Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site RV & Campground Guide
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Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site is located near the community of Haines, Alaska, on the southern end of Chilkoot Lake. Aside from the lake's short southern shoreline, all sides of the lake are surrounded by mountain ranges, which tower more than a mile over the lake. The lake is fed by meltwater from nearby glaciers, and it feeds into the ocean via the Chilkoot River. While the lake is located in Alaska's southern panhandle, it's accessible by car from Anchorage and other cities in the state.
Spring 24-38 F
Summer 57-62 F
Fall 38-48 F
Winter 20-30 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site
There are RV campsites in Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site, and the RV length limit is 35 feet. Hookups are available for water and electricity. In addition, the campground is located fairly close to the park's boat launch.
What to Do at
Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site
Chilkoot Lake is a great destination for a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, kayaking and canoeing. If you're headed to the lake during the winter months, you can expect plenty of snow for winter activities. In fact, the area receives more than 160 inches of snow per year.
Fishing
Chilkoot Lake offers some of the best fishing in southeastern Alaska. In fact, it's a perfect place to catch sockeye salmon, trout and other fish species native to the region.
Nature Watching
Chilkoot Lake is critical for wildlife in the region, and you'll often be able to see animals taking a drink from it. The region is home to foxes, black bears, brown bears and moose.
Stargazing
Due to the fact that the lake is located in a remote area, levels of light pollution are extremely low. This means that you'll be able to enjoy stunning views of the Milky Way and other faint celestial sights that require exceptional viewing conditions.
Flora and Fauna
The lake is surrounded by a temperate rainforest, which mostly consists of evergreen trees. This biome is home to a wide range of wildlife, but trees do not grow in the tundra of the area's higher elevations.
Boating
The tranquil waters of Chilkoot Lake make it a perfect place to go canoeing or kayaking. However, the Chilkoot River contains rapids, which are not suited to beginners.
Swimming
The waters of Chilkoot Lake tend to be rather chilly even during the summer months. However, you can swim or wade in the lake during warmer weather.
Biking
You'll be able to enjoy mountain biking on the trails near Chilkoot Lake. It's best to go mountain biking during the summer months.
How to Get to
Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site
If you're coming from Anchorage, take Alaska Route 1 east and then north to Alaska Route 2. After you cross the Canadian border into the Yukon Territory, the name of the road changes to YT-1. Take this highway until you reach YT-3, and make a right onto it. This road changes to British Columbia-3/Haines Highway. After you cross into Alaska, this road becomes Alaska Route 7/Haines Highway. Take this road through the town of Haines. Then, take a left onto Front Street. This changes to Lutak Road, which will take you directly to the park. If you're coming from Juneau, get on the ferry from that city to Haines. Then, make a left onto Lutak Road. This will lead you directly to the park.
Entering Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site
There is a small parking lot that's located along the southern shore of the lake. In addition, the lot is located very close to the boat launch.
Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site Entry Fee (per vehicle) : $5.0
Frequently Asked Questions About Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site
While you can visit the park at any time of year, weather conditions are best for fishing during the summer months. You can also enjoy ice fishing on the lake during the winter, and the region receives a large amount of snowfall in the winter. This makes it a great destination for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
The area is home to a wide range of wildlife species, including bear, moose, Sitka deer, foxes and bats. In addition, the region is inhabited by a wide range of bird species, including ptarmigans, hawks and even bald eagles. Due to its relatively warm climate for its latitude, remoteness and abundant water, the Haines area is one of the best places in the state to see wildlife.
There are 32 designated RV camping spots in Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site. Many of these sites offer incredible views of the lake.
You do have to reserve a camping spot at Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site, and it will cost you $20 per night.
Pets are allowed in Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site, but they have to be kept on a leash, and you must clean up after them.