Mendenhall Lake Campground and Eagle Beach State Recreation Area represent primary pet-accommodating destinations near Gustavus, Alaska. Both campgrounds enforce strict wildlife protection policies due to consistent bear activity throughout the region. Campers with dogs should prepare for variable weather conditions typical of Southeast Alaska, where temperatures average 50-65°F in summer with frequent precipitation.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at Eagle Beach: Eagle Beach State Recreation Area provides access to river areas where bears frequently feed. According to camper James B., "There is a large amount of bear activity in area. We had a black bear next to our campground eating grass one evening."
Kayak wildlife exploration: Auk Village Campground serves as an excellent base for marine wildlife observation. "Great place to go whale watching. Seriously! I went for two hours and saw 30 ish breaches. It was incredible," reports Carly S. of Auk Village.
Glacier hiking: Explore the trails around Mendenhall Lake Campground to see the massive glacier. "After setting up camp you can explore the trail to get close to the glacier and see beautiful waterfalls," notes Sierra S., who recommends going early morning or evening to avoid cruise ship crowds.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Many campers appreciate the privacy at Auk Village. "Each site is very private, ours was built up on a little ring of rocks with stairs leading down from the car," explains Harry H. who recommends checking with rangers about accessibility options before booking.
Protected beach access: The sheltered cove at Camping Cove Cabin offers excellent opportunities for those traveling with pets. Josiah P. states the Camping Cove Cabin has a "protected cove with a nice pebble beach... frequently used as a picnic site for those using small water craft as well as hikers and folks who like to fish from the rocks for salmon and char from April through October."
Off-grid tranquility: Blue Mussel Cabin provides a wilderness experience with limited amenities. Stephanie S. advises, "Be sure to bring enough water for the night because the creek by the cabin is currently dried up." This location remains accessible year-round by foot, boat, ski or snowshoe.
What you should know
Bear safety protocols: Wildlife encounters require proper preparation at all campgrounds. At Eagle Beach State Recreation Area, James B. notes, "There is no trash service," making proper food storage critical when camping with pets.
Limited connectivity: Most campgrounds lack reliable communications. James B. reports, "Absolutely no cell service" at Eagle Beach, though some sites with fewer trees allow for solar and satellite systems.
Water considerations: Potable water may be limited or require treatment. Eagle Beach provides water "with a boil direction to use" according to recent visitors, while Blue Mussel Cabin requires carrying in all water supplies, particularly when seasonal creeks run dry.
Tips for camping with families
Weather preparation: Southeast Alaska climate requires appropriate gear. At St. James Bay State Marine Park, Josiah P. advises, "Have warm clothing and quality rain gear, as inclement weather can set in quickly and last for days. Snow can begin to accumulate as early as October."
Bathroom facilities: Most public use cabins lack indoor plumbing. For Mendenhall Campground, Angie W. notes, "The bathrooms are clean and well interspersed. There are showers with hot water," making it more suitable for families with young children than remote cabin locations.
Recreation planning: Timing activities around cruise ship schedules improves experiences. Fain H. recommends, "Best way to avoid the cruise ship crowds is to go early or late. Photo point trail and Nugget Falls trail are a must and have the heaviest foot traffic from 10am to 2pm."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Mendenhall Lake Campground accommodates both tent and RV camping with varying site layouts. Justin S. observes, "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. I don't think there were any RVs, not sure if it was an off week or the road here is too much."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak season. Josiah P. advises, "Before you go: you must reserve a spot online in advance & spots tend to fill up quickly in July & August" for Mendenhall Lake Campground.
Limited facilities: RV campers should prepare for minimal hookups. Eagle Beach State Recreation Area costs "$20 per night" with "pit toilets on site" but "no dump site" according to recent visitors, requiring self-contained operation.
