(This article by Louisiana-based writer Kathie Rowell originally appeared in the June 2024 issue of Military Officer, a magazine available to all MOAA Premium and Life members. Learn more about the magazine here; learn more about joining MOAA here.)
CW4 Tom Sandner and his wife bought an RV in 2002 just before he retired after a 20- year career in the Army. It was meant to be a backup plan in case they had trouble selling their home and finding a new one, but they liked it so much that RVing has become a part of their life.
Because he still works full time, their trips are often for just a few days, up to a week, which means vacation spots not too far from their Alabama home are frequent destinations.
“We like places that we can get outdoors, do some hiking — short stuff, not serious overnight-type things,” he said. “We like to see historic sites, if we can.”
The couple often point their RV to an Alabama state park and, with 21 located from the northern mountains to southern beaches, Alabama has plenty to keep them entertained.
Redstone Village
As Huntsville’s only locally owned Life Plan community, Redstone Village is the perfect environment for your retirement lifestyle — offering everything from financial freedom to quality health care to whole-person wellness. Experience comfortable, luxurious, maintenance-free living in well-appointed apartments or villas, including weekly housekeeping and linen service, scheduled transportation, and restaurant-style gourmet dining. Redstone also features a salon and spa, fitness and aquatic center, woodworking shop, and secure underground parking. Residents have guaranteed access to a full continuum of onsite health care services, including assisted living, memory support, short-term rehabilitation, and skilled nursing, if ever needed. That’s the power of Redstone’s Life Plan agreement, a definitive health care solution to rising long-term care costs. Combining the best of city living with Alabama’s traditional southern charm and hospitality, Redstone is Huntsville’s most desired retirement community! (Sponsored content)
Sandner, a MOAA member, said a favorite is DeSoto State Park, located on top of Lookout Mountain in Northeast Alabama. A highlight is DeSoto Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in Alabama. Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s and 1940s, the park features a small museum highlighting the government work program during the Great Depression.
Travelers seeking a lake resort experience can visit Joe Wheeler State Park, near Rogersville, with its waterfront lodge, full-service marina, and cabins, cottages, and campsites.
[MORE STATES: Military Officer Magazine Live and Play 2024]
Beach lovers will enjoy the 3.5 miles of white sand at Gulf State Park near Gulf Shores. More active pursuits include fishing, hiking, biking, and paddling. Places to lay your head range from The Lodge at Gulf State Park to cottages and campsites.
Military Site: The Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site celebrates the Red Tails, the first African American military pilots in the U.S. Two museums house World War II-era training aircraft, and a 27-minute movie tells their struggles for acceptance.
More to Explore
Whether you're looking for a day trip, weekend getaway, or bucket-list adventure, MOAA's Live and Play has you covered. Want even more travel ideas and exclusive member discounts? Check out MOAA Vacations!
