Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site provides yurt camping near Haines, Alaska from May 15 to September 15. Located in a densely wooded area approximately 20 minutes from downtown, the recreation site sits at the edge of Chilkoot Lake surrounded by steep mountains rising directly from the water. Winter temperatures in the region regularly drop below freezing, while summer temperatures typically range from 45-65°F with frequent rainfall even during camping season.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: At Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site, visitors can observe significant wildlife activity. "I biked here from Haines in June, it is such a lovely area! Keep an eye out for wildlife, there are lots of grizzlies around," notes Krista R.
Paddle sports on Chilkoot Lake: The lake offers excellent conditions for kayaking and canoeing. "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," writes a visitor about the recreation area.
Mountain hiking trails: The surrounding mountains provide hiking opportunities with panoramic views. "The area features a wide river and scenic mountain hikes and views," explains Lindsay B. about the Chilkoot Lake area, adding "You will need to find a car to drive you out to the area."
What campers like
Sunset viewing spots: The lake setting offers spectacular evening views. One camper mentioned, "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!"
Wooded campsites: Pullen Creek and RV Park offers alternative yurt accommodations in Skagway, about an hour from Haines. While the setting differs from Chilkoot Lake, its proximity to town offers different advantages: "The advantage to be here is the convenience to walk to the train station for tours, and also downtown. Reasonable price," notes Ioan P.
Eagle viewing: The forested setting at Chilkoot provides opportunities for bird watching. "Nice, very wooded place but very tight. You can see eagles activities in the sky. You have to go out of camp for a view," shares a visitor about the lakeside yurt camping experience.
What you should know
Limited views within campground: Despite the scenic location, dense forest limits views. "You can see eagles activities in the sky. You have to go out of camp for a view," explains one camper about Chilkoot Lake.
Seasonal operation only: Yurt accommodations at Chilkoot Lake operate only during summer months. The area sees significant winter snowfall making off-season access difficult.
Transportation requirements: Getting to Chilkoot Lake requires planning. "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," advises Lindsay B.
Tips for camping with families
Borrow children's life jackets: Families planning water activities should know about available equipment. "They even have children's PFDs to borrow, should you forget to bring some," notes Krista R. about resources at the lake.
Consider in-town alternatives: For families wanting easier access to services, Haines offers more central options. "There are lots of camping opportunities in Haines including 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," suggests Lindsay B.
Check for wildlife safety protocols: With grizzly bears present in the Chilkoot Lake area, families should understand proper food storage requirements and wildlife safety measures before booking yurt accommodations.
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: RV campers should note the compact nature of the sites. "Nice, very wooded place but very tight," warns Ioan P. about navigating the Chilkoot Lake campground.
Consider boat harbor proximity: Some RV spots in the area place you near working harbors. "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," explains Kate K. about one camping location, noting this creates a "very busy" environment.
Full hookups available: RVers seeking yurt camping near Haines should know the Chilkoot Lake site offers electric hookups, water hookups, and sewer connections for those with RVs, making it suitable for campers wanting both tent and RV options.
