays that highlight Texas history and daily life of soldiers on the trail. Listen to what Christmas meant to the soldiers and how they celebrated with their families over 150 years ago. Make a candle the old frontier way and gift it this holiday season or try cooking your own piece of Christmas hard tack. Stop by to view artifacts and listen to tales of the early frontier for the whole family.

Guadalupe River State Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

The Texas State Park ornament program began in 2002 to celebrate the diversity and beauty of Texas state parks. Each ornament features the natural, cultural, and historical resources that the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department protects. You’ll find images of building, wildlife, plants, and some of the many outdoor activities that you can enjoy at the state parks and historic sites across Texas. This year’s ornament spotlights the ever-growing sport of kayaking, featuring Sea Rim State Park.

Worth Pondering…

Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful.

—Norman Vincent Peale

Beauty, History and Adventure Come Together in Alabama

It’s time to take an Alabama road trip

With COVID-19 (Coronavirus) everyone’s lives—yours and ours—were thrown into a scrambled state of flux. Someday, we’ll all be ready to pack the RV again and head out on our next adventure. In the meantime, here’s some inspiration for the future.

Beauty, history, and adventure all come together in Alabama, a state rich in experiences for visitors to savor. It’s a place where you can take in all the sights, sounds, smells, flavors, and sensations that you’ll always remember.

Tour the historic Alabama State Capitol in downtown Montgomery. Visit Dexter Avenue King Memorial Church where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. preached. Step inside museum after museum where the history of Alabama is displayed. Among the most visited are the Rosa Parks Museum, the Hank Williams Museum, and Old Alabama Town.

Alabama’s largest city, Birmingham is a major medical center and a hub for science and technology.

To the city’s west is Tuscaloosa, home to the University of Alabama and its Crimson Tide football team. The 100-year legacy of the Tide and its most famous coach is honored in the Paul W. “Bear” Bryant Museum.

Auburn Tigers *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

In Huntsville, the U.S Space and Rocket Center, the largest space flight museum in the world, houses more than 1,500 space exploration artifacts and numerous permanent and rotating exhibits. It is also home to IMAX and 3D theaters, the Davidson Center for Space Explorations, Space Camp, and Aviation Challenge.

Mobile *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Alabama’s oldest city, Mobile claims America’s first Mardi Gras, a celebration that began in 1703. Every year the streets of Mobile buzz with parades and festivities for the entire family. Uncover the fascinating history of the area at the Museum of Mobile, climb aboard the USS ALABAMA battleship, and discover the 65-acre Bellingrath Gardens and Home.

Mobile and Mardi Gras *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Alabama became a state in 1819 but the first European explorers discovered it when the Spanish sailed into Mobile Bay in 1519. However, the French were the first to establish a permanent settlement in 1711 at Mobile.

Alabama’s music heritage and Mardi Gras *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Economically dependent on cotton and the slave labor that produced it, Alabama was the fourth Southern state to secede from the Union, in January 1861. The Confederate States of America were organized in Montgomery and Jefferson Davis was inaugurated as its president.

Hank Williams Stadium and Childhood Home *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

The state came into the national spotlight during the Civil Rights Movement in the 1950s and 1960s. The 1955-56 bus boycott in Montgomery, sparked by Rosa Parks’ courageous stand against discrimination on public transportation and led by Martin Luther King, Jr., was a seminal event in the movement. The violence-torn marches in Selma and the church bombings in Birmingham in which four little girls lost their lives were other key events. If there is a nerve center to the civil rights movement, this is the city.

USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Today the state has faced its past and proudly established numerous historic sites, monuments, and museums that honor the role of its African American citizens in their struggle for equality.

Alabama was home to sports greats like Hank Aaron and Joe Louis and musical legends Lionel Hampton and Nat “King” Cole—all are honored in Halls of Fame. Iron production in Sloss Furnaces is another reminder of the city’s past.

Alabama’s natural beauty stretches from the gentle Appalachian foothills of the north to the Gulf coast’s sandy shores in the south.

Dauphin Island *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

From the beaches of the Gulf Coast to the Appalachian foothills, Alabama’s 22 state parks reflect every facet of the state’s rich natural landscape.

Rickwood Caverns State Park is located in Warrior, near Birmingham. This unique recreation area boasts a “miracle mile” of subterranean caverns with limestone deposits dating back an astounding 260 million years. The park also offers more typical amusements—a big swimming pool, walking trails, and a miniature train tour.

Fort Gaines *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Lake Guntersville State Park is a favorite destination for anglers, boaters, campers, hikers, and golfers. Birding enthusiasts flock here to observe fall and spring migrations and to glimpse the park’s population of nesting bald eagles. Features include 35 miles of foot trails, an 18-hole golf course, boat launches, a swimming beach, 322 campsites, 35 cabins and chalets and a rustic 100-room lodge set on the bluffs above the 66,000-acre lake.

The 6,000-acre Gulf State Park offers more than 2 ½ miles of white sand beaches, a convention site, 468-site campground, resort inn, modern 2 and 3 bedroom cabins, nature center, interpretative programs, family resort, marina, 18-hole and 9-hole golf courses, tennis courts, and an 825-foot pier—the longest on the Gulf of Mexico.

Beauty, history, and adventure all come together in Alabama, a state rich in everything from world-class golf to white-sand beaches. It’s time to take a road trip to Alabama.

Worth Pondering…

Sweet home Alabama
Where the skies are so blue
Sweet home Alabama
Lord, I’m coming home to you

Mobile Bay: Gateway to the Gulf

Mobile Bay is an incredible gateway to the Delta, a bird sanctuary, and boating, fishing, and kayaking

Along the northern perimeter of Mobile Bay, a network of rivers forms a wildlife-rich delta that beckons canoeists and nature-lovers. Fishermen and sailboat enthusiasts relish the bay itself. On the south shore, where the bay meets the Gulf of Mexico, white sand beaches lure swimmers, shell hunters, and sunset photographers.

Mobile Bay at Meaher State Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Located in the wetlands of Mobile Bay near Spanish Fort, Meaher State Park is a scenic 1,327-acre park offering facilities for both camping and day-use.

The Mobile Delta consists of approximately 20,323 acres of water and Meaher State Park is the perfect access point to this massive natural wonder. Formed by the confluence of the Alabama and Tombigbee rivers, the Mobile Delta is a complex network of tidally influenced rivers, creeks, bays, lakes, wetlands, and bayous. Since the Delta empties into Mobile Bay, it is a productive estuary with numerous species of fresh and saltwater fish, which makes Meaher State Park an fisherman’s dream.

A 300-foot fishing pier with a 200 foot “T” and boat ramp make Meaher State Park an excellent location for fishing with Mobile Bay providing a productive estuary offering numerous species of fresh and saltwater fish. An Alabama freshwater fishing license is required; most common freshwater fish are abundant in the area. The boat ramp is located on the Blakeley River on the east end of the park. The ramp is accessible from 7 a.m. until sundown.

A self-guided walk on two nature trails includes a boardwalk with an up-close view of the beautiful Mobile Delta. Enjoy watching the abundant aquatic bird life as well as alligators.

The day-use area features a picnic area and comfort station for visitors.

Big-rig friendly Meaher State Park offers 56 modern campsites with 50/30/20-amp electric service, water, and sewer connections. Semi-circle pull-through sites exceed 100 feet in length. Most back-in sites are in the 60-65 foot range. The campground also features a bathhouse with laundry facilities and Wi-Fi. A tower is located on top of the bathhouse. There are also 10 improved tent sites with water and 20-amp electric service. Current RV camping rate is $35/night; tent sites $22/night. Weekly rates for RV sites are $182. Monthly rates for RV sites from November through March only are $623. Reservations are available by contacting the state park.

For more outdoor adventures, the nearby Mobile-Tensaw, W.L. Holland, and Upper Delta Wildlife Management Areas offer hunting and wildlife viewing opportunities for those visiting the Delta.

Also located near Meaher State Park, just north of Interstate 10, is the Five Rivers- Alabama’s Delta Resource Center which features an exhibit hall, theater, gift shop, and canoe rentals.

The 80-acre nature complex is the gateway to the Delta, a 250,000-acre wetland playground designated a National Natural Landmark by the National Park Service.

Besides the more than 300 bird species, 126 fish species, and 500 plant species found there, the delta is the exclusive home of Alabama’s state reptile, the endangered Alabama red-bellied turtle.

Begin at the Shellbank Visitors Center, where movies preview this free facility’s recreational opportunities. A stroll across an observation deck brings you to a museum filled with artifacts and displays depicting the delta’s rich cultural, historical, and ecological heritage. Picnic facilities, nature trails, and a gift shop occupy the site, too.

For up-close explorations, you can rent a canoe or kayak or launch your own. Canoe, kayak, and pontoon boat tours are offered.

Mobile Bay at USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

While camping at Meaher State Park, take advantage of the abundant shopping and dining options in the Mobile metro area. The white sands of Alabama’s Gulf Coast are only an hour away. USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, and GulfQuest National Maritime Museum are also located nearby.

Mobile Bay at Dauphin Island *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Whether you plan to stay a week or a month, the area’s welcoming hospitality, sun-drenched climate, sparkling waterways, and wide range of activities will have you describing Mobile Bay as “the place where fun floats”.

Worth Pondering…

For all at last return to the sea—to Oceanus, the ocean river, like the ever-flowing stream of time, the beginning and the end.

—Rachel Carson, The Sea Around Us

The Absolute Best Places to RV This February

Looking to make plans for RV travel in February?

The holidays are officially over, New Year’s resolutions have slowly begun to wane, and that relaxed RV vacation feeling is all but a distant memory—welcome to February.

For many Americans and Canadians, February means windy, wet, bitterly cold weather. Plenty of people wish longingly to escape the miserable weather. Yet where the weather is frigid or dreary in many parts of the United States, it is superb across the Sun Belt.

Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day, the Super Bowl, taking advantage of the Presidents’ Day long weekend, or just taking a break, you have plenty of options for an RV vacation in February. Where to go depends on what kind of a break and weather you’re looking for.

Southern California offers warm February temperatures, but why not try Gold County? Daytime temperatures in February in cities like Jackson and Angel Camp are around 60 F. Explore California’s gold rush history, go antique shopping, or taste the 35 wine varietals from Amador and Calaveras counties.

Thinking about a February getaway but not sure where to go? These destinations are particularly ideal, offering something for just about everyone.

Saguaro National Park, Arizona
You know those comically oversized cacti Wile E. Coyote used to fall into? Those are modeled after the Giant Saguaro cactus, the most distinct feature is this park straddling the city of Tucson. The park, created to preserve the cacti, boasts some great hikes. Even during mild weather, a trek into nature here can take you up 5,000 feet of elevation in 15 miles of desert. Driving Saguaro will take you through a Western landscape that’s unmistakably Arizona.

New Mexico

The Land of Enchantment boasts some ridiculously gorgeous desert ‘scapes. Ghost Ranch, the terrain made famous by Georgia O’Keefe, is full of crimson and gold cliffs and big blue sky. White Sands National Monument has a mind-boggling 275 square miles of gypsum sand dunes set in the shadow of the mountains. And we’d be remiss to leave out Carlsbad Caverns, a collection of over 100 caves and one of the state’s top attractions.

The cities are no slouches either. Santa Fe is one of America’s great art destinations, and not just for the turquoise, silver, and artist galleries in the town center. Santa Fe also has an awesome food scene, where meticulously-made Southwestern fare shines with ancient recipes and ingredients. Meanwhile there’s fantastic skiing in Taos, and still far less expensive than Park City or Aspen.

Alabama State Parks

From a shaded retreat on John’s Bay in the Mobile-Tensaw Delta to the boardwalk atop the highest mountain in the state, the Alabama State Parks System offers an incredible diversity of nature’s wonders to explore. Just north of the point where the Mobile-Tensaw Delta and Mobile Bay converge, Meaher State Park offers a respite from the hustle and bustle that can be seen in the distance on the Bayway crowded with travelers.

Meaher offers 61 improved campsites, 10 improved tent sites, a couple of primitive tent sites, and four cabins. Two more cabins will be available later this year.Part of the draw is the easy access to the Delta and being able to stay overnight between Mobile and Baldwin counties.

Newport, Rhode Island

If you thought Newport, the former stomping ground of the Astors and the Vanderbilts, was only worth visiting in the summer, think again. The seaside town—known for its Gilded Age mansions and outdoor music performances—is perfect for cold weather getaways, particularly in mid-February. This is when the Newport Winter Festival brings the city to life with concerts, beach polo, and even a chili cook-off.

Palm Springs, California

Fed by underground springs, the desert comes alive here, not only with signature palms, but also with a string of resort communities—Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, Indian Wells, Indio, and others, as well as the namesake town of Palm Springs—sporting a cool, mid-century modern vibe and countless ways to relax.

Every Thursday evening, this desert city takes on new life for VillageFest, a weekly street fair that brings casual party atmosphere to its downtown neighborhood.

Give yourself plenty of time to stroll along the swanky El Paseo district in Palm Desert. First, you’ll want to see all the art. A roughly 1-mile strip and adjacent streets are home to one of the largest concentrations of art galleries anywhere in Southern California.

Worth Pondering…

Recently I ran across a few lines by Pierre de Ronsard, a 16^th-century poet: “Live now, believe me, wait not till tomorrow. Gather the roses of life today.” Maybe it’s time to stop dreaming about that trip you’ve always wanted to make—and just do it!