Wade Ward Nature Park is located in the heart of Gulf Shores right off of Highway 59! This great nature park has elevated boardwalks over wetlands perfect for wildlife and bird watching.
Wade Ward Nature Park
I hate to admit that we drove by Wade Ward Park many times before we stopped to explore it the first time.
It is really close to the main public beach in Gulf Shores, so we would drive by on our way to watch sunrise and always comment that we needed to stop and explore.
I know the white sand beaches of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are hard to leave but a it is worth it! Especially if you are a birder or love to check out wildlife hot spots.
After our first walk on the elevated boardwalk we were hooked! It is a birders dream walkway right in Gulf Shores.
The boardwalk reminds me of the Anhinga Trail in Everglades NP. You can easily see on both sides of the boardwalk what is in the shallow water and what may be flying by.
This pocket of natural wetlands are home to otters, occasional alligator, and tons of bird species.
When I looked on eBird, there were 112 species observed in the park, including Royal Tern, Osprey, Red-Tailed Hawk, Northern Cardinal, Little Blue Heron, Green Heron, Carolina Chickadee, Fish crow, Clapper Rail, Cedar Waxwing, Pelicans, plus so many more.
This is a great park to visit for migrating and local birds. The coastal salt marsh is ideal habitat for some really great birds.
There are picnic tables right off of the narrow waterway, making it a great place to watch for wildlife. The covered small pavilion provides shade and a small break from the sun.
I would bring bug spray, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the elements.
The short boardwalk can be accessed just down from the Wade Ward Nature Park sign. Follow the sidewalk to the scenic boardwalks entrance.
This is the only public pedestrian access and exit to the elevated boardwalk. The wetlands park connects Little Lagoon and Lake Shelby.
There are beautiful views of the wetlands from the elevated walkway. Kids will enjoy looking for gators and frogs in the waterway.
Why you will love Wade Ward Nature Park
- Alabama Coastal Birding Trail Sites
- Perfect spot for picnics
- Beautiful view of the wetland area
- Benches and an observation deck
- Birder's paradise in a vibrant resort city.
- Natural area in the heart of Gulf Shores, Alabama
- Family friendly activity in Gulf Shores
Things to know when planning a visit to Wade Ward Nature Park
Address - 500 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, Al 36542
United States
Accessibility - Paved trails and an elevated boardwalk allow wheelchair access to much of this park.
Dress Code/Suggestions - Casual and comfortable
Pets - Pets are allowed but PLEASE keep them on a leash. There are alligators in the water.
Parking - Free public parking can be found just a short walk south one block walk on Highway 59 and then one block east on E. 1st St.
Restrooms - There are no restrooms within the park. There are bathrooms at Gulf Place just down the road.
Wade Ward Nature Park features a variety of wildlife and scenic landscapes, as can be seen in these stunning photos. We love seeing Wade Ward Nature Park Photos!
Alligators - PLEASE remember that the gators are wild and this is their home! PLEASE do not try to feed them or pet them.
Gulf Shores Wildlife is a diverse and captivating collection of flora and fauna found in the coastal region of Alabama.
Restaurants and Attractions nearby
Papa Rocco's - Directly across the street from the park is great pizza, oysters, and fun.
Crico's Pizza & Subs - Grab a great pizza just down the street from the park!
Souvenir City Gulf Shores - You can't miss taking a photo in the giant sharks mouth.
Cherry on Top Ice Cream - A couple blocks away you can enjoy a delicious ice cream treat.
Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo - Check out all of the amazing animal encounters and fun!
Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge - Another great bird watching spot just down the road.
Gulf State Park - Hiking, Biking, and so much fun can be had at the park.
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Don't miss our other Gulf Coast destinations including Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Dauphin Island, Fairhope, Fort Morgan, Foley, Mobile, Bayou La Batre, Alabama and so many more!
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Keep an eye out for articles on the Gulf Coast of Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas, and Florida!
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