Best Campgrounds near Ward Cove, AK
Camping options near Ward Cove, Alaska include established campgrounds operated by both the U.S. Forest Service and Alaska State Parks. Signal Creek Campground in Tongass National Forest provides tent and RV accommodations approximately 7 miles north of downtown Ketchikan and 4 miles from the State ferry terminal. Settler's Cove State Recreation Area offers tent, RV, and cabin camping with coastal access. These areas provide alternatives to urban accommodations with varying levels of amenities and natural settings.
Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, typically from May through mid-September. Facilities at Signal Creek include picnic tables and fire pits at each site, with access to outhouses. "Beautiful forest and not far from Ward Lake. Conveniently near Ketchikan," noted one visitor about Signal Creek Campground. The area experiences significant rainfall throughout the year, with summer offering the most reliable camping weather. Many sites require reservations, particularly during peak summer months when tourism traffic increases. Winter camping is generally unavailable as most facilities close after Labor Day due to harsh weather conditions.
Waterfront access represents a major draw for campers visiting the Ward Cove area. Black Sands Marine State Park offers boat-in tent camping with views of Nichols Passage where "you can often hear the blows of whales as you sleep at night," according to one camper's experience. Deer Mountain Shelter provides a more rustic option for hikers willing to make the challenging uphill trek for mountain views. Several visitors highlighted the region's old-growth forests, wildlife viewing opportunities, and fishing access as key attractions. The proximity to Ketchikan allows campers to enjoy wilderness experiences while remaining relatively close to urban amenities. Campers frequently mention the striking beauty of the area's waterways, forested landscapes, and mountain views as highlights of their experience.
