Camping sites around Haines, Alaska remain operational from mid-May through mid-September, with most facilities closing after the first frost. Located between the Chilkat Range and Lynn Canal at sea level, the area experiences milder temperatures than interior Alaska but significant rainfall averaging 50-60 inches annually. Sites on higher ground provide better protection during seasonal flooding events that occasionally impact valley campgrounds.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at dawn/dusk: Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site serves as an excellent base for wildlife spotting. "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," notes visitor Liann W. The lakeshore provides opportunities to observe bears feeding on salmon.
Kayaking and paddling: Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve offers multiple water access points. As Harry H. explains, "This 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."
Hiking nearby trails: The trail network near Yakutania Point provides several day hike options. Kate K. shares, "Cross the foot bridge over the Skagway River by the airport and follow the signs left. It's an easy trail with a few places to explore and hang out by the water along the way."
What campers like
Accessibility to town resources: Oceanside RV Park receives praise for its location. "The location is extremely convenient," reports Vicky S., who also notes the "lovely views of water and mountains."
Seasonal timing flexibility: Shoulder season visits yield quieter experiences. One camper at Chilkat State Park observed, "During busy months this place will be packed but on the shoulder season I had almost the whole campground to myself."
Natural separation between sites: St. James Bay State Marine Park offers boat-in camping with natural buffers. Josiah P. notes, "The bay, easily accessed by small boat from the Amalga Harbor boat launch, Auke Bay, or Juneau, is a popular area for wildlife viewing, photography, waterfowl and big game hunting, sport fishing, boating, kayaking, and camping."
What you should know
Weather preparedness essential: Summer temperatures typically range in the 60s with occasional 80-degree days. According to Josiah P., campers should "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."
Limited water availability: Some campgrounds lack reliable water sources. At Blue Mussel Cabin, campers should note that "the creek by the cabin is currently dried up" according to Stephanie S., who advises to "be sure to bring enough water for the night."
Cell service varies: While connectivity exists at certain locations, service can be spotty. One camper reports that "AT&T cell service as good as in town when in the day use area" at Chilkat State Park, but coverage deteriorates in wooded areas and valleys.
Tips for camping with families
Safety planning: Maintain awareness of wildlife presence, particularly during salmon runs. Krista R. advises, "Keep an eye out for wildlife, there are lots of grizzlies around" at Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site, which offers children's PFDs to borrow for paddling activities.
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds provide child-appropriate activities. At Yakutania Point, Kate K. notes there are "plenty of places to hang a hammock" and the area is "pet friendly, as long as your pets are friendly," making it suitable for pet-friendly camping near Haines.
Accessibility considerations: Choose sites with shorter walking distances for young children. The Chilkoot Lake area has facilities closer to parking, though Lindsay B. cautions, "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."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Many campgrounds cannot accommodate larger vehicles. At Chilkat State Park, Shari G. notes, "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."
Power management: For pet-friendly camping near Haines with limited hookups, plan accordingly. "These sites don't offer electrical hookups, so bring your solar panels and/or solar generator and you'll be all set," recommends Shari G. regarding Chilkat State Park camping.
Alternative parking arrangements: Some areas offer overflow or long-term parking options. Shari G. observed at Chilkat State Park, "There appear to be some longer-term parking areas just up the hill next to the Ranger/Camp Host cabin," which can be useful during peak season when primary spaces fill quickly.
