ALMetro360 June 19

Motorhomes, also referred to as Recreational Vehicles (RVs), ac- count for more of the travel and tourism crowd than you’d think. In fact, the overall economic impact from the RV economy (ac- cording to the RV Industry Association) for 2015 was some $50 billion! From local RV parks and resorts to favorite destinations on Alabama’s Gulf Coast and into state parks, people are enjoying RV travel more and more. W HERE ARE RV TRAVELERS GOING ? According to TomAustin, former Montgomery-based RV owner and traveler, people love the freedom of having an RV for travel because of convenience. “No matter where you want to go, you can find an RV park, resort or campground with a spot available for you. And, when you’re ready to go home, you just unhook and leave … no packing,” Austin said. Living in an RV isn’t for everyone, explained Austin (who does live in one), but most people do love traveling around in them. Locals love traveling to Alabama beaches in their RVs—no fight- ing for affordable hotel rooms or condominiums—just pull in and let the vacation begin! Island Retreat RV Park is a Gulf Shores treasure, state-of-the-art with level, concrete pads, making setup quick and easy. Added park amenities like a pool, bike path, club- house, showers, laundry, Wi-Fi, cable and a playground make this site perfect for families or couples. Fort Morgan RV Park is located in the Gulf Shores area on the Fort Morgan peninsula, and ranks high with coastal destination RV travelers. A small park with only 34 sites, this park is for the visitor looking for privacy and tranquility. Enjoy fishing from the Find us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter JUNE 2019 49 Oak Mountain State Park. Photo by Billy Pope