Camping options near Haines State Forest provide diverse experiences for pet owners across Southeast Alaska's temperate rainforest region. The area receives approximately 60 inches of annual precipitation with summer temperatures averaging 55-65°F. Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally due to harsh winter conditions, with accessibility typically limited from mid-May through mid-September. Vault toilets are standard at many locations rather than full facilities.
What to do
Lake activities at Chilkoot Lake: The lake is ideal for paddling with portable children's PFDs available to borrow at Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site. As reviewer Krista R. notes, "I biked here from Haines in June, it is such a lovely area! The boat launch area is perfect for a picnic, and the lake is perfect for a paddle!"
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The mountains surrounding Chilkat State Park provide excellent wildlife observation points. Harry H. recommends: "You can see to the mainland on both sides of the fjords so bring the best binoculars you can afford. This area is also famous for its Bald Eagle Preserve, salmon, and everything else you think of when you think of Alaska."
Hiking accessible trails: The Yakutania Point area offers short hiking trails suitable for all skill levels and leashed dogs. Kate K. describes the experience: "It's an easy trail with a few places to explore and hang out by the water along the way. If you follow it to the Point, you'll pass outhouses and trashcans about half way."
What campers like
Shoulder season solitude: For pet friendly camping near Haines State Forest with fewer crowds, consider visiting during May or September. One camper at Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve notes, "During busy months this place will be packed but on the shoulder season I had almost the whole campground to myself."
Mountain and water views: Many sites provide scenic vistas without leaving camp. Vicky S. from Oceanside RV Park observes, "This RV Park is on the water with lovely views of water and mountains. Check-in was easy, everything worked, everything was super clean."
Natural wooded settings: Tree coverage at campsites provides shade and privacy for pets. According to Liann W., Chilkoot Lake offers "Beautiful wooded campsites with fire rings, picnic tables, and flat areas for tents... and a short walk (often can see from your site) to the lake where a beautiful show occurs each time the sun sets."
What you should know
Bear safety protocols: Pet owners camping with dogs in the Haines area must maintain strict food storage practices due to active grizzly populations. As noted in a review of Pullen Creek and RV Park: "Maybe in the winter this would be a better spot. Though beautiful, it's very busy. It's right next to the small boat harbor, and the railroad dock, so there's traffic from fishing boats."
Limited water access: During dry periods, natural water sources may be unreliable. A review for Blue Mussel Cabin warns: "Be sure to bring enough water for the night because the creek by the cabin is currently dried up."
Campsite sizing restrictions: Many of the more scenic campsites cannot accommodate larger vehicles. As Shari G. points out about Chilkat State Park: "The approach to the Chilkat campground is on a steep dirt road which is pretty good by Alaskan standards, but the campsites cannot accommodate larger rigs."
Tips for camping with families
Hammock spots for kids: Multiple sites offer tree spacing perfect for hammock setups that children enjoy. Kate K. recommends Yakutania Point where there are "plenty of places to hang a hammock. For the best views, check out the rocks to the right."
Fire pit availability: Most sites provide fire rings, but firewood is not always supplied. Bring your own or purchase locally. According to Liann W., Chilkoot Lake has "beautiful wooded campsites with fire rings, picnic tables, and flat areas for tents."
Town proximity advantages: Staying at locations near Haines provides quick access to supplies. Lindsay B. notes that "The mountains in this part of Alaska are towering and incredible. There are lots of camping opportunities in Haines including a small rustic campground right in town a short walking distance of the fast ferry."
Tips from RVers
Parking configurations: Some campgrounds feature unique parking arrangements. Shari G. observes that at Salmon Run RV Campground: "There are a few pull-through sites, but the rest have a double-parking set up, where two campsites share a paved parking area and the campsite is to the left or right of the pavement, perfect for small groups."
Solar power preparation: Electric hookups are limited in the region, so alternative power sources are recommended. "These sites don't offer electrical hookups, so bring your solar panels and/or solar generator and you'll be all set," advises Shari G. about some sites.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies widely between campgrounds and even within the same campground. SJ D. reports: "AT&T cell service as good as in town when in the day use area" at Chilkat State Park, implying limited service elsewhere in the campground.
