Camping options near Wrangell, Alaska offer access to the Tongass National Forest, the largest national forest in the United States with over 16.7 million acres of temperate rainforest. The region receives approximately 80 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush vegetation and diverse wildlife habitats. Winter temperatures typically range from 20-40°F while summer temperatures average 50-70°F with extended daylight hours.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Deep Bay Cabin provides access to prime wildlife observation areas where visitors can spot black bears, bald eagles, and sea lions in their natural habitat. The surrounding forest trails offer opportunities for birding enthusiasts to identify native species.
Fishing excursions: The waters surrounding Wrangell contain abundant salmon, halibut, and trout populations. Bring appropriate fishing gear and licenses when staying at Deep Bay Cabin for convenient access to productive fishing spots.
Explore forest trails: The Tongass National Forest provides extensive hiking opportunities with varying difficulty levels. Trail conditions can change seasonally, so waterproof footwear is recommended year-round when exploring from cabin accommodations.
What campers like
Secluded setting: The isolation of Twin Creek RV Park provides a quiet retreat away from urban environments. The park's location offers easy access to Petersburg while maintaining a wilderness feel that attracts nature enthusiasts.
Wildlife encounters: Many visitors appreciate the abundant wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the region. Bring binoculars and cameras to document sightings while maintaining appropriate distance from wild animals.
Natural surroundings: The temperate rainforest environment creates a unique camping experience with distinctive flora including Sitka spruce, western hemlock, and various moss species. The dense forest canopy provides natural shelter during light rain showers.
What you should know
Weather preparations: Southeast Alaska experiences frequent precipitation throughout the year. Pack waterproof containers for essential items when visiting cabins, and bring layered clothing regardless of season to adjust to changing conditions.
Limited services: When staying at rustic cabins near Wrangell, visitors must be self-sufficient with supplies. No running water or electricity exists at most forest service cabins, requiring campers to bring purification systems or sufficient water containers.
Reservation requirements: Advance planning is necessary for cabin stays, especially during summer months when demand increases. Reservations can be made up to six months in advance through recreation.gov for federal facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Pack extra supplies: The remote nature of pet friendly camping near Wrangell, Alaska requires comprehensive packing, particularly for families with children. Include additional clothing changes, shelf-stable foods, and emergency supplies when traveling with young campers.
Wildlife safety education: Before arriving, teach children about wildlife safety protocols specific to Southeast Alaska. Proper food storage is essential to prevent attracting bears, and children should understand the importance of maintaining appropriate distances from wildlife.
Indoor activities: Cabins provide shelter during inclement weather, but families should pack compact games, books, and activities for rainy days. Card games, travel-sized board games, and field guides can keep children engaged during extended indoor periods.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: RVers seeking full hookups near Wrangell have restricted options. Twin Creek RV Park offers the most comprehensive services but requires advance planning during peak season to secure availability.
Ferry considerations: RV travelers accessing Wrangell via the Alaska Marine Highway should make reservations well in advance. Vehicle size restrictions apply, and specific arrival/departure schedules must be followed precisely when traveling with pets.
Road conditions: RV travelers should check current road conditions before attempting access to remote camping areas. Unpaved roads can become challenging after rainfall, particularly for larger vehicles or those towing trailers.
