Camping spots near Hoonah, Alaska center primarily around wilderness and cabin experiences due to the area's rugged terrain. Winter temperatures at these Tongass National Forest camping areas average just 30°F, with summer highs rarely exceeding 65°F. Most locations receive over 70 inches of annual rainfall, creating challenging but rewarding camping conditions throughout the region.
What to do
Wildlife viewing from kayaks: At Mendenhall Lake Campground near Juneau, campers can arrange kayak excursions to observe diverse wildlife. "During our day on the water, we saw whales breaching (about a dozen times!), sea otters, sea lions, dozens of bald eagles, and brown bears on the coast," reports one visitor about nearby waters.
Beach exploration: Investigate the intertidal zones at low tide for marine life viewing. "If you have a fishing license you can fish off the beach, great for swimming as well because it is a protected cove," notes a camper at Auk Village about similar coastal areas.
Glacier hiking: Many camping locations offer access to glacier viewing trails. "We explored the glacier and went on a hike. Juneau is a lovely town as well," shares one visitor. Another adds, "Half way up nugget falls trails there are a few cut through's to the lake where you can find nice private beaches."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The forest setting creates natural separation between campsites. "Each site is very private, ours was built up on a little ring of rocks with stairs leading down from the car," notes a visitor to Auk Village Campground. "The campsites themselves are simply bare spots on which to pitch your tent – no picnic tables or fire rings, but there are composting toilets in the campground."
Forest atmosphere: The temperate rainforest creates a distinctive camping environment. "The trees were dripping with green mosses and vegetation," describes a visitor to Bartlett Cove. Another camper mentions, "It is a wonderful campground! Right on the lake overlooking the Mendenhall Glacier. The bugs are manageable. The campground is clean and well organized."
Wildlife encounters: Campers consistently highlight animal sightings. At Moser Island Cabin, one visitor reports, "Near the cabin, there is great crabbing across the bay and decent shrimping within a 10 minute boat ride. Only warning, be on the lookout for bears, there was multiple signs of them so don't leave anything outside."
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Special protocols must be followed at most camping locations. "You cannot drive to this park, it was important to us to stay very close by. The lodge also provides accommodation, but the free campground cannot be beat. A free permit is required, which includes a 30-minute camper orientation that ensures you follow all the safety guidelines," explains a camper at Bartlett Cove Campground.
Limited amenities: Most forest cabins have minimal facilities. "Inside the cabin, it is small but easily slept all of us (5 guys). Bring all your own camping gear. There is also a little wood stove inside the cabin to help warm it up at night," advises a visitor to Moser Island Cabin.
Legend
