- Tongass National Forest/
- Camping
The best camping in Tongass National Forest, AK
86% (14)
You could spend a lifetime exploring southeast Alaska's massive Tongass National Forest.
Top-rated campgrounds in Tongass National Forest
Virginia Lake Cabin
1. Virginia Lake Cabin
100%
(3)
Make the most of beautiful Virginia Lake by booking yourself a stay at Virginia Lake Cabin, a sizeable, well-constructed forest home with considerations like wheelchair access, wraparound deck, and a connected floating dock
Mendenhall Campground
2. Mendenhall Campground
100%
(2)
Want some lake and glacier action? Camp at the well developed Mendenhall Lake Campground to get views of Mendenhall Glacier and the pristine lake below it while camping in style
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
East Florence Cabin Lookout
3. East Florence Cabin Lookout
100%
(2)
East Florence Cabin is perfect for your rustic Alaskan adventure
Pinta Cove Shelter Lookout
4. Pinta Cove Shelter Lookout
100%
(2)
Wood stoves, sleeping bunks, tables, oh my
Campfires
Picnic table
John Muir Cabin
5. John Muir Cabin
100%
(2)
A chalet-style cabin, John Muir Cabin was yet another small, quaint cabin found in the Tongass National Forest, inundated by still silence and hiking trails
Auk Village Campground
6. Auk Village Campground
100%
(1)
Camp at Auk Village Campground to get some wonderful views of the Chilkat Mountain Range and the ocean, with a scenic beach right there for some extra flair
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Dan Moller Cabin
7. Dan Moller Cabin
With two-stories and enough square-footage to comfortably accommodate seven people, Dan Moller Cabin is a gem in the Tongass National Forest
Turner Lake West Cabin
8. Turner Lake West Cabin
Located on the lake south of Taku Inlet, West Turner Lake Cabin is a log chalet with absolutely gorgeous stonework
Anan Bay Cabin
9. Anan Bay Cabin
Constructed from Alaska Yellow Cedar, Anan Bay Cabin is a 15’ x 17’ refuge that is contrasted by brilliant forest greens
Anan Lake Cabin
10. Anan Lake Cabin
Not to be confused with Anan Bay Cabin, Anan Lake Cabin is accessible by float plane where you can park your plane on the beach
Berg Bay Cabin
11. Berg Bay Cabin
For a truly secluded backcountry experience, make the trip to Berg Bay Cabin
Eagle Lake Cabin
12. Eagle Lake Cabin
Located on the east shore of the lake, just one mile from the lake’s outlet, Eagle Lake Cabin is accessible by float plane
Frosty Bay Cabin
13. Frosty Bay Cabin
Look, Alaska’s not always cold, alright? Take some summer days at Frosty Bay Cabin
Garnet Ledge Cabin
14. Garnet Ledge Cabin
Looking for a real jewel? Check out Garnet Ledge Cabin in Alaska’s impeccable Tongass National Forest
Gut Island Cabin (No. 1)
15. Gut Island Cabin (No. 1)
The larger and more youthful of a pair of cabins in Alaska’s scenic Inside Passage, Gut Island Cabin #1 offers up the best of the great outdoors for those willing to work for it
Gut Island Cabin (No. 2)
16. Gut Island Cabin (No. 2)
Gut Island Cabin #2 is the older of the two cabins and, though it’s a tad smaller, it sleeps six just like its younger, bigger brother
Harding River Cabin
17. Harding River Cabin
Working hard, or Harding River? Okay, that’s not how it goes, but it should be
Koknuk Cabin
18. Koknuk Cabin
Much of Alaska’s stunning natural beauty remains unchanged throughout the years, so visiting Koknuk Cabin on the west side of Sergief Island is like stepping back in time
Little Dry Island Cabin
19. Little Dry Island Cabin
Aw, that’s adorable
Mallard Slough Cabin
20. Mallard Slough Cabin
Mallard Slough Cabin is a mini-mainland resort that rewards seasoned campers with easy access to canoeing, kayaking, wildlife-viewing, and more
Top-rated campsites near Tongass National Forest
The Dacha
1. The Dacha
100%
(4)
18mi from Tongass National Forest · 1 site
Remote 350 square foot cabin with Jotul woodstove and loft, with a review of Warm Springs Bay.
The cabin is a quarter mile from the forest warm springs, and 100 yards down the boardwalk from the baths. Fully equipped with bathroom and cold water, a kayak, fishing rods, a generator and solar. There is a covered deck we use as a kitchen. Please be advised: access only by hiking, floatplane, or boat. Propane lights give heat and illumination. Great fishing for salmon in bay and cutthroat in lake. This is about as remote as it gets! There are no stores, no gas, and brown bears are a concern. Welcome to the most beautiful place on earth.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Sitka Sportsmans Association RV Park
2. Sitka Sportsmans Association RV Park
22mi from Tongass National Forest
Discover the unique charm of the Sitka Sportsman's Association RV Park, nestled in the stunning Sitka-By-The-Sea. This exceptional campground is conveniently situated just steps away from the Alaska Marine Highway Sitka Ferry Terminal and a mere 7 miles from the vibrant downtown area of Sitka, making it an ideal base for your Alaskan adventure.
Our RV Park features two heated bathrooms equipped with handicap-accessible showers, ensuring comfort for all guests. While cellphone and internet service can be inconsistent in the area, we provide a local line for emergency use. Please note that internet access is available only from May 15 to September 15 and may be affected by power fluctuations. To secure your spot, we highly recommend making a reservation prior to your arrival.
Relax and unwind at our waterfront RV Park, where you can enjoy essential amenities such as restrooms, hot showers, and a laundry room. With the Alaska Marine Highway Ferry Terminal located less than 500 yards away, you’ll have easy access to explore the breathtaking natural beauty and outdoor activities that Sitka has to offer. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, or simply soak in the serene surroundings, our RV Park is the perfect place to start your journey in Alaska.
86% (14)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Tongass National Forest adventure.
Top-rated campgrounds in Tongass National Forest
Virginia Lake Cabin
1. Virginia Lake Cabin
100%
(3)
Make the most of beautiful Virginia Lake by booking yourself a stay at Virginia Lake Cabin, a sizeable, well-constructed forest home with considerations like wheelchair access, wraparound deck, and a connected floating dock
Mendenhall Campground
2. Mendenhall Campground
100%
(2)
Want some lake and glacier action? Camp at the well developed Mendenhall Lake Campground to get views of Mendenhall Glacier and the pristine lake below it while camping in style
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
East Florence Cabin Lookout
3. East Florence Cabin Lookout
100%
(2)
East Florence Cabin is perfect for your rustic Alaskan adventure
Pinta Cove Shelter Lookout
4. Pinta Cove Shelter Lookout
100%
(2)
Wood stoves, sleeping bunks, tables, oh my
Campfires
Picnic table
John Muir Cabin
5. John Muir Cabin
100%
(2)
A chalet-style cabin, John Muir Cabin was yet another small, quaint cabin found in the Tongass National Forest, inundated by still silence and hiking trails
Auk Village Campground
6. Auk Village Campground
100%
(1)
Camp at Auk Village Campground to get some wonderful views of the Chilkat Mountain Range and the ocean, with a scenic beach right there for some extra flair
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Dan Moller Cabin
7. Dan Moller Cabin
With two-stories and enough square-footage to comfortably accommodate seven people, Dan Moller Cabin is a gem in the Tongass National Forest
Turner Lake West Cabin
8. Turner Lake West Cabin
Located on the lake south of Taku Inlet, West Turner Lake Cabin is a log chalet with absolutely gorgeous stonework
Anan Bay Cabin
9. Anan Bay Cabin
Constructed from Alaska Yellow Cedar, Anan Bay Cabin is a 15’ x 17’ refuge that is contrasted by brilliant forest greens
Anan Lake Cabin
10. Anan Lake Cabin
Not to be confused with Anan Bay Cabin, Anan Lake Cabin is accessible by float plane where you can park your plane on the beach
Berg Bay Cabin
11. Berg Bay Cabin
For a truly secluded backcountry experience, make the trip to Berg Bay Cabin
Eagle Lake Cabin
12. Eagle Lake Cabin
Located on the east shore of the lake, just one mile from the lake’s outlet, Eagle Lake Cabin is accessible by float plane
Frosty Bay Cabin
13. Frosty Bay Cabin
Look, Alaska’s not always cold, alright? Take some summer days at Frosty Bay Cabin
Garnet Ledge Cabin
14. Garnet Ledge Cabin
Looking for a real jewel? Check out Garnet Ledge Cabin in Alaska’s impeccable Tongass National Forest
Gut Island Cabin (No. 1)
15. Gut Island Cabin (No. 1)
The larger and more youthful of a pair of cabins in Alaska’s scenic Inside Passage, Gut Island Cabin #1 offers up the best of the great outdoors for those willing to work for it
Gut Island Cabin (No. 2)
16. Gut Island Cabin (No. 2)
Gut Island Cabin #2 is the older of the two cabins and, though it’s a tad smaller, it sleeps six just like its younger, bigger brother
Harding River Cabin
17. Harding River Cabin
Working hard, or Harding River? Okay, that’s not how it goes, but it should be
Koknuk Cabin
18. Koknuk Cabin
Much of Alaska’s stunning natural beauty remains unchanged throughout the years, so visiting Koknuk Cabin on the west side of Sergief Island is like stepping back in time
Little Dry Island Cabin
19. Little Dry Island Cabin
Aw, that’s adorable
Mallard Slough Cabin
20. Mallard Slough Cabin
Mallard Slough Cabin is a mini-mainland resort that rewards seasoned campers with easy access to canoeing, kayaking, wildlife-viewing, and more
Top-rated campsites near Tongass National Forest
The Dacha
1. The Dacha
100%
(4)
18mi from Tongass National Forest · 1 site
Remote 350 square foot cabin with Jotul woodstove and loft, with a review of Warm Springs Bay.
The cabin is a quarter mile from the forest warm springs, and 100 yards down the boardwalk from the baths. Fully equipped with bathroom and cold water, a kayak, fishing rods, a generator and solar. There is a covered deck we use as a kitchen. Please be advised: access only by hiking, floatplane, or boat. Propane lights give heat and illumination. Great fishing for salmon in bay and cutthroat in lake. This is about as remote as it gets! There are no stores, no gas, and brown bears are a concern. Welcome to the most beautiful place on earth.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Sitka Sportsmans Association RV Park
2. Sitka Sportsmans Association RV Park
22mi from Tongass National Forest
Discover the unique charm of the Sitka Sportsman's Association RV Park, nestled in the stunning Sitka-By-The-Sea. This exceptional campground is conveniently situated just steps away from the Alaska Marine Highway Sitka Ferry Terminal and a mere 7 miles from the vibrant downtown area of Sitka, making it an ideal base for your Alaskan adventure.
Our RV Park features two heated bathrooms equipped with handicap-accessible showers, ensuring comfort for all guests. While cellphone and internet service can be inconsistent in the area, we provide a local line for emergency use. Please note that internet access is available only from May 15 to September 15 and may be affected by power fluctuations. To secure your spot, we highly recommend making a reservation prior to your arrival.
Relax and unwind at our waterfront RV Park, where you can enjoy essential amenities such as restrooms, hot showers, and a laundry room. With the Alaska Marine Highway Ferry Terminal located less than 500 yards away, you’ll have easy access to explore the breathtaking natural beauty and outdoor activities that Sitka has to offer. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, or simply soak in the serene surroundings, our RV Park is the perfect place to start your journey in Alaska.
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Emma
September 2025
With pets
Baranof warm springs is a treat. It’s a special little boardwalk escape. The falls are loud and powerful. The natural springs are stunning and all the visitors we interacted with were lovely. We want to come back again. The cabin was the perfect little spot to relax, read a book, have coffee and enjoy.
See moreR
Richard
August 2025
With pets
Tough to give the description as needed without pictures and the feel of a fresh warm breeze coupled with the constant sound of one of the most impressive water falls in SE AK.. The cabin is small but efficient. Easily accessible from the float dock. The hot springs surpassed our expectations and were the best we have experienced in SE and we have enjoyed most all of them!
See more
A
Amy
August 2025
2 nights at The Dacha
Brendan’s place is absolutely wonderful. I loved being able to walk to the springs then come back to the cabin and start a cozy fire on the wood stove. I felt very much at peace and at home here. He has a great little selection of books in the cabin, and a nice spot on the deck that overlooks the harbor. I didn’t want to leave and hope to be back again. Thank you Brendan!
See more
A
Amy
July 2025
3 nights at The Dacha
I absolutely loved it here! Thank you Brendan for listing your cabin on hipcamp. The Dasha cabin is in a perfect location for a visit to the springs - you can easily walk to the tubs or springs from the connected boardwalk. I really enjoyed soaking in the tub then coming “home” to a warm fire. The cabin smelled like cedar, something that brings a smile to my face. The outdoor deck was perfect for watching the sunset, or coffee in the morning. I enjoyed reading his books, especially the Alaska Bird book, apparently I’m a plover sandpiper that “runs short distances then stops” at least that’s the page I opened up to. Really peaceful gem of a cabin. I highly recommend!
See moreTongass National Forest camping guide
Overview
About
At more than 16 million acres, the Tongass National Forest encompasses a huge swath of southeast Alaska. It’s actually the largest national forest in the United States and is a giant playground for outdoor enthusiasts. If you want to experience small towns, wild coastlines, jagged peaks, numerous glaciers, and exceptional wildlife viewing while camping, the Tongass has it all. Towns like Ketchikan, Sitka, Wrangell, and Petersburg all serve as hubs for the forest, while the area’s remote islands like Prince of Wales also have access-point towns. Exploring by land and watercraft are both popular, as the Tongass’ marine environments, salmon runs, and land-based ecosystems are all interconnected.
Where to go
Explore the Glaciers
Thousands of glaciers exist in the Tongass but a few are noted for being especially large and accessible, including the Mendenhall Glacier, which has a visitor center and tours where you can walk on the ice. Speaking of ice, the Tongass is home to several ice fields that are leftover remnants of the last ice age. Other glaciers worth visiting are the LeConte Glacier, which requires a boat trip from Wrangell, and the Baird, convenient to Petersburg. The impressive Hubbard Glacier is also near Yakutat.
Prince of Wales Island
This remote island is unique because it offers a road system—meaning you can access the area by plane or by ferry from Ketchikan, then rent a vehicle or catch a ride to your destination. Craig is a main hub, but several other small towns serve the area as well. Reservable US Forest Service cabins are popular among campers visiting for the island’s excellent river and lake fishing. Prince of Wales Island also houses numerous black bears and populations of Sitka deer.
Misty Fjords National Monument
Accessed via Ketchikan, the Misty Fjords make up a unique area where steep rock walls and mountains rise from the sea. Lush rainforests add to the dramatic landscape with green foliage covering the mountainsides. There are numerous ways to experience the area and take in its beauty, including boating, hiking, paddling, and flightseeing tours, which offer an incredible aerial perspective.
US Forest Service Cabins
You can’t see the entire Tongass in a single trip, so consider narrowing it down to an area with a comfortable basecamp. The Tongass hosts 150 US Forest Service-managed cabins available for reservation, all of which are remote but keep visitors dry and comfortable between rainforest excursions. Numerous campgrounds and Hipcamps are also available throughout the region, typically visited by those arriving by car or boat rather than RV, as the remote area is not interconnected with a road system.
When to go
The Tongass National Forest is a year-round destination, so timing depends on individual desires. Summer is the peak season for camping, and many visitors come for the salmon and halibut fishing or hiking. Summer is ideal for clear days to see glaciers and peaks. Meanwhile, winter is the slower tourist season, but it does attract skiers with the skills to explore remote mountain peaks or try heli-skiing. Snowshoeing, cross country skiing, and even paddling opportunities are also available in the winter months.
Reviews for Tongass National Forest Campgrounds
86%
14 ratings · 1 review
Recommends
· February 2018
Right on water, great spot to watch for wildlife. Be prepared for rain, and understand food handling/bear best practices.
Stephanie H.
8 years on Hipcamp
Snag sold-out campsites.
Get notified the instant a national park campsite becomes available, for free.
See the best spots in one place.
Explore 500K+ public lands, RV resorts, and private sites you won't find anywhere else.
Book with confidence.
Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.