Best Campgrounds near Skagway, AK

Skagway camping areas range from spots in town to more secluded sites in the surrounding wilderness. The South Klondike Highway leads to Skagway City Park Campground, which puts campers right in town. If you want fewer neighbors, Skagway Area State Park has more spread-out sites away from the crowds. Local National Forest Sites around Skagway are basic but put you closer to nature without many facilities. Families often choose Skagway Recreation Area for its picnic tables and play areas for kids. Skagway County Park Campground sits near several hiking trails and good fishing spots. Bears and eagles live throughout the area, so proper food storage is essential while camping here. Most camping doesn't require permits, but it's smart to check if any seasonal rules apply. Fire restrictions change based on conditions, so always verify before starting a campfire. The Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park tells the story of the area's mining past. Trails around Chilkoot Lake give hikers great views of the landscape. Summer brings the best camping weather, though winter camping is possible if you bring the right cold-weather gear. Rain happens frequently due to the coastal location, so pack waterproof tents and clothing. Both tent and RV campers find good options throughout the Skagway area.

Best Camping Sites Near Skagway, Alaska (21)

    1. Dyea Campground — Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park

    6 Reviews
    Skagway, AK
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 983-9200

    "It says the max height is 11’2” - That’s not correct - Mack Trucks fit over this bridge and drive it regularly. Take a left after the bridge and go past the town historic site and campground."

    "It’s about a twenty-thirty minute drive from town. The tougher your vehicle, the better, but 4wd not needed."

    2. Garden City RV Park

    3 Reviews
    Skagway, AK
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (907) 983-2378

    "It’s easy to walk to downtown Skagway and close to the library for free WiFi. No fire pits is the only downside."

    "Location is convenient next to the rec center and a few blocks from town. The restrooms are clean. There’s a coin operated shower and coin operated laundry on site."

    3. Yakutania Point

    1 Review
    Skagway, AK
    2 miles

    "Cross the foot bridge over the Skagway River by the airport and follow the signs left. It's an easy trail with a few places to explore and hang out by the water along the way."

    4. Smuggler's Cove

    1 Review
    Skagway, AK
    1 mile

    "Also great for trail running. I love this spot! Great afternoon hike that can turn into an overnight stay. Pet friendly too!"

    5. Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site

    4 Reviews
    Haines, AK
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 269-8400

    "The mountains in this part of Alaska are towering and incredible."

    "If anything in Haines can convince you it's one of Alaska's finest spots, it's Chilkoot Lake state recreation area."

    6. Pullen Creek and RV Park

    2 Reviews
    Skagway, AK
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (907) 983-2768

    7. Portage Cove Campground

    4 Reviews
    Haines, AK
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 269-8400

    "Just a short walk from 'downtown' Haines, this lovely little campground is just great! There is easy access to the beach, with a wonderful view of Haines and the fjords and mountains."

    "Very close walk to town."

    8. Oceanside RV Park

    1 Review
    Haines, AK
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 766-3730

    $46 - $65 / night

    "The location is extremely convenient. We enjoyed our stay and look forward to coming back."

    9. Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve

    3 Reviews
    Haines State Forest, AK
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 269-8400

    "This site is a great basecamp for boating but there are also some great trails within the park. You can see to the mainland on both sides of the fjords so bring the best binoculars you can afford."

    "Just a few miles south of downtown Haines, this campground offers an amazing launching site for adventures in the Chilkat Inlet and around the peninsula."

    10. Denver Caboose Cabin

    Be the first to review!
    Skagway, AK
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 586-8800

    $45 / night

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Recent Reviews near Skagway, AK

27 Reviews of 21 Skagway Campgrounds


  • Vicky S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 4, 2025

    Oceanside RV Park

    Beautiful, clean, comfortable

    This RV park is on the water with lovely views of water and mountains. Check-in was easy, everything worked, everything was super clean, the gathering area and bathrooms were spotlessly clean and comfortable. The staff was friendly. The location is extremely convenient. We enjoyed our stay and look forward to coming back.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 24, 2025

    Chilkat State Park

    Perfect spot when you get off the ferry!

    South of Haines, maybe a 15-20 minute drive. Nice clean campground, pit toilets, water pump. Great first night place to stay near Haines.

  • E
    Jun. 14, 2024

    Garden City RV Park

    Great Campground

    Hot showers, laundry, and a great price. It’s easy to walk to downtown Skagway and close to the library for free WiFi. No fire pits is the only downside.

  • Norton E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 14, 2023

    Portage Cove Campground

    Sadly no longer a campsite

    I don't know when it was shut down but it is day use only now.

  • A
    Jul. 25, 2023

    Dyea Campground — Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park

    Dyea Flats

    Take Dyea road all the way down over the the Taiya River bridge. It says the max height is 11’2” - That’s not correct - Mack Trucks fit over this bridge and drive it regularly. Take a left after the bridge and go past the town historic site and campground. You’ll likely already see other RVs on the flats. They’re not monitored by the campground other than someone coming by occasionally to check the site for clean up.

    Do not park too close to the beach - it has a infamously high tide. You’ll see the algae lines from past tides. It is beautiful and quiet but is frequented by tourists during the day and ATVs.

    There are two brown tipped black bears that frequent the area. You can see them looking for fish at low tide or playing together in the meadow. They are small but not cubs. Most black bears in the area are very small.

    There is a long to do around this area of Dyea and you’re about a 20-25 min drive from Skagway.

  • Shari  G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 6, 2022

    Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve

    Tucked Away & Gorgeous!

    Just a few miles south of downtown Haines, this campground offers an amazing launching site for adventures in the Chilkat Inlet and around the peninsula. We arrived here without any reservation in late June on our way to Juneau and Glacier Bay and were delighted by this quiet and lovely campground. If you’re on foot or bike, there is a much closer walk-in campground just south of downtown. The approach to the Chilkat campground is on a steep dirt road which is pretty good by Alaskan standards, but the campsites cannot accommodate larger rigs. There are plenty of downtown RV parks for those. 

    There are a few pull-through sites, but the rest have a double-parking set up, where two campsites share a paved parking area and the campsite is to the left or right of the pavement, perfect for small groups. Bathrooms are vault-style and we found them clean and well stocked. Water spigots are scattered throughout the loop. For walk-in fans, there are a few lovely sites down near the water. We were without our trailer on this trip so found a lovely spot to pitch our tent. These sites don’t offer electrical hookups, so bring your solar panels and/or solar generator and you’ll be all set. 

    There is a day use area down by the water with a full boat launch, picnic tables, and vault toilet. The views of the surrounding coastal mountains here are stunning. The park would make the perfect place to launch your sea kayaking adventures in the area. There appear to be some longer-term parking areas just up the hill next to the Ranger/ Camp Host cabin. 

    With downtown Haines just a few miles away, you have access to everything you might need: full grocery store, liquor store, restaurants and coffee shops as well as an excellent Visitor’s information center right in the middle of town.

  • SJ D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2021

    Portage Cove Campground

    Great tent spot by town

    Beautiful views of the ocean, recommend an extra tarp above and below for when it rains. Very close walk to town.

  • SJ D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2021

    Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve

    Gift on a sunny day

    Beautiful park and campground. During busy months this place will be packed but on the shoulder season I had almost the whole campground to myself. Clean facilities, AT&T cell service as good as in town when in the day use area

  • Ioan P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 24, 2020

    Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site

    Like this

    Nice, very vooded place but, very tight. You can see eagles activities in the sky. You have to go out of camp for a view. Haines is 20 minutes drive.


Guide to Skagway

Camping near Skagway, Alaska, offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and rich history. Whether you're pitching a tent or rolling in with an RV, there's something for everyone in this beautiful part of the world.

What to do:

  • Explore the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park: This area is packed with history and scenic views. One camper mentioned, "There is a long to do around this area of Dyea and you’re about a 20-25 min drive from Skagway," making it a perfect spot for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep your eyes peeled for bears and eagles. One visitor at Dyea Campground noted, "There are two brown tipped black bears that frequent the area. You can see them looking for fish at low tide."
  • Hiking: The trails around Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site offer breathtaking views. A reviewer said, "Beautiful wooded campsites with fire rings, picnic tables, and flat areas for tents."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the stunning landscapes. One camper at Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site exclaimed, "I never wanted to leave!" after witnessing the beautiful sunsets over the lake.
  • Privacy: Many appreciate the private camping spots. A review from Dyea Campground highlighted, "Private spaces, beautiful views, northern lights, eagles, bears, river, ocean… all the things."
  • Historical Significance: The rich history of the area is a big draw. One camper shared, "Dyea has such amazing history," making it a great spot for those interested in the past.

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Campgrounds like Dyea Campground have few amenities. A reviewer pointed out, "It has NO electric hookups, NO fires allowed, and NO pets allowed," so be prepared for a more rustic experience.
  • Road Conditions: The roads can be rough. One camper warned, "The road is curvy and rough with a low bridge, so don’t attempt if you’re over 11’1”," which is something to keep in mind for larger vehicles.
  • Wildlife Caution: While wildlife is a highlight, it’s important to be cautious. A visitor mentioned, "Do not park too close to the beach - it has an infamously high tide," reminding campers to stay aware of their surroundings.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose the Right Campground: Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site is family-friendly with activities like fishing and hiking. One parent noted, "They even have children's PFDs to borrow, should you forget to bring some."
  • Plan for Weather: Be ready for rain. A camper suggested, "Recommend an extra tarp above and below for when it rains," to keep your family dry and comfortable.
  • Engage with Nature: Encourage kids to explore. One reviewer said, "You can see eagles activities in the sky," which can be a fun and educational experience for children.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Vehicle Size: If you're driving an RV, be mindful of bridge heights. A camper at Dyea Campground mentioned, "It says the max height is 11’2” - That’s not correct - Mack Trucks fit over this bridge."
  • Look for Scenic Spots: Many RVers prefer spots with great views. One camper shared, "The view of the Chilkat Inlet is perfect to wake up to," highlighting the beauty of the area.
  • Stay Off the Beaten Path: For a quieter experience, consider camping a bit further from town. A reviewer noted, "Though it’s quieter before and after the tourist summer season," making it a great time for RVers to enjoy the peace and quiet.

Camping near Skagway, Alaska, is an adventure filled with natural beauty and unique experiences. Whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking scenic views, this area has something to offer everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Skagway camping sites?

Garden City RV Park offers hot showers, laundry facilities, picnic tables, vending machines, and clean restrooms. It's conveniently located next to the recreation center and within walking distance of downtown Skagway. For a more natural setting, Yakutania Point provides basic amenities including outhouses, trash cans, and picnic tables. This site is accessible via a foot bridge over the Skagway River near the airport, offering beautiful spots along the water. While Garden City lacks fire pits, it compensates with its proximity to town services and facilities.

Where are the campgrounds located in Skagway, Alaska?

Skagway offers several camping locations with distinct settings. Dyea Campground — Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park is situated about 20-30 minutes from downtown, accessible via Dyea Road across the Taiya River bridge. For those wanting to stay closer to town, Pullen Creek and RV Park is conveniently located next to the small boat harbor and railroad dock. Both options provide unique experiences – Dyea offers seclusion with mountain, river, and ocean views while Pullen Creek provides easy access to downtown amenities and transportation connections.

When is the best season for camping in Skagway?

Summer (June through August) is the optimal camping season in Skagway when temperatures are milder and daylight hours are extended—perfect for exploring the area's natural beauty. During this peak season, Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site in nearby Haines (accessible by ferry) offers beautiful wooded sites with prime wildlife viewing opportunities. Some hardy campers visit in late spring (May) or early fall (September), but be prepared for cooler temperatures and potentially wet conditions. Winter camping is possible for the adventurous with proper cold-weather gear, though most campgrounds reduce services or close completely.