Campsites near Sitka, Alaska offer unique wilderness access within the Tongass National Forest, the largest national forest in the United States. Forest Service cabins throughout the area provide rustic accommodations accessible primarily by water transportation, while campgrounds closer to town serve as convenient basebases. Winter camping remains available at several sites, though visitors should prepare for temperatures averaging 25-35°F during colder months and frequent precipitation throughout the year.
What to do
Skeet shooting and target practice: The Sitka Sportsmans Association RV Park provides recreational shooting facilities regardless of weather conditions. "Bring your favorite over under and plenty of clay pigeons. Or you can use the indoor range if weather isn't permitting. It's right on the water and beautiful," notes camper Chris O.
Salmon fishing: August brings pink salmon runs to the creeks near local campgrounds, particularly at creek mouths. Nearby waters also offer excellent fishing opportunities. At Salmon Lake Cabin Sitka, visitors appreciate the remote setting: "This cabin is cozy, but gets dark at night. Highly recommend to bring fairy lights for inside and a file for the axe."
Hiking trail network: Multiple interconnected trails start near Starrigavan Campground, including the Forest & Muskeg trail, Estuary Loop trail, and Mosquito Cove trail. These relatively short trails feature diverse coastal and forest ecosystems with established bird watching stations along the estuary section.
What campers like
Harbor views: Sealing Cove RV Park provides waterfront camping with constant marine activity. "This location is completely paved and stripped. These are back in sites with Electric and water. The lots sit next to the harbor. You can sit and watch the boats going in and out of the harbor or watch the seals playing," reports Lynn K.
Crabbing opportunities: Marine access points provide excellent shellfish harvesting near certain camping areas. "There is really great crabbing and fishing nearby," notes Billy B. about the coastal waters accessible from Allan Point Cabin.
Wildlife observation: All camping areas feature frequent wildlife sightings, with eagles, ravens, and marine mammals common near shoreline sites. Bear sightings occur occasionally, requiring proper food storage protocols at all locations. Bird watching stations along the Estuary Loop trail provide structured observation points.
What you should know
Cabin preparation requirements: Forest Service cabins require campers to bring all necessary supplies, including heating fuel in most cases. "Bring all your own gear including diesel fuel for the heater," advises one visitor to Allan Point Cabin.
Limited cellular connectivity: Most camping areas have restricted or non-existent mobile service. Starrigavan Campsites offers minimal connectivity, which some campers appreciate: "Cell service is limited, so you can feel like you're away from it all but still go in to work in the morning, or pick up some extra supplies."
Reservation requirements: Popular cabins and campsites require advance planning, especially during summer months. "Best to reserve well in advance, especially during the summer and the weekends," advises Phinneaus B. about Starrigavan Creek Cabin.
Weather variability: Southeast Alaska experiences high precipitation year-round, with summer temperatures averaging 45-65°F and winter temperatures typically between 25-35°F. Waterproof gear remains essential regardless of season.
Tips for camping with families
Group shelter options: Starrigavan Campground includes dedicated group sites with covered shelters ideal for larger family gatherings. "There are a couple of group sites with shelters that are great for bad weather camping," notes a regular visitor.
Walk-in site advantages: Families seeking slightly more privacy should consider the walk-in sites at Starrigavan. "Our favorite sites are the three 'walk in' sites on the ocean side. We love to have birthday parties with a couple other families out there. The walk isn't far at all, but the bathroom is just a bit further."
Educational opportunities: The Old Sitka historical site adjacent to camping areas provides cultural context for family visits, while bird watching stations offer structured wildlife observation opportunities for children.
Tips from RVers
Harbor proximity benefits: RV sites near the harbor provide unique maritime views and activities. "You can sit and watch the boats going in and out of the harbor or watch the seals playing," mentions one RVer about the waterfront positioning at Sealing Cove.
Year-round availability: Some RV facilities maintain operations throughout the winter months, unlike seasonal tent camping areas. "Open all year," notes Chris O. about the Sitka Sportsmans Association RV Park.
Hookup variations: Available RV sites range from basic parking with no amenities to full-service sites with water, electric, and sewer connections. Most developed options cluster near town while more rustic sites provide greater seclusion with fewer conveniences.
