Camping areas near Ward Cove, Alaska operate seasonally due to the region's subarctic climate, with most facilities open only from May through mid-September. The area sits within the Tongass National Forest, America's largest national forest at 16.7 million acres, characterized by coastal temperate rainforest ecosystems. Annual precipitation exceeds 150 inches in this region, making late summer typically the driest camping period.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Signal Creek Campground provides access to stream fishing along Ward Lake. According to camper Larae S., visitors can enjoy "Great camping, stream fishing, hiking" during the summer season.
Trail exploration: The Ward Lake area offers family-friendly hiking options. Shawna M. notes, "Gorgeous lake, great trail around the lake to walk (Easy for kids to do with you). Dog friendly. Places around the lake to see wildlife and scenery."
Beach combing: Settler's Cove State Rec Area Campground provides ocean access and tidal exploration. "Great tidal zone for exploring extreme minus tides," mentions Josiah P., making it ideal for marine life observation during low tides.
Wildlife viewing: Ward Lake and surrounding areas offer wildlife watching opportunities. The forests and waterways support diverse species including bald eagles, black bears, and various marine mammals that can be spotted from shorelines.
What campers like
Forest surroundings: Signal Creek Campground sits within the verdant Tongass National Forest. Josiah P. describes it as a "Beautiful forest & not far from Ward Lake. Conveniently near Ketchikan, 7 miles north of downtown, & just 4 miles north of the State ferry terminal."
Old-growth trees: The ancient forest at Settler's Cove impresses many visitors. Angie G. shares her experience: "Old growth trees I couldn't stretch my arms around! Not sure I'd wanna be caught our camping here in the rain but in the sun it was amazing!!!"
Secluded sites: Many campgrounds in the area offer private camping spots away from crowds. Angie G. mentions "Beautiful views and great secluded camping areas" at Settler's Cove, providing a more remote camping experience despite proximity to Ketchikan.
Water features: Small cascades and streams enhance the camping experience. Angie G. notes "Great little hikes with beautiful water features (not quite what I would consider waterfalls)" at Settler's Cove State Recreation Area.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Rain is common in this coastal rainforest region. Angie G. advises about Settler's Cove: "Not sure I'd wanna be caught our camping here in the rain but in the sun it was amazing!!!"
Tourism timing: For fewer crowds, consider shoulder seasons. Harris River camper Katie K. mentions their "brand new" amenities, while visitor Kate K. suggests "going March-early April. The energy in tourism towns starts building but you get there before the tourists do."
Transportation access: Several campgrounds are accessible from the ferry terminal. Kate K. notes Signal Creek is "pretty close to the ferry terminal (4 miles?)," making it convenient for visitors arriving via the Alaska Marine Highway System.
Limited amenities: Most campgrounds in the area have basic facilities. Harris River camper Katie K. reports: "Amenities are brand new which is a plus, and the river is gorgeous."
Tips for camping with families
Lake activities: Signal Creek Campground offers family-friendly water access. Shawna M. shares, "Gorgeous lake, great trail around the lake to walk (Easy for kids to do with you). Dog friendly."
Swimming opportunities: Several locations offer swimming during warmer months. Kate K. mentions "lots of trails, good fishing, and swimming" near Signal Creek Campground.
Short hikes: The area features trails appropriate for younger hikers. Angie G. describes "Great little hikes with beautiful water features" at Settler's Cove, providing manageable outdoor adventures for families.
Wildlife viewing with children: Designated viewing areas allow safer wildlife observation. Shawna M. notes there are "Places around the lake to see wildlife and scenery" at Ward Lake near Signal Creek Campground.
Tips from RVers
Road noise consideration: Some campgrounds are closer to highways than others. Shawna M. observes Signal Creek "was near the main road, so a bit noisy for Alaska.....but quiet overall."
Limited hookups: Most rv campgrounds in Ward Cove, Alaska operate without full services. At Last Chance Campground, RVs are accommodated but must be self-contained as the facility has no hookups, making it suitable for boondocking or dry camping.
Seasonal availability: RV campsites have strict operating seasons. Harris River is only open "mid May-mid Sep," requiring advance planning for motorhome travelers visiting the area.
Ferry terminal proximity: For RVers arriving via the Alaska Marine Highway System, Signal Creek provides convenient first-night camping. As Josiah P. notes, it's "just 4 miles north of the State ferry terminal," reducing driving time after disembarking.
