Plans for the weekend? Haines, Alaska, is excited to announce that our state park campgrounds will officially open for the season tomorrow, Friday, May 17th. Just in time for our northern friends to celebrate their long weekend for Victoria Day, we invite you to immerse yourself in the breathtaking seaside wilderness that our parks have to offer.
Chilkoot Lake State Park
Located 10 miles northeast of town, Chilkoot Lake State Park sits majestically at the foot of the Takshanuk Mountains to the west and the Ferebee Glacier to the east. The scenic drive on Lutak Road offers stunning views of the Lutak Inlet, where you'll find numerous pull-outs perfect for bird watching and soaking in the mountainous vistas. Keep an eye out for the state ferry gliding by!
Features and Activities:
- Campsites: 32 well-equipped sites with fire rings, water, toilets, and picnic tables.
- Amenities: Fishing, boat launch, and an electronic payment kiosk for convenience.
- Scenic Spots: Tanani Point Park, with its picnic tables, grills, and accessible beach, is perfect for a day trip.
- Wildlife Viewing: The Chilkoot River, a prime spot for spotting bald eagles, river otters, and seals, especially during salmon spawning season from mid-June to October.
- Recreational Activities: Camping, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing are popular here, with the backdrop of towering Sitka Spruce trees and majestic mountains.
Chilkat State Park
Chilkat State Park is situated on the shores of the Chilkat Inlet 8 miles south of town, where the Chilkat River meets the Lynn Canal, framed by the stunning Chilkat Range and offering views of Davidson and Rainbow Glaciers.
Features and Activities:
- Campsites: 32 pull-through sites and 3 beachfront tent sites nestled in a mixed forest.
- Amenities: Fire rings, water, toilets, fishing, boat launch, hiking trails, and a visitor cabin with a viewing platform and spotting scope.
- Access: The park is accessible via a scenic dirt road with a 14% grade hill, offering pull-offs for beach combing and bird watching along the way.
- Recreational Activities: Enjoy beach combing, bird watching, fishing, kayaking, and hiking on trails like Moose Meadows and Ayiklutu Trail.
- Glacier Viewing: Spectacular views of the Davidson and Rainbow Glaciers from various points within the park.
- Unique Experiences: Visit the Haines Packing cannery for a glimpse of local fishing traditions and a chance to purchase fresh seafood.
Practical Information
- Seasonal Availability: Both parks are open from mid-May to mid-October, with the main gates closing on November 15th.
- Fees: Campsites are available for $20 per night, with summer hosts providing information and reference materials.
- Electronic Payments: Kiosks are now active for your convenience.
- Glacier View Cabin (at Chilkat State Park): Available for booking from October 15th through April 15th at $60 per night. This cozy cabin offers bunks for two, with space for up to eight guests. Bring your own supplies and pack out what you bring in. Book online at Reserve America and learn more about the cabin here.
Whether you're a local or a visitor, our state parks provide a perfect escape into nature. Enjoy the stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and a variety of recreational activities that make Haines, Alaska, a true outdoor paradise. Pack your gear and head out to create unforgettable memories in our beautiful state parks!
For more information about our state parks and preserves, visit this website.
See you at the campgrounds!