Camping opportunities around Auke Bay range from developed campgrounds to rustic cabins set within Tongass National Forest at elevations between sea level and 1,200 feet. Rainfall averages 54 inches annually in this coastal area, where summer temperatures typically reach the mid-60s. Limited seasonal availability makes advance planning necessary for many sites in this popular destination north of Juneau.
What to do
Kayaking access points: Eagle Beach State Recreation Area offers excellent opportunities to observe marine life. "We were able to moore off-shore to enjoy hiking in the forest in addition to fishing & crabbing. This is a fantastic location & is nearing the end of the road North of Juneau, just past St. Terese," notes one visitor to Herbert Glacier Trailhead.
Waterfall viewing: The trails near Mendenhall Lake Campground provide access to impressive waterfalls. "After setting up camp you can explore the trail to get close to the glacier and see beautiful waterfalls," shares one camper who visited during summer months.
Fishing opportunities: Peterson Lake offers good fishing prospects for those willing to make the trek. "Peterson is a great cabin and the perfect place to getaway," reports a USFS worker who noted the cabin's lakeside dock provides direct water access.
Beach exploration: Multiple beaches around Auke Bay offer walking and combing opportunities. "Great historical site, an ancient village with historical marker as well as a beautiful totem nearby that tells an interesting story," says one camper about the beach near Auk Village Campground.
What campers like
Lake access: Sites along Mendenhall Lake provide direct water access. "This campground is very well designed, almost all of the sites are along the water. Many have amazing views but all are within the trees," reports one camper about the layout of sites.
Private camping spots: "Each site is very private, ours was built up on a little ring of rocks with stairs leading down from the car," reports a visitor to Auk Village Campground. The 11 sites provide separation between campers.
Wilderness experience close to town: Many campgrounds provide a natural setting despite proximity to Juneau. "Close to town yet out in nature," notes a visitor about Mendenhall campgrounds, appreciating the balance between convenience and seclusion.
Wildlife viewing: Marine and forest wildlife sightings are common around camping areas. "Great place to go whale watching. Seriously! I went for two hours and saw 30 ish breaches. It was incredible," shares an enthusiastic camper about the waters near Auk Village.
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Black and brown bears frequent the camping areas. "We had a black bear next to our campground eating grass one evening," reports a camper at Eagle Beach State Recreation Area. Proper food storage is essential at all sites.
Limited cell service: Communication options are restricted in many camping areas. "Absolutely no cell service," notes one Eagle Beach camper who relied on satellite communication during their stay.
Variable water sources: Water availability differs significantly between sites. "There is water, with a boil direction to use," cautions a camper about Eagle Beach facilities, while Mendenhall offers more reliable water sources.
Advance booking requirements: Most cabins and developed campgrounds require reservations. "Before you go: you must reserve a spot online in advance & spots tend to fill up quickly in July & August," advises a Mendenhall Lake visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with amenities: For family camping, select campgrounds with appropriate facilities. "The campground is nice, with great tent sites! The car sites looked nice too, but I didn't stay there. The tent sites were nicely separated, giving you that feeling that you're further away than you really are," says a visitor about John Muir Cabin area.
Plan for variable weather: Summer temperatures can fluctuate significantly, requiring appropriate clothing. "Working for the USFS- We spent a week at Peterson, redoing the floor, repairing cabinets, countertops, and the table," reports a maintenance worker at Peterson Lake Cabin, who experienced typical variable summer conditions.
Pack appropriate rain gear: Even summer months can bring significant rainfall. "The campground itself is located near tons of hiking trails, kayaking/rafting opportunities, and the Glacier viewing center is nearby," notes a camper who recommends waterproof gear for all activities.
Plan day trips from camp: Using a campground as a base for daily excursions works well in this area. "Half way up nugget falls trails there are a few cut through's to the lake where you can find nice private beaches," suggests a camper describing accessible day hikes from their site.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most RV sites have minimal services. "There are some sites not completely in the trees. We were able to get good solar and Starlink service," reports an RV camper at Eagle Beach who needed to supplement available utilities.
Road access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging access routes. "I don't think there were any RVs, not sure if it was an off week or the road here is too much," observes a tent camper at Mendenhall noting the absence of larger vehicles.
Waste disposal planning: No dump stations exist at most campgrounds. "No dump site," confirms an Eagle Beach camper who stayed three nights in a pickup camper, highlighting the need for self-contained waste management.
