Camping near Sitka, Alaska, offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options to explore.
What to do:
- Hiking: There are numerous trails around the campgrounds. One camper mentioned, “The Elk Creek Campground is a sweet getaway from busier spots, with access to trails and the scenic Wilson River” while another noted, “The trails are not far from the campground, so they are walkable” at Mendenhall Lake Campground.
- Fishing: Many campgrounds are near rivers and lakes, perfect for fishing. A review highlighted, “If you have a fishing license, you can fish off the beach” at Auk Village.
- Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. One visitor shared, “We saw whales breaching, sea otters, and even brown bears on the coast” while camping at Bartlett Cove Campground.
What campers like:
- Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. One camper said, “The campground has some of the most stunning views in our backyard” at Mendenhall Lake Campground.
- Quiet Atmosphere: Many appreciate the peacefulness of the sites. A review noted, “It was quiet and private” at Elk Creek Campground.
- Affordable Rates: Campgrounds like Mendenhall Lake offer great value, with rates starting at just $10 per night. One camper mentioned, “Camping here will only set you back $10 per night.”
What you should know:
- Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds are quite basic. A camper at Elk Creek Campground mentioned, “It’s pretty no-frills, which isn’t a bad thing when you’re spending your time exploring.”
- Bear Safety: Always be cautious about wildlife. One visitor at Bartlett Cove Campground noted, “You need to attend an orientation by the rangers to learn how to safely camp in this park.”
- Walk-in Access: Some sites require a bit of a trek. A review from Auk Village stated, “We had to walk less than a mile from the parking lot to the campsite.”
Tips for camping with families:
- Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with nearby water access. One parent shared, “The stream was the perfect size for playing and swimming” at Elk Creek Campground.
- Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids, especially near water. A camper advised, “Choose your site wisely if camping with kids, pets, or partiers” at Mendenhall Lake Campground.
- Pack Snacks: Having food on hand can make outings easier. A visitor at Auk Village mentioned, “We went to the picnic shelter for our morning breakfast.”
Tips from RVers:
- Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. One camper noted, “Some sites even have great views” at Mendenhall Lake Campground.
- Arrive Early: Popular spots can fill up fast. A review from Bartlett Cove Campground suggested, “Get there early to make sure your reserved spot isn’t taken.”
- Plan for Limited Hookups: Many campgrounds don’t have full hookups. A camper at Auk Village mentioned, “You need to bring your own firewood because some sites say it was supplied.”
Camping near Sitka, Alaska, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors, with plenty of activities and beautiful scenery to make your trip memorable.
