Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Tenakee Springs, AK is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Tenakee Springs is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Tenakee Springs and user-submitted reviews.
Mendenhall Campground is situated on the shore of Mendenhall Lake, in view of massive Mendenhall Glacier, about 13 miles from downtown Juneau. The site is a popular destination for viewing beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife. Hiking opportunities abound.
The West Glacier Trail, with an elevation gain of 1,300 feet, can be hiked in 5-6 hours roundtrip. The trailhead is a half mile from the campground entrance by road or on the Aak'w Sit' Trail. The .4 mile Tolch Rock Trail is in this vicinity. The campground has several paths in it with interpretive signs relating facts about the area wildlife and environment.
The campground is situated on the shore of Mendenhall Lake at about 100 feet elevation. Mendenhall Glacier lies to the north and the Mendenhall River flows on the east. On either side of the campground, the mountains rise from 4,000 to to 7,000 feet above the Mendenhall Glacier. The topography is relatively flat and open, consisting of glacial moraines, small lakes and ponds. Forbs and lichens, black cottonwood, Sitka alder, willow and mature spruce hemlock forests cover the area. The forest floor is dotted with blueberry bushes and mosses. At nearly 17 million acres, the Tongass National Forest covers most of Southeast Alaska and is the largest forest in the national forest system. The Tongass surrounds the Inside Passage, the network of waterways that buffer the jagged Alaskan Coast and a cluster of coastline islands. The Tongass offers visitors a chance to view wildlife, including eagles, bears and spawning salmon. Expansive vistas, including fjords, glaciers and mountain peaks fill the area. Much of the forest is a temperate rain forest.
Run the rapids down the Mendenhall River, take a helicopter to the top of the glacier, bicycle or hike in the area. Outfitters offer these services. Many trails can be accessed from the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center area, including East Glacier Trail, with an elevation gain of 400 feet, takes 2-3 hours roundtrip. Some of the shorter trails in this area include the 1.7 mile Nugget Falls Trail, where the waterfall drops 377 feet in two tiers onto a sandbar in Mendenhall Lake, the 1.5 mile Moraine Ecology Trail, and the .7 mile Trail of Time.
$34 / night
Moser Island Cabin sits on the northern shore of Moser Island in upper Hoonah Sound, 48 miles north of Sitka, Alaska. The wood cabin, built in 1991 by volunteers from Sitka, is available year-round and makes an excellent base for experiencing and exploring this corner of Alaska. This is a remote site. The cabin can be accessed only by floatplane or boat, weather permitting. From Sitka, it's a 30-minute plane ride or a two-hour boat ride. Visitors are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring their own amenities.
Beachcombing, seal watching, hunting and fishing are popular activities at Moser Island Cabin. Shrimp fishing is available south and east of the island, and crabbing is available in nearby bays. Local rivers can be fished for Dolly Varden and pink and chum salmon. Deer, bear and waterfowl hunting is allowed on Chichagof Island, accessible from the cabin during low tide. For information about fishing and hunting permits and seasons, visit the Alaska Department of Fish and Game website.
Moser Island is a small island covered by a spruce and hemlock forest in upper Hoonah Sound. At low tide, the shoreline near the cabin leads to Chichagof Island. Wildlife, including deer, brown bear and waterfowl, is abundant in the surrounding area.
$55 / night
Auk Village Campground is located 15 miles from downtown Juneau, Alaska, and 1.5 miles from the Alaska State Ferry terminal at Auke Bay. The area offers a variety of outdoor opportunities.
The area offers fishing, wildlife viewing, kayaking, picnicking, motor boating, hiking, berry picking, rafting, sailing, bicycling, and glacier viewing.
The campground sits above Auk Bay in a western hemlock and Sitka spruce forested area. Views of the Chilkat Range and the ocean are spectacular. Bears frequent the area.
Auk Recreation Area includes a large day use area on the shores of Auk Bay. The area includes shelters, picnic tables, drinking water, fire rings and a trail. At the Auk Bay Harbor, commercial operators offer sport fishing, kayak rentals, and whale watching tours.
$20 / night
Kennel Creek Cabin is located near Kennel Creek along the south shore of Freshwater Bay, on the northeast side of Chichagof Island. It offers visitors excellent opportunities for recreation and viewing scenery and wildlife. This is a primitive cabin with no electricity, indoor plumbing or cell phone coverage. Visitors are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring their own amenities. The cabin is generally available year-round, depending on weather, and makes an excellent base for experiencing this corner of Alaska. For questions regarding cabin access and before driving to the cabin from Hoonah, please check in with the Hoonah Ranger District (430 Airport Road) during business hours or call 907-945-3631 for road conditions and cabin access. The cabin may be inaccessible via road for many months of the year.
The cabin has good access to hunting and both freshwater and saltwater fishing areas. For information about hunting and fishing permits and seasons, visit the Alaska Department of Fish and Game website. A gravel beach in front of the cabin is suitable for landing and launching small boats. Tide tables should be consulted prior to any boating excursion. There is also a boat ramp and dock facility nearby.
The cabin rests on the south shoreline of Freshwater Bay. Views from the cabins balcony and deck overlook the bay and surrounding snow peaked mountains. The cabin is backed by dense evergreen forest. Kennel Creek, an anadromous fish stream flows into Freshwater Bay about 200 yards away. This area offers abundant wildlife, including whales, brown bear, deer, shorebirds and a variety of small mammals. Please learn about bear safety and precautions.
The Bear Paw Lake Trail system is located approximately 4 miles northwest of the cabin on National Forest System road 8508.
$55 - $70 / night
Kook Lake Cabin sits on the west end of Kook Lake, approximately 45 miles northeast of Sitka, Alaska. The cabin is available May through November, weather permitting, and makes an excellent base for experiencing and exploring this corner of Alaska. The cabin is remote and accessible by floatplane, weather permitting, 30 minutes from either Sitka or Juneau. The cabin can also be reached by a boat and hiking trip. The cabin is about an 8-mile hike from Corner Bay. Visitors are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring their own amenities.
Visitors enjoy hiking on a network of old logging roads of the the Corner Bay road system near the cabin. The 0.7-mile Kook Lake Trail begins behind the cabin and ends at Forest Road 7540, part of the Corner Bay road system. The trail is not maintained and crosses through many muskegs. It can be very wet, muddy and hard to follow. On Road 7540, it is a 7-mile hike to Tenakee Inlet and Corner Bay, the site of a former logging camp, now uninhabited. Tenakee Springs is located across Tenakee Inlet. Cutthroat and Dolly Varden fishing is available year-round in the lake. Good runs of sockeye occur during July and August, and coho salmon during late August and early September. Seasonal deer and bear hunting is also available. For information about fishing and hunting permits and seasons, visit the Alaska Department of Fish and Game website.
The cabin sits in a beautiful stand of spruce and hemlock, surrounded by flat terrain with a sandy beach in front. North of the lake, the land gradually rises to 1,500 feet (455 meters), then ascends sharply to alpine. On the south, slopes are fairly steep, rising from the lake to 2,500 feet (762 meters). Brown bear frequent the area.
$50 / night
Allan Point Cabin is located on Halleck Island in upper Nakwasina Sound, about 16 miles north of Sitka, Alaska in the Tongass National Forest. The two-story cabin was built in 1993 by volunteers. It has a large front deck that overlooks Nakwasina Sound and is an excellent base for saltwater fishing and deer hunting. The site can be accessed only by float plane or boat, weather permitting. Travel time from Sitka is 10 minutes by float plane or 30 minutes by boat. Visitors are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities.
Cabin guests enjoy saltwater fishing, deer hunting and viewing wildlife. For information about fishing and hunting permits and seasons, visit the Alaska Department of Fish and Game website.
The cabin is set at the edge of a tall, dense hemlock-spruce forest on Nakwasina Sound. The cabin faces south, overlooking Nakwasina Sound. In the early 1960s, several forested areas in Nakwasina Sound were harvested. During the summer, the vegetation pattern in these areas appears more dense and a brighter green, with an overstory of alder and an understory of spruce and hemlock. Brown bear frequent the area. Learn about bear safety and precautions.
$65 / night
Sitkoh Lake East Cabin is nestled at the eastern end of Sitkoh Lake on southeastern Chichagof Island, 35 miles northeast of Sitka, Alaska. Sitkoh Lake offers two public recreation cabins. This cabin is near the east end of the lake; Sitkoh Lake West Cabin is 2 miles away near the western end of the lake. This is a remote site. The cabin is accessible when the lake is ice-free, generally April through October, and can be accessed from Sitka via a 30-minute flight, weather permitting. The cabin can also be reached by boat and trail. From False Island in Peril Strait, either hike or OHV-ride for 8 miles following Roads 7540 and 7544 as shown on the Sitka Motor Vehicle Use Map then follow a 1/2-mile foot trail (#675) to the cabin, leaving any OHVs parked at the road near the beginning of the foot trail. Visitors are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring their own amenities. ***AS OF 6/10/24, REPORTS THAT ONE OF THE SKIFFS BETWEEN EAST/WEST SITKOH LAKE IS DAMAGED/POSSIBLY OUT OF SERVICE. FOREST SERVICE WILL UPDATE ASAP***
Sitkoh Lake offers fishing, hiking, hunting and off-highway vehicle riding. The lake supports cutthroat trout and Dolly Varden. Sitkoh Creek has runs of steelhead in the spring, pink and sockeye salmon from July to August and coho salmon from August through September. Past logging has left a system of isolated roads. Hiking and OHV riding are possible. Although it is in poor condition, hikers can explore a 4.3-mile trail along Sitkoh Creek to Sitkoh Bay. Deer hunting is a popular activity in the surrounding area. Waterfowl hunting is possible at Sitkoh Bay. For information about hunting and fishing permits and seasons, visit the Alaska Department of Fish and Game website.
Sitkoh Lake offers fishing, hiking, hunting and off-highway vehicle riding. The lake supports cutthroat trout and Dolly Varden. Sitkoh Creek has runs of steelhead in the spring, pink and sockeye salmon from July to August and coho salmon from August through September. Past logging has left a system of isolated roads. Hiking and OHV riding are possible. Although it is in poor condition, hikers can explore a 4.3-mile trail along Sitkoh Creek to Sitkoh Bay. Deer hunting is a popular activity in the surrounding area. Waterfowl hunting is possible at Sitkoh Bay. For information about hunting and fishing permits and seasons, visit the Alaska Department of Fish and Game website.
The cabin lies at the edge of an old-growth forest of spruce and hemlock, with muskeg and open meadows to the east. Seasonal salmonberries and blueberries are in the area. The lake's outlet channel, Sitkoh Creek, is nearby. Sitkoh Lake is surrounded by forested mountains rising to near 2,500 feet. The lake sits at an elevation of 194 feet and is 2.5 miles long and a half-mile wide. Brown bear frequent the area.
An abandoned logging camp site lies about 6 miles west of the cabin at False Island, with an isolated road system available for exploring surrounding area.
$50 / night
Sitkoh Lake West Cabin is nestled at the northwest shore of Sitkoh Lake on southeastern Chichagof Island, 35 miles northeast of Sitka, Alaska. Sitkoh Lake offers two public recreation cabins. The other cabin, Sitkoh Lake East Cabin, is near the east end of the lake.This is a remote site. The cabin can be accessed when the lake is ice-free, generally April through October, via a 30-minute flight from Sitka. The cabin can also be reached by boat to False Island in Peril Strait, followed by an 10 mile hike, bike or OHV ride on the False Island road system. From False Island, follow Roads 7540, 7544 and 75442 as shown on the Sitka Motor Vehicle Use Map. Visitors are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring their own amenities. ***AS OF 6/10/24, REPORTS THAT ONE OF THE SKIFFS BETWEEN EAST/WEST SITKOH LAKE IS DAMAGED/POSSIBLY OUT OF SERVICE. FOREST SERVICE WILL UPDATE ASAP***
Sitkoh Lake West Cabin offers fishing, hiking, hunting, off-highway vehicle riding, and berry picking opportunities. The lake supports cutthroat trout and Dolly Varden. The outlet stream at the east end of the lake, Sitkoh Creek, has runs of steelhead in the spring, pink and sockeye salmon from July to August and coho salmon from August to September. Although it is in poor condition, hikers can explore a 4.3-mile trail along Sitkoh Creek to Sitkoh Bay. The trail begins at the Sitkoh Lake East Cabin. Past logging has left a system of isolated roads, one of which passes within 1/4-mile of the cabin. Deer hunting is a popular activity in the surrounding area. Waterfowl hunting is allowed on Sitkoh Bay. Past logging has left a system of isolated roads, one of which passes within 1/4-mile of the cabin and is available for hiking and off-highway vehicle riding.
The cabin lies near the edge of the lake and is surrounded by towering old-growth spruce and hemlock, with muskeg and open meadows to the east. Seasonal salmonberries and blueberries are abundant. The lake's inlet creek is nearby. Sitkoh Lake is surrounded by forested mountains rising to near 2,500 feet. The lake sits at an elevation of 194 feet and is 2.5 miles long and a half-mile wide. Brown bear frequent the area.
An abandoned logging camp lies about 6 miles east of the cabin at False Island, with a road system available for exploring surrounding area.
$50 / night
Kathleen Lake Cabin offers recreation, relaxation and a unique wilderness lodging experience on the western section of Admiralty Island in the Tongass National Forest. The remote site offers a scenic setting for fishing, boating and wildlife viewing. Access to the cabin is floatplane only. Visitors are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities.
Anglers will find Kathleen Lake to be a scenic setting for catching a variety of fish including rainbow trout, Dolly Varden and northern pike. Visitors are welcome to use the skiff with oars available at the cabin, and may choose to bring a small outboard motor. The motor must be less than 10 horsepower due to wilderness regulations, and visitors must bring personal floatation devices (life vests).
The cabin sits on level ground within steps of a small beach. Although this cabin sits beneath a canopy of old-growth trees, much of the surrounding area is private land, and has been clearcut. The area around the cabin shows a patchwork pattern of logged and unlogged areas. Dense spruce and hemlock forests, glacier-fed streams and muskeg define the surrounding landscape, while rocky, glacier-capped peaks rise in the distance. Wildlife in the area abounds. Sitka black-tailed deer stay well hidden in the dense forest, bald eagles are found in treetops along most beaches and migratory waterfowl find habitat on numerous lakes. Brown bears are in abundance.
$25 / night
Located near Appleton Cove Cabin; available on a first-come, first-served basis for boat anchorage. Cabin reservation does not include exclusive use of this mooring buoy. ACTIVITIES Fire Lookouts/cabins Overnight
Mendenhall Campground is situated on the shore of Mendenhall Lake, in view of massive Mendenhall Glacier, about 13 miles from downtown Juneau. The site is a popular destination for viewing beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife. Hiking opportunities abound.
The West Glacier Trail, with an elevation gain of 1,300 feet, can be hiked in 5-6 hours roundtrip. The trailhead is a half mile from the campground entrance by road or on the Aak'w Sit' Trail. The .4 mile Tolch Rock Trail is in this vicinity. The campground has several paths in it with interpretive signs relating facts about the area wildlife and environment.
The campground is situated on the shore of Mendenhall Lake at about 100 feet elevation. Mendenhall Glacier lies to the north and the Mendenhall River flows on the east. On either side of the campground, the mountains rise from 4,000 to to 7,000 feet above the Mendenhall Glacier. The topography is relatively flat and open, consisting of glacial moraines, small lakes and ponds. Forbs and lichens, black cottonwood, Sitka alder, willow and mature spruce hemlock forests cover the area. The forest floor is dotted with blueberry bushes and mosses. At nearly 17 million acres, the Tongass National Forest covers most of Southeast Alaska and is the largest forest in the national forest system. The Tongass surrounds the Inside Passage, the network of waterways that buffer the jagged Alaskan Coast and a cluster of coastline islands. The Tongass offers visitors a chance to view wildlife, including eagles, bears and spawning salmon. Expansive vistas, including fjords, glaciers and mountain peaks fill the area. Much of the forest is a temperate rain forest.
Run the rapids down the Mendenhall River, take a helicopter to the top of the glacier, bicycle or hike in the area. Outfitters offer these services. Many trails can be accessed from the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center area, including East Glacier Trail, with an elevation gain of 400 feet, takes 2-3 hours roundtrip. Some of the shorter trails in this area include the 1.7 mile Nugget Falls Trail, where the waterfall drops 377 feet in two tiers onto a sandbar in Mendenhall Lake, the 1.5 mile Moraine Ecology Trail, and the .7 mile Trail of Time.
$34 / night
Auk Village Campground is located 15 miles from downtown Juneau, Alaska, and 1.5 miles from the Alaska State Ferry terminal at Auke Bay. The area offers a variety of outdoor opportunities.
The area offers fishing, wildlife viewing, kayaking, picnicking, motor boating, hiking, berry picking, rafting, sailing, bicycling, and glacier viewing.
The campground sits above Auk Bay in a western hemlock and Sitka spruce forested area. Views of the Chilkat Range and the ocean are spectacular. Bears frequent the area.
Auk Recreation Area includes a large day use area on the shores of Auk Bay. The area includes shelters, picnic tables, drinking water, fire rings and a trail. At the Auk Bay Harbor, commercial operators offer sport fishing, kayak rentals, and whale watching tours.
$20 / night
Kennel Creek Cabin is located near Kennel Creek along the south shore of Freshwater Bay, on the northeast side of Chichagof Island. It offers visitors excellent opportunities for recreation and viewing scenery and wildlife. This is a primitive cabin with no electricity, indoor plumbing or cell phone coverage. Visitors are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring their own amenities. The cabin is generally available year-round, depending on weather, and makes an excellent base for experiencing this corner of Alaska. For questions regarding cabin access and before driving to the cabin from Hoonah, please check in with the Hoonah Ranger District (430 Airport Road) during business hours or call 907-945-3631 for road conditions and cabin access. The cabin may be inaccessible via road for many months of the year.
The cabin has good access to hunting and both freshwater and saltwater fishing areas. For information about hunting and fishing permits and seasons, visit the Alaska Department of Fish and Game website. A gravel beach in front of the cabin is suitable for landing and launching small boats. Tide tables should be consulted prior to any boating excursion. There is also a boat ramp and dock facility nearby.
The cabin rests on the south shoreline of Freshwater Bay. Views from the cabins balcony and deck overlook the bay and surrounding snow peaked mountains. The cabin is backed by dense evergreen forest. Kennel Creek, an anadromous fish stream flows into Freshwater Bay about 200 yards away. This area offers abundant wildlife, including whales, brown bear, deer, shorebirds and a variety of small mammals. Please learn about bear safety and precautions.
The Bear Paw Lake Trail system is located approximately 4 miles northwest of the cabin on National Forest System road 8508.
$55 - $70 / night
Kathleen Lake Cabin offers recreation, relaxation and a unique wilderness lodging experience on the western section of Admiralty Island in the Tongass National Forest. The remote site offers a scenic setting for fishing, boating and wildlife viewing. Access to the cabin is floatplane only. Visitors are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities.
Anglers will find Kathleen Lake to be a scenic setting for catching a variety of fish including rainbow trout, Dolly Varden and northern pike. Visitors are welcome to use the skiff with oars available at the cabin, and may choose to bring a small outboard motor. The motor must be less than 10 horsepower due to wilderness regulations, and visitors must bring personal floatation devices (life vests).
The cabin sits on level ground within steps of a small beach. Although this cabin sits beneath a canopy of old-growth trees, much of the surrounding area is private land, and has been clearcut. The area around the cabin shows a patchwork pattern of logged and unlogged areas. Dense spruce and hemlock forests, glacier-fed streams and muskeg define the surrounding landscape, while rocky, glacier-capped peaks rise in the distance. Wildlife in the area abounds. Sitka black-tailed deer stay well hidden in the dense forest, bald eagles are found in treetops along most beaches and migratory waterfowl find habitat on numerous lakes. Brown bears are in abundance.
$25 / night
Florence Lake (East) Cabin offers guests recreation, relaxation and a unique wilderness lodging experience on the western side of Admiralty Island in the Tongass National Forest. The remote site offers a scenic setting for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing, all within the vicinity of the cabin. Access to the cabin is float plane only. Visitors are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities.
Florence Lake offers fishing for rainbow trout, Dolly Varden and northern pike. A small fishing boat with oars is provided at the cabin, however, guests need to bring their own life jackets and possibly, a small outboard (10-horsepower) motor. Hikers may enjoy traversing a primitive 1.2-mile trail at the west end of the lake. The trail leads to a saltwater beach. Beachcombers may find Japanese fishing floats, shells, bottles, and other wave-swept treasures from the open ocean.
The cabin sits in a thick vegetated understory, within 150 feet of a small lakeside beach that lies beneath a canopy of old-growth forest. However, much of the surrounding area is private land and has been clear cut. Dense spruce and hemlock forests, glacier-fed streams, lakes and muskeg openings define the surrounding landscape, while rocky spires rise along the island's high crest in the distance. Sitka black-tailed deer stay well hidden in the dense forest but bald eagles are easily found in treetops along most beaches. Waterfowl are in abundance on the island's many lakes, and brown bears frequent the area (learn more about bear safety).
Bear viewing is available during the summer at Pack Creek if you obtain a permit, or in other remote bays with a little extra effort and skill. Sea kayaking is possible in Seymour Canal for those with the time and skills, or for those who employ the services of guides. The lands surrounding the Forest Service property and cabin belong to the Shee Atika Corporation. A permit is required for any activity on corporation land. Entry without a permit will be considered trespassing and subject to legal action. The cost of the permit for noncommercial users is $25 per person, for up to 7 consecutive days. This fee-based permit was instituted by Shee Atika during the summer of 2004. To obtain a permit, call the Shee Atika office at (907) 747-3534 or toll free at 1-800-478-3534. The forested land immediately surrounding the cabin is Forest Service land. Use of this land and the lake does not require a Shee Atika permit.
$35 - $45 / night
Eight Fathom Cabin was constructed in 2009. It is located 15 miles from Hoonah, Alaska in the protected waters of Port Frederick. It is generally available year-round and makes an excellent base for experiencing this corner of Alaska, offering recreational options and abundant wildlife. The cabin is remote. It is accessible only by boat or float plane. From Hoonah, the boat ride is 45 minutes. By float plane, the flight is 30 minutes from Juneau and less than 10 minutes from Hoonah. This is a primitive cabin with no electricity, indoor plumbing or cell phone coverage. Visitors are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities.
The cabin has good access to hunting, freshwater fishing, and saltwater fishing areas. For information about fishing and hunting permits and seasons, visit the Alaska Department of Fish and Game website. A fine gravel beach in front of the cabin is suitable for landing and launching small boats. Tide tables should be consulted prior to any boating excursion. Neka Hot Springs tub is located 9 miles from the cabin. Visitors can access the hot springs from National Forest System road 8580.
The cabin is built on a spur road edging out onto tidal, estuary flats at the head of Port Frederick. This area offers excellent opportunities for viewing scenery and wildlife, which includes whales, brown bear, deer, shorebirds and a variety of small mammals. The front deck of the cabin looks out over the tide flats and the surrounding mountains. The cabin is backed by dense evergreen forest.
Neka Hot Springs
$55 - $70 / night
Ranger
After being unable to find good reviews of campsites here, I took what I could find and gambled on a site. We were in tent site 021. It was a gorgeous site, had a large picnic table, bear box, water spigot between us and the site next to us, fire pit, clean pit toilets and a clean bath house. This campground has backpacker sites, RV sites, and car sites as well. We had a short walk through the moss on a trail that led down to Mendenhall Lake. It had a gorgeous view of the glacier. We enjoyed listening to all the birds and it was a pretty quiet campground.
There are a few sites close to boggy areas and they can be mushy and muddy, especially after a rain. There is a map on the reservation website where you can kind of see it. Our site was fabulous.
The trails are not far from the campground, so they are walkable.
Ranger
This campground has 11 sites and we were lucky to get #5, right across from the pit toilets so we didn’t have to walk far. 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 and you don’t want any uninvited guests. We went to the picnic shelter at Lena Cove for our morning breakfast and hung our hammocks in the shelter for the morning. We had great views of Auke Bay and Lena Cove.
I could not find any reviews to pick a site but I reserved this one and it was gold! We had a water spigot close to us in the campground, but there are no electric or water supplies at the sites. You need to bring your own firewood because some sites say it was supplied, however, due to low crew numbers they can’t keep up with demand.
LegendTent camping review. This was a great camp ground. Very clean and quiet. You can't beat the proximity to the park and hiking. Some of the sites even have great views. Each site has plenty of privacy, so even with intermixed RV's it stays pretty quiet. The showers were okay, not the cleanest and not the hottest but got the job done. My only complaint was coming after dark the first night to someone clearly squatting with their RV in our site. The camp hosts do not mark each site with the booked reservations (even though the posts clearly say that the section we were in were "reservation only". So people just drop in and take sites, assuming they aren't reserved. We attempted to solicit the camphosts help but in the 4 nights we stayed there, we never saw the hosts available once. We asked the people to move the next morning in daylight- not wanting to start anything or end up shot by knocking on their door and asking them to move that first night. However, that meant that we set up in someone else's potentially reserved site and started a huge domino effect. So I recommend getting there early to make sure your reserved spot isn't taken.
LegendWe’ve been full-time camping in our vintage camper for over10 years, and in that time we’ve taken some “camping trips” without our rig, Hamlet. This time we hopped on the ferry from Haines down to Juneau and pulled out the tent for a few days in this amazing campground. We were just looking for the least expensive place that was close to the ferry terminal in Auke Bay, but struck gold in the hills just above. This might be one of the best traditional campgrounds we've ever stayed in with some of the most stunning views in our "backyard."
The campground is laid out along the southern bank of Mendenhall Lake, and offers drinking water, flush, and vault toilets and hot showers -- at no extra charge. Did I mention that camping here will only set you back $10 per night? We cannot remember such an inexpensive camping experience that offered showers. These $10 sites don’t offer electrical hookups, so bring your solar panels and solar generator or power bank and you’ll be all set.
The western trailhead is a short walk from the campground, but the Mendenhall Visitor's Center on the east side of the lake is just a few miles away. There are many trails, photographic viewpoints and opportunities to paddle on this side of the lake, but parking is competitive because it is such a popular area- including with the busses from the cruise ships docked in town. So, get there early. We enjoyed paddling on the lake where we got great views of the glacier and Nugget Falls, but keep your distance from icebergs. We watched one crack and roll not too far from where we were paddling, had we been closer I might not be writing this review.
The Mendenhall Valley has all the amenities you could expect from the Juneau suburbs, grocery stores, malls and restaurants. Downtown has a few more options as well as Douglas Island, just across the bridge.
Ranger
4 spots with picnic tables and fire pits. Clean bathrooms and big trash cans that got emptied while we were there for 4 nights. Low GCI service. Water spout that didn’t work for us. Beautiful central location for the Kenai peninsula. Highly recommend.
GuideThis is a favorite spot where our family has camped for years. Most recently we took 2 of the grandkids. No cabins, but beautiful beach to walk. Quiet paradise. Fire pits and we’ll maintained pit restrooms.
ScoutStayed here two nights - reservations must be made in advance on recreation.gov. Hot showers available, as well as a stocked bathroom. 12/10 recommend.
GuideSo lucky to have found this campground. The price cannot be beat starting at $10. Although you are aware of others around you, there is enough forest between most campsites so you get the real roughing it kind of feel without actually hiking out. We got a great site, walk down to the water's edge and see the glacier smack right in your face. Amazing! There is a river further in, so choose your site wisely if camping with kids, pets or partiers! We didn't see a bear, but we did see the beaver! They have a bear cache at every site, so amazing for the price. Highly recommended. It's a 1 way loop so don't make the same mistake I did and go the wrong way! The hosts are very nice and chatty. The troopers do drive through from time to time but never bothered us.
GuideThere’s a limited amount of spaces for your rv but they have tent sights too. Bring your favorite over under and plenty of clay pigeons. Or you can use the indoor range of weather isn’t permitting. It’s right on the water and beautiful. The people are always very nice. Open all year.
ScoutI stay here every summer with my s.o. and our pets and absolutely LOVE it here. The f.s officers could use some grooming but mostly they are okay as long as you are polite and follow the rules they usually leave you alone. They are helpful but tend to not want to listen when you try and explain a situation, any how other then that the camp grounds are usually always clean and I've never had a problem finding my site. And if I've ever needed a food bear box or anything I've always gotten it asap. Overall pretty awesome place to just kick back enjoy the view and relax the day away.
Guide
This is our hometown campground and we love it. It’s just a few miles from town, and within walking distance from the ferry terminal. 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.
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.
Our next favorite sites are the hike-in sites in the estuary side. These are a bit longer walk, but there’s a great little shared shelter with picnic tables, and the sites are so pretty and rustic feeling. There’s lots of trees but plenty of level sites, and they aren’t used much. Only bummer is that a new road is being built just behind this area, it’s hard to tell how disruptive that will be.
Regular drive in sites are fine, there are a couple pull-through but most are pull-in. Each site has a fire ring and a picnic table, and they’re all pretty good and a short walk to water and pit toilets. There are also a couple of group sites with shelters that are great for bad weather camping.
The campground is within walking distance of several nice, short trails, Old Sitka historical site & boat launch, and the shooting range and ATV trails. It’s pretty quiet and there is lots of wildlife- you have to keep your food abc other smelly things locked in your car or in the bear proof food lockers. 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.
Check out my other review to learn about the cabin that’s in the same campground!
Guide
This is a great little cabin to get away from town for a couple days, without being too far away. Locals use it for birthday parties and company retreats. Best to reserve well in advance, especially during the summer and the weekends.
The cabin is located within Starrigavan Creek Campground, which is within walking distance of the Forest & Muskeg trail, Estuary Loop trail, Mosquito Cove trail, Old Sitka, Old Sitka boat launch, and the shooting range. It’s just a few feet further to the ferry terminal.
The cabin has a view of the creek, and wildlife abounds. You will see ravens and bald eagles, and you could see bears. Bird watchers love the Estuary Loop trail and its bird watching station. There is an onsite outdoor bear proof food locker, a fire ring, and a picnic table. The cabin is large and comfortable even in bad weather. Pit toilets and potable water are just across the gravel road, and there’s an artesian well a short walk away.
LegendThis campground has one site with a picnic table and a fire ring. However you can camp anywhere that there is parking. This is on a well-maintained road and would be great to bring a kayak. I look forward to spending a lot of time at this campground.
ScoutThe sites on the right on the lake can be great. However, on a sunny day the wind will likely blow hard off the glacier making it very cold till the evening, which in summer can mean 10pm or so. I’ve lived just s couple block from here for 30 years. Trust me
TravelerThis is a very nice campground set back from Mendenhall lake and the famous Mendenhall Glacier. Bears frequent this area and sometimes wolves too. If you are looking for that wild Alaska experience you can have it here. Lots of hiking around there. Once that salmon start running you can walk on the man made walkway next to the creek and watch bears catch salmon to feed their cubs! Truly an amazing experience! If you make it there during the winter bring your cross country skis and ski through the campground, or across the lake to the glacier.
RangerExcellent location on lake offering a spectacular view. Nice campground, cozy and only offers less than 70 sites. Full hookups are available at some. Picnic tables and fire rings are available at sites. There is also a dump station and restrooms available. Hiking trails are close. As is the Mendenhall Glacier accessible from the Visitor Center
GuideEasy access to epic beauty from the airport. The glacier brings the temperature down significantly from the surrounding area ❄️ All of the campsites are furnished with picnic tables, tent pads & fire rings with grills. Water faucets & accessible vault toilets are provided, as are two accessible flush toilets and shower facilities. A dump station & trash dumpster are located on-site.
GuideExplore 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. Before you go: you must reserve a spot online in advance & spots tend to fill up quickly in July & August.
Guide
Amazingly beautiful & rugged island. Experiences with wildlife here are epically fulfilling.
GuideInspiring wildlife 🌊⛺️🎣🐟🦅 🦌 🐋 🐻
TravelerIt was a wonderful campground! Right on the lake overlooking the Mendenhall Glacier. The bugs are manageable. the campground is clean and well organized. you have to reserve before you arrive, cannot pay when you get there. The bathrooms are clean and well interspersed. There are showers with hot water. There is a section for tent camping, RV camping, and backpack camping. The campground itself is located near tons of hiking trails, kayaking/rafting opportinities, and the Glacier viewing center is nearby. We loved it!
RangerMust see beauty in Juneau. This beautiful site is not only spectacular but conviently close to town. After setting up camp you can explore the trail to get close to the glacier and see beautiful waterfalls!
ScoutGreat place for the family, bears do frequent the area so keep site clean.
ScoutThis place is great!!!! Close to town yet out in nature.
TravelerAbsolutely loved this campground, It was very quite and the scenery was beautiful. This is a very quite spot tucked away from the city. We loved camping here and will be back!
Scoutgreat site, nice woods, if you have a fishing license you can fish off the beach, great for swimming as well because it is a protected cove. Great historical site, an ancient village with historical marker as well as a beautiful totem nearby that tells an interesting story. Nearby in auk harbor is a milkshake to die for. People are friendly, easy to find firewood to have a nice cookout. Not unusual to find deer walking through the campsite. If you are into exercise the University has a gym up the road that you can use for a couple of bucks. Also the bar nearby has a great dart room for those into those kind of things. A couple of mile drive to Eagle River (brown bear) or the glacier (black bear) . you can find bears visiting the creeks and streams this time of year through september. As an afterthought you can rent a kayak and have some fun on the water.
GuideThis area is exceptional, everywhere you look is a postcard-worthy scene. 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. You will love it here.
Camping near Tenakee Springs, Alaska, offers a unique experience surrounded by stunning natural beauty and a variety of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are several campgrounds in the area that cater to different preferences.
Camping near Tenakee Springs, Alaska, is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the comforts of well-equipped campgrounds. Whether you're hiking, paddling, or simply soaking in the views, there's something for everyone in this beautiful region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular campground near Tenakee Springs, AK?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Tenakee Springs, AK is Mendenhall Lake Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 24 reviews.
What parks are near Tenakee Springs, AK?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 parks near Tenakee Springs, AK that allow camping, notably Tongass National Forest and Haines State Forest.
