Best Tent Camping near Wrangell, AK

Tent campsites near Wrangell, Alaska provide wilderness immersion with minimal amenities in a remote Alaskan setting. Three Sisters Overlook Campsite and Thoms Creek Crossing Campsite offer established tent camping opportunities in the Tongass National Forest region. Additional primitive tent camping options include Turn Island Beach Campsite and Anita Bay Overlook Campsite, all requiring self-sufficiency and preparation for backcountry conditions.

Most primitive tent campgrounds around Wrangell lack basic facilities such as drinking water, toilets, and trash service. Campers should pack all necessary supplies including water filtration systems and waste disposal bags. Sites typically consist of ungraded forest floor with limited clearing. The camping season extends primarily from late spring through early fall, with some areas becoming inaccessible during winter months. Weather conditions can change rapidly, requiring proper tent anchoring and rain protection. No fires are permitted at most sites, necessitating camp stoves for cooking.

Areas farther from town offer deeper seclusion and less noise for tent campers seeking solitude. One camper noted that Three Sisters Overlook provides "spacious areas" where visitors can "relax and enjoy nature." The campgrounds serve as departure points for day hikes and wildlife viewing opportunities. Many sites feature ocean or creek views, with access to fishing and foraging. Tent-only campsites offer a more authentic wilderness experience compared to developed campgrounds, though they require additional preparation. Blind Slough provides swimming opportunities when water levels permit, making it popular for day visits. The primitive nature of these tent camping areas ensures minimal disturbance from generators or vehicle noise, allowing for a more immersive natural experience.

Best Tent Sites Near Wrangell, Alaska (19)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Wrangell, AK

1 Photos of 19 Wrangell Campgrounds


Tent Camping Reviews near Wrangell, AK

4 Reviews of 19 Wrangell Campgrounds


  • B
    Dec. 19, 2020

    Nemo Campsites Entry & Info Site

    Breathtaking!

    From any campsite along the winding gravel road at Nemo Point you may see whales, fishing boats and sea planes plus an incredible view of the channel and mountains. This is our “home” campground on beautiful Wrangell Island, the first place we tried out our RV. The sites are free with picnic table, fire pit, and vault toilets.

  • Sierra  S.
    Jul. 25, 2018

    Ohmer Creek

    out the road

    the saying “out the road” is commonly used when living the island life.

    thankfully ohmer creek isn’t too far out the road and has a lot to offer!

    the campsites were well maintained! towards the end there are some that have direct trails to the creek as well.

    there are also newly upgraded hiking trails that go through the woods and marsh and loop back around.

    the trail is easy enough for small children and makes for a fun event!!

  • Sierra  S.
    Jul. 25, 2018

    Blind Slough

    Swimming Hole

    This is such a beautiful spot! If your brave and the water is high, jumping off the bridge is extremely fun here!

    I have a friend that grew up at the hatchery just on the other side - what a blessed spot to grow up.

    Always a fun spot for a day picnic


Guide to Wrangell

Tent camping near Wrangell, Alaska requires navigating the distinct challenges of the Tongass National Forest ecosystem. Located in Alaska's southeastern panhandle, Wrangell campsites typically sit at low elevations between 50-300 feet above sea level, allowing easier access but greater exposure to coastal weather patterns. Summer temperatures generally range from 45-65°F with rainfall averaging 82 inches annually, concentrated in September through November.

What to do

Wildlife viewing opportunities: At Three Sisters Overlook Campsite, campers can observe various Alaskan wildlife in their natural habitat. The site serves as an excellent base for day hikes along unmarked forest trails that provide glimpses of black bears, Sitka black-tailed deer, and various bird species.

Fishing excursions: Salamander Creek areas offer productive fishing spots within walking distance of campsites. The streams contain seasonal runs of pink and chum salmon (July-September), with Dolly Varden trout present year-round. Alaska fishing licenses required and available in Wrangell for $25/day or $70/week for non-residents.

Photography expeditions: Turn Island Beach Campsite provides unique vantage points for capturing coastal landscapes. The shifting tidal patterns create constantly changing scenery, with morning fog often creating atmospheric conditions popular with photographers. Tripods recommended due to frequent low light conditions.

What campers like

Privacy between sites: Highline Campsite features natural vegetation buffers between camping areas. The spacing between sites allows for private experiences despite the small camping area, with natural forest undergrowth creating natural boundaries between camping spots.

Marine wildlife sightings: Coastal campsites provide opportunities to spot marine mammals from shore. During summer months, harbor seals, sea lions, and occasional orcas can be viewed from Anita Bay Overlook Campsite, particularly during morning hours when water is typically calmer.

Minimal light pollution: The remote nature of these campgrounds creates exceptional stargazing conditions on clear nights. The lack of nearby development means virtually no artificial light, allowing for superior astronomical viewing when clouds permit, typically best during April and May when nights remain dark enough but weather improves.

What you should know

Water access challenges: Most campsites require water filtration from natural sources. Campers should bring filtration systems capable of handling sediment and bacteria. Streams may run high or become silty after rainfall, necessitating collection from multiple locations.

Communication limitations: Cell service is non-existent at most sites. Lower Salamander Creek Campground and other remote locations have zero connectivity, requiring satellite phones for emergency communication. The nearest reliable cell signal is in Wrangell proper.

Bear safety protocols: All food must be stored using bear-resistant containers or proper hanging techniques at least 100 feet from sleeping areas. The Forest Service recommends carrying bear spray and making noise while hiking between May and October when bears are most active.

Tips for camping with families

Best age-appropriate sites: Younger children typically do better at sites closer to Wrangell with shorter hiking requirements. For families with children under 10, Yunshookuh Loop Campground offers more level terrain and shorter distances between features.

Weather preparedness: Pack multiple changes of clothes for children and waterproof storage options. The frequent precipitation means kids will likely get wet during normal play activities, with rapid temperature drops possible even in summer months.

Activity planning: Bring compact, packable activities for periods of heavy rain. Card games, field guides for wildlife identification, and waterproof journals provide entertainment during the frequent weather delays that can occur throughout the camping season.

Tips from RVers

Limited vehicle access: Most tent campsites near Wrangell cannot accommodate recreational vehicles of any size. RVs must remain at established roads, with tent camping requiring hiking the final distances to sites.

Alternative options: RV campers can base at Wrangell's limited in-town parking areas (permits required from city hall) and use water taxi services to access the remote tent sites for day visits. Costs typically range from $150-300 round-trip depending on distance.

Supply considerations: No dump stations or hookups exist near primitive camping areas. RVers planning tent excursions should prepare for completely self-sufficient camping with all supplies carried in backpacks from vehicle parking locations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Wrangell, AK?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Wrangell, AK is Three Sisters Overlook Campsite with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Wrangell, AK?

TheDyrt.com has all 19 tent camping locations near Wrangell, AK, with real photos and reviews from campers.