Signal Creek Campground operates from mid-April through September with sites available for $10 per night and reservations accepted through the Forest Service system. Located within Tongass National Forest, this established campground accommodates RVs up to 45 feet, though campers should note that pets are not permitted and the access road can be rough.
The campground sits alongside both Signal Creek and Ward Lake, with each site featuring a picnic table and fire pit. "Close to lots of trails, good fishing, and swimming," notes Kate K., highlighting the water-based recreation opportunities that draw many visitors. The forested setting provides natural screening between sites while maintaining easy access to the lake's perimeter trail, which reviewers describe as suitable for families with children.
Positioned seven miles north of downtown Ketchikan and four miles from the state ferry terminal, the campground experiences some road noise due to its proximity to the main route. Cell service varies throughout the area, and campers report that tourism and fishing traffic increases significantly during peak summer months. Wildlife sightings around the lake add to the camping experience, though the previous dam installation has affected the historical salmon runs that once made Ward Lake a premier fishing destination.
The combination of accessible amenities, water access, and proximity to Ketchikan makes this campground well-suited for RV travelers and families seeking a forested base camp with modern conveniences.
Description
Overview
Signal Creek Campground is a year-round facility located in the Ward Lake Recreation Area, 7 miles north of downtown Ketchikan and about 4 miles north of the State ferry terminal. The campground straddles Signal Creek and lies on the banks of Ward Lake, with easy access to fishing, hiking and wildlife viewing.
Recreation
Hiking is a popular option, as the Ward Lake Recreation Area boasts seven trails. The Ward Lake Nature Travel meanders 1.3 miles around the lake. A large day-use complex with picnic sites and shelters is also available. Freshwater fishing, canoeing, kayaking, wildlife viewing and scenery are favorite draws at Ward Lake.
Facilities
Signal Creek Campground's sites can accommodate up to 10 people. Each campsite contains a picnic table, a campfire ring with grill and a gravel parking spur. Two hand pumps for drinking water and three vault toilets are provided. Water is provided during the peak season only. Firewood may be provided but is not guaranteed.
Natural Features
The campground is surrounded by an old-growth temperate rainforest comprised primarily of western hemlock and Sitka spruce. Signal Creek flows through the campground, and Ward Lake is adjacent. At nearly 17 million acres, the Tongass National Forest covers most of Southeast Alaska and is the largest forest in the national forest system. The Tongass surrounds the Inside Passage, the network of waterways that buffers the jagged Alaskan Coast and a cluster of coastline islands. The Tongass offers visitors a chance to view wildlife, including eagles, bears and spawning salmon. Expansive vistas, including fjords, glaciers and mountain peaks abound.
Location
Public CampgroundSignal Creek Campground is located in Alaska
Directions
From the State ferry terminal, take Tongass Highway north 4.8 miles to milepost 7. Turn right onto Revila Road. Go 1.4 miles and turn right at the Ward Lake Road Intersection. Travel 1.1 miles past Ward Lake Day Use Area to the entrance sign for Signal Creek Campground.
Address
TONGASS-KETCHIKAN
AK
Coordinates
55.4082 N
131.69984 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Reservable
For Vehicles
- Big Rig Friendly
