Orange-Beach-Trail-300x2002There’s no better place to camp than on the Alabama Gulf Coast, and we’ve got some great spots to visit.

You’ll find several options for Gulf Shores tent camping in our directory, including Gulf Coast RV Park, Southport Campground and the Gulf State Park.

At the Gulf State Park campground, enjoy the swimming pool, tennis courts, modern bathhouses, laundry facilities and two playgrounds. In addition, you’ll also find a Nature Center and plenty of trails for biking, hiking and new discoveries. Southport Campground is located on the Intracoastal Waterway in Gulf Shores, just minutes from public beaches, dining and attractions. The campground offers two clubrooms with kitchen facilities, as well as a coin-operated laundry and restrooms with showers. At Gulf Coast RV Park, you’re only five miles from the Gulf of Mexico and 300 yards from the Bon Secour River. The park offers campers paved roads, laundry facilities and a recreation room.

Before you go camping, check the rules of the campground you select. You’ll need to know in advance if parks are pet friendly. In addition, ask what types of cooking facilities are available, such as grills. Determine if the campsite can accommodate both a sleeping tent and a screened tent where you can relax and have meals.

Plan your meals in advance. Nothing smells better on a cool morning than breakfast on a camp stove. Lunch may be light, with sandwiches, chips and cookies, and you may want to plan a dinner and night on the town at least once to give the cook a break.

Check out your camping gear before you leave to avoid any unpleasant surprises of missing or damaged items. Bring along a few inside-the-tent activities such as games, cards or books. Camping can be a fun bonding experience for a family. A night spent under the stars and away from the electronics may be just the ticket this spring.