Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) —  Gulf State Park has opened a new RV resort that replaces a former golf course and expands camping options along the Alabama Gulf Coast. The project adds more than 100 campsites and introduces amenities for modern travelers. State officials say the resort meets strong demand for camping in the area. The development also reflects a shift toward more profitable and widely used park features.

The grand opening took place yesterday,  Monday, May 11, 2026, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by state and local leaders. The event marked the completion of a multi-year effort to transform the underused golf course into a new campground. Officials said the decision followed a detailed financial review and planning process.

The former golf course had been losing money for years because of declining interest in golf and high operating costs. A study found that a $3 million upgrade would still result in a $250,000 annual loss. State leaders instead chose to invest in a campground, citing strong demand and frequent full bookings at existing sites.

“The campground at Gulf State Park remains at least 90 percent occupied year-round,” said Chris Blankenship, commissioner of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. “We knew we had to expand to meet demand. Now that construction is complete, we’re confident visitors will be truly wowed by this expansion.”

The new resort includes 103 additional RV campsites with water, sewer, and electrical hookups. It also features a clubhouse, meeting spaces, a snack bar, bathhouses with private family suites, and a 24-hour laundry facility. Guests can enjoy a saltwater pool, splash pad, pickleball courts, a playground, and paved roads designed for large RVs.

With the expansion, Gulf State Park now offers 607 campsites, making it the largest state-operated RV campground in the country. Park leaders said plans could add another 100 sites. The campground occupies about 78 acres within the park’s 6,100-acre footprint.

Officials said the project was part of a broader $300 million effort to improve Alabama’s state parks. Funding came from an $85 million bond approved by voters in 2022, with support from state lawmakers, including Sen. Chris Elliott. About 80 percent of voters supported the measure.

Several leaders and staff members were recognized for their contributions to the project, including State Parks Director Matthew Capps, Assistant Director Chad Watkins, District Superintendent Matt Young, and Park Superintendent Charles Smith. Construction inspector Dennis Grooms and contractor Plot were also credited for their work.

“Gulf State Park is a truly special place,” Capps said. “From the iconic Gulf State Park Pier and our gorgeous beaches to the tranquility of Lake Shelby and the scenic beauty of the Hugh S. Banyon Backcountry Trail, the park consistently delivers.”

Design teams, including McCollough Architecture and Sawgrass, collaborated with state officials to plan the site. The project encompassed multiple design phases focused on traffic flow, layout, and guest experience. Engineers also built new infrastructure, including sewer, water, and electrical systems, similar to that of a residential subdivision.

The resort is near the Gulf, the park’s fishing pier, and a large trail system. Park officials say the location and upgraded features are expected to attract more visitors and support tourism in Baldwin County. Partnerships with local leaders and the county commission also helped advance the project.

Rep. Frances Holk-Jones said the investment will benefit both residents and visitors. “Gulf State Park is truly one of Alabama’s crown jewels, and this new addition reflects the continued commitment to preserving and enhancing one of our state’s most treasured public resources,” she said.

State officials said the campground is already attracting strong interest and is expected to operate near capacity. They added that revenue from the project will help maintain and improve parks statewide and offer more outdoor recreation options along the Gulf Coast.