Mendenhall Lake Campground sits at 45 feet above sea level near Douglas, Alaska, surrounded by temperate rainforest receiving over 62 inches of annual rainfall. The campground operates seasonally from May 15 to September 13 with significant temperature variations due to glacial proximity. Winter temperatures reach below freezing, making cabin accommodations practical alternatives during shoulder seasons.
What to do
Kayak exploration: Access Mendenhall Lake directly from Mendenhall Lake Campground for paddling adventures. "Explore the lake via kayak, hike the short park trails, explore the far side of the lake - this is a great spot just minutes from the Juneau Airport," notes Josiah P.
Whale watching: Head to Auk Village for marine wildlife viewing opportunities. "Great place to go whale watching. Seriously! I went for two hours and saw 30 ish breaches. It was incredible," reports Carly S.
Fishing opportunities: Try fishing at Auk Village with proper licensing. "If you have a fishing license you can fish off the beach, great for swimming as well because it is a protected cove," advises Eric M., who also mentions deer frequently walk through the campsite.
What campers like
Glacier proximity: The immediate access to glacier viewing sets Eagle Beach State Recreation Area apart from other dog friendly campgrounds near Douglas. "There is a large amount of bear activity in area. We had a black bear next to our campground eating grass one evening," notes James B.
Private campsites: Campers appreciate site layout at Mendenhall Lake Campground. "The campground is nice, with great tent sites! The tent sites were nicely separated, giving you that feeling that you're further away than you really are," writes Krista R.
Waterfront access: Many sites feature direct lake or beach access. "Each site is very private, ours was built up on a little ring of rocks with stairs leading down from the car," describes Harry H. about Auk Village, noting its proximity to marine activities.
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Food storage protocols are strictly enforced at pet friendly campgrounds in the Douglas area. "Great place for the family, bears do frequent the area so keep site clean," advises James L. about Mendenhall Lake Campground.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking. "Before you go: you must reserve a spot online in advance & spots tend to fill up quickly in July & August," warns Josiah P.
Limited services: Many campgrounds have minimal facilities. "There is no trash service. No dump site," reports James B. about Eagle Beach State Recreation Area, which charges $20 per night and offers pit toilets only.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Auk Village offers protected cove swimming. "This is a favorite spot where our family has camped for years. Most recently we took 2 of the grandkids. No cabins, but beautiful beach to walk. Quiet paradise," shares Nikki S.
Wildlife viewing with children: Maintain safe distances when wildlife spotting. "We did see bald eagles right on site," notes Justin S. about Auk Village, mentioning otters, seals, whales, and starfish visible from shore.
Historical learning: Incorporate educational opportunities at Auk Village. "Great historical site, an ancient village with historical marker as well as a beautiful totem nearby that tells an interesting story," explains Eric M.
Tips from RVers
Solar access considerations: Some RV sites at Eagle Beach State Recreation Area receive better sun exposure. "There are some sites not completely in the trees. We were able to get good solar and Starlink service," explains James B.
Connectivity limitations: Cell coverage varies significantly between dog-friendly campgrounds near Douglas. "Absolutely no cell service," reports James B. about Eagle Beach State Recreation Area.
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds can be challenging for larger rigs. "I don't think there were any RVs, not sure if it was an off week or the road here is too much," observes Justin S. about Mendenhall Lake Campground.
Legend
