Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site offers glamping close to Haines State Forest in densely wooded sites that provide seclusion while maintaining access to modern amenities. The recreation site sits at the outflow of the nine-mile-long Chilkoot Lake, surrounded by the steep Takshanuk Mountains which rise to elevations exceeding 6,000 feet. Winter temperatures in the area regularly drop below freezing from October through April, making the May-September operating season the prime time for visitors.
What to do
Wildlife photography opportunities: During salmon runs, Chilkoot River attracts grizzly bears and bald eagles, creating prime viewing conditions. At Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site, visitors can observe these animals from relatively safe distances. "Keep an eye out for wildlife, there are lots of grizzlies around," notes Krista R., who recommends bringing a camera with zoom capabilities.
Paddling on Chilkoot Lake: The lake provides calm waters ideal for kayaking and canoeing, with rental options available seasonally. "The boat launch area is perfect for a picnic, and the lake is perfect for a paddle! They even have children's PFDs to borrow, should you forget to bring some," mentions Krista R. about her visit to Chilkoot Lake.
Explore downtown Skagway: Located within walking distance of Pullen Creek and RV Park, Skagway offers historical sites and shopping. "The advantage to be here is the convenience to walk to the train station for tours, and olso downtown. Reasonable price," reports Ioan P., highlighting the accessibility to local attractions.
What campers like
Wooded privacy: The campsites at Chilkoot Lake feature natural spacing between sites that creates a sense of seclusion. "Nice, very vooded place but, very tight. You can see eagles activities in the sky. You have to go out of camp for a view," shares Ioan P. about his experience at Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site.
Sunset views over water: Campers consistently mention the evening light displays over Chilkoot Lake as a highlight of their stay. The proximity of glamping accommodations to the shoreline provides easy access to these views. "A short walk (often can see from your site) to the lake where a beautiful show occurs each time the sun sets," describes Liann W.
Convenience to transportation: For those arriving by ferry or train, the camping options provide strategic locations for further exploration. "There is a small rustic campground right in town a short walking distance of the fast ferry. That campsite is about $5 and based on the honor system," notes Lindsay B. when describing camping options in the Haines area.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Glamping accommodations operate primarily during summer months, with most facilities closed during winter. "I biked here from Haines in June, it is such a lovely area! I did a tour of the campground and it looks very nice," says Krista R., indicating the ideal timing for visiting the area.
Noise levels vary by location: While Chilkoot Lake provides a quieter experience, Pullen Creek experiences more activity due to its proximity to harbor facilities. "It's right next to the small boat harbor, and the rail road dock, so there's traffic from fishing boats, the small ferry, and the cruise ships," Kate K. explains about the Pullen Creek and RV Park.
Transportation needs: Some glamping locations require private transportation to access. "This Chilkoot Lake area is much farther from the ferries, but a beautiful area. You will need to find a car to drive you out to the area," Lindsay B. advises for those planning to stay at Chilkoot Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Safety around wildlife: Families should maintain proper distance from bears and other wildlife that frequent the area. At Chilkoot Lake, children should be supervised near water and wildlife viewing areas. "I did a tour of the campground and it looks very nice. The boat launch area is perfect for a picnic," notes Krista R., mentioning the family-friendly amenities.
Utilize loaner equipment: Some sites provide children's life jackets and other equipment, reducing what families need to pack. "They even have children's PFDs to borrow, should you forget to bring some," Krista R. shares about the family-friendly resources at Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site.
Plan for driving time: Families should account for distances between glamping sites and attractions. "Haines is 20 minutes drive," mentions Ioan P. about the location of Chilkoot Lake relative to town services and amenities that families might need.
Tips from RVers
Downtown convenience vs. scenic seclusion: RV campers can choose between in-town sites with walking access to amenities or more remote locations with natural settings. "It's convenient to town, close to the liquor store. The plus side-it's close to Pullen Creek where the salmon run, there are plenty of facilities," explains Kate K. about the tradeoffs at Pullen Creek.
Hookup availability: Electric, water, and sewer hookups are available at select locations, with Pullen Creek offering full services. "Big-rig friendly" facilities accommodate larger RVs with appropriate turning radius and parking spaces, important for those traveling with larger vehicles.
Seasonal traffic patterns: RV travelers should be aware of increased congestion during cruise ship days in port towns like Skagway. "Maybe in the winter this would be a better spot. Though beautiful, it's very busy," Kate K. advises about timing visits to avoid peak crowds when glamping close to Haines State Forest in more developed areas.
