Mobile County Commission has agreed to receive a $2 million USD State Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act (GOMESA) grant to support improvements at River Delta Marina & Campground in Creola, Alabama. The decision was made during the commission’s meeting on 26 January 2026.

River Delta Marina & Campground provides public access to the Mobile-Tensaw Delta, one of the most ecologically diverse river systems in the United States. The site underwent upgrades in early 2012 and continues to operate as a public marina and outdoor recreation facility.

The marina offers covered and uncovered boat slips for vessels up to 40ft (12 metres), along with a launch ramp, pier fishing access, and bait and tackle services. The adjoining campground includes more than 60 full hook-up RV sites, a bathhouse, laundry facility, swimming pool, pavilion, playground, fishing pond and access to river and lake fishing.

The agreement between Mobile County and the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources allows the county to proceed with planned work at the marina and campground. The funding will cover design, engineering and construction activities intended to improve access, safety and use of the site.

Planned work includes updates to the existing boardwalk, removal of abandoned vessels from nearby waters, roadway improvements, new signage, fencing in selected campground areas and landscaping in targeted areas of the property.

District 1 commissioner Merceria Ludgood stated: “This State GOMESA grant allows us to move from planning to implementation at River Delta Marina & Campground. Because it requires no local match, Mobile County can make meaningful improvements while being good stewards of both financial resources and the Mobile-Tensaw Delta.”

The $2 million grant was announced by Alabama governor Kay Ivey in autumn 2025 alongside other State GOMESA-funded projects. The Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act of 2006 directs offshore energy revenues toward coastal conservation efforts and projects that improve public access to waterways.

Further updates are expected as design and permitting progress, including information on construction timing and next steps at River Delta Marina & Campground.

Images courtesy of Visit Mobile.