Settler&Apos;S Cove State Recreation Site

4.68

28 reviews

9883 N Tongass Hwy, Ketchikan, Alaska, 99901, United States

Family FriendlyScenic Views

Featured in:Beach Camping Alaska#1 Summer Camping Alaska#3 Swimming Camping Alaska +5 more

Quick Facts

Price

Free

Booking

Reservable

Sites

13 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Direct Line site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

Price

Free

Booking

Reservable

Sites

13 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Direct Line site

Official Website

Get Directions

Settler&Apos;S Cove State Recreation Site

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Campsite Fees

null

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

4.68

Top-Rated

Based on 28 reviews

24 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleanbeachwell-maintained

Some mention

cell service

"User reviews praise Settler's Cove for its spectacular views, wildlife sightings, well-maintained trails, and clean facilities. The small size of the campground and its scenic location contribute to its charm."

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Campground Map

9883 N Tongass Hwy, Ketchikan, Alaska, 99901, United States

Settler&Apos;S Cove State Recreation Site

9883 N Tongass Hwy, Ketchikan, Alaska, 99901, United States

Driving directionsFrom Ketchikan Drive North on Tongass Ave. Turn left into the Settlers Cove State Recreation Site at 18 mi N.

Settlers Cove is accessed via a paved road, Tongass Highway. It is not mentioned in the source whether there are any seasonal closures or road challenges.

Best Time to Camp at Settler&Apos;S Cove State Recreation Site

Summer transforms Settlers Cove into a camper's paradise, when the notorious Southeast Alaska rain takes a welcome break and sunshine filters through the forest canopy. While late winter and early spring bring dramatic storms with freezing temperatures and heavy rainfall that showcase nature's raw power, patient visitors are rewarded with pristine wilderness solitude. The temperate climate means you'll experience everything from misty mornings that shroud the forest in mystery to crystal-clear days when Clover Passage sparkles like sapphire. Pack your rain gear year-round—this is a rainforest after all—but know that summer typically offers the most forgiving weather windows for your outdoor adventures.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

5.0 / 5

Top 10% in AK

Summer called a 'camper's paradise' when rain eases and sunshine filters through the canopy.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Late summer/fall highlighted for salmon viewing at Lunch Creek though weather is wetter.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

Spring is wetter with variable conditions; trails exist but weather is unsettled.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

2.0 / 5

Late winter/early spring noted as rainy and less hospitable; fewer activity mentions.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: null. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Current Alerts: null

About Settler&Apos;S Cove State Recreation Site

Escape to the tranquil shores of Clover Passage at Settlers Cove State Recreational Site, where 13 secluded primitive campsites await beneath the towering canopy of Southeast Alaska's temperate rainforest. This hidden gem offers a rare sandy beach—an uncommon treasure in the Ketchikan area—alongside one cozy Public Use Cabin for those seeking shelter with a view. Adventure beckons along forest trails that wind their way to the cascading waters of Lunch Falls, the babbling melody of Lunch Creek, and the mysterious Hollow Cedar Beach. Modern conveniences blend seamlessly with wilderness, featuring vault toilets throughout the campground and day-use areas, welcoming picnic shelters, and fire ring grills perfect for evening gatherings. The beach provides accessible entry with assistance, ensuring everyone can experience the magic of Alaska's coastal wilderness.

Settler's Cove State Recreation Site features 13 primitive campsites, space for RVs up to 35 feet, tent camping areas, and one Public Use Cabin available for rent.

Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Settlers Cove into a camper's paradise, when the notorious Southeast Alaska rain takes a welcome break and sunshine filters through the forest canopy. While late winter and early spring bring dramatic storms with freezing temperatures and heavy rainfall that showcase nature's raw power, patient visitors are rewarded with pristine wilderness solitude. The temperate climate means you'll experience everything from misty mornings that shroud the forest in mystery to crystal-clear days when Clover Passage sparkles like sapphire. Pack your rain gear year-round—this is a rainforest after all—but know that summer typically offers the most forgiving weather windows for your outdoor adventures.

Elevationnull

Natural Features and SceneryStep into an emerald world where ancient Sitka spruces and western hemlocks tower overhead, their moss-draped branches creating nature's own cathedral. The campground's crown jewel—a pristine sandy beach—stretches along the peaceful waters of Clover Passage, offering front-row seats to Southeast Alaska's maritime theater. Keep your camera ready as bald eagles patrol the shoreline, their distinctive calls echoing across the water, while Sitka black-tailed deer emerge from the forest shadows at dawn and dusk. The trails reveal hidden wonders: Lunch Falls tumbles through the forest in a spectacular display of nature's artistry, while Lunch Creek provides a peaceful soundtrack to your wilderness wanderings. Marine life thrives in the passage's nutrient-rich waters, where lucky observers might spot seals, sea lions, or even passing whales during their seasonal migrations.

Geological RegionPerched on the edge of the Alexander Archipelago in Southern Southeast Alaska, Settlers Cove occupies a magical intersection where the vast temperate rainforest meets the intricate waterways of Clover Passage. This remarkable ecosystem represents one of the planet's last intact temperate rainforests, where annual rainfall exceeding 150 inches nurtures a lush, green world unlike anywhere else. The geological forces that carved these deep fjords and passages have created a dramatic landscape where mountains plunge directly into the sea, forming countless protected coves and inlets that have sheltered travelers for millennia.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Null

Check-out

Acampsite must be vacated by 12 PM (noon).

Stay Limit

Camping is limited to seven days only

Guests Allowed Per Site

The number of persons occupying a campsite is limited to 12

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground layout includes 13 primitive campsites and one Public Use Cabin. Two picnic shelters are available, located by the beach and the trail to the waterfall.

Reservation Platformsnull

Walk-in Availabilitynull

Cancellation Policynull

AccessibilityThe site includes accessible trails and the Hollow Cedar Beach Access Trail, which provides ADA access with assistance to the beach picnic shelter.

Site SizeSome campsites can accommodate RVs up to 35 feet in length.

Total Campsites13 campsites

Recommended SitesFor privacy and scenic views, campsite 8 is recommended. Campsites 9 and 15 are ideal during rainy conditions due to platform availability.

Amenities available

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Lodging and accommodations

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Settler's Cove State Recreation Site offers a variety of recreational opportunities, from camping and hiking to kayaking and wildlife viewing. The nearby Lunch Creek offers salmon viewing during the late summer and fall, while the beach allows for beachcombing and other water-related activities.

HikingThe campground features several trails including the Lunch Falls, Lunch Creek, and Hollow Cedar Beach Access Trail. According to user reviews, trails are well-maintained with nonskid surfaces on boardwalks. One reviewer stated, "The trails are well groomed with nonskid surface on the boardwalks."

FishingFishing is permitted at the campground, and salmon runs can be observed at Lunch Creek during late summer and fall.

SwimmingThe campground features beach areas for swimming, although specific details about designated swimming zones and safety measures are not provided.

BoatingClover Passage is described as a kayaker's haven, with short-term parking and a trail leading to the beach for kayak and canoe launching.

Wildlife viewingNumerous wildlife viewing opportunities are available, including humpback whales, sea lions, deer, bald eagles, and starfish, as noted by user reviews. One reviewer stated, "We saw two humpback whales, sea lions, deer, and loads of starfish."

Beach activitiesThe site has a sandy beach, which is rare in the Ketchikan area. Visitors can enjoy beachcombing and other beach-related activities.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include bears, as food storage rules are strict. Pets must be leashed, and safety measures are outlined for wildlife interactions.

Active Alertsnull

Fire PolicyFires must be in fireplace grills provided or in portable grills. No beach fires allowed.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are from 11pm to 6am.

Trash & RecyclingRefuse created in the park must be placed in the dumpster provided. Refuse should not be brought into the park for disposal. Proper waste management, including pet waste, is required.

Water FeaturesLocated next to Clover Passage, a kayaker's haven, with creek access and a sandy beach.

Camp HostA camp host is present, and firewood may be available for purchase.

Weather at Settler&Apos;S Cove State Recreation Site

Reviews

4.7

28 reviews

Top-Rated

Settler&Apos;S Cove State Recreation Site is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews praise Settler's Cove for its spectacular views, wildlife sightings, well-maintained trails, and clean facilities. The small size of the campground and its scenic location contribute to its charm.

Review Summaries

Based on 28 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects noted include wildlife sightings (including humpback whales and bald eagles), clean vault toilets, well-maintained trails, and scenic views. The beach and nearby trails are also...

Based on 28 reviews

Common Concerns

Some users mentioned that the firewood available on-site was damp, recommending purchasing wood in town instead.

Based on 28 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Reviewers recommend securing campsites with platforms, such as sites 9 and 15, especially during rainy conditions. Site 8 is noted as being on the water side, which is highly desirable.

Based on 28 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Late summer and fall are highlighted for salmon viewing at Lunch Creek. Rainy conditions are frequently mentioned, indicating that weather considerations are essential when planning a visit.

Based on 28 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Great, small campground with spectacular views. We saw two humpback whales, sea lions, deer, and loads of starfish." (Amy Wise) "The trails are well groomed with nonskid surface on the boardwalks."...

Based on 28 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Campsites 9 and 15 are praised for having platforms, which are useful in rainy weather. Site 8 is noted for its proximity to the water.

Based on 28 reviews

Accessibility Features

The campground features accessible trails and beach access. The Hollow Cedar Beach Access Trail provides ADA access to a beach picnic shelter.

Based on 28 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed at the campground, but they must be on a leash no longer than 9 feet. Pet owners are responsible for cleaning up pet waste, ensuring a clean environment for all visitors.

Based on 28 reviews

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