We are going to the iRV2 International Rally. However, this sounds like fun for next year. Give us a heads-up in time for next year. How early do you need to make reservations in order to get a campsite?
We have been going for several years and staying at Luxury RV Resort, which is about 5 blocks from the festival, so you can walk from the campsite. Reservations must generally be made one year in advance. If you have a Camplite, you can stay there, but this will be our last year to stay at Luxury RV. They have a new policy that doesn't allow pop-up campers. We've been loyal customers there for well over 10 years, and now we're being told that we can't come back.
Last weekend we stayed a few miles away at Gulf State Park, which is an extremely good option, but it's not in walking distance of the festival. I'm not sure how far in advance you need to reserve a campsite for the festival weekend, but last weekend (Labor Day weekend), my wife called them on Friday morning and got a site for that night and the rest of the holiday weekend. However, I think we got the last site in the campground.
The Shrimp Festival is always the second weekend in October.
If you're in the area, make sure to have a meal at Gilby's restaurant in Orange Beach. It's in the same shopping center with the Publix grocery store, so it's very easy to overlook, but it should not be missed!!! Other excellent local restaurants include Tin Top in Bayou la Batre, Bahama Bob's and Sea-N-Suds on the beach in Gulf Shores, Shrimp Basket restaurants all over the area, and McGuire's Irish Pub and Brewery in Pensacola is well worth the drive!
I've been visiting Gulf Shores frequently since I was a child. If you want any local information about the area, just send me a note.
Steve.
