Best Campgrounds near Juneau, AK
Campgrounds near Juneau, Alaska include a mix of established campgrounds and remote cabin options in the Tongass National Forest. Mendenhall Lake Campground, situated on the shores of Mendenhall Lake with views of the glacier, offers tent, RV, and cabin camping, while the area also includes Peterson Lake Campground with free campsites. These locations provide varying levels of amenities from primitive to more developed facilities, with most sites situated along waterways or forests. Several forest service cabins including John Muir Cabin and Dan Moller Cabin require advance reservations and offer rustic overnight accommodations.
Camping season generally runs from May through September, with many campgrounds closing during the remainder of the year due to Alaska's harsh winter conditions. "Most sites are nicely separated, giving you that feeling that you're further away than you really are," noted one visitor about Mendenhall Lake Campground. Reservations are required for most established sites and particularly for forest service cabins, which should be booked well in advance during summer months. Wildlife encounters, including bears, are common in the area, necessitating proper food storage in the provided bear boxes at campgrounds. Many locations are accessible by car, though some cabins require hiking or boat access, adding to their remote appeal.
The proximity to Mendenhall Glacier provides a distinctive camping experience in the region. Campers consistently praise the glacier views and access to hiking trails. One visitor remarked, "This campground is right on Mendenhall Lake and keeps you away from the crowds that come into the ranger station and visitor center." Sites along the lake offer direct views of the glacier, though visitors note these locations can be significantly colder due to winds coming off the ice, especially during daylight hours. Campgrounds provide varying amenities, with Mendenhall Lake offering hot showers, flush toilets, and bear boxes at each site. The combination of accessible locations with wilderness experiences makes Juneau's camping options particularly appealing for those seeking Alaskan outdoor experiences without venturing too far from town.
