Gulf State Park
Better known for its beach, but the freshwater lakes and marshes behind the dunes hold gators year-round, most visible from the Nature Center boardwalks and trails around Lake Shelby. Warmer months are best for basking gators near the trail edges. Stick to the boardwalks near the water and keep dogs leashed, since this isn't the ocean side of the park. No feeding.
Know before you go
| Fee | Check operator site |
|---|---|
| Parking | Lots at the Nature Center and Lake Shelby trailheads |
| Water | — |
| Toilets | — |
| Access | Freshwater lake trails and boardwalks behind the dunes |
| Surface | — |
| Hours | — |
| Operator | Alabama State Parks |
| Website | alapark.com/parks/gulf-state-park |
Map
Nearby in Alabama
Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
- Free
- Parking
7.1 km away
Hand-curated by Gator Atlas from public park and refuge operator information, not pulled from a database.
Last verified: July 21, 2026. See our methodology for how we check listings.