Lake Shelby Picnic Area
Picnic Area and Pavilions
The Picnic Area includes a swimming area on Lake Shelby, several charcoal grills, public restrooms, picnic tables, and two covered pavilions. The pavilions are perfect for small group outings, family reunions, birthday parties, and more. Picnic Pavilion rentals are available 7 days a week (except major holiday weekends to include July 4th, Labor Day, and Memorial Day). Pets are allowed in the Picnic Area, but must be leashed. No alcohol is allowed in Alabama State Parks.
Amenities
Lake Shelby offers a variety of amenities to make your outdoor adventures so much fun!
Please note, all minors 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult throughout the park.
- Boat launch
- Kayak launch
- Canoe, kayak, and paddleboard rentals
- Swimming area
- Playground
- Picnic tables and grills
- Restrooms
Explore
Interested in exploring the Park in a unique, fun way? Then take a guided segway tour starting from Lake Shelby! You can call their office at 251-509-TOUR to schedule your segway adventure! Check out the Coastal Segway Adventures website for more information.
The rental office has kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards from Ike's Beach Service for you to rent and spend time on the water! If you bring your own kayak, we have a kayak launch on the shore of Lake Shelby for you to get in and out of the water easily!
We offer an expansive trail system at Gulf State Park. Take Lakeview Trail to explore the beautiful edges of Lake Shelby, or use the Lake Crossing bridge to reach the east side of the Park!
Check out our Dog Pond at Lake Shelby to have fun with your furry friends!
Special note: waverunners and jet skis are not allowed in Gulf State Park Lake Shelby for safety reasons.
Gulf State Park is home to many types of wildlife, including alligators. Please be aware at all times. For detailed information, please see our Wildlife Safety recommendations.
Art & Culture
Ballyhoo is a Fine Arts festival and cultural exchange held every spring in Gulf Shores, Alabama. 2020 kicked off it's first year at Lake Shelby and featured artwork from local artists, delicious food, a banjo and fiddle competition, hands-on art activities for kids, ambassador animals from the Park, live music, and performances by the Poarch Band of Creek Indians. Check out a video clip from this year's festival below!
