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Established Camping

Signal Creek Campground

Signal Creek Campground, near Ketchikan, Alaska, is a fantastic spot for those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of Tongass National Forest. With its picturesque surroundings, including the nearby Ward Lake and Signal Creek, it’s a prime location for fishing, hiking, and simply soaking in the stunning scenery.

The campground offers a rustic experience with designated sites, though you won’t find electric hookups or showers here. Visitors appreciate the convenience of being just a few miles from the ferry terminal and downtown Ketchikan, making it easy to explore the area. As one camper noted, “Each space has a picnic table and fire pit,” perfect for evening gatherings under the stars.

Nature lovers will enjoy the lush forest and the chance to spot local wildlife. The trails around the lake are easy enough for families, and the fishing opportunities are a highlight, especially with hopes for salmon runs to return. While some campers mentioned the noise from the nearby road, the overall vibe remains peaceful and inviting.

Whether you’re pitching a tent or parking your RV, Signal Creek Campground is a solid choice for a memorable Alaskan adventure. With its blend of natural beauty and accessibility, it’s a great base for exploring the wonders of the region.

Description

National Forest

Tongass National Forest

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.

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.

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Location

Signal Creek Campground is located in Alaska

Detail location of campground

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

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Unknown
  • Verizon
    Unknown
  • AT&T
    Unknown
  • T-Mobile
    Unknown

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

  • Reservable

For Vehicles

  • Big Rig Friendly

Contact

General Info

Reservations


Reviews

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5 Reviews

Reviewed Oct. 31, 2018

Beautiful and convenient

Each space has a picnic table and fire pit. It's pretty close to the ferry terminal (4 miles?). Outhouse. Close to lots of trails, good fishing, and swimming. Ketchikan is adorable, but considerable fishing and tourism traffic. I would suggest going March-early April. The energy in tourism towns starts building but you get there before the tourists do. Also, there’s just something special about the crisp, spring air.

  • Review photo of Signal Creek Campground by Kate K., October 31, 2018
  • Review photo of Signal Creek Campground by Kate K., October 31, 2018
Reviewed Aug. 27, 2018

Beautiful Tongass National Forest

Beautiful forest & not far from Ward Lake. Conveniently near Ketchikan, 7 miles north of downtown, & just 4 miles north of the State ferry terminal. The campground is on Signal Creek & Ward Lake. Ward Lake used to have amazing fishing before a now defunct dam was placed on the creek. Hopefully it will be removed & the amazing runs of salmon will return!

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Signal Creek Campground by Josiah P., August 27, 2018
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Reviewed Jul. 30, 2016

Beautiful Alaska campground

Stayed at the Signal Creek Campground, next to Ward Lake. Gorgeous lake, great trail around the lake to walk (Easy for kids to do with you). Dog friendly. Places around the lake to see wildlife and scenery.

Campground was near the main road, so a bit noisy for Alaska.....but quiet overall.

  • Review photo of Signal Creek Campground by Shawna M., July 30, 2016
  • Review photo of Signal Creek Campground by Shawna M., July 30, 2016
  • Review photo of Signal Creek Campground by Shawna M., July 30, 2016
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Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the max vehicle length at Signal Creek Campground?

    Signal Creek Campground allows vehicles up to 45 feet.

  • Does Signal Creek Campground have wifi?

    No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Signal Creek Campground does not have wifi.

  • How hard is it to get a campsite at Signal Creek Campground?

    Some campers book as far as 6 months in advance, so on high-demand weekends it can be very difficult to get a campsite at Signal Creek Campground. If you want to get a last-minute campsite at Signal Creek Campground, try setting up a text message Alert atTheDyrt.com/alerts

  • Why is it so hard to get a campsite at Signal Creek Campground?

    There are 24 campsites at Signal Creek Campground and over 80 million Americans who camp! Try snagging a cancellation by setting up a text message Alert atTheDyrt.com/alerts