Campsites near Juneau, Alaska sit on the eastern edge of the Tongass National Forest, the nation's largest national forest spanning 16.7 million acres. The region receives approximately 92 inches of rain annually, creating a temperate rainforest ecosystem where camping opportunities range from lake-adjacent sites to remote forest cabins. Most camping areas open from May through September, with nightly temperatures dropping to the low 40s even in summer.
What to do
Kayaking opportunities: At Mendenhall Lake Campground, visitors can explore the lake by kayak with close-up glacier views. "Explore the lake via kayak, hike the short park trails, explore the far side of the lake - this is a great spot just minutes from the Juneau Airport," notes Josiah P.
Wildlife watching: Auk Village Campground provides exceptional marine wildlife viewing. "Great place to go whale watching. Seriously! I went for two hours and saw 30 ish breaches. It was incredible," says Carly S. The protected cove allows for beach walks with opportunities to spot otters, seals, and marine birds.
Trail access: Several trails connect to camping areas, including the East Glacier trail and Trail of Time near Mendenhall Lake. According to Sierra S., "After setting up camp you can explore the trail to get close to the glacier and see beautiful waterfalls!" Most trails are busiest between 10am-2pm when cruise ships dock.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The forest setting creates natural separation between campsites. At Peterson Lake Campground, campers appreciate the secluded feel. "This campground has one site with a picnic table and a fire ring. However you can camp anywhere that there is parking," notes Tanya B.
Proximity to town with wilderness feel: Many sites balance convenience with natural settings. Justin S. says about Auk Village, "It's not a far walk to the water, where you could see otters, seals, whales, cool ducks, starfish, etc. The camping spots are very spread out and private."
Clean facilities: Despite remote locations, facilities are well-maintained. At Peterson Lake Cabin, Mackenzie S. reports, "Peterson is a great cabin and the perfect place to getaway!" Another camper noted about Peterson Lake Campground: "Clean bathrooms and big trash cans that got emptied while we were there for 4 nights."
What you should know
Advance reservations required: Most cabins and developed campgrounds require booking through Recreation.gov. "Before you go: you must reserve a spot online in advance & spots tend to fill up quickly in July & August," warns Josiah P. about Mendenhall Lake Campground.
Bear country precautions: All camping areas are in bear habitat requiring proper food storage. "Great place for the family, bears do frequent the area so keep site clean," advises James L. Some sites provide bear boxes; others require portable containers.
Weather preparation: Even summer camping requires warm clothing. One camper at Admiralty National Monument described it as "Remote, Rugged, Spectacular" with "Inspiring wildlife." Sites along Mendenhall Lake experience cold winds from the glacier even on sunny days.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible trails: Families with children should consider sites with shorter trail options. "The tent sites were nicely separated, giving you that feeling that you're further away than you really are. I loved staying here, and loved the things to do nearby," reports Justin S. about Mendenhall Lake.
Historical sites: Incorporate educational opportunities at cultural locations. One visitor at Auk Village explains, "Great historical site, an ancient village with historical marker as well as a beautiful totem nearby that tells an interesting story."
Timing for attractions: Avoid crowds by planning glacier visits outside peak hours. Angie W. notes about John Muir Cabin, "The cabin at the end is cozy and the views of the mountains are spectacular. The boardwalks over the muskegs and the flora and fauna are unreal and so, so Alaska."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: RVers should research each campground's parking constraints. "This campground is very well designed, almost all of the sites are along the water. Many have amazing views but all are within the trees. I don't think there were any RVs, not sure if it was an off week or the road here is too much," notes Justin S.
Amenities availability: Unlike Lower 48 campgrounds, many Juneau sites have limited hookups. Angie G. advises, "We had a great site, bear box, campfire pit, and a fabulous view when you walk to the edge right behind your site! We didn't put any hammocks in the trees or do any cooking on site, as it is black bear country."
Distance planning: RVers should note that Juneau's camping areas are spread out across 45+ miles of road systems. "If you fly into Juneau, the towering Mendenhall Glacier is sure to impress. The glacier is huge and dangles right near town. I took a cheap blue bus from the cruise ship down to Mendenhall," shares Lindsay B.
