Tongass National Forest's El Capitan Campground sits in forested terrain near Thorne Bay, Alaska, managed by the USDA Forest Service at $15 per night. Electric hookups are available, making it one of the few established campgrounds in this part of Southeast Alaska with that amenity. No pets are allowed. Reservations can be made in advance. The El Cap Cabin — Tongass National Forest sits just 0.1 miles away for those who prefer a roof overhead. Campers exploring campgrounds near Tongass National Forest will find this site a practical base for reaching the surrounding old-growth forest. Book early, as access to this remote corner of Prince of Wales Island requires planning.
Description
Overview
This waterfront campground offers a scenic view of the beautiful El Capitan Passage. This site has access to fishing, hunting, kayaking, hiking, caving and marine dock. It provides a remote, scenic setting for recreation and relaxation on the Tongass National Forest.
Recreation
The El Capitan Campground is nearby many opportunities Prince of Wales island has to offer. Salmon fishing is popular during the summer months as well as fall deer hunting, beach combing and other marine sports including paddle craft and sea kayaking. The nearby El Capitan Cave offers guided tours during the summer season and is the longest mapped cave in Alaska at over two miles.
Facilities
There is access to an accessible outhouse as well as a nearby covered picnic pavillion and marine dock.
Natural Features
The El Capitan Campground is in an area of high geologic interest including the El Cap Cave. The surrounding forest boasts old growth species such as yellow cedar, red cedar, hemlock, and Sitka spruce. There is abundant wildlife viewing for both aquatic and terrestrial species including Sitka black tail deer, black bear, harbor seals, otters and many fish species. Prince of Wales Island has runs of every salmon species except chinook as well as populations of cutthroat trout and Dolly Varden.
Nearby Attractions
Prince of Wales Island Visitor Guide can be found on the Prince of Wales Chamber of Commerce website.
Fee Info
$15 per night
Map & DirectionsEl Capitan Campground is located in Alaska near Point Baker
Public CampgroundDirections
El Capitan Campground can be reached by vehicle, boat, or plane. By road, follow Forest Service Road 20 to Forest Service Road 15 and take a left for about a mile (1.6 km) to the cave. Watch for signs. From both Thorne Bay and Craig is an estimated 3-hour drive. There is a Forest Service dock for use by boats and planes, but they should not be left unattended. No boats over 24' are allowed. Boats over 24' will need to anchore out and skiff in.
Address
1312 Federal Way
Thorne bay, AK 99919
Coordinates
56.162489 N
133.321005 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
Features
For Campers
- Reservable
- Electric Hookups
