RV campgrounds near Wrangell, Alaska provide access to the Alexander Archipelago within the Tongass National Forest. The area receives approximately 80 inches of annual rainfall, creating a temperate rainforest environment with dense vegetation surrounding most camping areas. Water temperatures in the surrounding Zimovia Strait remain cold year-round, rarely exceeding 55°F even during summer months.
What to do
Hiking access: Nemo Campsites offers walk-in and hike-in accommodations for those looking to explore nearby trails. Beverly notes, "This is our 'home' campground on beautiful Wrangell Island, the first place we tried out our RV."
Wildlife viewing: Twin Creek RV Park provides year-round access to observe Southeast Alaska wildlife. Located along Mitkof Highway, campers frequently report sightings of bears, eagles, and marine mammals from the camping area during summer months.
Fishing opportunities: Le Conte RV Park serves as a convenient base for accessing Petersburg's fishing charters and public docks. The location at 4th and Haugen Drive provides walking distance access to fishing supply stores and processing facilities for those catching salmon during peak runs.
What campers like
Natural setting: The Trees RV Park & General Store in Petersburg offers sites surrounded by typical Southeast Alaska forest vegetation. The dense tree cover provides natural shade and wind protection during summer storms.
Affordability: Yunshookuh Loop Campground attracts tent campers seeking budget-friendly options. The primitive facilities keep costs lower than fully-developed RV parks in the region while still providing access to the same natural surroundings.
Privacy between sites: Many campers report that Nemo Campsites features natural vegetation buffers between camping spots. The layout along the winding gravel road creates individual camping experiences rather than the typical open campground design found elsewhere.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Despite Twin Creek advertising year-round availability, winter campers should prepare for extremely limited services. November through March brings heavy precipitation, shorter daylight hours, and temperatures that frequently drop below freezing.
Cell connectivity: Petersburg-based campgrounds typically offer better connectivity than those near Wrangell. Nemo Campsites Entry & Info Site has limited to no cell service, requiring campers to plan communications accordingly.
Road conditions: Access to most camping areas requires driving on unpaved surfaces. The gravel roads leading to Nemo Point can become rutted after heavy rainfall, potentially challenging for larger vehicles or those without adequate ground clearance.
Tips for camping with families
Toilet accessibility: Nemo Campsites provides vault toilets, making it more suitable for families than completely undeveloped areas. Having designated facilities reduces the need to teach younger children backcountry bathroom practices.
Weather preparation: Families camping in the Wrangell area should pack extra clothing layers and rain gear regardless of season. Even summer temperatures can drop significantly during rainfall, which can occur with little warning throughout the year.
Wildlife safety: All food must be properly stored at campgrounds like Le Conte RV Park due to bear activity. Teaching children proper food handling practices is essential when camping in this region to prevent wildlife encounters.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: RV campgrounds in Wrangell, Alaska typically feature uneven terrain. Many sites at Twin Creek RV Park require leveling blocks, particularly for larger motorhomes or fifth wheels seeking to utilize the 50-amp hookups.
Water pressure considerations: When connecting to water hookups at Twin Creek, RVers often need pressure regulators. The municipal water system can deliver inconsistent pressure that may damage RV plumbing systems if not properly moderated.
Fuel planning: Petersburg's The Trees RV Park provides convenient access to fuel stations. RVers should fill tanks before heading to more remote camping areas as fuel availability becomes limited outside of established communities.
