Sitka camping options extend beyond the primary RV parks to include Forest Service cabins and wilderness camping areas. Located on Baranof Island in the Alexander Archipelago, this region receives approximately 86 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush temperate rainforest conditions. Wilderness cabin options require advance planning as most are accessible only by boat or floatplane, with reservations available up to 6 months in advance through the National Recreation Reservation System.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The Starrigavan Campsites area provides excellent wildlife watching. "You'll definitely see bald eagles, and please don't feed the ravens. Pink salmon run up the creek in August, you can catch them at the mouth," notes a local camper. The nearby estuary and beach areas are prime spots for observing marine life.
Fishing and crabbing: Water activities are abundant near Allan Point Cabin. A visitor reports, "There is really great crabbing and fishing near by. The cabin itself is spacious, but bring all your own gear including diesel fuel for the heater." The inside waters are typically calm, making this accessible for beginners.
Shooting sports: The Sitka area offers opportunities for recreational shooting. At Sitka Sportsmans Association, visitors can access both indoor and outdoor ranges. "Bring your favorite over under and plenty of clay pigeons. Or you can use the indoor range if weather isn't permitting," advises one camper. The skeet range operates Thursday evenings and Sunday afternoons.
What campers like
Remote wilderness settings: Forest Service cabins provide true wilderness experiences with minimal amenities. At Salmon Lake Cabin Sitka, visitors enjoy the isolation. "This cabin is cozy, but gets dark at night. Highly recommend to bring fairy lights for inside and a file for the axe," suggests one camper. Leave No Trace principles are strongly encouraged at these remote locations.
Proximity to water: Many camping locations feature waterfront settings. The harbor-side locations at Sealing Cove allow campers to observe marine traffic and wildlife. Sitka Sportsmans Association provides similar advantages, with a visitor noting, "It's right on the water and beautiful. The people are always very nice."
Access to trail systems: Several campgrounds connect to hiking paths. The Starrigavan area features multiple short trail options within walking distance of camping sites, including interpretive trails through the estuary and forest. These trails range from accessible boardwalks to more challenging forest routes.
What you should know
Limited facilities at remote cabins: Forest Service cabins require thorough preparation. Most have wood stoves but no electricity, running water, or bathroom facilities. Brents Beach Cabin and other similar cabins require visitors to bring all necessary supplies, including drinking water, cooking equipment, sleeping bags, and toilet paper.
Weather considerations: Southeast Alaska receives significant rainfall year-round. Summer temperatures average 55-65°F while winter temperatures typically range from 25-35°F. Even summer camping requires rain gear and appropriate clothing layers. Shoulder season visits (May and September) often have fewer crowds but more variable weather conditions.
Reservation requirements: All Forest Service cabins require advance reservations, with fees typically $45-75 per night. The Starrigavan Campground operates seasonally from May through October with sites available on a first-come, first-served basis during this period. Peak summer months often reach capacity, particularly on weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Best sites for children: The walk-in sites at Sitka Sportsmans Association RV Park provide good options for families. "There's a limited amount of spaces for your rv but they have tent sites too," notes a visitor. The facilities include restrooms and showers, making longer stays more comfortable with younger children.
Food storage protocols: Bear-safe food handling is essential at all Sitka area campgrounds. At Starrigavan Campsites, a local explains, "You have to keep your food and other smelly things locked in your car or in the bear proof food lockers." This applies to toiletries and scented items as well, not just food.
Group site availability: Some locations offer designated group camping areas. Starrigavan features sheltered group sites that work well for multi-family outings. "There are a couple of group sites with shelters that are great for bad weather camping," according to a local camper who frequently hosts birthday gatherings there.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most RV sites in the Sitka area accommodate smaller to medium-sized vehicles only. Neither of the main RV parks can handle large motorhomes or fifth wheels. Standard sites typically accommodate RVs up to 30 feet, with limited pull-through options available at Starrigavan during the operating season.
Year-round options: While Starrigavan operates seasonally, Freds Creek Cabin and Sitka Sportsmans Association remain accessible throughout winter months. Year-round campers should prepare for limited daylight in winter, with December offering just 6-7 hours of usable light. Winter camping requires thorough cold-weather preparation and self-sufficiency.
Connectivity challenges: Cell service varies throughout the Sitka area, particularly at remote cabins where no service exists. Even at Starrigavan, a camper notes that "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." Downtown Sitka offers reliable connectivity for those needing to check in while visiting.
