Within Alaska's state park system, Black Sands Marine State Park operates Blank Island Campsite as a boat-access camping destination in forested terrain near Ketchikan. The site requires watercraft transportation and sits along Nichols Passage, where campers report hearing whale vocalizations from their tents during overnight stays.
Basic amenities include a fire ring and pit toilet, with pets and alcohol permitted. Cell service reaches the island. The forested campsite provides views across Nichols Passage, and its proximity to Ketchikan makes it accessible for places to camp near Ketchikan while maintaining a backcountry feel. Boaters should plan for secure vessel anchoring or beaching during their stay.
Description
The dark sandy, shallow sloping beaches and forest has been a popular recreation area since the 1930's, and historically used by the Tlingits for fishing and hunting. There is a 1/2 mile wood chip trail traversing the southern-most Blank Islands.
The park offers exploring, kayaking, scuba diving, fishing, hiking, and camping. Access is currently by boat or aircraft.
This park encompasses the Blank Islands and a portion of Gravina Island, at the mouth of the Blank Inlet on the East side of Gravina Island (about 4.6 miles directly south of Ketchikan).
Map & DirectionsBlack Sands Marine State Park is located in Alaska near Ketchikan
Coordinates
55.27212154 N
131.6438294 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Phone Service
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
