Haines State Forest is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.
"There are plenty of affordable RV parks in the area, but I prefer pitching it on the coast at Portage Cove (no RVs, walking or bike only). It's not far from the ferry terminal or downtown."
"Just a short walk from 'downtown' Haines, this lovely little campground is just great! There is easy access to the beach, with a wonderful view of Haines and the fjords and mountains."
"James State Marine Park is located approximately 35 miles northwest of Juneau and 45 miles south of Haines. The park encompasses St."
"The Bessie Creek Trailhead & Camping Area is near the end of the road North of Juneau. Beautiful wildlife, water, & forest!"
LegendJust a few miles south of downtown Haines, this campground offers an amazing launching site for adventures in the Chilkat Inlet and around the peninsula. We arrived here without any reservation in late June on our way to Juneau and Glacier Bay and were delighted by this quiet and lovely campground. If you’re on foot or bike, there is a much closer walk-in campground just south of downtown. 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. There are plenty of downtown RV parks for those.
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. Bathrooms are vault-style and we found them clean and well stocked. Water spigots are scattered throughout the loop. For walk-in fans, there are a few lovely sites down near the water. We were without our trailer on this trip so found a lovely spot to pitch our tent. These sites don’t offer electrical hookups, so bring your solar panels and/or solar generator and you’ll be all set.
There is a day use area down by the water with a full boat launch, picnic tables, and vault toilet. The views of the surrounding coastal mountains here are stunning. The park would make the perfect place to launch your sea kayaking adventures in the area. There appear to be some longer-term parking areas just up the hill next to the Ranger/ Camp Host cabin.
With downtown Haines just a few miles away, you have access to everything you might need: full grocery store, liquor store, restaurants and coffee shops as well as an excellent Visitor’s information center right in the middle of town.
TravelerIf anything in Haines can convince you it's one of Alaska's finest spots, it's Chilkoot Lake state recreation area. 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. I never wanted to leave!
GuideLocation is convenient next to the rec center and a few blocks from town. The restrooms are clean. There’s a coin operated shower and coin operated laundry on site. There are picnic tables and vending machines as well. Skagway is a great place to stop and this is definitely my favorite rv park. The rate is pretty reasonable in comparison to other parks in town. Plus, you can't beat the view. More spots available during "shoulder seasons" (April or October)
GuideLots of benefits to this spot-- Haines is one of my most favorite towns in the South East because it's small, residential, and not as touristy. There are plenty of affordable RV parks in the area, but I prefer pitching it on the coast at Portage Cove (no RVs, walking or bike only). It's not far from the ferry terminal or downtown. There are public restrooms. Plus the view of the Chilkat Inlet is perfect to wake up to. Lots of spaces! Though it’s quieter before and after the tourist summer season, the Haines state fair is a blast!!! Art, music, food. Great time to go!
GuideSuper Expensive! Most summer seasonal workers. Too crowded and not many facilities. Trash, outhouses. Though, a plus, it's just a short walk to downtown. RV or tent camping. But I suggest finding another place in Skagway.
GuideJust a short walk from 'downtown' Haines, this lovely little campground is just great! There is easy access to the beach, with a wonderful view of Haines and the fjords and mountains. It is a very basic walk-in tent campground, which was absolutely perfect!
RangerThis site is a great basecamp for boating but there are also some great trails within the park. 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. There’s a nice nature center and rangers who offered tips on where to see the latest wildlife and which trails to try. The campsites are fairly open which makes for stunning views in all directions and an opportunity to get to know a few of your neighbors. Absolutely recommended, especially if you have a boat.
RangerBeautiful views of the ocean, recommend an extra tarp above and below for when it rains. Very close walk to town.
GuideThe camping spaces are a little close together, though there are enough it’s easy to get to some privacy. It’s got everything you need, though for better views and further privacy, I’d recommend driving a little further toward the flats. Dyea always seems like the perfect kind of quiet, though it gets the most traffic during the summer and both US and Canadian holidays. I suggest going in September. The weather is perfect-not too cold, solid breeze but warm sunshine. The leaves start to change to a beautiful yellow.
Tent camping near Haines State Forest in Alaska offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in stunning natural beauty while enjoying a variety of outdoor activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Haines State Forest?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Haines State Forest is Portage Cove Campground with a 4-star rating from 4 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Haines State Forest?
TheDyrt.com has all 7 tent camping locations near Haines State Forest, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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